Please contact Pamela Poe at ppoe@cathedralcatholic.org.
Class of 2024
A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Dons,
The visual and performing arts are essential to a well-rounded Catholic education. Our programs at Cathedral Catholic help give expression to the beauty of the Catholic faith and encourage student creativity and imagination. Our art, drama and music teachers inspire students to explore their God-given gifts in the arts, and many students end up continuing their arts education beyond the school requirement.
Our music program has expanded and blossomed under Jessica Swift Lambrou’s leadership. Among her many accomplishments, she has established a partnership with St. Michael’s Catholic School in Poway and now Notre Dame Academy to help build music programs in Catholic elementary schools. Her passion for music education extends beyond Cathedral Catholic. We are beyond blessed to call Jessica a Don.
The drama program, under the long-standing leadership of Katie Wilson, continues to produce inspiring and meaningful productions, now at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts. Productions this year include Shakespeare in Love, Once Upon a Mattress and Hadestown
The art program is also thriving. A recent highlight of the many undertakings of the art program is the beautiful revitalization of the Academic Center. This past summer, Amanda Rybicki, the Visual and Performing Arts Department Chair, worked with students to design and then paint incredible murals on the walls in the Academic Center. Be sure to stop by and check out the murals next time you are on campus.
I have always valued the contributions of the visual and performing arts to Catholic education. This issue of the Dons Magazine is dedicated to showcasing our artistic excellence, celebrating the creativity and endeavors of our students and recognizing the phenomenal teachers who lead these formational programs at Cathedral Catholic. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Kevin J. Calkins, Ph.D. President
Jessica Swift Lambrou, Music Director; Katie Wilson, Drama Director; Sean Sandoval, Art Teacher; Mary Barber ‘13, Art Teacher; Kristin Brandeberry, Art Teacher; Amanda Rybicki, Visual and Performing Arts Department Chair; Ryan Andrzejewski, P ‘22 ‘25, Art Teacher
Not pictured: Rachel Alessio, Music Teacher
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO
Scan the QR code or visit cathedralcatholic.org/annualappeal for more information.
Scan the QR code or visit cathedralcatholic.org/makeagift to make a gift to this year’s Annual Appeal. Learn More Make a Gift
dons magazine
features
Evolving Design: Graphic Design Program Thrives in the Shadow of AI
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the value of traditional artistic skills remains vital, as showcased by Cathedral Catholic’s new Graphic Design course taught by Mr. Sean Sandoval. Pg. 8
OPUS 1: The Start of Cathedral Catholic’s Recording Revolution
Let My Gifts Change the World: Opus 1 marks a pivotal moment in our Cathedral Catholic music program’s journey, celebrating eight years of growth, resilience and the remarkable ways our students continue to inspire and connect through music. Pg. 12
Our Lady of Guadalupe: A Testament to Tradition and Community
WINTER 2025
At Cathedral Catholic, a new permanent art installation by recent graduate Jose Rojas ‘24 beautifully blends faith and culture, enriching the community’s connection to its values. Pg. 16
Harmonies of the Emerald Isle: A Musical Journey Through Ireland
Embarking on a transformative journey with our Cathedral Catholic music program, I discovered the enchanting landscapes, rich history and warm hospitality of Ireland, where every moment was filled with music and connection. Pg. 20
From Blank Walls to Inspiring Murals: The Summer Makeover of the Academic Center
AP art students collaborate with the Visual and Performing Arts Department Chair, bringing to life our community prayer of “Let my gifts change the world” in a beautiful mural. Pg. 24
Beauty, Sin and Redemption: Lessons From a Rose in Rome
Tasked with capturing the attention of a lively group of seventh graders, Miss Valentini embarked on a lesson about beauty and Original Sin, using the striking imagery of a rose to explore deeper spiritual truths. Pg. 28
Dear Cathedral Catholic Community: A Letter
From Matthew Korniczky ‘24
Matthew’s four years at Cathedral Catholic have been marked by significant achievements and accolades. In a heartfelt letter, he expresses his sincere gratitude to the entire community for their unwavering support and inspiration. Pg. 40
dons updates
Curtains Up: Drama Updates and Upcoming Shows
The Cathedral Catholic High School drama program had a standout 2023-2024 season, captivating audiences with four exceptional productions that highlighted the talent and passion of its student performers. Pg. 32
Dons News: What’s Happening On Campus?
Catch up on all the exciting things happening on campus this summer and beyond! Did you know Fr. Mike Schmitz visited Cathedral Catholic High School or that we now have our very own on-campus food pantry? Stay informed and connected—follow us on social media for the latest updates! Pg. 34
New Homes for the Dons: Where the Class of 2024 is Going to College
See where the Class of 2024 is currently continuing its academic journey as freshmen in college. Pg. 38
Dons Athletics: 2023-2024 Season Review
Once again, our incredibly talented athletes have had an outstanding year with numerous team triumphs and standout individual performances to celebrate. Let us keep the momentum going this year and continue glorifying God in all that we do. Roll Dons! Pg. 42
EVOLVING DESIGN: GRAPHIC DESIGN PROGRAM THRIVES IN THE SHADOW OF AI
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the value of traditional artistic skills remains vital, as showcased by Cathedral Catholic’s new Graphic Design course taught by Mr. Sean Sandoval.
BY LUCY MILLER ‘25
Many are tempted to say that “art,” as we know it, is on a path to becoming obsolete in the face of a digital and artificially intelligent world that synthesizes images to make its own “unique” pieces. If it is free and easy to make “art” with AI, why bother to teach a person to make art themselves? What is the value of art if it can be easily replicated? The answers to these questions can be found in the curriculum of the newly founded Graphic Design course and its teacher, Mr. Sean Sandoval.
Digital art requires a certain mastery of both technical and artistic skills. In the fourteenth century, some critics might have cited new-age techniques like using a canvas rather than a traditional wooden panel as “shortcuts” that undermined the art value. But today, we understand that such revolutionary developments only help the artist, not diminish the piece’s value. Similarly, digital art software provides “shortcuts,” not tricks, that help artists to create works of art.
Mr. Sandoval built the course curriculum on widely used Adobe products such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro and InDesign. Still, the way students use these programs to create their unique art is what matters. Through creating original fonts, music videos and photography portfolios, students in Cathedral Catholic’s Graphic Design course learn how to combine all the skills involved in graphic design to develop unique styles.
Mr. Sandoval’s personal experience with design inspires his teaching style. He notes his experience filming skateboarding and a visual arts class during his senior year of high school as catalysts for his interest in design. “I was always very artistically-minded, but I did not feel like I was that great when it came to a paintbrush, pencil or sculpting. Using the computer to make digital art came naturally to me,” says Sandoval.
Sandoval’s career led him in many different directions. He notes, “I fell in love with photography
and traveling after I graduated high school. I decided ‘Why not double it up?’ I chose photography for my bachelor’s degree and studied it in the Netherlands.” During this time in the Netherlands, he acquired expertise in the digital software he now teaches his students. He practices that same art of arranging photos today, only this time he is the one teaching.
Sandoval continued to grow in his career by obtaining a master’s degree in teaching at San Diego State University. He had his heart set on teaching photography and graphic design, and this path led him straight to Cathedral Catholic High School. Consistent prayer and focus helped him find a creative way to serve his community, and he is thrilled to have found it here teaching at Cathedral Catholic.
