MaMMA MIA!
Eastside Catholic’s production of “Mamma Mia!” lit up the EC Gym with high-energy music, dazzling choreography and unforgettable performances. From the talented cast and pit orchestra to the tech crew and directors, every moment was a celebration of creativity and teamwork. Hattie D. ’26, Ailiy G. ’26 and Baunoo F. ’25 delivered a standout performance of “Chiquitita” in Scene 4, earning big applause and big smiles from the crowd.
From Our Director of Student Life
WHEN I FIRST came to Eastside Catholic School as a student, I never imagined I’d be back here one day—let alone serving as Director of Student Life. Toward the end of my days at EC, I hoped I would have a chance to give back to the place that gave so much to me. I graduated in 2014, and to say this place has shaped me would be an understatement.
Back then, it wasn’t easy. I didn’t see many people who looked like me, and it took time to find my place. But that challenge pushed me to grow beyond what I thought was possible. I went from being the kid charging his phone alone at lunch to getting elected ASB President just a few years later. That journey taught me something powerful: sometimes, the spaces that stretch us the most also prepare us to lead.
Today, I am what I once needed. I show up every day hoping to inspire students who may not believe in themselves yet—just like I didn’t. I want to be someone who listens, sees and believes in them before they believe in themselves. I value what it means to be a leader—and even more, to help raise up the next generation of leaders. EC helped me become who I am today because of the amazing people who poured into me, the environment that challenged me and my relationship with God.
One of my favorite parts of the week is my zero-period class. These students, in grades 9 through 12, choose to show up at 7 a.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. What started as a class of 30, is now over 70, and we’ve even added another class during the day.
It’s wild—but it’s beautiful. It’s what keeps me going when my alarm goes off at 4:20 a.m.
EC is a blessing to me and my family. From the people to the community to the love and care from coaches and staff, this place has truly become a home. I love that I don’t have to be ashamed of my faith here. Jesus is the pillar of my life, and I get to live that out every day in a way that’s real, relatable and rooted in everything our students are walking through.
This community changed my life, and now I can pour myself into changing others’ lives on a daily basis.
With love and blessings,
–Elisha Pa’aga ’14 Director of Student Life
Dear Eastside Catholic Community Members,
IF YOU ASKED ME back in August what I was most looking forward to this school year, I would’ve said the growth we’d see in our students—the small, everyday moments where they support one another.
Sometimes, academics can feel like a competitive arena—where students guard their notes like national secrets and everyone’s racing to be first, best or most right. But the truth is, the key to learning and what works best is supporting one another. Sharing knowledge, offering help and celebrating each other’s success doesn’t take away from our own—it multiplies it—as we remind our students each morning during announcements, “Students, remember to take care of each other.”
This is what I look forward to most. In the end, school isn’t just about what we know, it’s about who we become.
And now, here we are at the end of the school year, and I’ve been trying to pick a specific favorite memory from this year to share. We had so many highlights—from college placements and celebrating our seniors to welcoming our newest Crusaders in sixth grade.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we installed new lights for the tennis courts and held a gala auction to raise funds for needbased tuition assistance for families who want—and deserve—a Catholic education.
Once again, our community generously rose to the occasion. Our students showcased one song from the magnificent musical, “Mamma Mia!,” which was a blast! And the image of Mr. Odem doing the flipper dance and playing Fr. Alexandrios continues to make me smile. We held retreats, took class trips, celebrated Reconciliation, survived a “bomb” cyclone (yes, really), and so much more.
So, what was my favorite part? Honestly … I don’t know. Maybe it was all of it! Certainly, it was the feeling that in the middle of it all, events and surprise quizzes—we were in it together.
And that feeling I had at the beginning of the year—the one I have every year at EC—that we’re here to lift one another up? That still outshines any single moment.
