Issuu

Women Prepared to Lead Wherever Life Takes Them

Head

Founded and rooted in the Gospel values of the Catholic church and the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, the Academy of Our Lady of Peace empowers young women in an innovative learning environment that honors the individual while fostering community, and develops faith-filled leaders dedicated to the “love of God and the dear neighbor without distinction.”

Lauren Lek, Ed.D.

Assistant

Peter Harris

Leadership Team

René Coons

Jamie Flannery

Ryan Martin-Spencer

Jennifer Meza

Jessica Occhialini

Tiffany Rajski ’07 David Ritzmann

Yasmine Grewal, ’26

Lauren Lek, Ed.D. Ryan Martin-Spencer

Judith Partida ’26

Dear OLP Pilot Community,

As another extraordinary school year closes, I find myself reflecting with gratitude on the many moments that remind us what makes Academy of Our Lady of Peace such a special place.

I encourage you to begin by meeting the remarkable members of the Class of 2026, a class that earned 100% college acceptance, more than $25 million in scholarships, and will continue their journeys at 99 colleges and universities. While those numbers are impressive, they tell only part of the story.

You’ll be inspired by Valedictorian Frances Aguilar, whose leadership is rooted not only in academic excellence, but in empathy, service, and a desire to improve the lives of others. Her advocacy, compassion, and commitment to medicine and public health exemplify what it means to lead with heart. Salutatorian Anabelle Rojas Morgan shows us that growth comes from embracing challenges, building authentic relationships, and having the courage to become exactly who God created you to be.

This issue also celebrates the many ways our mission comes alive every day. You’ll discover the inaugural CSJ Unifying Love Awards, a new tradition honoring students and educators throughout our Catholic school community who embody the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph. You’ll also read how our own students and faculty continue to live that charism through immersion experiences, service to the dear neighbor without distinction, and ministries that transform both those they serve and themselves.

One of my favorite sections highlights the enduring strength of our sisterhood through the Legacy Stories. Reading Gabriella Valladolid’s and Pryor Holmes’ reflections on sharing the OLP experience with mothers, grandmothers, and generations of Pilot women is a beautiful reminder that an OLP education extends far beyond four years. It becomes part of a family’s story.

I also encourage you not to miss our feature on this year’s Women’s Symposium, where alumna Dr. Irma Penunuri returned to campus to remind our students that leadership begins long before recognition and that faith, resilience, and perseverance often shape our greatest successes.

While each issue of our magazine captures the life of our school, no publication can fully convey the spirit of joy, faith, and sisterhood that fills our campus each day. And although awards, rankings, and college acceptances are certainly worthy of celebration, our greatest achievement is watching young women discover their God-given gifts, deepen their faith, and leave OLP prepared to lead with wisdom, compassion, courage, and hope.

To our alumnae, parents, grandparents, donors, trustees, faculty, staff, and friends, thank you for believing in our mission and investing in the lives of our students. Your partnership makes each of these stories possible.

I hope these pages offer a meaningful glimpse into the experiences that shaped this remarkable year and the young women who continue to inspire us.

With gratitude,

Lauren Lek, Ed.D. HEAD OF SCHOOL

Above: Dr. Lauren Lek and her daughter, Emma. Below: Board of Trustees at 2026 Graduation Ceremony.

Class 2026 THE of

Women Prepared to Lead

Wherever Life Takes Them

at a 178 Graduates

$25 MILLION in Scholarships Earned

100%

College Acceptance

21 Honors College Acceptances

14 Collegiate Athletes

49 Pursuing STEM Degrees

99 Colleges & Universities Chosen

FRANCES AGUILAR

OLP VALEDICTORIAN, Class of 2026

On the surface, being named both Class of 2026 Valedictorian and a National Honor Society National Semifinalist might seem like the culmination of academic excellence. But for Frances Aguilar, those titles tell only part of the story. Behind them is a journey shaped not just by achievement, but by purpose, perspective, and an unwavering commitment to others.

When Frances learned she had been selected as an NHS National Semifinalist, earning a $3,200 scholarship, her first response was not pride; it was gratitude. She saw the recognition not as a personal milestone, but as a reflection of the people who supported her along the way. To her, success has grown far beyond grades or accolades. What once may have been defined by academic performance has evolved into something deeper: using knowledge as a tool to foster empathy, collaboration, and meaningful change in the world.

Throughout high school, Frances intentionally pushed herself into rigorous AP and honors coursework, navigating long nights of studying, demanding schedules, and the constant pressure to excel. Yet, what shaped her most was not just the workload, but learning how to find balance within it. In the midst of exams and deadlines, she discovered the importance of being present, whether that meant time on the tennis court, laughter with friends, or moments like Spring Sing that brought joy and connection.

Those moments of balance became just as defining as her academic pursuits. They grounded her, reminding her that success is not about constant motion, but about appreciating the spaces in between.

At OLP, Frances developed an interdisciplinary way of thinking, drawing from science, history, literature, and faith, to better understand the world around her. This perspective extended far beyond the classroom. As an intern working with hospitalized patients, a volunteer

reading to children, a pianist bringing comfort to families, and a teacher’s aide in special education, she began to lead with the empathy that she carried within her heart.

For Frances, leadership is ultimately about understanding all, intentionally listening closely to the needs of others, and responding accordingly. It’s about empowering people to recognize their own potential and become part of something larger than themselves.

Mentors and teachers saw her character long before the titles she was awarded. In spaces like Spring Sing, she went beyond contributing as a participant; she was a force of energy and unity that bridged the community. Ryan Martin Spencer recalls her joy, creativity, and ability to bring people together, describing her as the kind of leader others naturally want to follow. On the tennis court, coaches know her not only for her discipline and drive, but for the way she led her team in prayer, uplifted her teammates, and modeled true sportsmanship. Even beyond academics, her presence left an impact steady, genuine, and rooted in care.

Frances’s advocacy, inspired by her brother and rooted in her awareness of inequality, reflects a quiet but powerful determination to challenge systems and create change. She approaches obstacles not by focusing on limitations, but with a simple, persistent mindset: Let’s figure this out. It’s a quality that defines her leadership: thoughtful, solution-oriented, and driven by compassion rather than recognition.

Frances’s time at OLP strengthened not only her academic and leadership skills, but also her spiritual identity. Through retreats, service experiences, and daily acts of kindness, she came to understand faith as something active, something lived through service and love. She describes seeing the face of Jesus not in grand moments, but in small ones: in a patient’s gratitude, a child’s smile, or a student’s breakthrough. These experiences are what ultimately shaped who she is and called her to action.

In a world facing injustice, inequality, and division, she believes we are called to do more, to advocate, to serve, and to care for both people and the planet. This belief now guides her future goals. With aspirations in medicine and public health, she hopes to use her education to address healthcare disparities on a broader scale, inspired by global leaders who have used their expertise to serve humanity.