There is significant interest and strong support for Mr. Sandoval’s classes throughout the campus. “His classes are vibrant spaces where students are taught a wide range of concepts and techniques and where students are given full latitude to meld their vision with those lessons,” says Dean of Academics, Mrs. Christy Bailleul, who spends time mentoring and working with Mr. Sandoval. “Every student feels seen and heard in his classroom. Mr. Sandoval helps them to achieve their vision and express their viewpoint, which is the hallmark of an amazing teacher.” Mrs. Amanda Rybicki, Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Department Chair, also shares that he is “passionate about art and design and has been an invaluable addition to the VAPA Department.”
At the end of last year, he tasked his students with writing a resume, a project that at first glance may appear unrelated to graphic design. Upon further inspection, though, it is a real world application of his students’ skills. Crafting a resume is not only about emphasizing successes but also about the way a person visually presents themselves. “A great-looking resume will attract the eyes no matter what the actual words spell out. People are enticed by good design,” says Sandoval. Activities like these throughout the year are what teach students that such often-overlooked artistic skills can help them succeed and stand out in the working world. Knowing how to make something look
“I FELL IN LOVE WITH PHOTOGRAPHY AND TRAVELING... I DECIDED, ‘WHY NOT DOUBLE IT UP?’ I CHOSE PHOTOGRAPHY FOR MY BACHELOR’S DEGREE AND STUDIED IT IN THE NETHERLANDS.”
Design a Font: Strawberries Wild by Hannah Lucey ‘26
[Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop]
Gestalt Principles by Sienna Rene ‘25 [Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator]
Self-portrait by Lucas Cariquitan ‘25 [Adobe Photoshop]
Self-portrait by Bronx Letuligasenoa ‘26 [Adobe Photoshop]
Sean Sandoval
VISUAL ARTS, DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY AND GRAPHIC DESIGN TEACHER
cohesive and pleasing to the eye can help market a product and heighten its sales more easily than some master marketing campaign. A well-designed graphic that effectively communicates an idea can cause that idea to reach thousands more than without. Mr. Sandoval and the school hope to expand this curriculum even further. “My main goal is to help those who are developing their amazing skills through our VAPA programs to chase their passions,” says Mrs. Bailleul. It is the hope that someday any aspiration or desire shared by students can be fulfilled on campus. “Do they want to try working in their fields? Awesome, let us get some internships going. My big question for our students: “What do you need to help develop your arts education?” It is our job to deliver.”
Sandoval is confident that students’ techniques will continue to stand out, no matter how common AI becomes. “Graphic Design is much more than outsourcing a logo to AI. Graphic Design at its core is the psychology of visual communication. Graphic Design expands beyond what you see on social media and is hidden throughout our day-to-day in more places than you can imagine,” says Sandoval. Graphic design, and arguably art in general, stands as its own complex language. This language stems from our innate human soul given to us by God, which could never be replicated by AI.
Success and new experiences like these motivate us to grow more and more. “We want to continue working to design projects that engage the larger Cathedral Catholic community. We have created collaborative murals with Mission & Ministry and have made it our mission to create opportunities for art courses to engage not just artists but everyone on campus. We hope to add beauty and personal expression to campus while making meaningful connections to faith, culture and other subject matters,” says Mrs. Rybicki. In the coming years, Sandoval and his classes hope to have a full set of cameras and lenses for all students, a fully functioning screen press facility and a dark room to expose students to even more diverse practices.
Mr. Sandoval and his students see digital art as a beautiful emotional outlet and a skill that bridges creativity and ingenuity. We were made by God to create not to sit idly and watch creation occur. Sandoval shares, “Just as God created the earth, artists are also creators. So I like to always say that artists are emulating God by being creators.” It is our responsibility to protect this kind of creativity through performance, photography, sculpture and, in Mr. Sandoval’s opinion, through graphic design.
Lucy Miller ‘25 Editor-in-Chief of Dons Press by El Cid
OPUS 1: THE START OF CATHEDRAL CATHOLIC’S RECORDING REVOLUTION
Let My Gifts Change the World: Opus 1 marks a pivotal moment in our Cathedral Catholic music program’s journey, celebrating eight years of growth, resilience and the remarkable ways our students continue to inspire and connect through music.
BY JESSICA SWIFT LAMBROU
n a Saturday morning in the winter of 2017, my feet excitedly hit the pavement towards a new project, and Pacific Beat Recording Studios was the destination. As I opened the door to the studio, I took a deep breath, preparing to meet my students and two industry professionals. In the previous weeks, serendipity had been thick in the atmosphere, and it was now replaced by the fresh ocean breeze elegantly assembling many events into a singular tidal force. The crisp air was poetic, foreshadowing a different kind of cool that would tone the day. Stretching out of its infancy, the Cathedral Catholic High School music program was about to create new waves of opportunities for generations of students; creating ripples that continue to shape our music program to this day.
“SOMETIMES LIFE DROPS BLESSINGS IN YOUR LIFE WITHOUT YOU LIFTING A FINGER. SERENDIPITY, THEY CALL IT.”
CHARLTON HESTON
The idea of recording an album was born out of a desire to showcase and unite our students’ talents. In my early years at Cathedral Catholic, guitar cases were a common accessory in the quad, and it was evident that there were many young singers/songwriters and composers floating around campus. Some of these students would inevitably land in a music class. For those voices sounding outside the walls of GC5, waiting to be found, an experiment was launched in the form of a composition/songwriting contest titled “The Let My Gifts Change the World Project.” Excitement and uncertainty highlighted the weeks of initial planning. For a while, my email inbox remained empty until the first contest entry came in the form of the iconic voice of Helena Holleran ‘17, which would set a high bar for the remaining submissions.
Helena can now be heard regularly performing around San Diego. She and her peer, Mia Garcia ‘18, also featured on Opus 1, would go on to take AP Music Theory at Cathedral Catholic. In this course, prospective composers spend a year deeply immersed in the structural analysis of pitch, rhythm and related concepts and patterns. A happy byproduct of this slightly tortuous “musical calculus” is a strong bond between the students in the class. Incredible collaborators on campus and beyond, Helena and Mia are great examples of the resulting dedication, teamwork, camaraderie and
“TRUE MUSIC MUST REPEAT THE THOUGHT AND INSPIRATIONS OF THE PEOPLE AND TIME.”
GEORGE GERSHWIN
passion that arise from these kinds of experiences. You can easily find their amazing music on several platforms.
The first album of “The Let My Gifts Change the World Project,” Opus 1, contained an incredible collection of music, representing all kinds of young people and all kinds of genres, including hints of classical, country, pop, jazz and even cinematic flavors. The professional audio engineer, Alan Sanderson, and producer, Steve Churchyard, who helped usher this project to reality had a very smooth way of toggling between making rapid adjustments on the soundboard and providing patient
encouragement to all of the singers and instrumentalists. Some of the tunes would be built rather quickly in easy takes. Maddie Leigh ‘18, for example, blended right in with the pros, effortlessly committing her country original vocals to track in just a few takes, following Kristin Logemann ‘20 on the drum set. It is no surprise that Maddie continues to crush it on the Nashville scene as a professional performer and recording artist and that Kristin was accepted into the competitive music program at the University of Southern California.
