CatholicTrojan
CatholicTrojan
SPRING 2025
Editor
Ricky Cruz Director of Creative & Marketing
Contributors
Anthony Bottino '26 Student Creative Team
Brissa Campos '27 Student Creative Team
Marie Cloonan '23 Campus Minister
Jazmin De Guzman Digital Marketing Specialist
Jeryn Dizon '26 Student Creative Team
Elizabeth Fombona '27 Student Creative Team
Hayden Kimble '26 Student Creative Team
Julia Osiripaibul Campus Minister
Madelyn Pozzi '26 Student Creative Team
Photographer
Zach Fiedler Photographer Alumni & Donor Relations
Rose Ramirez Donor Relations rose@catholictrojan.org
Thank you to our Trojan Catholic community for providing stories, photos, and professional expertise in the building of this newsletter.
We value your input. Please contact the editor, Ricky Cruz, Director of Creative & Marketing 213.516.3959 ext. 225 ricky@catholictrojan.org
To invite the USC community into a transforming relationship with Christ and one another, empowered to make a lasting impact on the world.
Our Mission
From the Pastor's Desk
Dear Trojan Catholics,
Hanging on the wall just outside my bedroom in my childhood home was a beautifully crocheted poem gifted to my parents by my grandmother. The poem read:
A bell’s not a bell ’til you ring it, A song’s not a song ’til you sing it, Love in your heart wasn’t put there to stay, Love isn’t love ’til you give it away!
This poem is a reminder that authentic love cannot remain locked up in our hearts. To the contrary, it must be expressed and shared with those around us. Jesus made this clear when he is said to his disciples, “You are the light of the world… your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:14, 16).
In this Spring Newsletter what you’ll find are countless ways that our community at Our Savior Parish and USC Caruso Catholic Center lets the light of its love shine for all to see. From Sunday Mass and SCupper to Bible Studies and Social Outreach, we strive to love God and neighbor in all we do. In particular, I’m amazed at the ways our students take care of and love one another in the small things of each day. A listening ear, a smile, a word of affirmation, a random act of kindness. Just the other day, a non-Catholic student shared with me that she loves coming to the CCC because “everyone here is so nice.” This compliment filled me with such pride and reminded me of when Jesus said, “This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). Way to go, Trojan Catholics! Let’s keep loving one another as Christ loves us.
As always, I am grateful for your ongoing prayers and support. Our ministry couldn’t be sustained without your thoughtful generosity and a gift of any amount goes a long way. As I finish up my first year back at USC I give praise and thanks to God for the many blessings and I look forward in hope to the many blessings yet to come. Please be assured of my continued prayers for you and your loved ones and may the Lord’s peace be with you always.
God Bless & Fight On!
Fr. Matthew Wheeler '10
Pastor | Our Savior Parish & USC Caruso Catholic Center
13
From the Head to the Heart
From USC alum to priest, Fr. Matthew Wheeler's journey has come full circle
Athletes for Christ
How two athletes are living out their faith on and off the field
17
Walking in the Footsteps of Saints
11
In Tune with God
Xander Lee ’27 finds God in music and science
15
A Life Given to Love
Lauren Wehn's '24 incredible journey from Cybersecurity student to religious life.
Students embarked on a powerful pilgrimage to Poland, journeying through the sacred sites of saints.
19
Love in Action
Street Ministry prioritizes forming authentic friendships grounded in Christ’s radical love.
20
Beloved & Belonging
A safe place where students can navigate life with LGBTQ+ and Catholic identities.
21
23
Celebrating Generosity and Impact
Faith on the Rise
The growing attedance of students at Mass
Featuring Kathleen Leavey McCarthy '57, Patti & AJ Johnson '78, and the Newman Guild
27
Year at a Glance
A Visual Journey Through a Year of Faith, Fellowship, and Celebration
From the Head to the Heart
From USC alum to priest, Fr. Matthew Wheeler's journey has come full circle—from student at the Catholic Center to serving the Trojan Catholic community.
By Anthony Bottino '26
The Journey to USC
A proud Midwesterner, Fr. Matthew Wheeler '10 grew up as one of five children in Minnesota. He was raised in a Catholic household where he was surrounded by faith and was no stranger to experiencing God’s love. Seeds of faith were planted in him throughout his childhood and teenage years.