Being named Valedictorian was not just a reflection of Frances’s hard work but of the gratitude she lives in and a recognition of the family, friends, teachers, and community who supported her, believed in her, and walked alongside her throughout her journey.

Anabelle Rojas Morgan

OLP SALUTATO RIAN, Class of 2026

When Anabelle Rojas Morgan ’26 was named Salutatorian, the recognition came as a surprise, not because she hadn’t worked for it, but because that was never the goal. From the very beginning of her high school journey, Anabelle approached learning with curiosity and was never focused on any competition to be the first one. Encouraged by her family to take the classes that genuinely interested her, she built her path not around titles or expectations, but around a simple intention: to learn as much as she could. In her lens, being named Salutatorian came with the realization that when you focus on growth and effort, the rest will follow in its own time.

As a freshman, Anabelle carried the weight of perfectionism. She felt a constant need to prove herself, measuring success by flawless performance rather than genuine understanding. Over time, she began to recognize that this pressure was not only unsustainable but also limiting. Slowly, she replaced that mindset with doing her best and challenging herself for something greater. She went from fearing tests to embracing learning, from trying to meet expectations to becoming the person she truly wanted to be. In letting go of perfection, she discovered that mistakes were not setbacks, but necessary steps toward growth. Taking risks, being wrong, and facing challenges were no longer things to avoid as they became essential parts of her success.

Like many high-achieving students, Anabelle struggled at times to balance academics, activities, and her personal well-being. During her junior year, especially, she found herself leaning too heavily into academics at the expense of connection. Though naturally introverted, she came to realize that relationships were not distractions from success but were part of who she would grow into because of what they offered her. Determined to change, she entered her senior year with a new priority: making time for the people who mattered most. When investing in her friendships, she was surprised to find

out that her life became more balanced, and even her academic habits improved. Time with friends brought clarity, helping her manage her responsibilities more effectively while also creating space for joy.

Her friends grew into a steady support system, encouraging her through both academic pressures and personal challenges. At the same time, her teachers provided a foundation of unwavering support. Whether through office hours, G Block, or simple moments of encouragement, they created an environment where she felt seen, capable, and confident enough to take on new challenges.

During her freshman year, Anabelle auditioned for the dance team but didn’t make it. For many, that moment might have felt like a failure. For her, it became a pivotal turning point. Instead of giving up, she reframed the experience from rejection to redirection. She committed herself fully to improving, taking advanced dance classes, training outside of school, and preparing to try again. The following year, her perseverance paid off when she earned a spot on the JV team. More importantly, the experience taught her lessons that extended far beyond dance through the teachings of patience, timing, and the understanding that growth often comes through challenge. Dance would go on to become one of the most formative parts of her high school journey, but it was only one piece of a much larger story.

At OLP, Anabelle discovered her voice, not by becoming louder, but by being her authentic self. In environments where she once felt the need to compete to be heard, she learned instead to lead with quiet strength. Through her role as a Carondelet Student Ambassador, she grew into a confident speaker and thoughtful leader, sharing the mission and traditions of OLP with prospective families while embodying the values she admired most.

She recalls the Senior Mentor Overnight retreat in Julian as one of the defining moments of her OLP experience. Removed from technology and daily routines, her class came together in a way that felt

simple yet profound. During a game called Mao, which was played late into the night in cabin rooms filled with laughter, the significance of connections, presence, and the joy in unexpected moments became truly realized.

Looking ahead, Anabelle carries these lessons with her as she prepares for the next chapter at the University of Notre Dame. For her, OLP’s values of academic excellence paired with a deep commitment to service will continue to guide her path. She shares her hope that at Notre Dame, she will continue growing into the person God has called her to become and to continue

living the values that OLP has instilled in her. As she reflects on her journey, her hope for future OLP students is simple yet powerful: “Do not limit yourself.“ Her own experience stands as proof that it is possible to pursue every passion, to dance, to explore technology, to grow academically, without sacrificing authenticity. More than anything, she hopes others will recognize their potential and have the courage to become their truest selves. While Anabelle Rojas Morgan’s story is not defined by the title of Salutatorian, she unintentionally and wholeheartedly earned it.

DANCE SHOWCASE

SPRING SING

KEEP

A New Tradition Rooted in Shared Mission

By Christine Wilson ‘04, Chief Advancement Officer

You may recall that throughout this year, we have been celebrating a remarkable milestone: 375 years of the Sisters of St. Joseph and their enduring legacy of unifying love. As a community, we spent time reflecting on what this anniversary truly means, not only as a moment to honor our history, but as an invitation to live it more fully. In those conversations, a question emerged: How might we celebrate this legacy in a way that reaches beyond our campus and reflects the shared mission of Catholic education across our region?

From that spirit of reflection and collaboration, the CSJ Unifying Love Awards were born . Designed as a missioncentered recognition program, the awards invite Catholic elementary schools across San Diego to nominate individuals who embody the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph, those who live out a deep love for God and neighbor, and who lead with humility, compassion, and courage.

When we introduced the program to our partner schools, the response was both immediate and deeply affirming. We were honored to receive nominations that spoke not only to achievement, but to character, stories of young women and educators who quietly and consistently reflect the heart of their communities.

We read about students who go out of their way to include others, who lead with kindness rather than recognition, who serve without being asked, and who carry themselves with a quiet confidence rooted in faith. We learned of educators and staff members who model patience, generosity, and unwavering commitment to their students, individuals who create spaces where every child feels seen, known, and loved. Each nomination told a story. And collectively, those stories revealed something powerful: the charism of unifying love is not confined to any one campus; it is alive and flourishing in classrooms, hallways, and schoolyards throughout our Catholic school communities.

At the Academy of Our Lady of Peace, we are deeply grateful to stand alongside so many schools who share in this mission. Together, we are forming young people who will lead not only with excellence, but with heart. We have the privilege of recognizing this year’s honorees within their school communities. Student recipients were presented with a commemorative medallion, and all honorees received a CSJ Unifying Love pin, small but meaningful symbols of the impact they are already making. More importantly, these awards serve as a reminder of what matters most: the daily, often unseen ways in which love is lived out in our schools.

What began as a way to mark a historic anniversary has quickly become something more, a tradition we are proud to continue. Beginning this year, the CSJ Unifying Love Awards will be an annual celebration, honoring those who bring the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph to life in each generation.

As we look ahead, we do so with gratitude, for the educators, students, and communities who inspire us, and for the shared calling that unites us. Because in the end, the legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph is not only something we celebrate. It is something we continue, together.

Living the CSJ Charism at Our Lady of Peace

By Yasmine Grewal ‘26

The charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet — unifying love in service to the dear neighbor without distinction — is more than a guiding principle. It is a way of life that shapes how students, faculty, and staff serve, teach, and build community.