In short, this year was blessed, busy and completely unforgettable. And yes, I’ll probably need all of the summer break to recover... or at least enough time to remember where I left my coffee, my keys and possibly the outlandish Indiana Jones-style hat I wear during morning traffic duty (although my wife is hoping it is gone forever).
–Gil Picciotto President
In The Classroom
Grew up in Everett, Washington
BA, physical education and health (grades P-12), Western Washington University
MA, educational, school and counseling psychology, positive coaching and athletic leadership emphasis, University of Missouri
Other roles at EC: PE/Health Department Chair; Seventh Grade CYO Volleyball Coach; former CYO Director
Free time: playing with my 7-year-old son, taking fitness classes, hiking, coffee with friends, warm destinations
Favorite fitness class: Les Mills BODYPUMP
EC faculty member for 13 years
Heart Behind the Whistle
Cora K i mbrough
What do you love about teaching?
It’s hard to believe I’ve been here for 13 years—it’s flown by! One of the things I love most is the strong sense of community that fills the school. Before working at EC, I had never experienced such a genuine feeling of belonging, where people truly care for and support one another. It’s this kind of environment that makes EC so special, and something I truly cherish.
I also want to give a huge shoutout to my PE/Health Department. This team is a big part of why I love coming to work every day. We’ve been together for 12 years, which says so much about the kind of people I get to work with every day. The support, laughter and collaboration we experience together make my time here even more meaningful.
And of course, the students are a major reason why I love EC! I enjoy teaching middle schoolers. I know many people think that’s a tough age, but I believe it’s the best! Being part of a 6-12 school makes it incredibly rewarding to watch students grow from curious sixth graders into confident high schoolers and eventually graduates. It’s always a joy when former students come back to say hello. It’s moments like these that I’m reminded of the lasting impact these early years can have.
Have you always been a teacher?
Before becoming a PE teacher, most of my previous work experience involved working with children and youth through the YMCA and Parks & Recreation. I worked as a day camp leader for several summer camp programs, and the year after graduating college I spent a summer
in Southern California as the director of a summer camp at a country club. I also worked for the Everett AquaSox, taking on nearly every position from ticket sales and section leader/usher to working the gates and even selling snacks as a food vendor. During my time as a substitute teacher, I not only coached middle school volleyball and track, but I also officiated high school volleyball games.
Why do you think physical education is important?
Middle school is such a vital age for young people to build confidence, develop movement skills and learn the value of physical activity. Physical education is about more than just playing games, it’s about developing social connections, building self-esteem and encouraging personal growth. I often remind my students that the relationships they form in PE are
“Physical education is about more than just playing games, it’s about developing social connections, building self-esteem and encouraging personal growth.”
meaningful. Winning is fun, but being a good teammate and respectful opponent is what truly matters.
I love seeing students support and cheer each other on. That kind of sportsmanship is one of the most important life skills that can extend well beyond this class. I teach my students a variety of skills and activities with the hope they find something they enjoy, continuing to stay active throughout their lives. My goal is for students to find value in their health in the same way, finding joy in staying physically active.
What do you enjoy about coaching?
I enjoy building relationships with my students outside of the classroom and watching their skills grow throughout the season. After taking several years off from coaching to focus on my family, I decided to return to coach CYO volleyball this
year. I love staying with the same group of student-athletes from grades six to eight, as it allows me to see their progression over time. This year, I had the opportunity to coach the same group of girls for a second season in a row, and I’ve seen tremendous growth in their abilities. From only winning a few games during their sixth-grade season, to making it to the championship game as seventh graders and finishing in second place, it was an incredible accomplishment! I couldn’t be prouder of the growth they showed every time they stepped on the court and gave it their all.
What do you think helps students stay engaged in PE class?
I believe students are most engaged when the program focuses on a fun, safe and supportive learning environment. Engagement increases when students feel
included, valued and challenged at their own level. By building positive relationships and understanding my students’ individual needs, I can create lessons that accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities. This helps to create an inclusive environment where students feel comfortable, motivated and confident to do their best while developing skills.