Each musical work featured on Opus 1 took its own journey. One completely morphed throughout the process with an unexpected infusion of creativity. We began work on an AP Music Theory Project by Dane Scott ‘17. As Dane warmed up his voice in the microphone, he spoke through the biblical text that had inspired his original hymn. While he had planned to sing the lyrics, it sounded so peaceful when spoken. It was instantly clear to everyone in the room that this was the way to go. Dane’s velvety tenor, when spoken, was an even starker contrast to the angelic voices of sopranos Sophia Bosque ‘19 and Paulina Nguyen ‘19 who worked in tandem to fuse hauntingly beautiful harmonies on the refrain.
In addition to helping with vocal support on several tracks, Sophia and Paulina notably composed their own triumphant works for the Opus 1 album that year. Paulina went on to study music and political science at UC Berkeley and is now working at Warner Music Group. Sophia just began a graduate nursing program at Yale University this year. Dane Scott is a Ph.D. student at Boston University specializing in religions of the ancient Mediterranean.
The students who participated in Opus 1 and future albums have gone on to achieve remarkable things. Whether they pursued music careers or ventured into other fields, these students gained skills and experiences from this kind of collaboration and artistry that apply to so many kinds of success stories.
The album rounds out with one more unplanned but perfect moment. When Mikaela Kappes ‘17 approached me with her contest entry, she was hoping for help in adding instrumentation to a vocal that she had composed. Upon hearing her a cappella performance, it was so obvious that it was perfect just the way it was. The lyrics to her original “Wherever I Go” and her pure vocal timbre carried so much more weight when sung without accompaniment. This tune became the perfect punctuation to conclude our inaugural year of “The Let My Gifts Change the World Project.”
“COINCIDENCE IS GOD’S WAY OF REMAINING ANONYMOUS.”
ALBERT EINSTEIN
That very same year, a delightful twist occurred when Manny Terzoli, a long-time colleague with deep roots in our school’s history, visited my office. He presented a record (and I mean a real vinyl!) that he had found from the school’s previous University of San Diego High School (UNI) days dating back to 1975. This vintage treasure featured an album cover of bright colors and shapes that came together to form a surfer catching a wave. The tunes on the record had similar SoCal vibes. Inspired by this incredible link to the past and in honor of the school’s legacy, we decided to digitize this heritage recording and include it as a special feature with the Opus 1 album.
Another notable addition to the album was the Cathedral Catholic school prayer. Just one year prior, former religion teacher James McVey, who also happened to be an accomplished composer and appreciator of Western Classical tonality, left a surprise
in my faculty mailbox. Before retiring, he decided to take the text of our school prayer and set it to a four-part harmony arrangement. This has become a staple of our community and was also recorded at Pacific Beat that day.
This was not the end of such not-so-random occurrences. The completion of the Opus 1 album continued to attract resonant opportunities and connections. For example, another year later, a very generous parent who works in the industry offered to initiate and fund the construction of a recording studio inside our Cathedral Catholic music room. This further snowballed into the authoring of a curriculum to match the new space. Now, Music Composition and Technology is one of the most popular music classes offered at Cathedral Catholic.
A final integral introduction worth mentioning is that with Peter Dyson, owner of Studio West, the largest tracking space in San Diego. Peter is incredibly generous and is a staunch advocate for education. A partnership with Studio West has opened doors to wonderful opportunities and resources for our music program. This has included recording sessions for supplemental album projects and sessions for our school rock ensemble, Curbside Service (yet another creation inspired by the Opus 1 album). One of the more recent opportunities from the partnership with Studio West was a cross-cultural musical exchange. French students and their teachers visited us from a conservatory outside of Paris in 2023. For a week, we collaborated in rehearsals and concluded with a culminating recording session in our St. Thérèse Chapel, showcasing the global power of music education.
“MUSIC GIVES A SOUL TO THE UNIVERSE, WINGS TO THE MIND, FLIGHT TO THE IMAGINATION AND LIFE TO EVERYTHING”
Let My Gifts Change the World: Opus 1 has indeed been an important chapter marker for the Cathedral Catholic High School music program. Much has happened in the
eight years since. The music program has continued to grow and expand in diverse curricular and extracurricular offerings. The quality of the musicians has elevated along with a sense of culture and community. Even a pandemic could not shake the creative inertia and positivity of our students. Now on the other side, I feel renewed gratitude for the seeds that were planted all those years ago. I continue to be taken aback at how God’s hand, frequently under the guise of coincidence, continues to create serendipitous connections, pathways, ripples and waves. Each student, ensemble and project feeds into unique and beautiful opportunities.
To the reader, I encourage you to enjoy the content. Our students are amazing, and I hope that you find their work inspirational! However, I also pray that you might perceive how God has created ripples in your own journey. Challenge yourself to stay in the present, feeling each beat and rhythm in the process of your mission while seeking to harmonize with those around you. The magic of an album is not in the result but in the steps that lead to the arrival of that sonic snapshot. Participating in such a unique gathering of talent and collaboration is a gift.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to our Cathedral Catholic music students—past, present and future—for their contributions to the music program and for the many ways in which they reach beyond our Cathedral Catholic High School walls to let their gifts change the world.
MUSIC PROGRAM
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
of Music
Jessica Swift Lambrou Director
OPUS 1 ALBUM
SCAN TO LISTEN ON YOUTUBE
JESSICA’S TEDX TALK SCAN TO WATCH ON YOUTUBE
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE: A TESTAMENT TO TRADITION & COMMUNITY
At Cathedral Catholic, a new permanent art installation by recent graduate Jose Rojas ‘24 beautifully blends faith and culture, enriching the community’s connection to its values.
BY ELLE BRENNAN
‘25
Imagine a world where art and culture seamlessly intertwine, creating a deeper connection within a community. This vision became a reality at Cathedral Catholic with the installation of a new permanent art piece in the Guadalupe Center Theater. This permanent artwork was created by a recent Cathedral Catholic graduate, Jose Rojas ‘24. Rojas attended Cathedral Catholic High School all four years and affirmed that the Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Department played an integral role in his high school career. He began taking art during his freshman year and worked his way to the top of his AP art class by his senior year.
Rojas’ piece, Our Lady of Guadalupe, is fittingly permanently located in the Guadalupe Center Theater, a central location on campus where all members of the Cathedral Catholic High School community can see and appreciate it. His main inspiration for the piece is his Catholic faith infused with
Mexican-American, or Chicano, culture. Rojas would call himself a Guadalupan, a person who is devoted to Our Lady of Guadalupe. Guadalupanos look to Our Lady of Guadalupe as a true mother and intercessor. Beatriz Wallace, Cathedral Catholic’s Hispanic and Latino Outreach Coordinator, shares, “A Guadalupano’s heart is always full of hope and faith. In his painting, you can witness Jose’s devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe.” Rojas’ work offers a fresh interpretation of Mary that encompasses Mexican and Chicano traditions. The piece is a detailed portrait of the figure of Our Lady of Guadalupe. She is also commonly known as “Mother Mary” or “the
Virgin Mary” in the Catholic faith. Additionally, in Mexican Culture, Our Lady of Guadalupe represents hope, identity and God’s love and care for the people of Mexico.
