RED & GOLD: A Dons Tradition | Edition IV, Summer 2024

EDITION IV |SUMMER 2024

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icons of the game DONS SPORTS HALL OF FAME 2024

Cathedral Girls High School · University of San Diego High School · Cathedral Catholic High School

The Dons Legacy

Continues

This proud tradition continues as seniors, alongside their parents, who are esteemed alumni themselves, come together to celebrate their achievements at graduation. The torch of excellence is passed down from one generation to the next, showcasing the enduring legacy of the Dons family.

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RED&GOLD

CLASS OF 2024 SUMMER 2024

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A Message From the Director

Dear Dons Alumni & Friends of the Dons

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hank you for reading the 4th edition of the Red & Gold

decades who work together to create a positive connection with

Magazine. Recently, we welcomed the Class of 2024 into

our Dons community. The board continues to grow and if you are

the Dons Alumni Family and honored over thirty legacy

interested in joining this wonderful group please contact us.

families after the Baccalaureate Mass.

Serving as the Director of Alumni has been one of the most

I am excited to announce that after serving as the director of

rewarding experiences of my tenure at USDHS/CCHS. We have

alumni for the past decade, I am transitioning to a full-time foot-

an incredible network of alumni scattered across the world. I

ball coach position. I trust you are familiar with the Dons Foot-

have treasured hearing about all of the adventures and accom-

ball program and know that, with the support of my coaching

plishments our alumni have experienced over the years. It has

staff, the players and the fans, we have created a remarkable

been fulfilling being at reunions, as people reminisce about a

program. We are expanding what we do with and for the players.

sport, drama performance, club activity or just friendships and

There is so much involved in developing these young men on and

good times. We have all been so blessed to be a part of the Dons

off the field and I am excited to continue to grow this success.

community! Help us continue these opportunities for our stu-

I am confident that the Dons Alumni family is in excellent

dents and future Dons. Support the next generation by donating

hands with our new Director of Alumni, Anne Pickard Majer ‘95.

to the sport or extracurricular activity that enriched your time

While a student at Uni, Anne was active in ASB, Ambassadors

at our beloved alma mater. Every gift is important.

and the swim team. After graduating from the University of Ar-

It has been a great honor to serve you in this official role and

izona, she returned to San Diego and worked for the San Diego

I look forward to continuing to support the Dons Alumni com-

Padres Baseball Club, spent a decade in sports radio and created

munity for years to come.

her own marketing firm specializing in spporting professional athletes in their charitable endeavors. In 2013, she was unani-

Once a Don, Always a Don!

mously voted in as the first female Dons Alumni Association President. A year later, Anne was hired as the school’s director

Sean Doyle ‘80

of marketing and communications and served in that role for

Director of Alumni / Head Football Coach

eight years before becoming the assistant director of alumni for the past three years. If you have not met Anne yet, be sure to introduce yourself at the next event!

I would like to thank the alumni board for an exceptional year of work. We have a dedicated group of alumni from multiple 03

RED&GOLD

Red & Gold Editor Pamela Poe, Director of Communications Creative Director John Paul De Vera, Director of Marketing & Branding

ICONS of the GAME PG. 13

Contributing Writers Sevana Adourian Sarah Brown ‘24 Sean Doyle ‘80 Hong-An Phan ‘24 Anne Pickard Majer ‘95 Pamela Poe, Director of Communications Copy Editor Pamela Poe, Director of Communications Printing Acacia Print Group, Inc.

ONCE A DON, ALWAYS A DON PG. 9

DONS in LOVE PG. 21

IN THIS ISSUE PG. 5

IMPORTANT DATES

PG. 7

DONS ALUMNI GOLF TOURNAMENT

PG. 19

DONS ALUMNI BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

PG. 24

CAMPUS UPDATES

PG. 26

IN MEMORIAM

Change of address Please email your change of address to alumni@cathedralcatholic.org.

Stay Connected facebook.com/donsalumni instagram.com/donsalumni twitter.com/donsalumni donsalumni.org Interested in Writing a Story?

Please contact Pamela Poe at ppoe@cathedralcatholic.org

SUMMER 2024

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Class of 1993 | 30th reunion

DONS ALUMNI REUNIONS 2024 Sign up now for the 2024 reunions! The Dons Alumni Office is here to support class reunions by handling all event details.

The dedicated reunion committees play a crucial role in ensuring the success of each gathering.

