Oholiday harmony
NE OF THE MOST ANTICIPATED HIGHLIGHTS of the holiday season at Eastside Catholic is the Christmas Choir and Orchestra Concert. Directed by Choir Director Megan Lizama, Band Director Jonathon Boysen, Orchestra Teacher David Yackley, our talented performing arts students delivered a vibrant and dynamic performance featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary pieces. The concert showcased the exceptional talents of the Seventh and Eighth Grade Ensemble, the Concert Choir, the Treble Ensemble, the Sixth Grade Choir, soloists, the String Orchestra and the full Concert Choir composed of students from grades 7 to 12. Adding a special touch to the evening, the five senior choir members donned bright blue scarves, bringing a memorable and festive flourish to this holiday performance.
Dear EC Community,
There are so many blessings in my role as director of campus ministry, but probably my favorite is to help organize and attend each Destiny retreat.
Destiny is a three-day overnight retreat for juniors and seniors and a truly exceptional experience unique to our school. Ask any alum who participated, and they will tell you: Destiny was their best, most important and life-changing experience in high school. I think this is because Destiny is one of the most tangible experiences of our Touchstones in action.
Destiny celebrates all the Touchstones, but most obviously, Relationships. Destiny encourages each student to understand and explore who they truly are underneath the cover they may show to the world. Students explore their place in relation to the people in
their lives—their parents and family, their friends and teammates, their teachers and coaches—and hopefully come away knowing they are not alone. They belong to a community of people who share the same joys and struggles.
Creating community among students and faculty spills over and expands one of our other Touchstones: Academic Excellence. Abraham Maslow theorizes in his “hierarchy of needs” that it is only after we feel safe and belonging in community—experience friendship, intimacy, family and a sense of connection—that we can hope to learn and grow to our full potential. The sense of community created by Destiny gives students assurance that teachers love and support them and that classmates “have their back.” This self-awareness provides courage and confidence to succeed in the classroom.
Destiny also beautifully expands our Touchstone of Servant Leadership. The retreat is entirely student-led from start to finish. Adult coordinators work with student leaders, but it is the student leaders who craft talks which they revise and revise again and then practice the practical communication skills of effective presentation and small group conversation.
But what I love most about Destiny is that the retreat is a Touchstone encounter with God’s love precisely through this growth in self-awareness and this amazing, immersive experience of community. The most important lesson I hope to share at EC is just how much God does love each student. I want every student to know God loves them even more than the person who loves them the most; they can’t do anything to earn that love or make that love go away. Each student is exactly how God intended them to be, and they don’t have to be anything other than who they are for God— and their family, teachers and friends—to love them.
My hope and my joy are that this, ultimately, is the lesson of Destiny.
–Lynn Kittridge Director of Campus Ministry
Dear Eastside Catholic Community Members,
As we step into a new year, I am reminded of the profound symbolism of light in the Catholic faith. From the very beginning, light has been a sign of hope, guidance and divine presence. The Gospel of John tells us, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). This powerful imagery reminds us of Christ’s enduring love and how we are called to bring light into the world through our actions, words and faith.
At Eastside Catholic School, light holds a special place in our mission and identity. It represents the bright future we strive to provide for our students, the illumination of young minds through faith and knowledge, and the warmth of our vibrant and inclusive community. This year, we are thrilled to see the manifestation of this light in tangible ways that will enrich our campus life for years to come.
The first is the lighting project for our gym, completed over the summer and made possible through the generous philanthropy of our community at our auction a few years ago. This upgraded lighting system transforms the space into a beacon for the performing arts, enabling us to host exceptional productions that inspire creativity, collaboration and excellence. From assemblies to athletic events to theatrical performances and music concerts, the gym will truly shine as a hub of artistic expression, showcasing the incredible talent of our Performing Arts students and student-athletes.
Equally exciting is the upcoming installation of lighting for the tennis courts. This enhancement will not only extend practice and match opportunities but also serve as a testament to our shared commitment to fostering well-rounded students.