Our Lady of Guadalupe is based on a well-known Marian apparition that is prominent in Mexican culture. In 1531, Mary appeared to an Aztec man named Juan Diego and requested that he build a shrine for her on Tepeyac Hill. Skeptical of this incident, the region’s archbishop exclaimed that Juan would need proof that this request was from the real Mary. She gave Juan roses, even though it
“AM I NOT HERE, I WHO AM YOUR MOTHER?... DO YOU NEED SOMETHING MORE? LET NOTHING ELSE WORRY YOU OR DISTURB YOU.”
OUR LADY TO JUAN DIEGO
was winter, to present to the church official. Upon arriving, Juan dropped his tilma, or cloak, to reveal the flowers and, miraculously, an image of Mary appeared prominently on his tilma. The archbishop immediately believed in Mary’s apparition and in her request to Juan Diego. He promptly began to build the shrine in her honor on the hill. To this day, people from around the world visit Tepeyac Hill to honor Mary and how she revealed God’s love and care for the people of Mexico.
Rojas’ artwork depicts Mary with a radiant yellow halo prominently painted around her body, signifying her holiness. He portrays Mary praying, which represents her complete devotion to God. Her figure is painted in the center of the mural, layered on top of graffiti-inspired art. She is surrounded by both stenciled and drawn roses, with a figure below her image, donning wings with the colors of the Mexican flag. The roses are symbols used to honor Mother Mary’s purity, devotion and her place as the Queen of Heaven. The figure painted below Mary represents the Chicano struggle under the protection of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which captures so well the words of Mary to Juan Diego: “Listen, put it into your heart, my youngest and dearest son, that the thing that frightens you, the thing that afflicts you, is nothing: do not let it disturb you… Am I not here, I who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection? Am I not the source of your joy? Are you not in the hollow of my mantle, in the crossing of my arms? Do you need something more? Let nothing else worry you or disturb you.” These words resonate in the heart of the viewer as Mary offers her
maternal love and protection to all who seek her aid. The original painting was on a constructed wooden display piece adorned with a rose garland. Today, the painting can be found mounted on the wall of the Guadalupe Center Theater as a triptych, separated by three wooden frames.
Rojas spent a tremendous amount of time outside of class to perfect his piece and tried to stay true to a contemporary art form. As part of his artistic process, Jose collaborated with eight religion classes to help paint a variety of roses ranging from deep red to light pink that he placed around Mary to honor her. His goal was to have his mural ready for its debut at Cathedral Catholic on the feast day celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
The feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe is celebrated on December 12 each year. Days and sometimes weeks before December 12, many people across Mexico begin their pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. People from all over the country make their way to the basilica to sing “Las Mañanitas” to honor Our Lady. On this day, thousands of people bring flowers as offerings; others perform traditional dances. Many can also be seen walking on their knees, either to pray for miracles or to give thanks for a petition granted through her intercessory prayer to God. The Guadalupano festival begins on December 11 and lasts through December 12 with “Las Mañanitas” sung at midnight.
As with every year, the Cathedral Catholic community held a celebration for Our Lady of Guadalupe on her feast day on December 12, 2023. This observance was planned by various campus groups and clubs, including Mission & Ministry, Dons Familia, the Hispanic/Latino Student Union, the Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Department and several of the school’s religion classes, who joined together to honor the Blessed Mother. Additionally, these groups were instrumental in advocating for displaying the installation this school year.
Rojas’ artwork directly represents the blend of core Cathedral Catholic values and diversity encouraged by our Hispanic and Latino community. Students celebrated the feast day and unveiling of the mural by eating traditional Mexican foods, including tamales, tortillas and Mexican hot chocolate. Rojas explained how he “loved getting to see his artwork being admired by fellow classmates.” Mrs. Wallace also shares, “Seeing the joy on Jose’s face brought tears to my eyes. He was so proud to share his artwork with the Cathedral Catholic community but especially with his mom, who was present for the unveiling.” The event was a joyful celebration, and many attendees agreed that they learned more about the origins of Our Lady of
Guadalupe, her significance to Chicano culture and the innovative efforts of the VAPA Department at Cathedral Catholic. Across campus, there were nothing but positive remarks circulating about the piece. A student who attended this exhibition openly proclaimed how the work “bettered [her] understanding of Our Lady of Guadalupe and what [she] previously knew about Catholicism.” An active member of the drama program, this student is “particularly excited to see the work displayed prominently in a building where [she] spends a lot of time on campus.” With all grades able to view the piece and talk with Rojas about his aspirations while creating it, this on-campus event was truly a success.
The Cathedral Catholic Guadalupe Center Theater stands as a vibrant hub for the community, hosting everything from sports banquets to plays and other celebrations. Rojas’ mural, prominently located here, will be seen by the Dons community often, reinforcing its connection to the school’s core values and offering a space for his contemporary art to be admired. Faith is central to Cathedral Catholic High School, and Our Lady of Guadalupe beautifully embodies these principles. Through this installation, Rojas has seamlessly woven together both faith and Hispanic culture, ensuring its impact for years to come.
Elle Brennan
‘25
Columns Editor of Dons Press by El
Cid
HARMONIES OF THE EMERALD ISLE: A MUSICAL JOURNEY THROUGH IRELAND
Embarking on a transformative journey with our Cathedral Catholic music program, I discovered the enchanting landscapes, rich history and warm hospitality of Ireland, where every moment was filled with music and connection.
BY EMMA AKKARAKARAN ‘25
When I first learned that our music program was planning a trip to Ireland, I did not know what to expect. I did not know much about the country except that it was green. But in the spring of 2024, as our plane neared Dublin, I gazed out the window in amazement. Ireland was every bit as green as they say and even greener in person. Outside was an array of countless fields stretching across huge swaths of land.
I landed in Dublin along with thirty Cathedral Catholic music students and parents for a week-long tour of Ireland. All three ensembles, choir, band and orchestra, were represented in this group of musicians, led by our amazing director, Mrs. Swift. As a passionate choir member, I was honored and excited to be part of this new musical experience.
Our first stop was to see the Rock of Cashel, the home of ancient kings, looming on a hill over the countryside. I marveled at the ornate carvings on the stone cathedral and chapel set against the lush landscape. Not to be outdone, the Blarney Castle stunned us the next day, with its imposing structure and carefully thought-out design protecting the stone of eloquence at the top. Although these were notable landmarks, every city we passed through boasted ancient but sturdy stone buildings that are
Kylemore Abbey Connemara National Park Pollacappul, Co. Galway, Ireland
still used every day–nothing like the cement cookie-cutter houses we have here in the United States. It reminded me of Ireland’s rich history, as people live surrounded by the creations of their ancestors. The same enduring material of the castle is used in everyday buildings, forever preserving centuries of culture in stone.
On the cold morning of Easter Sunday, we headed to St. Colman’s Cathedral, the tallest cathedral in Ireland, renowned for its neo-gothic style and towering steeple. We had spent many weeks at home practicing music in preparation for this Easter Mass, so we were eager to serve the congregation with our talents. Every student, whether an instrumentalist or vocalist, learned how to sing music for Mass, which also enhanced our overall musical abilities. As we arrived at St. Colman’s, we tried to stay warm in spite of the air that was so cold that we could see our breath forming when we talked. Despite the cold, the first moment we sang, our voices surrounded the cathedral and the space filled beautifully, creating a rich and vibrant sound that reverberated through the entire church. It was one of the most unforgettable experiences I have ever had. This moment gifted me such an appreciation for the acoustic design of the church architecture and the local community. My fellow singers, the priest and the congregation all felt like one body and one voice during the Mass.