If you’re interested in playing a part in organizing your upcoming reunion or have any inquiries, please don’t hesitate to contact the Office of Alumni, alumni@cathedralcatholic.org. We look forward to reuniting with you and making your reunion unforgettable!

We look forward to hosting your class reunions at The ZAK

SAVE THE DATE Cl a s s of 2 014: Saturday, June 22 Cl a s s of 1994: Saturday, July 20 Cl a s s of 198 4: Saturday, July 27 Cl a s s of 197 9: Saturday, August 10 Cl a s s of 1974 & 196 4:Homecoming Weekend; Friday, October 25; Saturday, October 26 Fo r reu n i on deta i l s, pl ea s e vi si t: www.c a thedra lc a tholic .org / a lumni/ reunions

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RED&GOLD

CAREER DAY For Juniors

Mar 8

Academy of DISTINGUISHED DONS

2025

2025

Interested in speaking or being a moderator?

Scan the QR code and submit your information to be a possible speaker or moderator.

Do you know a Don who deserves to be recognized?

Scan the QR code to nominate a Don for this upcoming event.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Feb 7

2024

Enjoy a night of fun, food and Dons football with the alumni community.

Tickets will be available for purchase in September.

Save the Date

Oct 25

HOMECOMING Tailgate

2024 Dons Alumni Golf Tournament Swinging into great memories at the Dave Thoennes Alumni Golf Tournament as we honor Mario Fierro ‘02! A huge thank you to all our golfers, sponsors, volunteers and Maderas Golf Club for making this day truly special!

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SUMMER 2024

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Features

A Vibr ant Vocation SANDY BLACKSTONE-GARDNER ‘89

Cathedral Catholic continues the legacy of Uni with alumni like teacher Sandy BlackstoneGardner. She shares a commitment to guiding students to embody faith and responsibility.

By Hong-An Phan ‘24

Sandy smiles for his senior portrait.

Cathedral Catholic High School was built

her studies. She believes the most valuable

upon the legacy of the alumni of the University

part of her Uni experience was the opportuni-

of San Diego High School, often referred to as

ties it provided. Specifically, she recalls partic-

Uni. The famed academic institution had its

ipating in a new honors program. Students in

beginnings in Linda Vista, graduating gener-

this program had religion, history and English

ations of Dons who used their skills to pioneer

in a humanities block. This experience of

a path for future students. Among these

having learning units combined throughout

alumni, many felt a calling to return to Cathe-

three courses was instrumental in showing

dral Catholic High School, dedicated to giving

her that academic learning could be relevant

back to their alma mater.

and interesting on a personal level.

Sandy Blackstone-Gardner ‘89 has been an

Outside the motivated mindset that

educator at Cathedral Catholic for 16 years.

USDHS equipped her with, faith has also been

Following her graduation from Uni, Black-

a prominent force in Blackstone-Gardner’s

stone-Gardner attended the University of San

life, as it guided her throughout her years as a

Diego, where she pursued a degree in the Di-

student and teacher. Her teaching career

versified Liberal Arts program with a minor in

began at Saint Didacus Parish School in San

math. She later graduated from USD and re-

Diego, where she taught fourth grade for four

ceived her master’s degree in theology at the

years. She later began working with The Im-

University of Notre Dame.

maculata Catholic Church at the University of

As a first-generation college student,

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FEATURES

San Diego.

Blackstone-Gardner credits Uni for her pur-

Blackstone-Gardner spent her evenings at

suit of higher education. While at USDHS, she

The Immaculata leading Adult Faith Forma-

adopted a college-bound mindset, becoming

tion. Her schedule was blocked around eve-

goal-oriented and self-motivated to excel in

nings and weekends; however, after she and

Once a Don, always a Don.

her husband Ryan of now 27 years, began to grow their family, she aimed to be on the same schedule as their kids. Their children are now in college, John, at the University of Connecticut and Helen ‘22, at Point Loma Nazarene University. This desire would lead her to pursue teaching at Cathedral Catholic High School, which she described as: “I see Cathedral as a continuation of Uni, a place where students are encouraged to live their individual call, to live a life of faith, while also having the responsibility to participate in the creation of a just society. This formation at Uni encouraged me to be a life-long learner, to build lasting relationships and to pursue a ca-

Sandy leading her Campus Ministry 11 class in learning about the dignity of the human person, teaching that our dignity is due to our being made in the image and likeness of God.

reer in education.”