Through the support and generosity of Eastside Catholic families, these projects come to life, illuminating our commitment
to excellence in academics, arts, athletics and faith formation.
As we celebrate these advancements, let us also remember the deeper meaning of light. Whether through a kind gesture, a prayer or a moment of reflection, each of us has the capacity to bring light to others, creating ripples of hope and love in our community and beyond.
Thank you for being a part of this mission and for your unwavering support of Eastside Catholic School. Together, we are lighting the way for a brighter future.
–Gil Picciotto President
In The Classroom
Grew up in Ganzhou, a city in southern China
Bachelor’s in computer science, University of Science and Technology of China
Bachelor’s in mathematics education, North Carolina State University
Master’s in educational technology and instruction and design, Western Governors University
Favorite music: Chinese folk music and country music
Favorite Movie: “Forrest Gump”
Favorite Books: Chinese classic novels
EC teacher since 2014
Master of Language
Jing Shen
How do you approach teaching Mandarin language and culture?
As the sole Mandarin language teacher at EC, I design and implement a comprehensive curriculum for grades 7-12, tailoring lessons to engage students at varying proficiency levels. My role involves not only teaching the language but also fostering an appreciation for Chinese culture through immersive activities, projects and real-world applications. I strive to create a supportive learning environment that inspires students to connect with the language and its cultural richness, preparing them to navigate an interconnected global community.
What are the benefits of learning another language?
Learning another language offers numerous benefits, both practical and personal. It enhances cognitive skills like problemsolving, multitasking and memory. Students who learn another language often develop greater cultural empathy and a broader perspective of the world, which is crucial in our increasingly globalized society. Beyond academics, learning a language builds connection. It allows students to communicate with people from different backgrounds, fostering understanding and collaboration. It also opens doors to exciting opportunities, such as studying abroad, exploring different career paths and engaging with diverse communities.
What are the key factors that help students successfully master a language?
Mastering a language requires consistent practice, meaningful engagement and a supportive environment. Regular exposure through listening, speaking, reading and writing is essential, along with applying the language in real-world contexts like conversations or cultural activities. Finding personal relevance, such as exploring hobbies or career goals tied to the language, keeps students motivated. Success also depends on patience, persistence and a willingness to make mistakes, supported by a teacher who offers clear guidance and encouragement. Ultimately, language
“Ultimately, language mastery is about building confidence, fostering curiosity and embracing the learning process.”
mastery is about building confidence, fostering curiosity and embracing the learning process.
What are the best and hardest parts of teaching languages?
The best part of teaching languages is witnessing students grow in confidence and cultural awareness as they develop their skills. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them succeed in conversations. Moments when students realize they can truly communicate in another language are especially inspiring. The hardest part is addressing the challenges students face in staying motivated and overcoming the fear of making mistakes. Language learning is a long-term process, and it requires persistence and patience, which can be difficult for some students.
Could you share a bit about your other leadership roles at EC?
As the World Language Department Chair for the past six years, I lead our team in fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that emphasizes cultural understanding and linguistic excellence. My role involves supporting teachers through mentorship and collaboration, ensuring curriculum alignment with school goals, and promoting innovative teaching practices. My goal is to inspire both teachers and students to embrace the transformative power of language learning. As the leader of the Sunshine Committee at EC, I am dedicated to promoting positivity, support and a sense of community among faculty
and staff. Through meaningful gestures such as recognition, thank-you cards and surprise treats, we foster appreciation and kindness, enhancing both personal and professional well-being. I guide these efforts by organizing activities, encouraging collaboration and ensuring that all individual’s contributions are acknowledged.
What’s something unique about you that others might not know?
I’m fluent in both Mandarin Chinese and English, as well as two additional Chinese dialects. In my spare time, I love exploring a variety of hobbies, including reading, crafting, cooking, gardening and staying active with Zumba dancing!
Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders
Inside Eastside Catholic’s DECA Program
At Eastside Catholic
School, the DECA program is transforming students into future business leaders, innovators and problem-solvers. Guided by Business Education and Accounting Teacher Tyler McLaughlin, the program offers students a unique blend of academic rigor, real-world experience and personal growth opportunities. Here, students gain the skills and confidence to excel in college, careers and beyond.