The longer we were in Ireland, the more I wanted to stay because the people were exceptionally warm and welcoming. From the beginning, our tour guide, Maryann, and our bus driver, Kevin, were remarkably approachable and friendly. As we roamed the streets of Galway and Dublin and in every shop we entered, the locals were open and inviting. The culture of kindness was evident throughout our trip. We also experienced Irish culture firsthand during an evening of traditional dancing, music and food at a pub in Dublin. We had the opportunity to play rhythms on an Irish bodhrán drum, learn some steps of the Riverdance and enjoy performances by professional singers and dancers, joining in with singing and clapping. The positive atmosphere continued on the bus ride home as we kept singing and laughing with our friends. Ireland’s culture seems to have a natural way of crafting lasting, cherished memories.
Top: Knock Parish Church of St. John the Baptist Ireland’s International Eucharistic and Marian Shrine Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland
Middle: Lusitania Peace Memorial Casement Square, Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland
Bottom: St. Colman’s Cathedral Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland
The most memorable moment during the trip occurred on Croagh Patrick, a mountain pilgrimage site where St. Patrick is said to have fasted for forty days. When we arrived, we did not have enough time to reach the summit, so I decided to climb halfway up and sit on the steps. During those ten minutes, I took in the surrounding nature. Ahead of me was the path leading to the top, lined with beautiful rocks and shrubbery stretching into the distance until I could see no more. Behind me, I could see the Irish town and its stone buildings, fields and grazing sheep. Next to me was a gently-flowing, small creek, making calming bubbling sounds. In this quiet spot, away from everyone, I sat and listened. I could hear the wind rustling and feel the rocks under my feet. In that moment, I felt a profound sense of God’s presence, reminiscent of St. Patrick’s prayer: “Christ be with me, Christ within me, Christ before me, Christ beside me.”
This experience truly captured my journey through the “Emerald Isle.” In the land, the music and the people, I felt Christ’s presence in every moment. As I explored new wonders and grew closer to my peers, I discovered a serenity that only God can provide—one that I strive to carry with me every day. Ireland, with its castles, cathedrals and rich culture, is a place of beauty and grace, and I am profoundly grateful to have been part of it.
Cathedral Catholic High School Choir Member
Emma Akkarakaran ‘25
Rock of Cashel Cashel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland
AP art students collaborate with the Visual and Performing Arts Department Chair, bringing to life our community prayer of “Let my gifts change the world” in a beautiful mural.
BY PAMELA POE
Four Dons had a vision that our Academic Center could become an inspiring and beautiful place where students congregate, socialize and study together. Centrally located and visited by hundreds of students each day before, during and after school, our Academic Center is like the “student union” and one of the busiest places on campus. Its plain white walls were aching for a “glow up.”
Students returning to campus in August were welcomed by a beautiful multi-walled mural in the Academic Center thanks to a summer art installation by Amanda Rybicki, the Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Department Chair, and three AP art students, Lea Belman ‘24, Laina Kristensen ‘24 and Anne Temprendola ‘25.
“We wanted students to walk in and feel a sense of comfort and warmth by making it colorful and fun,” Anne Temprendola shared. “Together, we aligned that the overall mural visual would be based on nature and the theme of peace and growth.”
“It is energizing to hear how much Academic Center visitors enjoy working there and admire the paintings,” Rybicki shared in early September. “It means so much to be able to plan and carry out something that would help these three dedicated students leave their mark on Cathedral Catholic. A project of this scale could not have come together without these three specific students. Their passion for art, positive energy and dedication was exactly what was needed to make this grand dream a reality.”
FROM PLANNING TO PAINTING
The students’ desire to paint murals at Cathedral Catholic existed before this Academic Center rejuvenation, yet there never seemed to be the right timing nor a group of students who was seriously committed to the reality of producing something so involved.
“A couple of summers ago, Dr. Calkins mentioned an idea to me to paint something in the Academic Center related to college counseling. I mentioned the idea to my group of AP art students in the fall of 2023, unsure if they would have the time or interest. They were very interested, and the ball started rolling from there,” Mrs. Rybicki recalled. “The more we discussed
Tech Wall by Laina Kristensen ‘24
Tech Wall was inspired by circuit boards, networks and various symbols associated with technology. It was designed to make technology feel more approachable and less intimidating, offering a welcoming space for students who may need assistance with their iPads. Additionally, the students have proposed a design for the hallway leading to the school counselor’s office, but this project is on hold for the moment due to upcoming construction in that area.
Prayer Nooks by Lea Belman ‘24
The Prayer Nooks are sacred spaces designed to evoke reflection and inspiration. One features hands holding a rosary, while the other depicts hands embracing a dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. Both surround the inspiring quote by Saint Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa): “Do small things with great love.”
the idea of a painting in the Academic Center, the more passionately they talked about their desire for a student hand on the campus and for that space.”
These fantastic Dons began sketching, brainstorming and discussing their ideas with one another in the last weeks of the 2023-2024 school year after the students submitted their AP art portfolios. Their goal was to design and reflect on many options while iterating and combining different ideas and giving feedback to each other. The team was inspired by different color palettes and cool designs that they found while researching contemporary muralists.
Then, they photographed each of the blank walls of the Academic Center to mirror the layout and put together a vision board with inspiration from different muralists, color palettes and rough sketches to prepare to present the idea to Dr. Calkins in hopes of gaining his support and approval.
“It was a great experience to have the students pitch Dr. Calkins their vision for the space and why each part was important to them. I am so grateful that he believed in us and put his trust in me to move forward with the project because some of our first sketches made sense to us but probably looked a little wild to someone seeing it for the first time,” Mrs. Rybicki recalled smiling. “In that first meeting, Lea, Laina and Anne shared their belief that the space should feel like it belonged to the students, where they would feel welcomed and inspired.”
After that initial pitch meeting, the foursome met in the art room for a full day in June. They mixed colors and made small paintings and digital drawings that more clearly illustrated their collective vision. They taped together printed renderings of the walls to paint and then drew over them to see everything together. Each student chose a wall that they took ownership of but it was a very collaborative effort, bouncing ideas back and forth and helping one another add or revise details. The magic happened while many artists were working on the project because it was built with a unified vision to deliver a beautiful, cohesive space.
Next, the group assembled a detailed, visual presentation to share with Dr. Calkins and the members of the Educational Technology and Counseling Offices, and they then made revisions and additions based on feedback to be sure everyone would love the result. It was a great learning opportunity for the students, collaborating on a professional project not only with one another but with various “clients” who were asking questions and giving feedback.
Mrs. Rybicki enthusiastically shared, “I am incredibly proud of Lea, Laina and Anne for this project. They poured a ton of time into designing, planning, discussing and revising and were professional in their collaboration and openness to feedback. Then they spent three full weeks of summer all day, every day painting with me. And sometimes they left only to head to other summer jobs to work in the evening!”
The team exhibited a deep commitment to making the creation exactly what they had imagined.
”Lea and Laina have been students in my art courses all four years of their time at Cathedral Catholic, and it meant so much to be able to plan and carry out something that would be their mark on the school as they graduated,” Mrs. Rybicki touted. “And, it is wonderful that Anne is a senior enjoying their creation all year long.”