Between the legacy of Uni and Cathedral’s bright future, Blackstone-Gardner explains, “[I hope that] We continue to be known for our commitment to graduating students that are

hearts of red and gold. Their vocations call

people of faith in the community, responsible

them to lead students and form passionate

citizens and that they just have this under-

people. Among these teachers, many can be

standing of what it means to work towards the

recognized by their past ties to Uni- or even

common good.”

Cathedral.

The responsibility for shaping these future

“The community at Cathedral encourages

leaders rests with the teachers, or formators

alumni to come back and work here.” Black-

of Cathedral Catholic High School. As an edu-

stone-Gardner describes the alumni’s pride in

cator with an accomplished career, Black-

their alma mater, leading to their return. A

stone-Gardner says:

community within a community exists at Ca-

“I enjoy being a part of something bigger

thedral- one made of alumni. This school is

than myself. Being a part of the Dons commu-

more than just a place to work, it’s a place to

nity has been a part of my identity, it shapes

build friendships, a place to encourage and be

who I am as a person in Christ. Through this

proud of one another.

community, I have been able to make a differ-

Blackstone-Gardner’s sentiment aligns

ence in the lives of my students. From helping

with the legacy created by alumni from both

lead All-School Masses with campus minis-

USDHS and CCHS. While some alumni may

ters, to developing the Catholic Innovations

find their calling by paving paths away from

courses for students like myself who think

home, others may realize that their vocations

deeply about the world around them. I try to

will bring them back to the Home of the Dons.

“I enjoy being a part of something bigger than myself.

I like being part of something that is doing good for the world...”

expose students to the Catholic faith in a way that their hearts are open to prayer, service to others and a deep understanding of the Catholic faith.”

There is no doubt that CCHS teachers have RED&GOLD | SUMMER 2024

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Features

Stats & Bats GARY REMIKER ‘90

Between the statistics classroom and the Lynch/ Allred Tournament Field, Gary Remiker just about covers all bases at Cathedral Catholic High School.

By Sarah Brown ‘24

Between teaching statistics in the class-

efforts. He explains, “I had a great time at Uni

room and coaching on the Lynch/Allred Tour-

as a student and felt I could fit in well as a math

nament Field, Gary Remiker covers all bases

teacher and baseball coach... I immediately

at Cathedral Catholic High School. As a stu-

started volunteering to coach in the JV team

dent at Uni, Remiker embraced the essence of

at Uni in 1995, entered a teaching credential

the Don. Now, as a teacher and coach, he works

program at SDSU and was lucky enough to get

to share his legacy with CCHS students.

hired for the 1996-1997 academic year right

During his four years at Uni, Remiker

Gary smiles for his senior portrait.

His involvement in Dons Athletics ex-

baseball team. By his senior year, the team

ceeded his expectations. He coached

ranked second in the county and won the

freshman football and girls’ golf, managed the

Western League championship with what he

intramural program at Uni for several years

remembers as “a thrilling walk-off win over

and served as the math department chair until

Mission Bay.” Reflecting on his success at Uni,

2022. All the while, he and his wife Marissa

Remiker felt called to continue his involve-

were raising two children, Leeann ‘23 and Eric

ment with Dons baseball, aiming to pave a

Remiker ‘23. With his many roles at Uni and

path of continued victory.

Cathedral, being a husband and father, Remik-

He wasted no time in pursuing these

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FEATURES

when I was completing my credential.”

served as the starting catcher for the Dons

er’s has also maintained his interests in music

Once a Don, always a Don.

Remiker and assistant coach, Rob Reiter celebrate their 500th career win with an impressive 11-4 victory over Patrick Henry on April 21, 2024.

Photo credit: John Fraser

and golf.

greater importance of his work on the field. He

Remiker and Marissa first met while chap-

admits, “The most important part of my job is

eroning Uni’s Winter Formal in 1999. Marissa

trying to prepare these young men to be hus-

attended to help Mr. Geiger and her friend, Ms.

bands and fathers down the road... In the long

Gordon (now Mrs. Zimmer, a Dons parent) in

run, it is just a game and the relationships and

supervising the dance.

life skills we learn from sports are more im-

It is undeniable that he is a well-rounded

portant than any championships we win.”

asset to the Dons community, especially

Dons baseball has been truly transforma-

through his contributions to the math depart-

tive, thanks to the efforts of Gary Remiker over

ment. He mentioned, “I taught everything

the past 29 years. As a student at Uni, the base-

except for AP Calculus,” he continues, “My

ball program shaped Remiker into an accom-

area of expertise is statistics, but I also love

plished teacher, coach and role model. Having

teaching Algebra 1 and Algebra 2.”

recently celebrated 500 wins for Dons Base-

However, Remiker’s teaching extends be-

ball, he continues to work towards main-

yond the classroom and onto the baseball

taining this legacy. He forms the athletes that

field, where he serves as a coach. He said, “I

pass through his program into young men

have the ability to teach the nuances and

driven by faith, knowledge, character and re-

mental side of [baseball] and prepare my

sponsibility, helping them to discover what is

teams for the challenges of competing against

at the core of being a Don.