Fun or surprising facts about you?
I met my husband while we were both in the teaching program at Western Washington University, and today we are both PE teachers within the Seattle Archdiocese. He teaches at Sacred Heart in Bellevue, and I teach at Eastside Catholic. It’s always fun when I get students who had my husband as their elementary school PE teacher and are surprised to have another Kimbrough as their PE teacher when they enroll at EC!
IN
HISTORIC
2024-25
UPSET CRUSADERS CLAIM
METRO LEAGUE TITLE
#1
IN A THRILLING comeback victory on February 14, 2025, at Seattle Pacific University, the Eastside Catholic girls basketball team stunned four-time defending state champion Garfield High School to capture the 2024-25 Metro League Championship. The win marks Eastside Catholic’s first 3A WIAA Metro League title since the 2019-20 season.
Led by standout Freshmen Sophie Lugolobi and Amy Nduka, the Crusaders overcame a 14-point first-quarter deficit to defeat the Bulldogs 52-47. Lugolobi was electric on both ends of the court, tallying 21 points—10 in the first half and 11 in the second—while Nduka anchored the post, facilitating plays and adding nine points of her own.
“In the locker room we said that we knew we could do it and we knew this was our game to win,” Lugolobi said. “We just decided it was our game to win and we came together.”
Junior Tatum Carter hit a clutch three-pointer late in the second quarter to close the gap before halftime. “We never counted ourselves out,” Carter said. “Once we got into our rhythm, we played our game and trusted each other.”
Coach Darnellia Russell praised the team’s resilience and growth. “The first half is usually chaos,” she joked. “But I always believe in them. I just try to stay calm and positive so they know we’ve got this.”
By the third quarter, the Crusaders had seized control, capitalizing on a strategic switch to a 2-3 zone defense and finding their rhythm from the field.
The Crusaders (13-10) entered the SeaKing District Tournament with momentum, confidence—and a reminder to everyone that this is a team to watch.
Beyond Textbooks Building Skills and Character Through Robotics
ATEASTSIDE CATHOLIC SCHOOL , robotics is more than a technical pursuit—it’s a hands-on journey into innovation, teamwork and ethical leadership. Middle and high school students are immersed in dynamic programs that teach STEM principles while fostering collaboration and character.
“We just decided it was our game to win.”
The middle school offers a year-long, after-school Introduction to Robotics course that provides students with hands-on experiences involving robot design, construction and programming using LEGO Education materials and programming languages. Students learn science, technology, engineering and mathematics content while applying their knowledge and skills to robotic challenges.
The high school robotics team competes in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), a seasonal challenge of designing, building and programming a robot to complete complex tasks. A new game is unveiled every September, kicking off an intense and exciting few months of preparation before competitions begin in November.
Students on the team take on specialized roles, joining either the Build Team or the Programming Team.
The Build Team is responsible for the mechanical and electrical design of the robot, including constructing its frame and wiring and ensuring it’s competition-ready.
Meanwhile, the Programming Team brings the robot to life through code. The Programming Team works on developing both the “Autonomous Mode,” where the robot performs tasks on its own, and the “TeleOp Mode,” where drivers control the robot during competition.
No matter what their experience levels, every student is welcomed and valued.
For both teams, students learn and practice gracious professionalism. Gracious professionalism is a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work while respecting others. Gracious professionals compete like crazy but treat one another with respect and kindness—sharing ideas, offering support to other teams and celebrating the journey as much as the outcome. Through robotics, EC students develop technical expertise and the resilience, respect and teamwork that define true Crusader spirit.
LIVING OUR MISSION
Peace and Justice Day at Eastside Catholic
At Eastside Catholic School, our mission calls us to be “instruments of God’s peace and justice in our hearts, our relationships, our communities and our world.” Each year, Peace and Justice Day brings that mission to life through meaningful action, reflection and service. We sat down with Director of Equity and Social Action Jenny Abbey to learn more about the inspiration, planning and impact of this special day.