When it came time for him to choose a university, Vanderbilt was at the top of his list. He was hopeful that it would be the place where he would spend the next four years. However, when the admissions decisions arrived, he was met with disappointment—he had been rejected. However, God had a different plan in store for him.
His college advisor offered him a fresh perspective: “A college decision is not a prize to be won but a match to be made." Those words stuck with him, prompting him to reconsider his choices. As he took a deeper look at USC, something about it resonated with him. He saw the potential for growth, opportunity, and a place where he could truly thrive. Slowly but surely, he began to realize that USC wasn’t just another option—it was the right match.
With a newfound sense of clarity and trust in where God was leading him, he made the bold decision to move out west. He packed his bags and started a new journey as a business major at USC. Little did he know, this decision would set the stage for a transformative college experience—one that would ultimately shape his path in ways he never could have imagined.
A Deeper Calling
At USC, he felt a deeper calling stirring within him. This led him to join the Christian fraternity Alpha Gamma Omega while also being involved at the Catholic Center. However, as he moved through the fraternity’s pledging process, he began to sense that God was drawing him more toward the Catholic Center than the fraternity.
“[The Catholic Center] became my home away from home,” Fr. Matt said. “It started this whole journey of moving from the head to the heart—from an intellectual conversion to a real, deeper conversion in my heart.”
The Catholic Center provided him with a sense of belonging, but it all stemmed from prayer, a life of grace, and service to others, which in turn blossomed into beautiful friendships. Fr. Matt began to listen to God more closely, and his questions started to change. Instead of asking what he wanted to do with his life, he started asking what God wanted him to do with his life.
Matt's
→ Fr. Matt '10 graduated from the USC Leventhal School of Accounting with a degree in Accounting
A Question That Changed Everything
By his Junior year he was praying daily, seeking spiritual direction, and attending church almost every day. Then one day, something shifted. It was as if God was whispering in the back of his mind:
“What about the priesthood?” At first, Fr. Matt was confused—he was encouraged not to rush into anything or make drastic changes right away. But soon, he realized he needed to be truly honest with himself and with God.
“I say God was inviting me to discover the reason for my existence,” Fr. Matt said. “Like He was inviting me to discover the purpose of my life from the foundations of the world.”
After graduation, Fr. Matt entered the seminary and joined a brotherhood of Catholic men exploring the priesthood. There, he learned to grow in charity and love, deepening his discernment of God’s call.
His first four years as a priest were spent at St. Anthony’s in San Gabriel, where he built a strong foundation and learned what it truly meant to be a priest. After that, he served at Visitation in Westchester.
Coming Back Home
The Catholic Center had undergone significant changes and was looking for a new priest to lead the Trojan Catholic community.
“The thought of coming back to serve here, a place that had been so instrumental and important in my own life, to work with college students and serve them in that way—yes, please,” Fr. Matt said.
Now, with one year completed as Administrator and set to become Pastor this summer, he is committed to sharing Christ’s love so that students can experience the same fire that he feels His mission? To help every student who walks into the church become an apostle and disciple of Christ.
He compares this full-circle moment to Galilee in the Bible. After His resurrection, Jesus tells His apostles to meet Him in Galilee—the place where they first encountered Him.
For Fr. Matt, returning to USC feels like his own Galilee moment. Now, he is back at his spiritual roots, and God is not only calling him to fall in love with Him again but also to share that same love with students who are just like he once was.
Fr. Matt knows he is living the life that many priests dream of, and he is fully aware of the blessing. He is grateful for everyone who has been a part of his journey and for all the ways God has worked through others in his life. For him, it’s difficult to put his gratitude into words, but one word sums it up perfectly: “Gift. This has been a real gift.”
Galilee Moment
Fr. Matt's Journey
Leading with Faith
In just a short time at USC, Fr. Matt has already made a profound impact on the Trojan Catholic community. Fr. Matt’s vision and pastoral heart are already shaping a vibrant culture of faith.
In Tune with God
Xander Lee ’27 finds God in music and science
BY JERYN DIZON '26 & MADELYN POZZI '26
The violin is more than a musical instrument for Xander Lee ‘27. It’s a way to glorify God and bridge the gap between faith and artistry. Xander is currently a sophomore studying quantitative biology and pursuing a minor in violin performance. Xander views his diverse set of studies as an opportunity to further his understanding of creation, as “science teaches [him] what is true, and music teaches [him] what is beautiful.”