“The most important part of my job is trying to prepare these young men to be husbands and fathers down the road... In the long run, it is just a game and the relationships and life skills we learn from sports are more important than any championships we win.”

the best programs in San Diego.” His coaching skills have earned him several awards including California Coach of the Year by Cal-Hi Preps and Region 8 Coach of the Year by the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Under his leadership, the Dons have won eight CIF championship titles.

Though he has achieved incredible success in his coaching role, Remiker recognizes the RED&GOLD | SUMMER 2024

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Icons of the Game DONS SPORTS HALL OF FAME 2024

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he moment you enter the Dons Sports Hall of Fame Ceremony, you are rushed with feelings of awe and admiration.

Glowing lights shine upon the portraits of young people,

who have excelled in their sport with tenacity, passion and grit. You

are surrounded by athletes who bore the distinguished red and gold, the colors of the University of San Diego High School and Cathedral

Catholic High School, and you cannot help but feel the buzz of memories, laughter and celebration in the air.

The Dons Sports Hall of Fame was crafted by Mrs.Del Centanni in 2002, beginning with nineteen inductees and has grown to over one hundred individuals and eleven teams being inducted over 20 years.

The purpose of the Dons Sports Hall of Fame is to pay tribute and extend recognition to those individuals who, through the years, have contributed to the honor and fame of the Dons Athletic program in the field of athletics and who have continued to demonstrate the values learned in athletics in their daily lives. We also recognize those who have contributed to the success of an individual or team through meritorious service or inspiration. Members of the Dons Hall of Fame either attended Cathedral Girls High School, University of San Diego High School, Cathedral Catholic High School, or are friends of the Dons.

Mrs. Del Centanni with Anne Pickard Majer ‘95, assistant director of alumni and Sean Doyle ‘80, director of alumni.

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RED&GOLD

For over 20 years, the Dons Sports Hall of Fame has recognized hundreds of Dons who have displayed greatness on the field, on the court and most importantly in the game of life. Last March, we added more Dons to that esteemed list of members and made history on this special evening.

By Pamela Poe

COVER STORY

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Devon Brown Ellis ‘10 with her golf coach, Chris Grazier ‘88

Ryan Wiegand ‘05 with baseball coach, Gary Remiker ‘90

Ryan Wilkins ‘09 with baseball coach, Gary Remiker ‘90

Coach Ron Marquez with directors of alumni, Sean Doyle ‘80 and Anne Pickard Majer ‘95

Bill Gharreb ‘71 with directors of alumni, Sean Doyle ‘80 and Anne Pickard Majer ‘95 15 RED&GOLD

Demetrius Sumler ‘06 with football coach, Sean Doyle ‘80

On March 9, 2024, the Dons Alumni Association inducted the 11th class of the Dons Sports Hall of Fame: Brady Aiken ‘14 for baseball, Devon Brown Ellis ‘10 for girls golf, Tierra Falo ‘15 for softball, Megan Faraimo ‘18 for softball, Sarai Niu ‘15 for softball, Ryan Wiegand ‘05 for baseball, Ryan Wilkins ‘09 for baseball, Demetrius Sumler ‘06 for football, Coach Ron Marquez, friend of sport Bill Ghareeb ‘71, the 2008 girls soccer team and the 1998 boys football team.

The master of ceremonies, John Montali ‘88, invited each

Megan Faraimo ‘18 with softball coach, Margaret Mauro

inductee to the stage to accept their award. As the honoree approached the stage, a biography of their life and achievements played along with a montage of photographs from their Uni/Cathedral Catholic days and athletic careers.

Each inductee received their award from their former high school coach or from the director of alumni, Sean Doyle ‘80 and assistant director, Anne Pickard Majer ‘95. Former coaches present were softball coach Margaret Mauro, girls golf coach Chris Grazier, baseball coach Gary Remiker ‘90 and of course, football coach Sean Doyle ‘80.

Each recipient paused to sincerely thank the Uni/Cathedral Catholic community, their families, mentors, educators and friends for supporting them through their high school journey and beyond. They reflected on how their foundational experiences in high school paved the way for their professional endeavors, friendships and marriages.