“Our hope for the current Dons is that they feel more comfort and excitement as they walk in to see color and designs being added to the previously blank walls. We want them to feel peace reflected from the growing colorful nature around them,” Laina Kristensen said. “To the incoming Dons, we want them to know that our school offers so much creativity and a warm welcome, especially from the art department. We want them to know our school is here to fuel students to leave their unique mark and to strive to grow and bloom in their years at Cathedral Catholic in ways that they can pick from existing opportunities or that teachers and administrators are willing to help them create from scratch like we did.”
The Mountain and Flowers Mural was themed around lines from our community prayer: “Let my gifts change the world... Veni Sancte Spiritus.” The mountains represent the world out there, and the stripe flowing across is the Holy Spirit accompanying us through all of our lives. It continues flowing to the tree, which shows growth and the beauty that comes with growth.
Mountain and Flowers Mural by Anne Temprendola ’25
Life can pose both adventures and challenges wrapped up in a single experience, often unexpectedly. One day after moving abroad to Rome, Italy, I found myself teaching religion to a group of seventh graders at a Catholic international school. My most squirrelly class, as the roster would have it, had a fair lot of 12-year-old Italian boys, which exceeded the total number of girls and international students in the class. I had to try every class to keep their attention engaged, as they were easily distracted by thoughts of gaining skins in Fortnite, and they wondered aloud whether La Roma would win the soccer game that upcoming Sunday, the solemn watching of the game being arguably the second most sacred weekend religious ritual in the country outflanked only by the Catholic Mass.
I had it in my head to use a demonstration to teach a lesson on Original Sin and creation. If science teachers could use effective demonstrations for teaching, I thought, then so can religion teachers! So, I bought a rose from a local vendor, hid it in my bag, and pulled it out to the students when I described to them the beauty of creation. The students agreed that, indeed, the red rose was beautiful, and they nodded in admiration as I held it up to be seen. Yes, even the 12-year-old boys had the sense to respect the form and elegance of the longstemmed flower. But as I went on to explain that sin destroys and deforms that which has been created, I dramatically ripped off each petal one by one and let them fall to the floor until almost nothing was left at all except the stark pistils and stamens hanging on by threads to the peduncle. My students–especially the Italian boys–were aghast. “But Miss Valentini!” “How could you?” “It is so beautiful!” “Can we fix it?” And they scurried to find whatever tape and glue could be found in the classroom, making an attempt to rehabilitate the flower back to its original state, but to little avail. I
said to them, “Ha! This is sin! It destroys. But only love creates. And it creates beauty…” But the students left the room glumly and even morally offended that a beautiful rose had to be destroyed to make the point of the lesson.
I call this lesson to mind when I consider the topic of beauty. Growing up in the United States, one can see that beauty is important but is ranked subordinately to function, efficiency and practicality. When building homes and roads, the first consideration is use, the second consideration cost and, at times, a distant third, aesthetic value. But living and working in Rome, one can not escape the beauty everywhere. There are little edicole sacre (holy shrines) on the buildings at street corners dedicated to the Virgin Mary and patron saints. One walks upon the San Pietrini, the cobblestones that make up the center streets; they are highly impractical (especially when wearing stiletto heels) in comparison to asphalt paving that costs less, but they are charming and pleasant to look at. The word beauty
enters the daily lexicon, as bella is used to describe everything from the fresh market peaches to well-designed leather shoes to the face of a loved one you greet with kisses.
But for the Italian mind, the aesthetic value of beauty also has a moral value. Taxi drivers will lecture vociferously on the aesthetic violations that the capitol building Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland) poses to the architectural harmony of the city. It is often referred to pejoratively as the “Wedding Cake”—actually, by outside standards it is arguably quite beautiful even if it is overdone and retains a politically complicated origin. On really spectacular nights, Rome in her beauty wraps you seductively, and you can not help but fall in love there.
Perhaps it is not a coincidence then that a city so well known for its beauty is also the spiritual seat of Christianity, with myriad churches and masterpieces of art. And we might ask, “What role does beauty play in one’s spiritual life?” When we look at Scripture, creation is referred to as beautiful or glorious (“the heavens declare the glory of God”), as is the beauty of a woman (“you are beautiful… like doves”) and the city of Jerusalem, often symbolized as a bride (“your fame spread among the nations on account of your beauty”). And for the ancient Greeks, whose philosophy was adopted
and grafted onto Judeo-Christian revelation, beauty played the role of pointing to the heavens. According to the philosopher Plato, perfect beauty is a transcendental, an eternal form that exists objectively and outside of this world, one which our soul is constantly seeking. The aching and longing for that perfect beauty–realized only imperfectly in this world–can be the cause of our search for the divine. The Italian poet Giacomo Leopardi expressed this sentiment when he wisely said that one’s first disappointment in idealized love and beauty often provokes a desire for the infinite, which really is a desire for God in disguise. Moreover, our physical experience of beauty arouses in us a search for a more lasting and spiritual one, one not faded by the vicissitudes of time or circumstances. As Lana Del Rey sings, “Will you still love me when I’m no longer young and beautiful?” It is the cry for someone to be forever recognized and loved for one’s inner self, even when the ravages of time slowly transform physical matter towards death.
This transcendental of beauty, along with four other transcendentals, can be taken as a sign that points to a higher reality and being than just what we see around us. In the unit on happiness that all Cathedral Catholic freshmen study in Catholic Faith 9, students realize that this quintet of transcendentals–perfect beauty, absolute truth, unconditional
love, infallible justice and complete unity—can be sought in this world but never completely attained. Our disappointment in never grasping them fully can lead to depression, disengagement and cynicism, or it can open up a new horizon to a higher level of happiness who is the source of all the transcendentals–the Divine, the Creator, God. We can be at peace in seeking the transcendentals even if we never fully possess them because we realize that God alone can create and re-create beautiful things anew in his love.
When I look back at the rose I destroyed for the sake of making a point in a religion class, I do wince slightly. But it quickly passes. The same spirit that created the beauty of the rose in the first place has the power to resurrect the flower again, even in a different form, time or place because sin destroys, but only love creates.
Diana Valentini Religion Teacher
CURTAINS UP
The Cathedral Catholic High School drama program had a remarkable 2023-2024 season, captivating audiences with four exceptional productions showcasing its student performers’ talent and passion. From mysteries to musicals, our Drama Dons delivered an unforgettable season that will be remembered for years to come.
Fall 2023 - Murder on the Orient Express
First published in 1934, this play is based on a mystery by Agatha Christie featuring one of her most famous characters, the Belgian detective Hercule Poirot. A locked-room mystery, the entire plot unfolds on a train, the Orient Express, which has become stranded in a snowstorm. Poirot happens to be on the train when a man named Mr. Ratchett is murdered.
Starring Elijah May ‘26, Ella Jorgensen ‘25, Vonn Stenehjem ’25 and Max Namazy ‘24
Winter 2024 - The Secret Garden
The Secret Garden tells the story of a spoiled orphan girl who is sent to live with her uncle on the Yorkshire moors and discovers renewed life for herself and her cousin by bringing her dead aunt’s garden back to life.