DECA, a nationally recognized organization, distinguishes itself by offering students an opportunity to explore their interests in business, marketing and entrepreneurship. McLaughlin highlights the program’s structure: “It’s a nationally supported organization, which ensures it’s well-organized and accessible. But its true value lies in the transferable skills students develop, like problem-solving, communication and project management.”
The program enables students to explore potential career paths while still in high school. “I often tell the story of a student who wanted to pursue accounting,” McLaughlin recalls. “After competing in an accounting event, she realized her true passion lay in marketing and project management. DECA gives students the space to discover what they love—and what they don’t—before
committing to a college major.”
Washington boasts one of the largest DECA organizations nationally, even though population-wise Washington is not one of the largest states. At last count, Washington had 166 chapters and just over 15,000 members. This year, EC has 102 members with 82 students going to area competitions.
Beyond the Classroom: The DECA Store
One of the standout features of Eastside Catholic’s DECA program is the student-run store, The ECru, a bustling hub of activity during school lunches and some breaks. The store not only serves as a fundraiser for the DECA program but also as a hands-on learning lab. Students manage every aspect of its operation, from inventory and ordering to marketing and customer service.
communication and presentation skills.
“This year, the store is part of an advanced leadership internship class,” explains McLaughlin. “Four students oversee specific areas: inventory management, scheduling, marketing and accounting. They’re currently creating an operations manual to ensure the store’s success continues long after they graduate.”
The store generates significant revenue which helps subsidize student costs for DECA competitions, ensuring financial barriers don’t limit participation. “It’s a win-win,” says McLaughlin. “Students gain invaluable experience while supporting the program.”
Competitions and Real-World Experience
DECA competitions are a cornerstone of the program. Students take subject knowledge tests and participate in roleplay scenarios, where they present solutions to real-world business challenges. These events develop critical thinking,
“One of the highlights is seeing students grow,” McLaughlin shares. “Freshmen and sophomores might be nervous about speaking in front of professionals, but by the time they’re seniors, they’re confident and articulate.”
The program also boasts impressive achievements. Senior Madison Clem serves as the Area 4 President, representing schools across the region. “She’s the face of DECA for our area,” says McLaughlin proudly. “It’s a testament to her leadership and the strength of our program.”
Running a DECA program at a college-prep school presents unique challenges. “Our students juggle AP courses, sports, leadership roles and service hours,” McLaughlin notes. “Finding consistent time for DECA is tough, but it’s worth the time when you see their growth.”
The program’s success also relies on creative problem-solving. For example, the holiday fundraiser selling wreaths, garlands and poinsettias is a community favorite. Students manage the process, from planning and marketing to execution and evaluation, turning it into a competition-worthy project while raising funds to support the program.
McLaughlin envisions even greater opportunities for Eastside Catholic’s DECA program. Plans include expanding middle school outreach to spark early interest and developing new competitive events to challenge students further, “Our goal is to continue empowering students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in whatever path they choose.”
Eastside Catholic’s DECA program exemplifies the school’s commitment to holistic education. By combining academic learning with practical application, it prepares students for the complexities of the modern world. Whether they’re running the school store, competing on a national stage or discovering their interests, DECA students leave with skills that last a lifetime.
Behind the Curtain
Eastside Catholic’s Drama Department
Brings Stories to Life
Producing a school play or musical is no small feat.
At Eastside Catholic, Performing Arts and Drama Director Domino Thomas leads the charge by creating productions that foster creativity, build community and inspire students to grow as performers and individuals. Here’s an inside look at the process, challenges and triumphs that bring these productions to life.
Choosing the Right Show
Selecting a production is a thoughtful and exciting process for Domino Thomas. Each year, the school’s theme—this year’s focus is Joy—guides the decision-making process. Thomas also considers the talents and interests of the students, ensuring the chosen production resonates with the cast and aligns with the school’s Catholic values.