For several OLP faculty members, that commitment has deepened through becoming CSJ Associates, a vocation that invites lay people to formally share in the mission and spirituality of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet.

Mr. Martin-Spencer, Ms. Griffin, and Mr. Trubitt each began that journey through relationships with the Sisters and participation in Spirits on Fire, a national gathering that brings together lay educators, leaders, and partners in mission from CSJ-sponsored ministries to deepen their understanding of the charism and explore how it can be lived in everyday life. After participating in Spirits on Fire, they, along with Mrs. Cota, decided to begin the formal process of becoming CSJ Associates. Following a year of prayer, discernment, and formation, they all became CSJ Associates this past spring.

Today, each lives the charism in unique ways.

For Mr. Trubitt, that includes serving through the Hogar Infantil Club, parish ministry, outreach to unhoused neighbors, and accompanying vulnerable individuals navigating immigration challenges. His work reflects the CSJ call to seek out those on the margins and respond with compassion.

Mr. Martin-Spencer experiences the charism through everyday encounters, inspired by the example of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. Whether welcoming students, listening with intention, or fostering meaningful relationships rooted in dignity and belonging, he believes small moments of connection can become powerful expressions of God’s unifying love.

Both shared that one of the greatest gifts of becoming a CSJ Associate is the sense of family they have found within the CSJ community. They are inspired by the Sisters’ lifelong witness of service and are grateful to help carry that mission forward at OLP.

Theology teacher Ms. Maureen Griffin had a desire to be a part of the Family of Joseph in a unique and special way as an Associate. The other people who became Associates with her and other members of the Sisters of St. Joseph community inspire her to serve, unify, and show radical compassion, as our CSJ sisters have since their founding in Le Puy, France.

Top picture:

CSJ Associates Mr. Martin-Spencer, Estela Garcia, Laura Impastato, Mrs. Cota, and Ms. Griffin renew their vows at the St. Joseph Jewel Jubilee Mass.

Bottom picture:

CSJ Associate Estela Garcia; Sr. Maureen Evelyn Brown, CSJ; Mr. Trubitt; and Sr.

Darlene Kawulok, CSJ at the St. Joseph Jewel Jubilee Mass where Mr. Trubitt made his commitment as a CSJ Associate

Ms. Griffin sees and feels the CSJ charism and the Holy Spirit at work everyday at OLP. The beautiful service clubs that students create and the way students lift up and support one another, along with how faculty and staff root their teaching practices and daily work in unifying love shine as bright examples of serving the dear neighbor.

That spirit also comes alive through OLP’s service and immersion experiences.

Mrs. Cota has witnessed firsthand how immersion experiences can transform both students and educators. Through programs such as the CSJ Los Angeles Service Immersion and the Border Compassion Immersion, students encounter ministries founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph, including Get on the Bus and Alexandria House.

“The ministries are a tangible expression of the charism,” Mrs. Cota shared. “Students don’t just learn about the mission—they experience it.”

In April 2025, Mrs. Cota and three student leaders traveled to Calipatria State Prison to volunteer during a Get on the Bus family visitation day. They helped create welcoming spaces with games, activities, and refreshments for families reconnecting after long periods apart.

Witnessing those reunions left a lasting impression.

Following one Los Angeles Immersion, four students were so inspired that they founded OLP’s Get on the Bus Club. Throughout the school year, they organized fundraisers and assembled Staying Connected Kits filled with writing supplies to support families visiting incarcerated loved ones throughout California.

“Watching parents and children embrace after months apart reminded me that every person deserves dignity, love, and connection,” Mrs. Cota reflected.

As a teacher of Christian Morality and Peace Studies, she strives to help students recognize Christ in every person by accompanying those on the margins, including migrants, unhoused neighbors, the elderly, incarcerated individuals, and survivors of human trafficking.

Looking ahead, she hopes OLP will continue strengthening its partnership with the Sisters of St. Joseph and the broader Family of Joseph, creating even more opportunities for students to put faith into action.

Through faculty, students, immersion experiences, and everyday acts of compassion, the CSJ charism continues to flourish at OLP—forming young women and educators alike to live lives of faith, courage, and unifying love.

Ms. Griffin, Mr. Martin-Spencer, Mrs. Cota, Mrs. Allen, and Mrs. Rayner at the Carondelet Center Chapel in Los Angeles where Ms. Griffin, Mr. Martin-Spencer, and Mrs. Cota made their commitments as CSJ Associates.

My name is Gabriella Luz Arnaiz Valladolid ’26, and my mom is Carina Luz Valladolid ’94. The Academy of Our Lady of Peace has been part of my family for generations. My mom’s aunt and sister, along with my two older sisters all attended OLP, and growing up, I constantly heard stories about their experiences there. They talked about traditions like Spring Sing, Mexican Independence Day celebrations, and the friendships they built during their years at the Academy. Even long after graduating, they still spoke about OLP with so much love that I quickly realized how special this community truly is.

Because of that, attending OLP always felt natural to me. It never felt forced or expected. Instead, it felt like something I genuinely wanted because I saw how much the experience shaped the women in my family. Watching them grow through their years at OLP made me excited to follow in their footsteps and become part of the same sisterhood.

When my mom talks about her time at OLP, the first thing she remembers is the friendships she made. She was part of a close-knit group of around thirty friends from all four grade levels. For her, it was the first time she experienced a community where friendships went beyond classrooms or age groups. She always tells me that the relationships she built at OLP made the school feel joyful, supportive, and deeply connected.

She also speaks so highly of her teachers. At first, she said it took time to realize that they truly wanted the

best for their students. But eventually she understood how invested they were in helping every girl grow, constantly encouraging students to recognize their strengths and believe in themselves.

My mom often describes OLP during her years as smaller, quieter, and more intimate. She talks about how students were fully present with each other because there were no phones, devices, or social media distractions. Everyone simply enjoyed being together and living in the moment. She also remembers the structure and discipline of the school, from the pride students took in their uniforms to the sense of security that came with being part of such a close community. Even though times have changed, she loves seeing how the Academy continues to grow and provide opportunities that her generation could never have imagined.

For me, my experience at OLP has been incredibly meaningful in its own way. One of the things I’m most proud of is creating the OLP x Dance Ability club. After years of working with Fundación Dance Ability México, I wanted to bring that same spirit of inclusion and service to my school community. What started as a simple idea became a growing club focused on leadership, compassion, and creating meaningful relationships with individuals with disabilities through dance and service. There are also so many traditions at OLP that make the experience unforgettable. Whether it’s celebrating Mexican Independence Day, cheering during pep rallies, or participating in Spring Sing, there is always something

Gabriella with her mother Carina (left), sisters, and aunt at the 2026 OLP Commencement ceremony. Gabriella with sister Daniella ‘23 (right).

that brings the community together. I’ve also been lucky to have teachers like Mrs. Kim and Mr. Carranza, who supported me throughout my four years and encouraged me to pursue leadership opportunities and new ideas.