Xander started playing violin when he was only five years old. Although he started playing violin as an extracurricular, he eventually developed a genuine love for the instrument and the art itself. Now, he plays the violin at Sunday Masses and assists with the music ministry team. He acknowledges that playing his violin at Mass is different from playing in front of a performance audience. At Mass, he uses his musical talents as an act of prayer and creates a reverent experience for others.
Along with his music ministry, Xander serves on the student leadership team as one of the community life and culture chairs. In this position, he gets to help plan and facilitate events and foster a community at the Catholic Center.
“We want to foster a sense of community, but it’s different than a community on a secular campus because it’s rooted in faith and prayer,” says Xander.
From the moment Xander came to the Catholic Center, he felt welcomed and found a home. Whether it was praying the Rosary or having faith-filled conversations, he realized that true friendships are rooted in prayer.
He shared his vision being a part of the Student Leadership Board: "Our goal [as Community Life and Culture Chair] is to have fun at the Catholic Center but know we share the most important thing in communion with one another.”
It was easy for him to keep coming back due to the welcoming environment everyone created. Now, Xander strives to create that same sense of warmth and hospitality for others, ensuring that every new student who walks through the doors of the Catholic Center feels at home.
Athletes for Christ
BY JERYN DIZON '26 & HAYDEN KIMBLE '26
Away from home is a feeling all too familiar for Yemi John ‘26. Born in Italy, but raised in England, Yemi is no stranger to the variety of environments the world has to offer. Attending school in the United States now, she finds herself being pulled in many directions, due to her status as a student-athlete here at USC, and now being an Olympian. But what remains in Yemi’s life now is her Catholic faith.
Yemi has always known what it’s like to be surrounded by her faith, especially in her Catholic schooling prior to attending USC. But she was given the “free reign” to take hold of her own faith by her parents, and find her own relationship with God and the Church. Coming to USC, Yemi’s discovery of the Catholic Center has been integral to her growth in the faith, and finding a community she can have a home in.
Being an athlete on USC’s track & field team, Yemi’s weeks are constantly filled with strenuous training, dedicated recovery time, and competition travel; not to mention her academic endeavors. This past summer, being selected to represent Great Britain in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, posed an even greater challenge to her routine. But as Yemi’s faith is always beside her, she’s found athlete Bible studies at the Catholic Center, and at the Olympic Games, to help guide her as she achieves her goals. Through all of her travels and new experiences, Yemi has truly found a home at USC, and in her Catholic faith.
→ Yemi '26 represented Great Britain in the 2024 Summer Olympics and competed in Track & Field
For Jenna Gallaway ‘27, pursuing excellence is not just about athletic achievement; it's about striving for Sainthood. As a member of the track and field team, she desires to utilize her God-given gifts to glorify Him both on and off the field. As she reflects on her calling, Jenna shares, “Those exact gifts God gave us are our path to Heaven and Sainthood,” emphasizing that true excellence begins with faithfully using what He has entrusted to us.
Although balancing life as a student-athlete is difficult, Jenna’s blessings continually motivate her to prioritize God while competing. Everything she does revolves around her Catholic faith. It is all offered up to God and exemplifies her humility. By praying the Rosary and making the Sign of the Cross before every meet, she is reminded of what truly matters: Sainthood.
“Every day is a new opportunity for God to use me and allow me to glorify Him. God is very intentional with what he does. It’s up to Him how I can be a vessel to share His love for us.”
Jenna’s lively personality shines through all she does as Jesus radiates through her. Her love for God and her desire to share it with others inspires all. Leading Bible studies for both athletes and girls in her sorority, Jenna carries out Jesus’ mission of making disciples and helping others reach the goal of Sainthood.
“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”
→ Jenna '27 is part of the USC Track & Field Team participating in the Hammer Throw
A Life Given to Love
Lauren Wehn's '24 incredible journey from Cybersecurity student to religious life.
BY FR. MATT WHEELER '10
What role did the Caruso Catholic Center play in your discernment?