“I want to expose students to different cultures and backstories,” Thomas explains. “It’s about reinforcing our values while broadening their perspectives.” For instance, this year’s fall play, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” offered opportunities for creative casting while showcasing the humor and whimsy of Shakespeare’s classic work.
Creative Vision: From Inspiration to Stage
For Thomas, inspiration can come from anywhere. The first play he directed at Eastside Catholic, “Almost, Maine,” took inspiration from a Bob Ross painting. “It was a snow-covered forest with the
moon shining through the trees,” Thomas recalls. “That image stayed with me and became the foundation for the set design.”
Every production begins with a careful reading of the script to identify themes, motifs and key images. From there, Thomas collaborates with students and staff to bring his vision to life. For “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” he worked with the production team to transform the Black Box Theater into an enchanting Athenian forest, complete with a three-quarter thrust stage that immersed the audience in the action while creating a space that transported the audience into the play’s magical world.
The Timeline: Four Months of Hard Work
Producing a play or musical at Eastside Catholic is a four-month process, with planning for the fall shows beginning before school starts, as early as August. Thomas spends hours collaborating with lighting designers, set builders and mentors to develop the technical aspects of a show.
Rehearsals are intense, with students meeting five days a week for three hours after school, plus additional Saturday sessions. This adds up to over 300 hours of rehearsal time for the cast alone, not counting the countless hours Thomas and his team spend on costumes, sets and technical work.
Casting: A Collaborative Process
Casting is a cornerstone of the production process, and Thomas prioritizes inclusivity and support. Auditions begin with group improv exercises, designed to help students feel comfortable and showcase their creativity.
“I want auditions to be a low-stakes way for students to shine,” Thomas says. Cold readings and 16-bar singing auditions for musicals allow students to demonstrate their skills and potential. For those new to musical theater, Thomas offers a fun alternative: singing “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.”
Roles are assigned based on talent, fit and the needs of the production. “It’s not about who was the lead last year,” Thomas explains. “It’s about finding the best person for each role and creating a supportive ensemble.”
Overcoming Challenges
Time and resources are the biggest challenges Thomas faces. “Our students are involved in so many activities, which is amazing, but it
can make scheduling tricky,” he admits.
Casting smaller productions can also require creativity. For “Midsummer,” Thomas combined roles and reworked scenes to fit a smaller cast while maintaining the integrity of the script.
Despite these hurdles, Eastside Catholic’s no-cut policy ensures that every student who auditions has a role, whether as a lead or part of the ensemble.
The Magic Behind the Scenes
While the cast rehearses, a dedicated team works tirelessly behind the scenes. Costumes are sourced from thrift stores, rented or altered to fit students by Cheryl Cope, a costume designer who collaborates closely with Thomas.
Set pieces, such as the coral reefs and Trident throne from “The Little Mermaid,” are often sold to other schools and theaters after the show, generating income for the program.
Celebrating the Journey
When the final curtain falls, Thomas hosts a “Thespy Awards” ceremony to celebrate the students’ achievements and induct new members into the Thespian Society. Seniors share advice with underclassmen, ensuring the legacy of the program continues.
For the production team, post-show meetings evaluate the successes and challenges of the production, focusing on how to improve for the future.
Beyond the Stage
Under Domino Thomas’s leadership, Eastside Catholic’s Drama Program is more than a series of productions, it’s a community where students grow in confidence, explore their creativity and form lasting bonds. Through months of hard work, shared passion and collaboration, students create something extraordinary.
“It’s not just about the show,” Thomas reflects. “It’s about the experience—learning, growing and creating something magical together.”
Alumni Feature
KTurning the Empty Nest Into a New Chapter
Eastside Catholic alumna Karla Olson, Class of 1988, turns her personal journey into empowerment for others with her debut book, “The Almost Empty Nester.”
arla Olson has turned a deeply personal journey into an opportunity to inspire and support others. Her debut book, “The Almost Empty Nester,” was released on October 15, 2024, and is now available online. The book, along with its companion journal, helps mothers navigate the emotional and practical transitions of empty nesting with grace and optimism.