Faith has also been a huge part of my experience. Through retreats, Tuesday morning Masses, and theology classes, OLP helped me grow not only academically but personally and spiritually as well.

One of the most special parts about attending OLP is being able to share the experience with my mom and sisters. Before high school, I never realized how much a school could connect people across generations. When I tell my mom stories about my day, she immediately understands exactly what I mean, whether I’m talking about the pressure of classes, traditions around campus, or even small things like freshmen sitting on the steps or seniors hanging out in Upper Plaza. Because she experienced it herself, our conversations about OLP always feel easy and familiar.

Over the years, my mom and I have had many conversations about what makes OLP so unique. She often says the school exposed her to new ideas and perspectives that helped shape who she became. She also values the strength that comes from an all girls environment where students are constantly encouraged to bring out the best in one another. And, of course, she still smiles whenever she talks about Spring Sing and the pride her class felt after working so hard together. For my family, continuing this tradition has meant so much. My mom once told me how emotional it felt bringing my oldest sister, Isabella ’21, to OLP for the first time because suddenly she was experiencing the school not as a student, but as a mother. What makes it even more meaningful is that my parents never pressured any of us to attend OLP. All three of us chose it on our own because we saw how special it was.

Both my mom and I believe OLP has shaped us in powerful ways. For her, it expanded her perspective on life and helped her discover strengths she never knew she had. For me, OLP helped me grow in confidence, leadership, and friendships. It taught me what true community looks like and showed me how important it is to believe in myself and support others around me. As graduation approaches, it feels surreal to think about leaving a place that has been part of my life

long before I ever became a Pilot myself. More than anything, I’ll carry with me the lesson of loving the Dear Neighbor , something OLP encourages us to live every single day. I’ll also carry the friendships, traditions, faith, and memories that connected not only my own experience, but generations of women in my family before me. For my family, OLP is more than just a school. It’s a sisterhood that connects generations, and I feel incredibly proud to be part of that story.

Mother Carina (top) as part of Baile Folklórico in 1993 while at OLP. Gabriella with her mother Carina (bottom).

When I reflect on my four years at Academy of Our Lady of Peace, I think about more than just high school memories. I think about tradition, family, and the generations of women before me who walked the same halls I do today. As a fourth-generation Pilot, attending OLP has always meant something deeper to me. My mom, grandma, great-grandma, and great-aunt all attended this school before I did, and throughout my time here, I’ve been reminded of how special that connection truly is.

Even though OLP has changed over the years, so many traditions have stayed the same. One tradition that means a lot to me is the class mascot tradition. My class mascot is Cookie Monster, while my mom’s class mascot was Bert. Even though we graduated 30 years apart, it feels special knowing we still share that connection. Small traditions like that are what make OLP feel timeless.

Before I became a student here, my grandma would tell me stories about her years at OLP. Most involved sports, school spirit, and memories with friends. Hearing those stories helped me understand how lasting the OLP experience really is. Even now, she still comes to support OLP athletic events, showing just how much this school continues to mean to her decades later.

My grandma, Georginna Lupian ’68, often talks about how nervous she felt walking through the gates of OLP as a freshman over 60 years ago. She always tells me that despite those fears, she knew OLP would challenge her, strengthen her faith, and prepare her for life. She

attended OLP during a time when the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet were deeply involved on campus, teaching classes and leading the school community. She remembers seeing the sisters in their long black habits walking through the halls every day. At the same time, she laughs about how some things never really change. Students still rolled up their skirts until they got caught, struggled to find parking, and formed friendships in freshman year that lasted throughout high school.

Some of her favorite memories came from athletics and student life. My grandma was on the varsity volleyball team all four years and became part of OLP’s first tennis team during her senior year. She also loved Candlelight Processions, Aquacade performances, football games at St. Augustine High School, and school dances. One of the stories she tells most often is about graduation day. Her class expected to graduate at North Terrace, but because of storm warnings, the ceremony had to be moved to University High School. After waiting four years for that moment, she was devastated. Ironically, after the ceremony ended, the skies cleared into a beautiful sunny afternoon. Even though graduation didn’t happen the way she imagined, she still says she would choose OLP all over again without hesitation.

My mom, Alexis Lupian ’96, had a completely different experience at OLP, but many of the same values remained. She always tells me that high school challenged her academically in ways she didn’t expect. Honors classes forced her to work harder than ever before, but she also

Pryor, her mother Alexis Lupian ‘96, and her grandmother Georginna Lupian ’68 in OLP yearbook photos

remembers how supportive her teachers and friends were during that transition. She especially loved her English and literature classes because they introduced her to authors like Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison, who are still some of her favorites today. She also remembers speech class as terrifying because classmates could hold up “um” and “like” signs whenever someone stumbled during a presentation.

Outside of academics, my mom found her passion in ceramics. She loved spending time in the art room and hoping her projects survived the kiln without cracking. She still talks about how exciting—and sometimes devastating—those classes could be. She also remembers the strong sense of community at OLP. Spirit assemblies, retreats, Kairos, and school Masses brought students together and strengthened their faith. Kairos especially became one of her favorite memories because it allowed students to reflect and connect in ways they normally wouldn’t during everyday school life.

Even though my mom considered herself more creative than athletic, she still participated in Spring Sing and performed in a Mardi Gras-themed production during her senior year. She always laughs about how her character fell overboard from a ferry in the opening scene while everyone sang and danced around her. For her, OLP became a place where she discovered who she was and built friendships and memories that lasted far beyond graduation. Because of her own experience, she wanted me to have the same opportunities and environment that shaped her.

Over the last four years, OLP has shaped me in countless ways too. Through leadership positions like ASB, Cross Country and Track Captain, the Women’s Symposium

Student Committee, Sports Media & Medicine Club President, and involvement with athletics media, I’ve learned what it means to lead intentionally and support others around me. My involvement in athletics has especially impacted me. Being an athlete, sports photographer, member of the Student Athlete Council, and helping run the OLP Athletics Instagram introduced me to opportunities and career paths I never considered before. Those experiences sparked my interest in pursuing a future career in the sports industry.

More than anything, OLP has taught me that women are capable of accomplishing incredible things. Across every generation in my family, this school has encouraged us to pursue our passions, use our voices, and support one another. That message of female empowerment is something I’ll continue carrying with me long after graduation. Being part of a four-generation OLP family feels incredibly meaningful because it represents something larger than one person’s high school experience. Every generation in my family has left OLP with memories, lessons, friendships, and values that stayed with them for life. Hearing those stories growing up made me excited to create my own memories here one day.