The Vision Behind Peace and Justice Day
When asked what inspired the creation of Peace and Justice Day, Abbey explained, “Peace and Justice Day is all about action. We cannot just believe in Catholic values; we must live them every day by serving others. Learning how we can be agents of change in the world allows us to truly be instruments of God’s peace and justice.”
Abbey also shared how the event ties directly to the school’s Catholic identity, noting the connection to Eastside Catholic’s patron saint. “Peace and Justice Day connects to St. Francis of Assisi. Servant leadership is about humility—humbling ourselves to the needs of others. St. Francis devoted his life to the service of others, and this day encourages our students to do the same.”
Why Good Friday?
Good Friday was intentionally selected for Peace and Justice Day. “The half-day before Easter Break is usually a challenging one for teachers and students alike. Rather than pushing through curriculum, we provide a productive, reflective and engaging day. The spiritual
significance of Good Friday, a day of sacrifice and hope, pairs beautifully with our mission of recognizing injustice and taking steps toward peace and healing.”
Each year, faculty members are invited to propose workshops they feel passionate about. “It’s important to me that the educators running workshops are just as excited about the topics as the students attending,” Abbey said. Workshops are selected based on how well they align with the school’s mission, vision, values and Touchstones, while also offering a variety of topics to meet student interests.
Guest speakers have typically come through personal recommendations from faculty and partner schools. “Our first keynote speaker, Christian Paige, was recommended by faculty from Bishop Blanchet and some of our teachers. Kwabi Amoah-Forson from Peace Bus, last year’s speaker, came highly recommended by Bellarmine Prep,” Abbey shared.
Connecting to the Curriculum
Grade-level activities have been designed to tie into classroom learning wherever possible. “Sophomores study genocide throughout their history and English classes, culminating in a ‘Genocide Project.’ To connect with that work, we invited Paul Karemera, a survivor of the Rwandan genocide and a speaker from the Holocaust Center for Humanity, to share his story with them.”
Other grades engage in service-oriented projects like writing letters for Honor Flight or assembling care packages, blending classroom learning with meaningful service.
Student Involvement
Student feedback has played a critical role in shaping the evolution of Peace and Justice Day. “Last year, students asked for more hands-on
This year, however, Eastside Catholic decided to spotlight student voices. “Instead of inviting an outside speaker, we featured some of our student leaders at the assembly,” she explained. “We had 17 students leading workshops this year. It was incredible to see their creativity and leadership shine.”
Peace and Justice Day has evolved significantly in recent years, especially in response to COVID-19. Originally, students participated in off-campus service projects, but restrictions required a creative reimagining.
“Rather than sending students off campus, we decided to bring the community to us,” Abbey said. Over 15 community organizations were represented on campus this year, including Adopt-a-Road, Northwest Hope and Healing, Porchlight and Treehouse for Kids. “This allows students to connect directly with real-world service organizations and local community leaders.”
service opportunities—and we listened. Many of this year’s workshops feature tangible, immediate service projects,” she explained. When asked what she hopes students take away from the experience, Abbey said, “We want students to learn how to promote, spread and advocate for peace and justice both locally and globally. One of our Touchstones is ‘Servant Leadership,’ and this day gives students the chance to practice it in real, lasting ways. The ultimate goal is for students to find a passion—whether it’s for an organization they worked with or an issue they learned about—and to continue serving and advocating.”
Moments that Matter
Reflecting on the day’s most powerful moments, Abbey shared, “It’s not one single moment—it’s hundreds of snapshots. Students come together to learn, act and serve. Juniors and seventh graders making blankets together. Sixth graders and seniors prepare meals side-by-side. Teachers folding paper cranes with freshmen. That togetherness—that unity—is what service, peace and justice are all about.”