“When my middle daughter left for college, I realized there was a huge gap in resources for mothers going through this phase,” Karla shares. “The books I found were either too outwardly focused or didn’t address the mother’s perspective directly. That’s when I decided to write my own.”
Her research revealed that 63% of empty nesters report feeling lost and alone, with only 7% properly prepared for the transition. Through 21 reflection exercises included in her book, Karla aims to help mothers proactively embrace this new phase of life. “This is a chance to design one of your next best chapters,” she says. “New beginnings always hold great possibility.”
Reflecting on her high school years, Karla credits Eastside Catholic with giving her the confidence and connections that shaped her life. “I had an amazing time at ECHS. Honestly, it was life-changing for me,” she recalls. “I made so many friends and loved how we all hung out with everyone—swim team friends, choir friends, theater friends. Eastside Catholic really helped me come out of my shell.”
A standout influence during her high school years was High School teacher Mr. Tim Reilly. “He was so great and helped us through a lot of ‘tough stuff.’ I’ll always be grateful for his mentorship,” she says.
These lifelong connections continue to thrive today. Karla stays in touch with a dozen classmates, including a close-knit group on a text thread. “We’re all navigating empty nesting together, sending each other funny parenting videos and reminiscing about the ’80s,” she says with a smile. One of her closest friends, Cristina Aguilera (now Horvath), even helped build Karla’s website, theemptynesterclub.com
In addition to her book, Karla has built a supportive online community through The Empty Nester Club. This platform offers resources, a virtual book club launched in October 2024, and opportunities to connect with other mothers navigating similar transitions. “It’s so rewarding to see this community come together to share experiences and find joy in this next chapter of life,” Karla says.
Her work has also garnered national attention, with features in the Wall Street Journal and appearances on podcasts like “A Certain Age” and “The Dream Life Architect.” She’s also partnered with Michael and Sara Franti’s charity, Do It For The Love, to further her mission of supporting others through life’s transitions.
Karla’s journey is far from over. With the hardcover, softcover, e-book and companion journal versions of “The Almost Empty Nester” hitting shelves, she’s excited to continue supporting mothers as they rediscover their passions and purpose.
“Eastside Catholic taught me the value of community and the importance of mentorship,” Karla reflects. “Those lessons have stayed with me and inspired me to create resources that help others thrive.”
To learn more about Karla’s work and join her upcoming book club, visit theemptynesterclub.com
“It’s
so rewarding to see this community come together to share experiences and find joy in this next chapter of life,” Karla says.
SOARING BEYOND LIMITS
From fighter pilot to adventurer and innovator, Casey Talbot ’06 shares how his passions and perseverance continue to shape his extraordinary path.
Did you have any experiences while at EC that helped build your interest in the service academies?
My interest in the service academies largely stemmed from my desire to continue to pursue baseball and enter a new and challenging chapter in life. I always had a deeply instilled passion to fly and was beginning to pursue my pilots license as a junior at Eastside Catholic. At the time, my dreams of taking baseball as far as I possibly could were subtly overshadowed by an instinct to think longer-term. I never in my wildest dreams thought it was even remotely possible to be a fighter pilot, and I never would have known had I not taken a risk, and ultimately made the best decision of my life. When did you first realize you wanted to serve and what inspired you to pursue this path?
I knew I wanted to serve, but I also wanted to take a path that was far less traveled. At the time, the U.S. was involved in multiple wars which was a tragic time. As a young high school student, I was possessed by the instinct to give back. As a senior in high school, I gained some recognition from the baseball programs at all three service academies: West Point, Air Force and Navy. Ultimately, it came down to a visit to Annapolis where I was absolutely allured by the beauty of the campus, the storied history and I knew that’s where I wanted to be.
Was the Naval Academy always your goal?