Now, as I prepare to graduate, I understand why this tradition has lasted so long in my family. OLP is more than just a school. It’s a community that challenges young women to grow academically, spiritually, and personally while giving them the confidence to pursue whatever future they dream of. As I leave Villa Montemar, I’ll carry with me not only my own experiences, but also the legacy of the women in my family who came before me. Their stories became part of mine, and my time at OLP has become another chapter in a tradition that continues to shape generations of women.

Pryor’s senior photo (left) and with a group of friends first day of senior year (right).

Amplifying Voices: Leadership, Faith, and the Power of Becoming

By: Christine Wilson ‘04, Chief Advancement Officer

At the 2026 Women’s Symposium , alumna Dr. Irma Penunuri returned to the place where her voice first took shape, reminding the next generation that leadership begins long before recognition. As the 2026 Women’s Symposium opened, the room settled into a quiet sense of anticipation. Rooted in the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph and now in its twelfth year , the Symposium has become a hallmark experience at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace, and an opportunity for students to engage directly with women who are shaping industries, communities, and conversations. This year, that experience began with a powerful full-circle moment.

Returning to campus as the opening ceremony anchor, Dr. Irma Penunuri stood before students not only as a distinguished professional, but as a reflection of what an OLP education makes possible. Her presence set the tone for a day centered on the theme Amplifying Voices, a call to leadership grounded in courage, conviction, and community.

WHERE IT BEGINS

For Dr.Penunuri, leadership did not begin with accolades or titles, it began in a classroom.

She recalled a defining moment from her sophomore year at OLP: encouraged by a teacher (Dr. Sheean) to compete in a speech tournament, she gave it her best, and finished in last place. Not close to last. Not almost there. Last.

“I remember being devastated,” she shared. “I felt embarrassed. I felt like maybe I just wasn’t good enough.”

But what followed would shape the trajectory of her life. With the encouragement of her teacher and family, she returned the following year, and won first place.

The lesson stayed with her: nothing is over until it’s over.

It is a philosophy that continues to guide her today and one that speaks directly to the formation OLP provides its students. Here, young women are not only challenged to succeed, but supported in learning how to begin again.

THE UNSEEN YEARS

While her story today reflects success, Dr. Penunuri was candid about the years that came before it, the ones without recognition, clarity, or validation.

“I was moving forward without any visible return,” she said. “No recognition. No clear path. Sometimes only criticism.”

For a long time, she followed the expected route, the one that made sense to others. But eventually, something shifted.

“I stopped asking permission,” she shared. “I stopped trying to fit into what people thought my life should look like.”

Instead, she began to build something of her own, drawing on the education, experiences, and values she had developed over time. Looking back, she reflected that the hardest part was not the work itself, but the persistence required to continue when results were not yet visible.

It is this kind of long-view leadership, rooted in vision, resilience, and self-trust, that distinguishes those who not only succeed, but lead with purpose.

FAITH AS FOUNDATION

At the heart of Dr. Penunuri’s journey is a perspective not often emphasized in traditional definitions of success, faith.

“As women, especially strong and ambitious women, we are often taught that we must control everything,” she said. “But one of the greatest lessons I have learned is that sometimes the real strength is in surrender.”

For Dr. Penunuri faith became an anchor in moments of uncertainty, a reminder that not every step needs to be fully understood in order to move forward. This integration of faith and action reflects the enduring mission of OLP: to form young women who are both intellectually prepared and spiritually grounded. It is a foundation that equips them not only to navigate challenges, but to lead with integrity and trust.

REDEFINING CONFIDENCE

Speaking not only as a professional, but as a mother, Dr. Penunuri offered a perspective on confidence that resonated deeply with students.

“Confidence is not about beauty. It’s not about money. It’s not about status,” she said. “Real confidence is built through experience.”

It is built, she explained, in the moments when you face something difficult, and realize you can overcome it. For the students in the room, her message reframed confidence not as something you either have or don’t, but as something cultivated over time through resilience, education, and faith. Together, these form a foundation that cannot be taken away, one that empowers young women to move forward with both courage and clarity.

AMPLIFYING VOICES

The theme of last year’s Symposium— Amplifying Voices—was not simply a concept, but a call to action.

“To me, amplifying voices means understanding that influence is not something we hold for ourselves,” Dr. Penunuri shared. “It is something we use for others.”

It means creating space at the table. Speaking truth with courage. Leading in a way that lifts others. Her message set the tone for a day that brought together more than 50 speakers and over 1,000 participants, each contributing to a shared purpose: to inspire the next generation of women to lead with intention and impact. At OLP, leadership is not defined by standing above others, but by standing beside them.

A LEGACY THAT CONTINUES

As she reflected on her own journey, Dr. Penunuri spoke of her daughter, Roman, and the hope she carries for the next generation.

“I want her to be courageous and confident,” she said. It is a hope that mirrors the mission of OLP, and one that was visible throughout the day, as students engaged, listened, and began to imagine their own futures. Once a student navigating uncertainty, Dr. Penunuri now returns as a leader helping others find their voice. And in doing so, she offers a powerful reminder: that success is not defined by a single moment, but by the willingness to continue, to grow, and to bring others along the way.

2026

OLPWS BY THE NUMBERS

• 50+ speakers

• 20+ s tudent facilitators

• 1,000+ attendees across San Diego

• 12 years of empowering young women through connection and conversation

OLP TROOP DAY

A She-Led Movement in the Making

By Christine Wilson ’04, Chief Advancement Officer

On Wednesday afternoon in February, our campus filled with an energy that felt both familiar and entirely new. More than a hundred Girl Scouts, Daisies through Cadettes, streamed through our gates, greeted by our students who, not so long ago, wore the same vests, earned the same badges, and recited the same promise. Troop Day was many things: a pilot program, a community partnership, a student-led event, and a joyful afternoon of learning.

For me, it was also deeply personal. This year marked my first as a Daisy troop leader for my daughter’s troop, seventeen curious, enthusiastic kindergarten and firstgrade girls just beginning their Girl Scout journey. As I searched for meaningful, age-appropriate opportunities for Daisies in our broader community, I noticed something important: while there are wonderful programs across San Diego, there are few spaces intentionally designed as hubs for girls across age groups that center leadership, confidence, and belonging.

That realization naturally led me back to OLP. The Academy of Our Lady of Peace is the only all-girls school of its kind in the region. For more than a century it has served as a place where young women are encouraged to explore who they are, what they love, and how they will show up in the world. Pairing that mission with Girl Scouts San Diego, an organization rooted in courage, curiosity, and community impact, felt less like a new idea and more like a continuation of something already aligned.