Celebration Crusader Style
The 2025 STARS Gala Auction was truly a night to remember— an unforgettable celebration of community, generosity and Crusader spirit. Held on March 29 at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue, the evening brought together almost 400 alumni, families, sponsors, faculty, staff and friends to support the 40th anniversary of this amazing event. Thanks to our community, we raised more than $1.1 million in support of Eastside Catholic’s mission—a record-breaking achievement made possible by the generosity of our supporters. Over $350,000 of this was for our “Making a Difference” initiative, raising funds for tuition assistance. Guests were treated to Elisha Pa’aga’s ’14 powerful story about the impact tuition assistance had on his family and how it is one of the driving forces behind his journey back to EC.
The evening also featured EC’s Performing Arts students, providing a sneak peek of this years’s spring musical “Mamma Mia!,”
raffles, games and an energetic Dessert Dash. The silent and online auctions featured incredible items and experiences that extended the excitement beyond the ballroom and provided opportunities for the community to participate if they could not attend. Join us next year and Save the Date. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Thank You
TO O UR S PONSORS !
Alumni Feature
DUNCAN HEGER, ’18, an emerging force in the world of commercial and narrative filmmaking, has been making waves—and awards committees are taking notice. Heger was recently nominated for the 2025 AICP Best New Director award, a prestigious recognition in the advertising and film industry, as well as nominated for 2025 New Director of the Year from Shots Awards. From creating school assembly videos at Eastside Catholic to directing global campaigns for brands like adidas and working with legends like Lionel Messi and Will Ferrell, Heger’s creative journey has been fueled by passion, persistence and a deep commitment to storytelling.
Tell us a little about your path from high school, to college, to now?
I first picked up a camera when I was 16 and began making videos in my backyard with my friends. By senior year, I was the one putting together all the videos for our school assemblies. I knew I wanted to turn that hobby into something more, so I applied to several film schools—and got rejected by almost all of them. I was admitted into Chapman University’s documentary program, and that foot in the door was all I needed.
At Chapman, I started directing short films and eventually
landed an opportunity at an NFL agency, where I directed content with players like Jared Goff and Cooper Kupp. After graduating, I moved to LA and started over as an intern —sweeping floors and grabbing coffee. Three years later, I’ve hit my stride at a production company called Stadium. I direct, write creative treatments (think elevated visual decks), and continue learning every day about commercial and narrative filmmaking.
The critical thinking skills I developed at EC continue to shape how I approach my work. Whether it was learning to analyze literature with Dr. Wootton or the emphasis on servant leadership across the school culture, these lessons stick with me on every film set.
We know you are a director, but how did you get into advertising?
I started out making documentaries in college, and I still love that medium. But it’s a tough place to build a sustainable career. A lot of filmmakers I admire, like David Fincher and Zack Snyder, got their start in advertising—which offers more frequent opportunities to practice directing.
So that’s the path I’ve taken. I direct commercials, the kind you see during games or on streaming platforms. Most people understandably tune out during ads, but there’s actually a whole world of commercial work that’s beautiful, innovative and emotionally moving. I’ve grown to really appreciate the creative potential in this space, and my hope is to leave a small mark through the work I create.
What part of directing do you find most rewarding? Most challenging?
There’s something uniquely satisfying about turning an idea into a finished piece of work. Like building a house or writing a song, it starts from nothing. Then suddenly you’re on a set, surrounded by dozens of people all looking to you for direction. When it clicks, and you make the right creative call, it’s an amazing feeling.
That said, filmmaking can be isolating. The hours are long, the pressure can be intense, and you’re often navigating big decisions under tight timelines. Apple TV’s “The Studio” captures a lot of this chaos in a comedic way, but the truth is, every moment on set is expensive, and the stakes are high. Still, I know there are far tougher jobs out there, and I’m lucky to do what I do.
Can you tell us about a recent project that you’re particularly proud of?
I recently directed adidas’ global campaign for the MLS season kickoff, featuring Ian Wright and Lionel Messi. We shot in both Los Angeles and London. Traveling for work and meeting people I’ve looked up to for years is something I try not to take for granted. This project also deepened my love for the culture around professional soccer.