It wasn’t. Baseball was always my goal, which looking back makes me smile. The passion that I have for my interests has always been a gift, but it has occasionally come at the expense of other important things and balance. I was not the best student at Eastside Catholic, and I think there is an interesting lesson here, especially for those who feel that high school performance defines them. While studies, sports and extracurriculars are and should be the central focus, my journey demonstrated that the art and skills of learning, studying and application of oneself can come at different stages in life. I was given a chance at one of the more rigorous academic institutions in the country, and though it wasn’t easy for me at the time, I rose to the occasion.
Tell us about your time at the Naval Academy, challenges, values and habits you learned.
The Naval Academy is a complete culture shock upon arrival. Going from a carefree high school kid into a world of discipline and rigor is something I will never forget. Knowing my friends were going to college to have fun was memorable, and difficult at the time. However, as I “grew up” at the Naval Academy, I
noticed I was learning lessons I never would have otherwise, in leadership, in the sciences, philosophically. By the time I was a senior (Midshipman 1 st class), I learned that my perceived limits, academically, mentally and physically, were far beyond what I previously had ever capped them at. I made the best friends I could ever imagine. I spent time on a submarine, a destroyer, a Navy aircraft, earned my Glider Instructor Certificate, slept in mud and was close to a career that would potentially (and ultimately) allow me to operate a 95-million-dollar aircraft, lead men and women, and have experiences that are simply forever unrelatable to most. My time at the Academy ultimately allowed me to become a fighter pilot, and experience the most harrowing, cherished and proud moments of my life. For that, I am forever grateful.
When
did you decide to leave the Navy?
After a combat tour to the Middle East, where I flew 20 combat missions in support of Operations Inherent Resolve and Resolute Support against ISIS, for the first time I felt like I had truly contributed to the culmination of my experiences: my Academy education and my years and years of training were all tested. After my combat tour, I earned the opportunity to be an instructor training the next generation of young, talented Naval aviators.
Upon finishing up my instructor tour, I truly felt like I had accomplished my dream. I achieved everything that I wanted, but most importantly, I served this nation to the very best of my ability, proudly and intentionally. My metric for success is that my five-yearold self would be proud of the person that he became. I left it all on the field, and decided it was time to “hang up the spikes.” My decision to leave the Navy was easy, and though I miss flying, miss leading the greatest group of Americans I’ve ever known, it was time. What are you focused on now, and what inspired your return to Sammamish after your time in the Navy?
I developed an intense passion for rock climbing. A year into my instructor tour, it became a heavy focus outside of my day job. I would fly, climb and train, every single day. While I believe that mastery can never truly be achieved, I got pretty close in the flying world, so I began exploring this next passion. I used my leave time from the military to build out an adventure van, travel to places like Yosemite and Joshua Tree, and push myself into a demanding and difficult sport that really has no purpose, which was oddly alluring.
Bridging the military world and the civilian world, I wanted a few things: To continue to lead, strategize and innovate; to further pursue this sport, and ultimately contribute to the community; and to return home to the Eastside and start the next chapter of my life.
I’m currently working at REI corporate, helping to strategize and innovate the procurement (buying and sourcing of items) area. While this won’t be my career, it is an excellent first step that incorporated a work-life balance that I am grateful for and allows me to catch up on some of the visceral freedom I felt that I had earned. How do the skills you developed in the Navy carry over into your work and personal life today?
The skills that I learned from my time as a fighter pilot apply to everything that I do, from my job to my relationships, to my contributions. I come at everything with an open mind, and I am always seeking to make a positive impact. Whatever job I have, I have been armed with the skills to lead, to ask questions and to think independently. Most importantly, I have learned my most cherished and valued skill: that I will never arrive, and that life is about being a forever student, never settling, always growing.
We Are EC
Celebrating Matisse Thybulle’s Journey from Eastside Catholic to the NBA and Beyond
FULL CIRCLE
Eastside Catholic School proudly honored Matisse Thybulle ’15 with the retirement of his basketball jersey (#4) during a heartfelt ceremony on Wednesday, October 9. This special event celebrated Matisse’s remarkable accomplishments as an EC alumnus, professional basketball player and inspiring role model.