I wish I could put into words the tremendous role the Caruso Catholic Center has played in my discernment. I can’t begin to express how grateful I am to each of the staff, priests, students, and donors whom I pray for daily because of how God has worked through them in my vocation journey. Quite literally everything the Catholic Center has offered from the first day I arrived on campus has transformed my heart completely for my vocation. From daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, ministry at Casa Milagrosa, Bible Study, Marian Consecration, Higher Grounds, the Poland pilgrimage…I could go on and on. But one of the greatest gifts God has given me through the Catholic Center has been the people. Through the witness of the lives of the staff and students, God has taught me true charity, which I will carry with me as I enter the convent.
How would you respond to someone who says, “You went to USC and majored in cybersecurity only to enter religious life?”
I would tell them that the world may see it as a waste, but God sees it all as a part of His perfect and loving plan. Ever since I made the decision to graduate early and pursue religious life, God has filled me with a deep peace that has not once been shaken. I can already see many ways in which my major, education, and experience at USC has prepared me for my vocation. But whether it all makes sense to me or not doesn’t matter. God knows why He is leading me on this journey. And if all my faith and trust is in Him, why wouldn’t I look on what He has done in my life so far with anything but eyes of awe and gratitude?
What are you excited about as you enter religious life?
God has filled my heart with such indescribable joy at entering that I know it can only come from Him. The reason behind my joy lies in knowing that in entering, I am taking the next steps God is leading me on towards Heaven. My heart has been longing over the years to love the poorest of the poor to the fullest and to give all of myself to them, and now through my vocation, I will. My family as well as everyone at the CC will always hold a special place in my heart, and I cannot wait to offer up my prayers, works, joys, and sufferings out of love for them and each one of you. I love Jesus with my whole being, and the day cannot come quickly enough when I will be able to spend my daily hours in pure love and adoration in front of Jesus in the Eucharist. I anticipate my devotion and love for the Blessed Virgin Mary to be wholly complete upon entering. I desire nothing less than to live the rest of my days in the convent as a true child of Mary.
What would you recommend for anyone trying to discern God’s Will for their lives?
God’s Will for each one of our lives is all about love. If we only knew how much He loves us, we would all desire to take the most radical steps in order to follow His Will! Discerning His Will can be challenging at times, but He has given us His Mother Mary to love and to guide us. Ultimately, God’s Will leads us to Heaven. And so trust in Him! Turn in loving confidence to the Blessed Virgin Mary and ask her to lead you in discerning and following God’s Will.
→ Looking for Spiritual Guidance? Please contact Nysa Beliard, Campus Minister, for more info. nysa@catholictrojan.org
→ Lauren '24 pictured with Fr. Matt Wheeler '10 and Fr. Joe Kim, OFM Conv. Lauren will be entering the Missionaries of Charity
"God has filled my heart with such indescribable joy at entering that I know it can only come from Him."
LAUREN WEHN '24
Walking in the Footsteps of Saints
Students embarked on a powerful pilgrimage to Poland, journeying through the sacred sites of saints.
BY JULIA OSIRIPAIBUL
A couple years after I had graduated from college, I had the desire to attend a good, substantial retreat. While praying for this very intention in Adoration, a total stranger came up to me and asked, “Excuse me, how old are you?” Bewildered, I told her I was 23. She then handed me a brochure and said, “This is perfect for you! It’s a retreat.” Totally surprised, I opened the brochure only to find out that it was for a pilgrimage… to Poland! The pilgrimage would be based on the life of St. Maximilian Kolbe, the 20th century martyr who gave his life for another in Auschwitz. The lady used the word “retreat”, a word that God knew would stop me in my tracks because that is the exact word that I used with Him!
Little did I know, though, that this “retreat” would change my life. When I returned home, the only time I felt the most myself was when I thought of consecrated life. My heart was different, and this experience was something that I could never earn or create for myself; it was pure gift. I couldn’t have come to that point on my own, no matter what I did or how many prayers I prayed… I had received a great grace and I would never be the same again. Twenty years later, now in consecrated life and serving at USC, I began to desire to share that same powerful pilgrimage with the students that I was ministering to.