Troop Day grew from that shared understanding. What began as a simple concept quickly evolved into a thoughtfully designed pilot program. Our goal was intentionally modest: to welcome just over 100 girls, keep the experience accessible and warm, and never turn anyone away. Invitations were primarily spread through word of mouth, a quiet mention in our alumnae newsletter, and, most importantly, through our students.

We asked them a simple question: Are you a current or former Girl Scout? Even if not, do you have a passion for supporting younger girls and community-centered leadership?

The response was overwhelming. In true OLP fashion, Troop Day became a she-led movement. Our students didn’t just volunteer; they planned, designed, and facilitated every aspect of the experience. From welcoming families in our St. Thérèse Theater for the Girl Scout Promise and Pledge, to leading hands-on STEM and VAPA activities across campus, they stepped fully into leadership.

Each Girl Scout participated in both a STEM and a visual and performing arts experience, earning badges while exploring creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Daisies tested the scientific method with soda and Mentos before painting personalized rocks to leave around campus. Brownies engineered structures and crafted Valentinethemed art. Juniors explored STEM careers and learned an OLP dance. Cadettes tackled battery safety and designed vision boards tied to the Science of Happiness badge.

Parents remained in the theater, learning more about OLP while watching their daughters be guided by high school students who modeled confidence, kindness, and joy. Only troop leaders accompanied their Scouts, reinforcing the idea that this day belonged to the girls.

By the time everyone gathered again for closing remarks and the familiar strains of “Make New Friends,” it was clear that Troop Day had become something more than an event. It was an experience of continuity, girls leading girls, across ages and stages, within a community built intentionally for them.

I am incredibly proud of what our students created, proud of our partnership with Girl Scouts San Diego, and proud of the laughter, learning, and connection that filled our campus that day. Most of all, I am hopeful. Hopeful that Troop Day will become a lasting model, one that continues to welcome young girls from across the region, introduces them to the power of all-girls education, and reminds them early on that leadership is not something they grow into someday. It is something they already carry. I can think of nothing more meaningful than helping build a bridge, one where little girls arrive curious and leave believing that they belong.

Rising to the Challenge: Scholar’s Day at OLP

In January 2026, OLP excitedly welcomed 178 incoming students to campus for Scholars’ Day, a merit-based scholarship experience designed to challenge and inspire. While scholarships are awarded, the day itself is an accomplishment, a moment when 178 young women stepped forward, prepared, and gave their personal best. Over the course of the three-hour event, students were invited to fully immerse themselves in an academic experience, and were evaluated in two distinct ways: individually through the Socratic Seminar and collaboratively through the group project. From the preparation leading up to the day and the final project presentations, each participant demonstrated the courage, effort, and engagement that define success at OLP as preparation meets opportunity.

The day began in prayer, inviting students to reflect on a shared journey rooted in the CSJ charism of unifying love and Gospel values of gentleness, peace, and joy. Centered on Laudato Si’ by Pope Francis, the Socratic Seminar invited students into a 45-minute academic conversation rooted in engaging dialogue. Rather than competing to be the loudest voice in the room, participants practiced civil disagreement and deep listening

as they explored complex ideas together. To support meaningful participation, students received the seminar questions and evaluation rubrics one month in advance. This preparation allowed them to engage the material intentionally and arrive ready to confidently contribute to the Socratic seminar. The discussion drew connections between Pope Francis’s message in Laudato Si’, the documentary The Letter, and St. Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of Creation , encouraging students to reflect on humanity’s responsibility to care for our common home and the communities most affected by environmental challenges. However, before the seminar began, eight student leaders from Ms. Bush’s AP Government class, Lizzie Cabrera, Jordana Cashman, Mary Lund, Bethany McDonald, Kiana Ricasa, Maeve Richardson, Addie Terson, and Valentina Vilaso, demonstrated a mock Socratic Seminar, modeling the respectful academic dialogue expected throughout the day. Their example helped set the tone for the experience and empowered all 178 participants to confidently contribute to their own conversation. As Adriana Avila, Class of 2029, reflects, the experience mirrored her current classes, where “we are encouraged to voice our thoughts and opinions…while also listening and being open to the ideas of others.” For many students, such as Adriana Avila, the seminar facilitated an introduction to OLP’s learning environment and helped them develop public speaking skills.

By: Judith Partida

Following the Socratic Seminar, students participated in a collaborative group project where they were assigned one of 17 real-world environmental challenges and were introduced to a hypothetical $1 billion investor, tasking them with developing a solution that was not only innovative but practical enough to earn the support of their table leader. With just 30 minutes to collaborate before presenting their ideas to the full audience in two minutes, students were challenged to think critically, communicate clearly, and work effectively as a team. Some participants arrived with well-developed ideas, while others discovered their creativity and leadership in the moment. This fast-paced experience highlighted how preparation meets adaptability, as students transformed knowledge into action. For some, the challenge revealed new strengths. “I felt like I needed to take on the main leadership role in order to stand out,” shared Frances Mari Alcanciado, Class of 2029, “But I eventually learned that by simply voicing my opinions… I take on a form of leadership of my own.” Others discovered the power of collaboration, as Khloe Bell, Class of 2029, explained, “I shared my ideas and opinions, but made sure to listen to others’ ideas as well, which, when put together, created something beautiful.” The presentations demonstrated not only academic understanding, but also confidence, innovation, and the ability to rise to a challenge.

At the center of Scholars’ Day is a clear message: success is built through preparation. Every participant received seminar questions, rubrics, and environmental topics weeks in advance, with a full month to research and refine their ideas. This intentional structure reinforces OLP’s belief that excellence is not reserved for the “naturally gifted” but is developed through effort, discipline, and commitment. Renata Morales, Class of 2029, noted that “having the questions and rubrics in advance helped me to look out for certain things to bring up… [and] move the conversation forward in a thoughtful way,” emphasizing how preparation can guide meaningful participation in both discussion and group work. Scholars’ Day demonstrates that when preparation meets opportunity, students are empowered to succeed.

Scholars’ Day reflects the heart of OLP’s mission, rooted in the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, where faith and intellectual growth are inseparable. Throughout the day, students experienced not only academic challenges but also the beginning of sisterhood, leadership, and service. Even attending Scholars’ Day and giving your personal best is an accomplishment in itself. As Hailey Manatt, Class of 2029, reflected, “Scholars Day was the first time I felt a part of the OLP community, and after that day, I felt a pull towards OLP.” Ultimately, Scholars’ Day is not simply about who receives recognition, but about the young women who choose to engage, challenge themselves, and rise to the moment.