During the event, Athletic Director Stacey Stoutt shared her admiration for Matisse’s accomplishments: “We are incredibly proud to retire Matisse Thybulle’s jersey here at Eastside Catholic. Matisse is not only a phenomenal athlete but also a remarkable human being who exemplifies hard work, humility and integrity both on and off the court. His journey from the
Crusaders to the NBA is a testament to his relentless dedication, and we are thrilled to celebrate his legacy. He has inspired so many, and it’s an honor to recognize the lasting impact he’s had on our community.”
Matisse reflected on his time at Eastside Catholic and the significance of having his jersey retired: “My time at Eastside Catholic was special; some of the most formative years of my life. Coming back and seeing my #4 jersey retired is a fullcircle moment of my basketball journey. The entire Crusader community embraced me and I am forever grateful to have been a part of this school.”
Matisse’s Eastside Catholic Legacy
While at Eastside Catholic, Matisse made a name for himself as a basketball player and a well-rounded student-athlete who thrived both academically and socially. Matisse averaged 11.8 points per game during his junior year, leading the team to the 2014 State Championship against Rainier Beach. By his senior year, he elevated his performance to 18.2 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, earning First Team All-Metro honors. He graduated as Washington state’s top-ranked small forward and the 76th best player in the nation.
Previous Head Basketball Coach Bill Liley stated: “As talented and entertaining as Matisse Thybulle was as a basketball player at Eastside Catholic, he was an even better person and beloved teammate. Matisse wasn’t just a basketball player. I loved that he truly enjoyed being an EC student and immersed himself in the culture of the school. Matisse was an excellent student, built quality, long-lasting relationships, and took pride in being a true servant leader in the school and among his classmates.
High School Mathematics Teacher Danielle Maletta provided her perspective of Matisse from the classroom: “He was a gifted athlete, a natural leader and an excellent student. But no matter what his accomplishments, he was always humble. Matisse wasn’t just a good student-athlete, he was, and continues to be, a spectacular human!”
College Success and NBA Journey
After high school, Matisse continued his basketball career at the University of Washington, where his reputation as a defensive powerhouse only grew. During his collegiate career, he started in every game, amassing a streak of 135 consecutive games. His
numerous accolades include:
• Two time Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year • (2018, 2019)
• Two time Pac-12 All-Defensive Team • (2018, 2019)
• First Team All Pac-12 • (2019)
• Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Award • (2019)
• Lefty Driesell Award • (2019)
• Pac-12 steals record, 331 • (2019)
In the 2019 NBA Draft, Matisse was selected 20th overall by the Boston Celtics and traded to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he earned a reputation as one of the league’s elite defenders. He was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team twice and quietly supported numerous charitable causes, including fighting food insecurity and improving inner-city basketball courts.
Olympic Success and Portland Trail Blazers
Matisse’s career took on an international spotlight in 2020 when he represented Australia in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, helping the team secure its first-ever Olympic bronze medal. Averaging 7.8 points, 4 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 assists per game, he was instrumental in Australia’s historic success.
Currently playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, Matisse continues to excel on the court. During his first full season with the team, he averaged 5.4 points, 2.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.7 steals per game.
Eastside Catholic is immensely proud of Matisse Thybulle’s achievements and the example he set for future Crusaders. His jersey retirement is not just a celebration of his success on the court but of his character, leadership and dedication to making a difference in the world.
At this year’s Homecoming game in October, Eastside Catholic proudly celebrated the 10th anniversary of our historic 2014 State Football Championship victory—the first football state title in school history. During a heartfelt halftime ceremony, we honored some of the players and coaches who made this milestone possible and reflected on their enduring legacy. It was a night full of celebration, memories and Crusader pride!
1985
Angela Martin joined current students in the Options Program at the October Down Syndrome of Puget Sound Buddy Walk. Angela walked to show her support with our youngest Options Program student Frannie R. ’28. Team Frannie raised over $5K for DSCPS.
1995
Jason Detwiler is a professor of physics at the University of Washington. He shared that he has two children, Nathan Sebe and Noah Sebe and resides in Seattle with his wife Joy Sebe.