After much prayer and preparation, I had the privilege of leading 24 members of the USC community on a pilgrimage to Poland in August 2024. We walked in the footsteps of St. Maximilian Kolbe, and upon returning, it was clear that this journey— once life-changing for me—had become equally transformative for the students. Many experienced profound graces of vocation, healing, and conversion along the way.
Encountering these modern Saints in their homeland has been so impactful. They suffered so much, lived through the darkest of times, and yet emerged victorious in Christ, as SAINTS! How is this possible? In Scripture, we read that “…for God, all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26). Those that make this journey encounter the God that makes all things possible… the One who makes a way where there is no way, the One who loves us to the point of death, the One who makes the dead live.
This is our God, and these Saints testify to this, inspiring us to surrender it all to the One who gave it all, for love of us. As Jeremy Hernandez Lum-Tong '23 reflected, “This pilgrimage for me was nothing short of a rebirth; a call to remember who we are and the full radical extent of what we are called to do.”
"This pilgrimage for me was nothing short of a rebirth; a call to remember who we are and the full radical extent of what we are called to do."
JEREMY
HERENANDEZ LUM-TONG '23
Help Students go to Poland!
A pilgrimage is more than travel—it's an encounter with God that leaves a lasting mark. By giving to our Poland Pilgrimage, you’ll help students step away from the noise of campus life and into a deeper relationship with Christ. Your support brings them closer to their faith, their purpose, and their calling. Give now by scanning the QR code below.
Thank you in advance for however you can support us, and thank you for your consideration.
Learn more about the Poland Pilgrimage
Please contact Julia Osiripaibul, Campus Minister juliaosi@catholictrojan.org
→ In August 2024, the Caruso Catholic Center led its first-ever pilgrimage to Poland, taking 24 students on a transformative journey through the sacred sites of St. John Paul II, St. Faustina, and St. Maximilian Kolbe. This powerful experience deepened their faith and opened hearts to healing, vocation, and conversion.
Love in Action
Street Ministry prioritizes forming authentic friendships grounded in Christ’s radical love.
BY KYLO MALARI '25
If you had asked me in high school what would become the defining highlight of my USC experience, I never could have anticipated my answer today. Without hesitation, I can say that participating in Street Ministry through the Caruso Catholic Center has become one of the greatest privileges and most meaningful experiences of my time in college. Street Ministry began in response to an overlooked but deeply painful epidemic in Los Angeles— the poverty of loneliness. Often, discussions about homelessness focus on visible factors like addiction or unemployment, but rarely is loneliness identified as a root cause. Yet, the most critical human needs—friendship, and genuine support—remain largely unmet for countless individuals living on the streets.
Street Ministry prioritizes forming authentic friendships grounded in Christ’s radical love. This means walking the streets around USC, intentionally engaging in conversation, and using items like water and snacks simply as opportunities for conversation. One of the friendships that best illustrates the transformative power of this ministry is our relationship with Roger.
"Street Ministry has shown me what it truly means to love and encounter another person authentically."
KYLO MALARI '25
When we first met Roger, interactions were challenging; he rarely responded beyond short answers, always avoiding eye contact. We wondered if our presence even mattered. But one day, Roger surprised us by noting, “It’s been two months.” That moment profoundly shifted my understanding of how valuable consistent presence can be, even when conversations seem minimal. Over time, Roger grew noticeably more comfortable, smiling and sharing parts of his life with us. We even got to celebrate his 35th birthday by his tent with two of his favorite foods, a Whopper and a chocolate cake! Perhaps the most powerful moment we’ve had with him was when he agreed to attend Mass with us—even though he hadn’t been to church since he was a kid—in which he willingly paid attention and followed every part.
Through Roger, Street Ministry has shown me what it truly means to love and encounter another person authentically. This ministry, rooted deeply in prayer and solidarity, has forever transformed how I understand service, relationship, and Christ’s call to love radically and personally.
Beloved & Belonging
A safe place where students can navigate life with LGBTQ+ and Catholic identities.
BY MARIE CLOONAN '23
During my time in undergrad here at USC, I realized there was a place missing for Catholics who also had a LGBTQ+ identity. I found it difficult and isolating to navigate the challenges of experiencing both identities and knew that there had to be others that felt the same. Thus, came the idea of the small group. Over the past four years I have had the privilege of encountering 30+ members who also desire to seek the Lord in all the complexities of this life.