Were there any experiences in high school that helped spark your interest or develop your skills?
Absolutely. I took a film class in my senior year of high school that gave me the chance to focus on storytelling. I had already been making videos, but this class helped me refine those skills and, just as importantly, reminded me how fun it is to create with friends. That spirit still carries through my work today. The filmmaking world is small, and many of the people I collaborate with now in
LA are friends I’ve known for years. Eastside helped instill a sense of creative community, something I try to hold on to in every project.
Who are some directors or storytellers that inspire you?
A few names that have had a big influence on me: Elliot Power, Niels Windfeldt and Travis Hanour. Travis actually shot a Vicis commercial at EC years ago, and I had the chance to work with him recently. It was surreal to collaborate with someone I had quietly admired since high school.
On the narrative side, it’s hard not to admire Denis Villeneuve and Christopher Nolan. Their ability to build entire worlds is incredible. Early on, you watch their films and think, “I want to do that.” Then you realize it takes decades of work to even get close to that level of craft.
What advice would you give to students who are interested in directing or working in the performing arts?
Go for it! There’s no perfect moment, and the path is rarely clear. You’ll likely face late nights, rejection and moments of doubt—but that’s part of the process. I still feel that uncertainty sometimes. But if you put in the hours and keep building towards your ultimate goal, people start to notice. If you’re on the fence, consider this your sign to take the leap. The world is unpredictable, so you might as well bet on the thing you care about most.
What’s one behind-the-scenes moment that really stands out to you?
Directing Will Ferrell was definitely one for the books. Once we got into a rhythm while on set, I let the cameras roll and started riffing with him. The whole crew was barely holding it together trying not to laugh. It felt like I had accidentally stepped onto the set of “Step Brothers”—his timing is just that sharp.
Is there a dream project you are hoping to create or pursue?
I’d love to make a feature-length sports documentary in the next few years. It’s all about finding the right story. If you know of one, send it my way!
Campus Ministry
Crowning of Mary
A Beloved Tradition of Faith and Devotion at EC
EACH SPRING, Eastside Catholic School honors one of the most important women in the Catholic faith through the cherished tradition of the May Crowning of Mary. This prayer service reflects the Church’s deep devotion to Mary and offers our middle school community a meaningful opportunity to celebrate faith, servant leadership and spiritual renewal.
Mary, the mother of Jesus, is often called the first disciple. Her unwavering “yes” to God’s invitation serves as a model of trust, courage and grace. She was present throughout Christ’s life, from birth to crucifixion and Resurrection. In Revelation 12, Scripture describes her as “a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head,” reminding us of her unique and exalted place in God’s plan.
The annual prayer service took place in the Chapel this year, followed by a processional to the outdoor Mary statue, where the crowning occurs. Students carry flowers in the procession, placing them in vases surrounding the statue as a symbol of their love and devotion.
Each year, middle school teachers thoughtfully select students who help represent Mary’s call to say “yes,” as positive leaders at EC.
◆ Two eighth graders are chosen to crown Mary. These students embody faith, servant leadership and compassion, following in Mary’s footsteps.
◆ Three additional eighth graders serve as readers, sharing the introduction, Gospel and concluding prayer.
◆ Two seventh graders and two sixth graders will offer the Prayers of the Faithful.
After the prayer service, the two student honorees lead the school community out of the Chapel, across the Courtyard and down the grand staircase to the Mary statue.
Crowning Mary with flowers in May is a longstanding Catholic tradition highlighting her role as Queen of Heaven and spiritual mother. The custom is believed to have begun in the late 18th century and is rooted in the many Marian feast days that occur during May, as well as several of her most well-known apparitions.
In honor of this meaningful tradition at EC, we share this prayer:
May we bless you with flowers, Mother Mary, as you bless us each and every day with beauty in this world. Show us how to live beautifully, think beautifully and feel beautiful, just like you.