“Top 10”

OLP’s Top 10 Academic Students of the Class of 2026

Top Row from Left to Right: Frances Aguilar, Elizabeth Cabrera, Simone Considine, Mia DiMarino, Lauren Hill, Hanley Larabee

Second Row from Left to Right: Haley Smith, Anabelle Rojas Morgan, Mary Lund, Sarah Pingol

Evening of Excellence

At OLP’s Evening of Excellence, we celebrate two things that make OLP extraordinary: the achievements of our students and the generosity of the donors who make those achievements possible. As we recognize our top graduates and the remarkable colleges and universities they will attend, we are reminded that their success is built upon opportunities created throughout their OLP journey. Through gifts to the OLP Alumnae Endowed Scholarship and other philanthropic support, donors help provide access to an exceptional education, transformative programs, leadership experiences, and a community where young women can thrive. The accomplishments we celebrated are not only a reflection of our students’ hard work, but also of a community that believes in investing in the next generation of women leaders.

Give a gift today and help OLP to carry on the tradition of excellence!

A Steadfast Legacy Honoring a Mother’s Sacrifice

When Kathryn Willetts ‘61 established The Steadfast Mother Endowment at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace, she did so to honor the woman whose determination changed the course of her life.

The endowment is named for Kathryn’s mother, Theresa, whose unwavering commitment to education ensured that her daughter could remain at OLP during one of the most difficult periods in their family’s life.

In 1959, after Kathryn completed her sophomore year, her father left the family, leaving Theresa to support four children on her own. Despite significant financial hardship and the challenges faced by working women at the time, Theresa was determined to provide her children with opportunities she herself had never received.

She approached the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and asked if Kathryn could remain at OLP, promising to make tuition payments in small monthly installments. The Sisters agreed.

For Kathryn, the decision was not immediately welcomed. Without her father’s daily rides to school, she faced long bus rides and the emotional weight of family upheaval. Looking back, however, she recognizes that her mother’s insistence on an OLP education was one of the greatest gifts she ever received.

“By the time I had completed my first semester of college, I realized what a gift my mother had given me,” Kathryn recalls. “I wrote her a letter thanking her for making me stay.”

Years later, while attending an OLP event as a parent herself, Kathryn learned a detail she had never known. Former Principal Sister Evelyn Joseph shared that Theresa had continued making tuition payments long after Kathryn graduated—faithfully paying the final installment only after her daughter had already completed college.

The revelation deepened Kathryn’s appreciation for the sacrifices her mother had made quietly and without recognition.

Theresa Corso

Theresa’s determination extended far beyond her children’s education. After raising her family, she earned her GED, pursued college coursework in the emerging field of computer information science, and completed her associate’s degree at age 65—the oldest graduate in her class. Throughout her life, she remained devoted to her family, parish, and community.

Today, The Steadfast Mother Endowment seeks to carry that legacy forward by assisting OLP students whose education may be threatened by unexpected financial hardship. The scholarship reflects the same values Theresa embodied throughout her life: perseverance, faith, resilience, sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of education.

For Kathryn, the endowment is more than a tribute. It is an opportunity to ensure that future young women facing difficult circumstances receive the same chance she was given more than six decades ago.

“OLP was a treasured gift that continues to enrich my life,” she says. “My hope is that this endowment will help students continue their education and remind them that they are capable of meeting life’s challenges with courage, perseverance, and faith.”

The Steadfast Mother Endowment will provide support for OLP students experiencing unexpected financial hardship, ensuring that future generations of Pilots can continue their journey with the same opportunity, encouragement, and hope that Theresa provided to her daughter.

Every scholarship has a story. Sometimes it begins with a parent, a teacher, a mentor, or a life-changing opportunity that opened a door when it mattered most.

If you have a story that has shaped your OLP journey and would like to explore how that legacy might support future generations of Pilots, we invite you to start a conversation. Creating a scholarship may be more attainable than you think, and we would be honored to discuss the possibilities with you.

Please contact Christine Wilson ’04, Chief Advancement Officer at cwilson@aolp.org.

Christina, Tess, Rebecca in 2012 , and Kathryn and Tess in 2007

God’s Call to the Heart as Our Lady Points to Christ

The vocation journey of Isabella Orendain ’18

By Ryan Martin-Spencer, Director of Mission Integration

The way that God has lovingly, gently, and oftentimes quietly moved through Isabella Orendain’s life has surprised her, while also fostering within her a deep sense of love, gratitude, and peace. Isabella graduated from the Academy of Our Lady of Peace in 2018, and while a student at OLP, she did not consider the path of vowed religious life as a possibility. However, the experiences, opportunities, and friendships that Isabella embraced and developed during her time within the green gates of Villa Montemar at OLP planted seeds within her heart that would eventually blossom, creating an interior landscape where Isabella could recognize God’s gentle whisper calling her to life as a religious sister. Through prayerful discernment inspired by Mary, which included spending exploratory time with two different contemplative orders of religious sisters, Isabella fully embraced Jesus Christ’s invitation to, “Come, follow me” (Matthew 19:21). God-willing, in September of 2026, Isabella will enter the Filiae Laboris Mariae semicontemplative Marian community in Kansas as a postulant guided by the Holy Spirit, journeying toward receiving the religious habit as a novice, and eventually becoming a fully professed religious sister, by the grace of God.

Isabella realized how God had been quietly working in her life even before she recognized it herself. Additionally, the teachers that she had at OLP influenced and inspired her by providing a foundation rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Catholic Social Teaching, and the importance of loving both God and the Dear Neighbor, as the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet so beautifully exemplify. During Isabella’s senior year, an invitation from one of her teachers to spend quiet time before the Blessed Sacrament spurred her to go alone to the OLP Chapel and sit silently before

While Isabella did not recognize God’s call to her until after she graduated from high school, she feels grateful for her time at OLP because it gave her a strong sense of community and some very meaningful friendships. One of her closest friends and OLP classmates, Kaitlyn, fully embraced the beauty of their shared Catholic upbringing and faith long before Isabella did. After Isabella’s rediscovery of her relationship with God halfway through college, Kaitlyn shared that she had been praying for Isabella all those years.

Our Lord in the tabernacle. At the time, she did not realize how significant that moment would later become in her spiritual life. Looking back now, Isabella recognizes that her time in the OLP Chapel planted a seed, one that would later grow into a deep love for silence and mental prayer, where Our Lord speaks to us in the depths of our hearts. Even though her faith did not become deeply personal until later in life, OLP helped plant many of the seeds that eventually blossomed during her rediscovery of her faith.

During COVID, after she graduated from OLP, Isabella, experienced a deep reversion to the faith and began rediscovering the richness of the Catholic Church. However, Isabella struggled with some questions, doubts, and uncertainties. She found herself in a church, and someone mentioned that Our Lady Undoer of Knots, intercedes for people who ask her to pray for them in a powerful way. She knelt before an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe and prayed, asking Mary for support and guidance. After that moment of looking to Mary as a loving and dedicated mother, her life began to change. She started to truly believe in God in a way that she never had before. From that point on, she experienced a profound shift; she had truly fallen in love with our compassionate God. When Isabella looked at the cross, she began to see not just a symbol, but the love of her life and the reason for her existence.