While accepting their awards, two of the recipients fondly

Sarai Niu ‘15 with softball coach, Margaret Mauro

mentioned that they had found love through Uni/Cathedral Catholic. Demetrius Sumler ‘06 and his wife, Marissa (Douglass) Sumler ‘06 met as students. Ryan Wiegand ‘05 and his wife, Shea (Greene) Wiegand ‘07 met through a chance encounter introduced by Coach Margaret Mauro.

“They are each incredible women in their own right and a force together.”

Tierra Falo ‘15 with softball coach, Margaret SUMMER Mauro 2024

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Coincidentally, the Dons Sports Hall of Fame occurred in

As the evening concluded, it left behind a legacy of excel-

March, during International Women’s Month. This cele-

lence, camaraderie and the enduring power of sport to

bration of women soon became a theme of the night. The

unite and inspire. With each induction, the Dons Sports

ceremony honored the first girls golf inductee, Devon

Hall of Fame reaffirms its commitment to honoring the

Brown Ellis ‘10. The selection committee also chose to

past, celebrating the present and inspiring future genera-

honor the first individuals of Polynesian descent, who all

tions of Dons. In 2025, the Office of Alumni will host the

happened to be women: Tierra Falo ‘15, Sarai Niu ‘15 and

Academy of Distinguished Dons.

Megan Faraimo ‘18. Anne Pickard Majer shared, “They are each incredible women in their own right and a force together.”

Scan QR code to view current list of members or nominate a Don for the 2026 class!

2008 varsity soccer team (above) and 1998 varsity football team (below).

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RED&GOLD

dons on the road | Spring 2024

The Office of Alumni hits the road to reconnect with Dons.

New York

Washington, D.C.

Boston

football reunion 2024

SUMMER 2024

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Dons Alumni

BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

1stClassWriting.com, LLC and DennyWrites.com Denny Bulcao, Jr. ‘94

Silk & Spero Remy Jones ‘15

1stClassWriting.com, LLC operates 100% remotely and employs 85 writers, copy editors, designers and content managers from around the USA.

Silk & Spero is a luxury interior design firm located in San Diego, servicing the San Diego area. Their company values are deeply rooted in collaboration and organization. With notable experience working for large design/build and restaurant groups, our knowledge bank is specialized for ingenuity and promotes successful project management.

They help with a broad range of projects, large or small and offer services ranging from high-end full-service design to color/material consultations for new builds.

As the Founder & CEO of 1stclasswriting.com, Bulcao leads a dynamic team that specializes in crafting search engine optimized (SEO) content for a diverse clientele, ranging from Fortune 100 companies to small businesses and startups. Our journey began in 2003 with the inception of DennyWrites.com, a platform initially designed to showcase Denny’s writing portfolio and secure traditional writing jobs. However, it quickly evolved to meet the growing demand for SEO-focused content, including website copywriting, blogs, articles, product descriptions, and more.

Denny Bulcao, Jr. has 22+ years of writing and editing experience garnered from prestigious institutions such as The Associated Press, The San Diego Union-Tribune, and major corporations including GE, Google, and Apple.

Please visit: www.dennywrites.com As a Uni student, Denny was Sports Editor of El Cid, junior and senior years (‘93-’94), played varsity tennis for three years, competed in varsity cross-country for two years and played JV volleyball for one year. Mr. Fares, Denny’s Journalism (El Cid moderator) and English teacher at Uni, was very supportive and encouraged him to continue writing. He also taught his El Cid staff about the legendary Cameron Crowe, who instantly became an idol and proof of how far writing could take him.

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RED&GOLD

Silk & Spero believes every home is a narrative waiting to be told, a canvas to be painted with the hues of your life.

Their design philosophy is rooted not in a signature style, but in your unique story. Your dreams, your memories, your vision — these are the threads they weave into the fabric of your space.

Partnering with you, Silk & Spero tailors each element to reflect the distinctiveness of your personality. It’s not just about rooms that look stunning; it’s about spaces that feel deeply personal, resonating with the essence of who you are.

As a student, Remy Jones was very proud to be involved in campus ministry, girls water polo and swim & dive. Roll Dons!

Sacred Heart Apparel Melisa Sanchez ‘84

At a recent alumni event, Melisa spoke candidly about her upbringing, describing herself as always being “a nerd” who thrived in rigorous academic environments. Despite her demanding course load of AP and honors classes, she remained actively involved in the theater department, where she honed her artistic skills by painting sets and working behind the scenes. Her academic journey led her to study Visual Arts, Film & Media at UC San Diego.