2000
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. Or Scan the QR Code
Patrick and Kelly [Shaw]
D’Ambrosio shared that their 13year-old daughter Jane played on the Issaquah All-Star Majors Softball Team that represented Washington state at the regional tournament in California at the end of July. The team placed 3rd at regionals, which landed them at about #17 in the U.S.
2006
Matthew Machia is a senior procurement agent for Boeing and resides in Mountlake Terrace, WA.
2011
Mackenzie [Brown] Hughes and Joel Hughes welcomed a baby boy, Henrik Bergesen Hughes, on October 24, 2024.
2015
Sarah Whiteman volunteered to be laid off at Amazon in January 2023 to pursue her passion, comedy. She soon began performing standup comedy in Denver. She enjoys performing and the recognition she has received but noted that she will need to combine it with a job that offers health insurance. She is currently working to help those with special needs and disabilities at The Sensory Club in Denver, Colorado.
2016
Abigail Kirsten captivated attendees with a live mural painting demonstration at the Downtown Redmond Art Walk in September 2024. Her mural, Together We Thrive, symbolically depicted Redmond’s past, present and future. Abigail shared, “This mural is inspired by the story of Redmond, reflecting the city’s journey through time. The salmon, rendered in various forms, symbolize not only the species historically found in the Sammamish River but also the rich diversity of the city’s residents. The aerial view of tree canopies covering 40% of the mural highlights Redmond’s commitment
to maintaining and expanding its tree canopy—an homage to the past, when the area was a forest of cedar and fir. The phrase, Together We Thrive, refers to a collaborative effort by Centro Cultural Mexicano during the pandemic, capturing Redmond’s spirit of resilience and unity. ‘Together We Thrive ‘is Redmond.” Abigail graduated from Gonzaga University in 2020 with a math and fine art degree and earned a Master of Architecture from WSU in spring 2024.
Mackenzie MacIlvennie has been in the Army branch of the military for six years. She serves as an officer in charge of military vehicles. She recently just made a move to Germany.
2017
Nick Huse married Angeline Baylon on December 7, 2024.
Natalie Smith has dedicated her career to improving cancer outcomes through innovative research on diet, the microbiome and blood cancers. She is a survivor of acute myeloid leukemia diagnosed at age six. After graduating from Georgetown University, Smith joined Dr. Marcel van den Brink’s lab at City of Hope, where she is building groundbreaking microbiome and dietary databases to study how
Mackenzie [Brown] Hughes ’11
Mackenzie MacIlvennie ’16
D’Ambrosio ’00
Nick Huse ’17
nutrition impacts treatment efficacy and side effects in transplant and CAR T cell therapy patients.
2018
Matthew House graduated from Florida Institute of Technology in December earning his bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering with an aeronautics focus. In February, he joined GE Aerospace as part of the Edison Engineering Development Program. He also had the opportunity to gain industry experience as a summer intern at NASA.
IN MEMORIAM
To the following members of our EC community who have died, but whose spirits live on always in our hearts.
David James Brooks ’88
Liz Cruickshank alumni parent
Robert Mark Gunderson
alumni parent and former employee
Brad Pritchett alumni parent and former employee
Don Snedden former employee
Laurie Summers ’95
Martin Earns Prestigious National Board Certification
Congratulations to High School PE and Health Teacher, Alicia Martin, on earning National Board Certification in Health Education! She joins 11 other EC teachers who share this prestigious distinction. This achievement reflects her hard work, dedication and commitment to her students’ well-being.
Alicia shared, “This is one of my proudest moments as a teacher. The process was a mix of self-reflection, collaboration with amazing colleagues and diving into the standards of effective teaching and discovering new strategies and insights that not only made me a better educator but also enriched my students’ learning experiences.”
Abigail Kirsten ’16
Matthew House ’18
Angela Martin ’85
Sarah Whiteman ’15
EA ST SI D E CA T HO L I C
Eastside Catholic School
232 228th Avenue SE Sammamish, WA 98074
eastsidecatholic.org
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