We have two objectives for this small group at the Caruso Catholic Center. First and foremost, to have our students recognize that they are an intentionally made, beloved child of God who has a place at the table, regardless of what others have said. Secondly, to give students the tools to cultivate a deep spiritual life within the Catholic faith.
One of our members upon first arrival to the group said that the sole reason they went to mass was because their “parents told them to”. After nearly a year in the group and learning to truly know Jesus, that student had one of the most powerful encounters showing Christ I’ve ever seen. The student shared that one night he was with a group with two peers studying Engineering. Like most nights the night consisting of chitchats mixed with problem solving.
One of the other students was also Catholic and invited the third student to mass. Upon hearing the invitation the student, who had been sharing that he is apart of the LGBTQ+ community, exclaimed, “ Oh there is no point going to mass. I am going to hell anyway.” My student from the small group took that opportunity to share how deeply the Lord desires and cares for that soul. The other student was deeply touched and asked my student to share more.
At the beginning of the semester, I was grabbing coffee with a woman who is a part of the OCIA program. She revealed to me that a big part of the reason she was coming into the faith was because for TWO YEARS she sat at the back of Our Savior Parish and saw the small group being advertised. It made her think that “ Maybe there is a place for me...maybe God does love me.”
These stories are just the beginning!
Please keep our small group in your prayers as we continue to grow and cultivate our small group here at the Catholic Center.
*Names have been omitted to protect the confidentiality of the individuals within the LGBTQ+ small group.
→ Marie '23 and Martin both facilitate the LGBTQ+ Small Group
"What we’re seeing at USC is a generation stepping into faith with fresh courage and openness."
FR. MATT WHEELER '10
Faith on the Rise
The growing attendance of students at Mass
BY RICKY CRUZ
At a time when religious engagement among young adults is often thought to be declining, the USC Caruso Catholic Center is experiencing a remarkable spiritual resurgence.
Every Sunday, nearly 570 students gather in the heart of the University of Southern California's campus to participate in Mass, turning the Caruso Catholic Center into a vibrant home of faith, fellowship, and community—a 17.5% increase from last year that reflects the growing impact of this ministry. What was once a modest student congregation has grown into one of the most dynamic Catholic campus ministries in the nation.
This rise in Mass attendance hasn’t happened overnight. It’s the fruit of years of intentional outreach, a consistently welcoming environment, and a community culture that prioritizes both spiritual growth and genuine relationship.
Fr. Matt reflects on the phenomenon with gratitude and joy: “Students are hungry—not just for answers, but for real community, beauty, and truth. What we’re seeing at USC is a generation stepping into faith with fresh courage and openness. It’s humbling to witness it every Sunday.”
From the packed pews to the heartfelt music led by the choir, Sunday Mass at Our Savior has become a sanctuary of renewal for students navigating the challenges of college life.
The growth in attendance reflects a broader revival of faith-based engagement on campus. The Caruso Catholic Center’s programming includes retreats, Bible studies, service trips, and social gatherings that build intentional Catholic community and foster discipleship. But Sunday remains the cornerstone.
As the Caruso Catholic Center continues to expand its reach, it not only nurtures the spiritual life of students but also builds a model for thriving campus ministry nationwide.
In response to growing attendance, plans are underway to add a third Sunday Mass, making sure that every student has the opportunity to encounter Christ in the Eucharist.
A Lifelong Trojan
The Legacy of Kathleen Leavey McCarthy '57
Kathleen Leavey McCarthy ’57, daughter of Dorothy and Thomas Leavey, holds dear her large and loving family, which spans generations—children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren. She arrived at the University of Southern California in 1953, where she lived in Hubbard Hall and became a proud member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. During her time as a student, she was honored as USC’s homecoming queen and rode atop the university’s Rose Bowl parade float—an early glimpse of the grace and leadership that would define her life.
It was during her sophomore year that she met fellow Trojan J. Thomas McCarthy ’53, LLB ’56, who would become her husband. In 1986, Kathleen joined USC’s Board of Trustees, where she continues to serve as one of the university’s longest-tenured and most dedicated members.
Through the Leavey Foundation, Kathleen has championed initiatives that enrich student life, elevate the campus experience, and support Catholic values. Her philanthropy has touched numerous institutions—including colleges, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles—reflecting a lifetime of faith-driven service.