Melisa Sanchez has always been deeply immersed in the arts, from painting and drawing to sculpting. In the 2000s, she even ventured into running a paper-crafting line, where her creative designs included hand-painted papers. Throughout the challenges of the Covid era, Melisa found solace in crafting intricate Catholic-themed pocket and travel shrines, offering her a much-needed reprieve from her demanding role as a Script Supervisor in TV Production.

Driven by her passion for both art and education, Melisa is committed to using her creative talents to not only inspire faith but also to provide vital financial support for future students. With the Cathedral Catholic staff’s suggestion, Melisa has chosen to direct her donations towards Nativity Prep, with the sincere hope that her art will serve as a reminder of faith while also making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

When the writers’ strike hit in 2023, Melisa saw an opportunity to channel her passion for Catholic art into something tangible. She embarked on creating a Catholicthemed clothing and accessory line, featuring designs such as the Sacred Heart, Immaculate Heart and Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Scan to visit Melisa’s store

Reflecting on her own journey as a divorced mother striving to provide her children with a Catholic education, Melisa understood the financial sacrifices involved firsthand. Having benefited from a Catholic education herself, she deeply appreciates the sacrifices her parents made to send her to university. Her sons attended Bishop Montgomery in Torrance and she became acutely aware of the challenges faced by those with modest incomes or single-parent households when it comes to affording Catholic schooling. Determined to make a difference, Melisa decided to use the proceeds from her clothing and accessory line to support individuals facing similar financial hurdles.

We’d love to feature your business Scan the QR code and submit your business for the next edition!

SUMMER 2024

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Features

Dons in Love FROM CLASSMATES TO SOULMATES

“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

(Colossians 3:14)

By Sevana Adourian

Cathedral Catholic High School, formerly

school while they were students. He said,

known as University of San Diego High School,

“She’d be stuck driving me home after practice

or “Uni”, is a place where students build life-

and would have to listen to me sing along to

long friendships, grow in their faith and make

whatever tunes were on the radio. She claims

priceless memories. And for some, it is even

I sang a lot of Jewel but I can neither confirm

the place where they find love.

nor deny.” After getting married at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Poway, the pair later

Kelly (Clark) ‘98 & Dave O’Connor ‘99 This is exactly what happened for our Dons

Kelly and Dave smile for a photo on their wedding day.

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FEATURES

grew their beautiful family and now have three girls and three boys.

alumni, Kelly and Dave, who have been mar-

When reminiscing on his experience at

ried for over 17 years. While the two did not

Uni, Dave shared, “I truly enjoyed the Uni ex-

date in high school, Dave remembers exactly

perience, mainly because it afforded me the

what Kelly was wearing the first time he saw

opportunity to meet my beautiful wife Kelly.”

her. “She was in a plaid skirt rocking her Duff

Not only was the University of San Diego High

skate shoes,” O’Connor said.

School a place where he found his lifelong

He also recalls carpooling together to

partner, but Dave added, “I also met my best

Features

Dave remembers exactly what Kelly was wearing the first time he saw her. “She was in a plaid skirt rocking her Duff skate shoes.” friends while I was there, friends I still see regularly to this day.”

liking each other, but did not date until

Michelle Mierzwa ‘87 and Lawrence Gal-

meeting again at their ten-year reunion. Lee

lego ‘87

Ann recalls the hilarious way the pair was fi-

Michelle and Lawrence also met after gradu-

nally reacquainted with one another. “We

ating, where they saw each other for the first

were leaving the reunion at the Barefoot Bar

time again at a mutual friend’s beach party.

on a boat in Mission Bay with several class-

After reconnecting, they were wed at Harvest

mates late that night, and I had slid and fallen

Inn in St. Helena, Napa Valley and have been

off the boat, barely hanging on to a lifeline

married for over 19 years.

while Jim ‘saved’ me,” Lee Ann said.

Jim even recalls his first impressions of Lee

He also recalls fond memories of Dr. Kelly,

Ann. He said, “During our freshman year, Lee

former principal, who became Uni’s first pres-

Ann was among the first people I met in Fr.

ident. “I do wish I’d had the chance to thank

Tassi’s class. She was so nice and mature and

Dr. Kelly (he did attend our wedding). Dr. Kelly

put together. I remember passing notes be-

is the reason I was able to attend that school

tween classes during freshman year. Lee Ann

and for that I’m extremely grateful. If it hadn’t

also had a great sense of style, so I started bor-

been for him, I wouldn’t have the life and

rowing her clothes. She lent me a long-sleeved

family I’m blessed with today,” Dave said.

purple polo shirt that I had worn all the time.