Starring Adriana Quezada ‘24, Carter Wilson ‘24, Max Namazy ‘24, Emma Akkarakaran ‘25, Lorenzo Lujan ‘27, Julieta Zavala-Lemarroy ‘26 and Stella Wahl ‘26
Winter 2024 - Ranked, A Musical, a National Honor Society and Drama Collaboration
Last year’s student-directed show, directed by Vonn Stenehjem ‘25 and held on campus in the Guadalupe Center Theater, tells the story of a dystopian world where competition reaches new heights as publicized academic excellence defines each student’s worth.
Anything Goes is a musical comedy full of madcap antics about a Wall Street broker who stows away on an ocean liner bound from New York to London to pursue the woman he loves, heiress Hope Harcourt. Grace Howard ‘25 was one of twenty San Diegans nominated for last year’s Broadway San Diego Awards for her role as Hope Harcourt.
Starring Zoey Ronco ‘24, Carter Wilson ‘24, Grace Howard ‘25 and Max Namazy ‘24
On March 21, we heard inspiring voices and diverse perspectives! Our TEDxCCHS event was a powerhouse of ideas. From freshmen to seniors, twelve speakers captivated our Dons community with their presentations, including one by our very own community speaker, Head Boys Basketball Coach Graham Bousley.
In May, a special breakfast was held for the fifty-six current and incoming students who are scholarship recipients for the 2024-2025 academic year. Twenty-one of these outstanding students were selected from the annual President’s Scholars Day and received full scholarships, which cover the cost of tuition and required fees for the students’ entire four years of high school.
Mrs. Mahoney won 2023-2024 High School Teacher of the Year from the Diocese of San Diego! We are so blessed by her dedication, love for teaching and unwavering support for her students!
On June 8, our campus came alive for the 3rd annual One Million Meals event! Hosted by the amazing deacons of the Diocese of San Diego, this event united our community to package one million highnutrition meal packs for those in need in Tijuana, Africa and the Philippines. We are proud to be part of such an incredible cause!
On August 30, Cathedral Catholic High School officially dedicated the Zak Myers Food Pantry & Service Learning Center, a new facility aimed at addressing food insecurity and providing resources for those in need. We are the first Catholic school within Catholic Charities’ network of food pantries in San Diego and Imperial Counties.
On September 4, our school was blessed to host a Eucharistic Procession with a special monstrance that was blessed by St. John Paul II for an increase of vocations in the church.
On September 6, we hosted Military Appreciation Night in conjunction with the annual Honor Bowl.
On September 20, our campus welcomed Fr. Mike Schmitz, known for his presentations on Ascension Presents, Bible in a Year and Catechism in a Year. He celebrated Mass for our campus community, shared a powerful talk with our students and joined us for a special evening reception at The ZAK.
On October 5, the Dons community came together for a vibrant afternoon celebrating Día de los Muertos at our annual Kermés! From delicious food to incredible cultural performances to a stunning art exhibition to exciting raffle
prizes—it was a day full of joy, tradition and unity.
In late October, Cathedral Catholic celebrated Red Ribbon Week with a powerful message from retired DEA agent Rocky Herron, who shared insights on the dangers of substance abuse. We concluded the week with a joyful visit by furry friends from Love on a Leash!
National Merit
About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are were recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2025 competition by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.
Alain Huang ‘25, Emma Akkarakaran ‘25, Alexander Rotunda ‘25, Chiara Bonomi ‘25, James Keating ‘25 and Preston Welch ‘25, were named Commended Students in the 2025
Scholarship Program.
On October 25, our Dons family from near and far gathered to celebrate Homecoming, a night of Dons tradition and triumph! Congrats to Homecoming King Alex Polifka ‘25 and Queen Sophia Frank ‘25, and a special shout-out to the classes of ‘64 and ‘74, which celebrated their 60- and 50-year reunions that weekend. With a 55-6 victory over the Warhawks, Dons pride remained strong!
Hosted on October 29, “Poetry Under the Stars” was a student-led event where the school’s talented students came together to share their own original spoken word poetry in a relaxed and inspiring outdoor setting at The ZAK Myers Memorial Park. The evening was filled with creative expression, as students performed their pieces under the night sky, creating a unique and intimate atmosphere.
On the morning of November 13, we celebrated an incredible milestone for twenty-six of our Cathedral Catholic Dons who officially signed their National Letter of Intent (NLI) to continue their academic
and athletic careers at colleges and universities across the nation!
On November 16, our boys cross country team was named the CIF Division III Champion! With a nine-point victory and three runners finishing in the top ten, our boys secured their place at the top! They dominated the Morley Field course with Nathan Wilber ‘26 leading the way for the Dons with a PR and a second-place finish with a time of 15:36.2. Their seasonlong hard work has paid off, and we are so proud!
On November 23, our varsity girls volleyball team dominated the court, sweeping Archbishop Mitty 3-0 to claim the CIF Open Division State Championship! Congratulations, Dons, on an incredible season and an unforgettable victory!
STAY IN THE KNOW FOLLOW
Become a Seton Scholar
Cathedral Catholic High School presently awards ten full scholarships to outstanding young women and men who are selected from the annual President’s Scholars Day. These scholarships cover the cost of tuition and required fees for the students' entire four years of high school. Contact Us
Scholars Day Dates
January 11, 2025 February 8, 2025
NEW HOMES FOR THE DONS
CLASS OF 2024
Arizona State University
Baylor University
Belmont University
Boise State University
Boston College
Bowdoin College
California Institute of Technology
California Lutheran University
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
California State Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo
California State University, Chico
California State University, Fullerton
California State University, Long Beach
California State University, San Marcos
Carroll College
Claremont McKenna College
Clemson University
Colgate University
Colorado Mesa University
Colorado State University
Columbia University
Cornell University
DePaul University
Eckerd College
Fordham University
Franciscan University of Steubenville
George Mason University
Georgetown University
Gonzaga University
Grand Canyon University
Grossmont College
Hamline University
Harvard University
Hawaii Pacific University
Houston Christian University
Indiana University, Bloomington
Iowa State University
Long Island University, Brooklyn
Louisiana State University
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola University Chicago
Maryville University
Michigan State University
MiraCosta College
Missouri State University
Northeastern University
Northwestern University
Orange Coast College
Oregon State University
Pace University
Pennsylvania State University
Pepperdine University
Point Loma Nazarene University
Purdue University
Rider University
Rochester Institute of Technology
Sacred Heart University
Salt Lake Community College
San Diego Mesa College
San Diego Miramar College
San Diego State University
San Francisco State University
San Jose State University
Santa Clara University
Southern Methodist University
Stanford University
Swarthmore College
Syracuse University
Texas A&M University
Texas Christian University
Texas Tech University
The American University of Paris
The George Washington University
The Ohio State University
The University of Alabama
The University of Tampa
The University of Texas at Austin
United States Naval Academy
University of Arizona
University of Arkansas
University of California, Berkeley
University of California, Davis
University of California, Irvine
University of California, Los Angeles
University of California, San Diego
University of California, Santa Barbara
University of California, Santa Cruz
University of Chicago
University of Colorado, Boulder
University of Dallas
University of Edinburgh
University of Georgia
University of Hawaii, Manoa
University of Illinois, Chicago
University of Iowa
University of Kansas
University of Louisville
University of Massachusetts, Lowell
University of Miami
University of Michigan
University of Mississippi
University of Nevada, Reno
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of North Dakota
University of Notre Dame
University of Oklahoma
University of Oregon
University of Pennsylvania
University of Portland
University of Redlands
University of San Diego
University of Southern California
University of Toronto
University of Utah
University of Washington
University of Wisconsin
Utah Tech University
Vanguard University
Villanova University
Washington State University
Westmont College
Whitworth University
William & Mary
Yale University
Matthew Korniczky’s four years at Cathedral Catholic have been marked by significant achievements and accolades. In a heartfelt letter, he expresses his sincere gratitude to the entire community for their unwavering support and inspiration.