We are especially grateful for her profound impact on Our Savior Parish and USC Caruso Catholic Center, where she serves on the Advisory Board and played a vital role in the realization of the church’s construction.
With humility, warmth, and unwavering commitment to others, Kathleen Leavey McCarthy is a shining example of what it means to be a Trojan Catholic. Her enduring legacy of faith, service, and love continues to uplift and inspire all who are blessed to know her.
→ Leave an Impact with a Future Gift
When you include Our Savior Parish and USC Caruso Catholic Center in your estate plan, it leaves an impact on the lives of students at USC.
Thank you for ensuring that the USC Caruso Catholic Center continues to make a difference on the campus of the University of Southern California and beyond.
more about your Legacy Gift
→ Kathleen McCarthy '57 and Fr. Matt '10 celebrating her 90th Birthday
Carrying the Mission Forward
A Gift of Faith, Fellowship, and Formation for USC Students
Patti Johnson '78 was raised in a Catholic household, but like many college students, she found her prayer life beginning to fade as she adjusted to life at USC. She explored various churches around campus, searching for a spiritual home that felt right—but nothing quite fit.
It wasn’t until her senior year that she decided to step into the USC Newman Center, curious about the little chapel just across from her apartment. What began as a visit became something much deeper. The Center quickly became a place of belonging, prayer, and purpose—a true home.
It was there that Patti met AJ on a retreat. Their friendship turned into love, and on August 18, 1979, Patti and AJ were married at Our Savior Parish, the very place where their spiritual journey began. For Patti and AJ, the Newman Center wasn’t just a campus ministry— it was the heart of their formation, their relationship, and their lifelong commitment to faith.
In loving memory of her husband, Allan “AJ” Johnson, Patti Johnson has established a memorial fund to support student retreats at Our Savior Parish and the USC Caruso Catholic Center—a place deeply woven into their life and love story. It was through this ministry that Patti and AJ first met, fell in love, and later exchanged their wedding vows more than 45 years ago. In recent years, they returned to this sacred space to renew those vows, affirming a bond grounded in faith and community.
Now, Patti wishes to honor that legacy by helping future generations of students encounter Christ in the same transformative way. She invites you to prayerfully consider making a gift to this fund in memory of both her and AJ—a couple whose love and commitment continue to bless the Trojan Catholic family.
→ Patti '78 and AJ were married at Our Savior parish on August 18, 1979
newman Guild
Women in Faith and Service at Our Savior Parish and the USC Caruso Catholic Center
This Spring, the Newman Guild held their annual spring luncheon theemed Love God With All Your Heart, Soul, & Mind which brought together over 80 guests who embraced a day filled with inspiring speakers, a delightful lunch, and great community.
Deacon Paul Pesqueira, our beloved Parish Deacon, opened the day with a heartfelt reflection. His words encouraged attendees to deepen their faith and lean into the joy of serving others- a message that resonated deeply with the mission of the Newman Guild and the community it serves.
The highlight of the afternoon was a moving talk from special guest speaker Heidi McNiff Johnson—a storyteller, nonprofit founder, and passionate advocate for good.
Through her blog and podcast Charity Matters, and her work as co-founder of the Spiritual Care Guild at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Heidi shared powerful stories of generosity, resilience, and hope. Her message reminded all present that each act of service, no matter how small, carries the potential to transform lives.
The Newman Guild extends a warm welcome to new members and invites current members to renew their memberships.
Membership dues are 100% tax-deductible and are $250 for the whole year.
Please join or renew your membership online at catholictrojan.org/newmanguild
trojan saint award dinner
Thursday the twelfth of June 2025
honoring our trojan saints
nancy novokmet and debbie & michael felix
dianne wilson and kevin shannon special centennial honors
Your gift has an impact
Together in Faith
Our mission here is to invite the USC community to embark on a transformative journey with Christ and each other, empowered to create a lasting impact on the world. We invite you to support our mission to continue to preapre the next generation of Catholic leaders with a financial gift.
We have serveral ways to participate, including naming opportunities, or starting a Family Endowment at USC. We rely solely on the generosity of donors like you to forward our mission. We do not receive financial assisttance from USC or the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Your tithes and offerings are 100% tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law and count towards your giving at USC. No gift is too small and each contribution directly impacts the lives of our Trojan Catholic community.