She also lent me a plaid scarf that I took with

Lee Ann (Najjar) ‘87 & Jim Iagmin ‘87

me to college. Lee Ann still has the purple

Dave and Kelly are not the only ones who met

shirt, but I lost the scarf. Lee Ann is still so nice

their significant others thanks to being stu-

and smart and still has a great sense of style.

dents at Uni. Lee Ann (Najjar) ‘87 and Jim

I’m so glad Steve Petix made me go to the re-

Iagmin ‘87, who have been married for 22

union. Reconnecting with and being married

years, share a similar story.

to Lee Ann is the best thing that has ever hap-

The two were in the same first-year religion class as freshmen and remembered

pened to me.”

Lawrence and Michelle smile for a photo on their wedding day.

They have two children, Anthony “A.J.” age eighteen, who graduated from San Dieguito

When thinking back on her first moments

Academy Class of 2023 in Encinitas and is at-

meeting Jim, Lee Ann said, “I also remember

tending UC San Diego as a sophomore in Sep-

meeting Jim during my first year in that class.

tember. Their daughter Maya is seventeen and

Jimmy sat next to me. I remember asking what

will be a junior at San Dieguito Academy. Mi-

he wanted to do when he grew up and he said

chelle is a partner in the regional real estate

he wanted to be a doctor. That was the first

finance law firm of Wright Finlay & Zak, head-

thing I asked when we met again at the 10-year

quartered in Newport Beach and is licensed to

reunion! The answer was no. However, he was

practice in California and Washington. Law-

about to take the bar exam after graduating

rence Gallego is a multi-state real estate devel-

from law school. I thought, Doctor? Lawyer?

oper and investor.

The same difference!”

Jim and Lee Ann on their wedding day.

The two were married at St. James Catholic

Alison (Cote) ‘95 and Kevin Mock ‘87

Church in Solana Beach and have two sons

Another example of an alumni couple who

who are also part of the Cathedral Catholic

found love after graduation is Alison (Cote) ‘95

High School community. Their eldest,

and Kevin Mock ‘87, who found each other

Joaquin, is part of the graduating class of 2022,

again on Match.com. The two were wed at Mis-

and their youngest, Vincent, graduated this

sion San Diego de Alcalá, have been married

year.

for 12 years and have two children attending RED&GOLD | SUMMER 2024

22

Features

Kevin also gave a special shout-out to one of their mutual teachers who taught them a skill that would later come in handy. “We both had Mr. Atilano for Spanish at Uni and it served us well on our honeymoon in Spain,” Kevin said.

According to Alison, “While we lived two different high school experiences, our foundation built by Uni led us to a perfect partnership. DONS for life!”

Theresa (Inoue) ‘14 & Kenneth Magro ‘11 Theresa and Kenneth both graduated from Alison and Kevin make their way down the aisle of the chapel at Mission San Diego de Alcalá.

St. Columba Catholic School in San Diego.

Cathedral Catholic High School but had not met until the two did ministry work together

Theresa and Kenneth find each other in Cathedral Catholic’s yearbook.

at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church.

Cathedral Catholic High School is a very

The pair welcomed their first son in 2023 and

special place with a rich history. University of

While reminiscing on their high school

have been married for almost two and a half

San Diego High School being established in

years, Alison said, “We [were] very fortunate

years. To add to the Dons legacy, Theresa’s par-

1957 is a testament to how strong and lasting

to find each other long after our high school

ents, Mark ‘90 and Katie (Tontz) Inoue ‘90, also

this school community is. Whether they met

careers. Our Uni roots run strong, as our chil-

met at Uni and then dated as undergraduates

in the classroom, through a dating app, or long

dren are currently at a parochial school and

at the University of San Diego. In 2022, The-

after graduation day, these alumni and their

my husband carries on about his grade school

resa returned to Cathedral Catholic to teach in

heartwarming stories showcase just how con-

sport glory days at St. Therese.”

the religion department.

nected the Dons community truly is.

Top (left to right): Dave and Kelly with their six children in Hawaii. Jim and Lee Ann with their two sons on vacation. Lawrence and Michelle with their two children.

Bottom (left to right): Kevin and Alison with their two daughters at Disneyland. Theresa and Kenneth with their son on vacation.