As her prayer life deepened, she began to feel drawn toward a life completely dedicated to God. Reading the diary of St. Faustina Kowalska particularly impacted Isabella because of St. Faustina’s deep desire to belong entirely to Christ, and it awakened something similar within her own heart. At first, Isabella was definitely surprised and even a little resistant because religious life had never been part of her plans. Growing up, she had imagined pursuing a career in law and becoming a lawyer. However, the more she prayed, the more she realized that this newfound desire for religious life was not going away. To the contrary, it only continued to grow stronger. The idea of giving her life entirely to God and living a life centered around prayer, community, and love for Christ truly excites her. The sacrifices required for religious life and stepping into the unknown do make her a little nervous, but Isabella continues to find peace by trusting that God’s will is greater than her own plans. The more that she reflected on what it means to belong entirely to Christ, the more she came to see that religious life is not a loss, but a gift and an invitation into a deeper love and freedom.

Companions on Isabella’s journey helped her enter into discernment about religious life. She first discerned with the cloistered Discalced Carmelites in Colorado. Being there allowed her to experience firsthand the daily life of the sisters, including their rhythm of prayer, work, and community. The monastery’s Mother Superior exuded so much joy, despite being completely removed from the world, which moved and inspired Isabella. She found the palpable sense of purpose and peace throughout the monastery incredibly attractive. The Carmelite Spiritual Canticle of St. John of the Cross, echoed by St. Thérèse of Lisieux, “My vocation is love,” deeply resonated with Isabella, and confirmed for her that her deepest desire was for her life to be centered entirely on loving God.

After visiting the Discalced Carmelites, the Mother Superior suggested that Isabella also visit the Filiae Laboris Mariae semi-contemplative community in Kansas. She reached out and was able to visit for a few days, and then later returned for a monthlong stay. During this time, Isabella experienced a deep and genuine peace and a great sense of joy. Isabella felt at home and a strong confidence that God desired for her to be with the Filiae Laboris Mariae sisters. Filiae Laboris Mariae translates to, “Daughters of the Work of Mary,” and they have a special devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows, to whom Isabella also has a personal devotion. The sisters also have a strong love for the Carmelite saints whom Isabella encountered during her time of discernment with the Discalced Carmelites in Colorado. The Filiae Laboris Mariae community in Kansas is filled with young and vibrant sisters, and Isabella felt at home with them in a natural and peaceful way. She remembers thinking that she wanted to love God and others in the same way the sisters did, with a love that overflowed naturally from a deep life of prayer. When Isabella returned home to San Diego after her month-long visit with the sisters in Kansas, she experienced a deep longing; she missed the sisters and felt as if she had left her true home behind. This further confirmed her

God’s Call to the Heart as Our Lady Points to Christ

desire to return to the Filiae Laboris Mariae community in Kansas and to give her life to God. What is especially meaningful to Isabella is that the community is named in honor of Mary. From the beginning of her reconnection with God, her faith has been deeply shaped and guided by the hands of Our Lady, whom she experiences as an instrument leading her closer to her Son, Jesus. Our Lady has never failed Isabella, and she trusts in Mary’s continued prayer and guidance. From friendships made and seeds of love and faith planted at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace, to asking Our Lady Undoer of Knots and Our Lady of Guadalupe to pray for her, to a personal devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows, Mary’s loving motherly presence has gently pointed the way for Isabella to enter into a continually more profound love for Christ, including through the Eucharist. Just as Mary helped guide Isabella back to Christ, she hopes to continue living out her vocation under Mary’s guidance and in imitation of her “Yes,” while cooperating in the work of Mary to bring souls to Christ.

Isabella gives thanks for the family, friends, teachers, mentors, and others who inspired and encouraged her faith and prayed for her, even when she was younger and not taking her faith seriously. Their witness and prayers remind her how important it is to trust that God is always working, even when we cannot immediately see

it. Her most important piece of advice to students and young women is to courageously bring their questions and desires honestly to prayer. A vocation often begins very quietly, and God usually works gradually. We do not need to have everything figured out immediately. She would also encourage young women to spend time in silence, go to Eucharistic Adoration, pray the rosary, receive the sacraments frequently, and be open to where God may be leading them, even if it was not originally part of their plans. The more Isabella surrendered her own expectations, the more peace she found. Finally, Isabella encourages young people to not be afraid of religious life. The world often presents religious life as giving something up, but she has come to see it as gaining something infinitely greater: a deeper loving relationship with Jesus Christ.

Filiae Laboris Mariae and Isabella have partnered with The Labouré Society, a Catholic non-profit 501(c)(3) that helps people with a vocation called to religious life or the priesthood raise funds to overcome the barrier of educational expenses. If you would like to support Isabella’s entry into the Filiae Laboris Mariae semi-contemplative Marian community in Kansas, so that she can follow God’s call, visit rescuevocations. org/aspirant/isabella-orendain/ or email Isabella at isabella. orendain@rescuevocations.org.

Isabella (second from the left) with OLP friends at Graduation 2018

Your gift is worthy of her legacy.

144 years of women formed to lead with faith and courage. The Class of 2026 carries that flame forward — and your significant gift ensures the next generation will too.

We don't just teach young women to succeed. We train them to lead as Pilots.

Tuition establishes our foundation — but it is the Carondelet Fund that ignites the dynamic world of student life. From the athletic fields to center stage, from student-led clubs and transformative retreats to our deepest campus traditions, this fund is the unrestricted fuel that brings the full Pilot experience to life. Your gift doesn't wait for tomorrow; it instantly activates the leadership, sisterhood, and joy that define what it means to be a Pilot. Our students are worthy of your significant gift.

A gift in her name means everything.

Many of our most meaningful gifts are made not in the donor's own name, but in honor of a woman who shaped a life — a mother, a teacher, a classmate. A tribute or memorial gift keeps her legacy alive in every student she would have championed.

Endowment & scholarships

A gift to the endowment creates lasting financial strength, securing OLP's mission in perpetuity. It powers scholarship and access, reaching more than 40% of our student body by need and merit, so no deserving young woman is ever turned away

Give together. Multiply the impact.

Class giving circles invite alumnae to pool their gifts in honor of a reunion year, a milestone, or the Class of 2026 Senior Gift. Together, your collective investment reaches further than any single gift could alone.

Planned & legacy giving

Include OLP in your estate plans through a bequest, a percentage, or the remainder of your estate. A planned gift sustains the mission for generations to come, and membership in the Heritage Circle honors this enduring commitment.

Invest in the next generation of Pilots.

"As the Sisters taught us, we walk together with one heart, united in love — every gift helps a young woman rise, lead, and take her own courageous flight."