Rose Ramirez
Donor Relations
(213) 516-3959 rose@catholictrojan.org catholictrojan.org/give
TAX ID 95-2017225
Annual Fund Donations
$1,863,136
Amount contributed in 2023-2024
Endowment Contributions
$1,981,788
Amount contributed in 2023-2024
Ways to Give
1 Give Online by visiting catholictrojan.org/give or by scanning the QR code below.
Join Us in Empowering the Next Generation of Catholic Leaders at USC
Breakdown of Donations
• 94% Individual Donations
• 4% Sunday Offerings
• 2% Foundation Contributions
Number of Endowments
15
These endowments fund various aspects of our organization from operating expenses to campus ministry initiatives.
As of Fiscal Year 2025
2 Mail a Check to the USC Caruso Catholic Center
844 W. 32nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90007
3 Give directly from your debit/credit card with one text message. Text CATHOLIC to 9199.
Endowments
University of Southern California
• USC Caruso Catholic Center Endowment Fund
• Jensen Family Transportation Endowment
• Joanne Marie and Marcel George Foundation Endowement for Social Justice Ministries
• Newman Guild
• Uranga Family Endowment
• The Sperry Family Scholarship Fund
Archdiocese of Los Angeles
• Our Savior Church (USC) Operating Surplus Fund
• Our Savior Church (USC) Building Fund
• Our Savior Catholic Chruch Deferred Maintenance Fund
• The Mary Catruccio Scholarship Fund
• Our Savior Catholic University - Combined Called to Renew
• Our Savior Church (USC) Endowment Fund
• Shuster Family Leadership Development Endowment
CCF-LA
• Endowment for Our Savior Parish
• The Patti and Allan "AJ" Johnson Fund for Retreats at Our Savior Parish and USC Caruso Catholic Center
Advisory Board
We are grateful for the many individuals of our Advisory Board guiding our mission with wisdom and leadership.
We thank them for their continual prayers and support.
Ex Officio
The Most Reverened Jose H. Gomez Archbishop of Los Angeles
The Most Reverened Matthew G. Elshoff, OFM Cap. Episcopal Vicar of Our Lady of the Angels Pastoral Region
Advisory Board Members
Yvonne Bogdanovich
Joseph Boskovich, Sr. '75 '77
Marc Caruso '89
Rick Caruso '80
James Childs, Jr. '61
Michael Felix '83
Bridget Harris
Lewis Horne ‘80
Michelle Katnik ‘88
Susan Leonis-Jensen
Kathleen Leavey McCarthy ‘57
Nancy Novokmet ‘83
Samantha Nugent
Dr. Willa Olsen ‘58 ‘62, Emeritus
Joseph Rich, Jr. ‘86
Kevin Shannon ‘81
Michael Uranga ‘86 ‘95
Honorary Members
Thomas Condon
Ed Roski '62
Staff
Fr. Matthew Wheeler '10
Pastor
Jamie Cappetta President
Nysa Beliard Campus Minister
Francis Cabildo Director of Worship
Yvette Cardona Business Manager
Marie Cloonan '23 Campus Minister
Ricky Cruz Director of Creative & Marketing
Jazmin De Guzman Digital Marketing Specialist
Scarlet Biberstein Gross Music Coordinator
Angie Iglesias Advancement Assistant
Sr. Mary La, LHC Campus Minister
Fr. Joseph Kim, OFM Conv. Director of Campus Ministry
Rudy Lowe Manager of Operations & Hospitality
Nora Morales '18 Campus Minister
Xochitl Nisbet Database Manager
Julia Osiripaibul, FKM Campus Minister
Dcn. Paul Pesqueira Parish Deacon
Rose Ramirez Donor Relations
Sr. Thuy Tran, CSJ Campus Minister
Gratitude for Fr. Joe Kim, OFM Conv.
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Joe Kim, OFM Conv., for his four years as our Director of Campus Ministry. We give thanks for his ministry at USC and offer our prayers as he begins his new assignment.
844 west thirty second street los angeles, ca 90007
t. 213. 516.3959 info@catholictrojan.org catholictrojan.org
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