23

FEATURES

On March 7, our Visual and Performing Arts Department hosted the Parochial Arts Festival, welcoming numerous students from local Catholic schools to showcase their skills in arts and music as well as attend art workshops.

The CCHS Dons Crew teams made history March 16, 2024 at the Pacific Invite Regatta when they rowed in the most races CCHS has ever rowed in one day in the program’s 13-year history.

On March 19, the second day of Yellow Ribbon Week, we rejoiced in the presence of Bishop Pulido, one of San Diego’s newest auxiliary bishops, as our special guest celebrant for the Feast of St. Joseph, our beloved patron saint.

On March 21, CCHS hosted the 2nd Annual TEDxCCHS Youth Event, themed “One School, Many Voices.” We heard from 12 distinguished students who presented on various topics from gut health, to entrepreneurship to Black health solutions. We are so grateful to Ms. Natalya Fiore and Mr. Charles Threatt for spearheading this incredible event!

In March, we kicked off the Fuel the Run Campaign! The campaign honors the legacies of the late Amanda Post ‘10 and Coach Dan Geiger. Our goal is to rename Cathedral Catholic’s track to the ‘Amanda Post Track,’ establish a scholarship in Coach Geiger’s name and secure the future of our Cross Country and Track & Field programs.

Our Dons National Art Honor Society created another round of Memory Project portraits! This time we had 16 students participate in making portraits for children and teens living in India. These children tragically lost connection to their birth parents and now live with dedicated foster mothers who provide love and stability.

SUMMER 2024

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON CAMPUS

On March 16, we celebrated the St. Patrick’s Day-themed 33rd Annual Wine & Microbrew Tasting and Auction. From the mesmerizing Irish dancers to the tunes of Celtic bagpipers, it was a night to remember. Special thanks to our participants, families, volunteers and sponsors for making it truly magical.

Campus Updates

On February 23, our CCHS Girls Basketball team clinched the CIF DI Championship with their stellar victory over Grossmont High School!

24

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON CAMPUS

Campus Updates

Nylah King-Boyd ‘24 was invited to the CSF Awards Ceremony.

Nylah was selected as one of the South region finalists and received an award for her hard work and dedication to the California Scholarship Federation

At New Dons Night, we welcomed over 1,000 guests with a family bbq, orientation and opportunities to meet with different organizations and academic departments across campus. We cannot wait to welcome our rising freshmen in the fall!

On April 19, our Dons baseball community gathered to celebrate an extraordinary milestone in the remarkable journey of Coach Gary Remiker and Coach Rob Reiter, who began coaching together in 2001 and now, in 2024, have achieved the incredible feat of 500 career wins.

In April, Mission & Ministry hosted the last Senior Kairos (#36) Retreat of the year at Palomar Christian Conference Center.

25

RED&GOLD

Our Dons Music students embarked on a musical journey across Ireland this Easter Break! From the historic sites of Cashel to the majestic Cliffs of Moher and the Shrine of Our Lady of Knock, immersing themselves in the beauty and spirituality of the Emerald Isle.

In April, our Dons celebrated “Top Gun” themed prom on the USS Midway.

CCHS Drama put on incredible performances for our 2024 spring musical, Anything Goes!

Another milestone for our Athletics Department as we celebrated our fourth NLI Signing of the year, bringing our total to 50 Dons destined to shine in college sports!

In

MEMORIAM

Eternal rest grant upon them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.

May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. St. Joseph Our Patron, Pray for Us.

Gary Kline ‘62

Patrick McManus ‘64

Colleen Rickling ‘76

Christine Harvel ‘84

Mary Ellen Beverly Longoria Easterling Pitard ‘65 Jones ‘65

Ann Marion Marie Bechtold ‘87

Melissa Ann Freitas ‘87

Craig Swanson ‘67

Tony Moeder ‘89

Kathy Nickason Wife of Jim Nickason ‘68 Monica (Lucido) Baker Daughter of Wiliam Lucido ‘61 Bill Walton Father of Nate ‘96, Luke ‘98 and Chris ‘00; uncle of Kam ‘00 and Harmony ‘97

John Henry Lawson Grandfather of Matt ‘09, Lucas ‘13, John ‘16, Grace ‘19

Do you know a Don who has passed?

If one of our beloved Dons has passed away in the last year, we would love to honor them in the next edition of Red & Gold Magazine. Please let us know by scanning the QR code and completing the form.

SUMMER 2024

26

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