Like most graduated students, I spent this past summer packing my things for college, going through old high school photos, meeting up with friends and preparing for the next phase of life. However, as I was filling boxes and donating old belongings, I could not help but reflect on the time I spent at Cathedral Catholic, the lessons I learned and how you have shaped me into who I am today.
First, thank you for the lessons that I learned from your classrooms. From faith to science to math to history and so on, each course helped build a broad foundation of knowledge. I learned about how cells operate, how to integrate a function, the Civil War, literature, the humanities, the passion of Christ and all the subjects that make up a Catholic high school curriculum. Aside from all the academic knowledge, I developed essential soft skills that I carry with me today. Spending hours (literally) searching for a code error in AP Computer Science taught me the importance of problem-solving and logical thinking. Building a catapult from scratch with friends in STEAM taught me the value of teamwork. The countless lunches and breaks that I spent recording videos for CCTV sharpened my ability to see things from different perspectives. I will use this knowledge and these skills for years to come, and I am thankful that I learned them at Cathedral Catholic.
Also, thank you for your community. I entered your gates as a shy, awkward freshman who stuttered through nearly every sentence. However, spending two years reporting and then producing for CCTV, I was able to meet and talk to so many awesome people and gained experience in having conversations with others. You supported me in my journey to become a fluent speaker and communicator. You were patient, kind and empathetic when I struggled to get my words out. Over time, I improved my public speaking skills and gradually learned to speak without stuttering. I am proud to say that I was one of your school ambassadors, which gave me another opportunity to converse with others while welcoming new students and their parents into our community at Cathedral Catholic. Being an ambassador allowed me to be an active part of the welcoming culture that was shown to me during my first two years at Cathedral Catholic High School. You helped me, supported me and were a crucial part of my transformation. Regardless of how I started, I left Cathedral Catholic as a confident speaker, communicator and conversationalist.
Thank you, as well, for the opportunity to serve. I participated in community service during middle school. It was not until my Catholic Faith class wrote letters to a retirement home, however, that
Matthew Korniczky ‘24 and Ellie Carroll ‘24 were named Homecoming King and Queen for the 2023-2024 academic year.
I was inspired, knowing that other people would eventually read and enjoy the letters we wrote. At that point, I truly understood how community service could have a real, tangible impact on others. From then on, I realized that I could make a difference and was eager to get more involved. Throughout my time at Cathedral Catholic High School, I helped with friends’ National Honor Society projects, read petitions at Mass, assisted in planning Cathedral Catholic’s first two TEDx events and more. I am grateful for all of the opportunities to serve in the Dons community and beyond. Taking advantage of these opportunities, I gained many new skills and experiences while also receiving the joy that comes from helping others. Over the past few years, you have instilled in me a deep love for service. This love has taken me to many places, culminating in my recent opportunity to volunteer and help organize the annual Southern California HOBY Leadership Seminar (the same leadership conference you nominated me for as a sophomore two years ago). This summer, we hosted more than 150 local students, including two from Cathedral Catholic! Because of you, I am excited to continue serving the communities I join in the future.
Finally, I am leaving with unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. I will never forget the trips traveled with the crew team and the surreal sunrises at our morning practices. I will never forget prom at Birch Aquarium or the many other school dances that I enjoyed with friends. I will never forget the feeling of unity when we gathered at Mass together as a Dons community or when we sang “Lean on Me” at the end of our football games. I will also never forget the peace I felt at the junior and senior retreats, the electric energy we felt on the closing nights of drama productions or the lunches spent together with friends in the Academic Center. Over the past few years, while I earned an education, I also gained so many unexpected and awesome experiences. Thank you.
To the freshmen, I hope you take advanced classes to challenge yourselves but still remember to have fun and enjoy your time here. I also hope you join clubs and sports teams to find community and explore your interests. I hope that you are not afraid to ask upperclassmen for advice—they do not bite, I promise! Additionally, please make the most of your four years at Cathedral Catholic High School and enjoy the moments, as time goes by much faster than you think. I hope you focus on doing your best without dwelling too much on which college you will attend (because I am sure you will eventually go to a college that is great for you). I also hope you remember to trust in God’s plan and to take the time to pray whenever you get stressed. Finally, I hope you take advantage of the many opportunities Cathedral Catholic has to offer and that you have the best high school experience ever.
Cathedral Catholic, over the past four years, you have helped me grow in immeasurable ways. I entered as a shy, stuttering ninth grader but graduated as a confident, (somewhat) outspoken adult who is looking for his opportunity to make a positive impact on the world. Every teacher I met, every friend I made and every shared experience at Cathedral Catholic has had an indelible mark on who I am and who I am becoming. As I conclude my first semester of college and look back, I cannot imagine attending any other high school. I am deeply grateful to have been a part of this campus community. I am eager to carry these lessons, experiences and memories into the next chapter of my life, knowing that I will now and forever be a Don. From Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, I wish you all the best.
Sincerely (and Roll Dons),
Matthew Korniczky ‘24
2023-2024 SEASON
CIF SAN DIEGO SECTION CHAMPIONSHIP TITLES
Girls Basketball (Division 1)
Girls Beach Volleyball (Division I)
Girls Cross Country (Division III)
Boys Swim & Dive (Division II)
Girls Track & Field (Division II)
Girls Volleyball (Open Division)
Boys Water Polo (Open Division)
LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLES
Girls Basketball
Girls Beach Volleyball
Boys & Girls Cross Country
Boys Golf
Girls Golf
Boys Lacrosse Softball
Boys Swim & Dive
Girls Tennis
Girls Track & Field
Boys Volleyball
Girls Volleyball
Boys Water Polo
Julia
2023-2024 SEASON AWARDS
FALL SPORTS MOST VALUABLE PLAYERS
Jenna Hanes ‘24
Girls Volleyball
Ben Mirisch ‘24
Boys Water Polo
WINTER SPORTS MOST VALUABLE PLAYERS
Alana Brackett ‘24
Girls Basketball
Matt Matsuda ‘24
Inline Hockey
SPRING SPORTS MOST VALUABLE PLAYERS
Sereniti Trice ‘24 Softball
Vincent Atilano ‘24
Track & Field
ACADEMIC ATHLETES OF THE YEAR
Scarlett Martin ‘24
Cross Country Track & Field
Beck Mahoney ‘24
Boys Lacrosse
ATHLETES OF THE YEAR
Jenna Hanes ‘24
Girls Volleyball
KEVIN MADDEN AWARD
Alexandria Peña ’24
Cross Country
Girls Soccer
Track & Field
Ben Mirisch ‘24
Boys Swim & Dive
Boys Water Polo
CAREER ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Briley Volpp ‘24
Field Hockey
Girls Lacrosse
SERRANO AWARDS*
Sean Magtoto ’24
Boys Lacrosse
Boys Wrestling
THANK YOU TO THE 2024 SPONSORS OF OUR 33RD ANNUAL WINE & MICROBREW