Surround us with beautiful things, and allow us to create beauty when there is none.
— Amen —
We are grateful to the students, faculty and staff who make this beautiful celebration possible, and who continue to nurture our community’s connection to faith and tradition.
Building a Healthier, Stronger Community
Eastside Catholic alumna Helene Wentink ’85 has devoted her career to empowering youth and strengthening communities. At Empower Youth Network (EYN), Helene combines her passion for service, social justice and education to help young people lead safe, healthy and successful lives.
Tell us about your role at EYN.
Empower Youth Network is a nonprofit based in the Snoqualmie Valley that works to prevent youth suicide and substance use. We offer seven programs designed to support local youth, with a mission to promote and inspire them to lead safe, healthy and successful lives. We work closely with the Riverview and Snoqualmie Valley School Districts.
In my role as the Communication and Fund Development Director, I help raise awareness about our mission, highlight volunteer opportunities and engage the community in financially supporting our work.
What are some of the biggest challenges young people are facing today?
Our young people need to feel connected. Especially coming out of the pandemic, I’ve seen how crucial it is for youth to feel seen and heard. The pressures they face are immense. Much like how EC creates a smaller, nurturing environment for students, it’s important in larger public-school settings for students to feel supported. We work alongside the public schools and partner with them. I have heard firsthand how school counselors value our work.
Can you share a story from your work that has really stuck with you?
Our “How to Help a Friend” suicide prevention program is incredibly impactful. We train local high school students to go into our middle schools to educate students about what to do when they see their friends struggling. We know that youth will typically go to their peers before they seek support from adults. This program helps youth to understand the signs of larger struggles and when to bring in an adult to ensure students don’t harm themselves. Mental health support is needed at an earlier age based on evidence from the Washington State’s Healthy Youth Survey. Hearing the high school trainers share how the program impacted their own lives—and their desire to help others—is so incredibly powerful!
What impact are you seeing from EYN programs?
This work is complicated. Many of our programs are what we consider “up-stream,” meaning that they are prevention programs that reduce risk factors rather than crisis interventions. What Empower Youth Network does is provide support that ideally prevents further hardships. When we have healthier families and students, we have healthier communities.
Looking back, how did your time at EC shape your interest in youth advocacy?
I am so grateful for my early years at EC. I was a timid high school student who did not have a lot of self-confidence. What
was so important to me is that my education at EC provided insight into how I could make a difference in the world and gave me amazing tools to navigate life after high school. From the beginning, EC was rooted in social justice and working to make the world a better place for all. That sticks with me today.
With the added benefit of working at EC for 15 years (as the admissions director), I witnessed the gifts that our youth bring to our world—their wonder, creativity and can-do perspective is something that we need to cultivate.
Fun fact—I walked the property for the Sammamish campus and was there the day they selected the tree that would be harvested and hewn into the cross that is the center of the school—and the Chapel.
What’s next for you?
I hope to continue making a difference at EYN, right here in my own community. Supporting the next generation of nonprofit leaders is especially important to me. I currently serve on the Alumni Council for Seattle University’s Master in Nonprofit Leadership program, which helped springboard my career after my time at EC. Nonprofits fill crucial gaps in society, and we need more caring, resilient leaders, now more than ever.
Do you have a new job? A new address? A new child? Want to get involved? Send an email with any updates to alumni@ eastsidecatholic.org.
2000
Mary [Pashek] Whissiel competed in the Special Olympics Track Meet in April, placing first in her event.
2002
Troy Troutner and Amy Nguyen Troutner recently welcomed their son, Theodore “Theo” Troutner. They live in the Los Angeles area, where Troy continues his nearly 20-year career in marketing and advertising. He currently leads sales at Kargo, a global ad tech company focused on innovation in digital advertising. Though based in LA, Troy remains deeply rooted in his Northwest upbringing, frequently returning for work, family and friends.
2012
Jane Dickison competed against fellow Options Program alumna Mary [Pashek] Whissiel ’00 in the Special Olympics Track Meet in April. Mary ultimately won gold and Jane took the silver.
2016
Since January, Michael Padilla has volunteered in the Options Program classroom on the first Friday of each month. Michael shared that he loves
getting the opportunity to work with the students and seeing them work so well with each other.
Andrew Sentman was married in June 2024 to Katie Powell. The couple lives in Redmond, WA where Andrew works as a satellite software test engineer for Amazon.
2019
Will Armbruester signed with the Minnesota Twins. He will relocate to play with their high-A affiliate in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in May.
Hayden Harris recently signed with the Buffalo Bills as a free agent. He initially attended UCLA, finishing his college career at the University of Montana. As a defensive end for UM, he earned second-team AllConference honors and was named both the team’s Defensive MVP and the recipient of the Sims-Miller Award for outstanding D-lineman following a stellar senior season.
2020
After five years at Ohio State, Gee Scott Jr. signed with the New England Patriots. Scott recorded 11 receptions during the Buckeyes’ four playoff games, including five grabs in Ohio State’s Cotton Bowl win over the Texas Longhorns.
D’Angalo Titialii, former standout center for the University of Washington football team, recently signed with the Canadian Football League.
2021
The Indianapolis Colts selected Jaylahn Tuimoloau as the 45th pick in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Tuimoloau, a three-time firstteam All-Big Ten honoree, totaled 43.5 tackles for a loss and 23.5 sacks during his four years at Ohio State.
2022
Ava Uribe and several Syracuse University professors won the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Research competition. Uribe, also a forward on the Syracuse University women’s soccer team, is the first female lead author to be on the Research Paper Competitionwinning team in the competition’s 19year history. Her team’s research paper, “Do Behavioral Considerations Cloud Penalty-Kick Location Optimization in Professional Soccer: Game Theory and Empirical Testing using Polynomial Regression and ML Gradient Boosting,” modeled misses and saves, factoring in the human condition, players optimizing for a win vs. players optimizing not to miss the goal altogether. Ava also graduated summa
Dickison ’12 [Pashek] Whissiel ’00
Padilla ’16
Armbruester ’19
Troutner ’02
Sentman ’16
cum laude in sports management with a minor in sports analytics from Syracuse University in May 2025.
2024
Aden Huey, a Scully Learning Center Foundation ambassador, co-captained the foundation’s float in the Cave Creek Rodeo Days Parade. The Sully Learning Center Foundation provides enriching activities for adults with developmental disabilities, allowing them to explore and enjoy their community safely. During a visit to Arizona last November, Aden received a blessed cross from Fr. Jim Sichko, who later personally delivered Aden’s handmade Christmas card and letter to Pope Francis during a Vatican audience.
IN MEMORIAM
To the following members of our EC community who have died, but whose spirits live on always in our hearts.
Connie Buckholtz Alum parent
Kendra Lorch ’01
Marilyn Kossik Alum parent
Deacon Scott Pickett
Alum parent, former employee
Angela Tortorelli ’97
Crusaders Special Olympics Basketball Team WINS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP!
THE
EASTSIDE CATHOLIC Special Olympics basketball team brought home the State Championship title on March 2 as part of the Special Olympics Washington 2025 Winter Games.
This outstanding group of athletes—featuring current and alumni students from our Options Program—showcased incredible teamwork, determination and spirit throughout the season. After clinching gold at the Regional Tournament in mid-February, the team advanced to the Winter Games and delivered a championship-winning performance.
This marks the fourth State title for the Crusaders, who last took the top spot in 2020. Congratulations to our champions—your hard work and heart inspire our entire EC community!
Uribe ’22
Huey ’24
Scott ’20
Tuimoloau ’21
Harris ’19
Titialii ’20
Eastside Catholic School
232 228th Avenue SE Sammamish, WA 98074
eastsidecatholic.org
