The Marymount Magazine, Summer Bulletin 2017

The Marymount Magazine Summer Bulletin 2017

The Marymount Magazine | Summer 2017

SUMMER BULLETIN Featured Stories In This Issue

4 AN EXPLORATION OF SELF, CULTURE

AND HISTORY THROUGH THE POWER OF INTERFAITH DIALOGUE

2 Letter from the Head 6

Marymount was honored to host Dr. Carol Bahkos this past spring for an in-depth Annual Interfaith Speaker Presentation.

Athletics Recap

10 REACHING OUTSIDE OF ONESELF Students showcase their dedication to service at Marymount’s Annual Kingdom Fair.

14 STUDENTS ADVANCING IN INTERNSHIP LEARNING & LEADERSHIP (SAILL)

Step into the shoes of three Marymount students as they give us a look into their summer internships.

20 CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2017 Congratulations to the Class of 2017 as they embark on their new journeys.

eternal SAILOR SISTERS As we say goodbye to the 99 women in the Marymount Class of 2017, the bond that has been forged amongst Sailor Sisters across all grade levels will remain constant.

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LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear Marymount Community, Oftentimes, the end of the school year rushes by like a rollercoaster hurtling down its steep descent.

Throughout the spring, we slowly climb upwards inchby-inch – studying for tests, practicing for end-of-year performances, and meticulously planning the celebrations that serve as a capstone to our year. Then, with the conclusion of classes and graduation quickly bringing an end to our school year, the last few weeks fly by in a stomach dropping “whoosh!” It shouldn’t come as a surprise then, that this school year has truly felt as though it has passed in the blink of an eye.

I spent the last week of school watching our girls gleefully laughing, overjoyed with the celebration of friendship, love, and new beginnings.

The joy they carry throughout their studies, friendships, challenges and victories alike, continuously lights up our campus.

Through their own ups and downs, the stressors of teenage life, and the tumult of a fast-paced and politically charged world, our girls have approached each new challenge with faith, a deeper sense of mission, purpose, positivity, and strength. They support one another. They listen without pretense. They live joyfully and spiritually.

Yet, it is the qualitative, rather than the quantitative accomplishments of this group that impresses me most.

Their internal growth, their astonishing emotional and spiritual awareness, their openness to new experiences; these characteristics are the foundations of world leaders, groundbreaking inventors, and tireless advocates. It is fitting that our Student Commencement Address presented

by Sloane Leizpig '17 took the form of a “love letter to the Class of 2017,” for this class undoubtedly deserves such a heartfelt celebration. It is this sense of thanks, faith, and positivity, which defines our Marymount students, who in turn, shape our culture as a school. It is this community, and the bright individuals who flourish and grow within it, that inspires me and fills me with pride as I come to school every day.

“OUR GIRLS HAVE APPROACHED EACH NEW CHALLENGE WITH FAITH, A DEEPER SENSE OF MISSION, PURPOSE, POSITIVITY, AND STRENGTH. THEY SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER. THEY LISTEN WITHOUT PRETENSE. THEY LIVE JOYFULLY AND SPIRITUALLY.”

At Graduation, as the 99 young women who embody the Class of 2017 took to the stage surrounded by their families, friends, teachers and staff who have supported them along the way, I reflected not only on their vitality, but also on their growth throughout their years at Marymount. From a class of wide-eyed freshmen, they have blossomed into confident, eloquent and graceful adults who aim to live their lives with purpose. The statistics speak for themselves: a 100% acceptance rate to over 150 collegiate institutions domestically and abroad, 1 National Merit Scholar, 1 Questbridge Scholar and, with an average weighted cumulative GPA of 3.93, by the numbers, the Class of 2017 is far beyond exceptional.

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Thank you Class of 2017 for inspiring me, for bringing me life, for giving our work here at Marymount purpose. You exemplify the values of our school and the values of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, and live our mission fully. We know that you will bring all you have learned here at Marymount out into the wider world with immeasurable and astounding results. I cannot wait to follow your careers, your impacts, and your gifts as you move throughout your lives.

To our current students, parents, alumnae, Les Anges and friends of Marymount, it is with your continuous support and dedication that we are able to do the work we do every day. We are proud to have you as a part of our past, present, and future, and we thank you for all you do. I hope that this Summer Bulletin will serve as a reminder as to what makes Marymount so exceptional.

Warmly,

Jacqueline L. Landry Head of School

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| athletics recap

AN EXPLORATION OF SELF, CULTURE AND HISTORY THROUGH THE POWER OF INTERFAITH DIALOGUE At Marymount, interfaith dialogue lies as one of the central pillars of our four-year Theology curriculum. By exploring the intersections between religions, cultures and histories, students can further understand themselves and see the differences and beauty that each human can bring to this world. One scholar who exemplifies this concept is Dr. Carol Bakhos, Chair of the Study of Religion at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), whom we were honored to host for an in-depth Annual Interfaith Speaker Presentation this past spring.

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| athletics recap

IT IS INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT TO BE EXPOSED TO PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT FAITHS. IT IS NOT ENOUGH TO JUST READ ABOUT IT; YOU HAVE TO TALK TO PEOPLE DIRECTLY, ASK QUESTIONS AND EXPERIENCE THEIR RELIGIOUS COMMITMENTS FIRST HAND, TO REALLY BEGIN TO START A DIALOGUE.

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- DR. CAROL BAHKOS

With a Master’s Degree in Theology, a Ph.D. in Jewish Studies at the Jewish Theological Seminary and over 15 years of teaching both undergraduate and graduate students at UCLA, Dr. Bakhos has dedicated her life to better understanding the origins and meanings of religious beliefs and stories. Her recent book, The Family of Abraham: Jewish, Christian and Muslim Interpretations, explores the diverse stories and interpretations of the story of Abraham across these three different faiths.

As a prominent scholar on the topic, Dr. Bakhos imparted wise words to our students. Whether or not they aspire to become Theologians, it is “incredibly important to be exposed to people of different faiths” in order to open one’s mind and truly understand the perspectives of others. “It is not enough to just read about it; you have to talk to people directly, ask questions and experience their religious commitments first hand to really begin to start a dialogue.”

Speaking to a group of attentive Marymount students, Dr. Bakhos explored the idea that “research is me-search.”

Explaining further, she reflected that “the life of the mind is never separate from the life of the heart and soul.” Her own academic pursuits followed a deeply personal path: seeking to uncover meanings and dismantling preconceived notions about Christianity, Judaism and Islam, while also trying to understand the deeper meanings of her own Catholic faith. Dr. Bakhos’ discussion with our students centered around the idea that at the core of these traditions exists a study of human nature itself.

“The stories in the Bible tell us something about human nature and relationships – they are messy and ugly, and that’s what makes them rich and powerful.”

When asked by Taylor Thompson '20 whether the study of religion has changed her as a person, Dr. Bahkos responded with an emphatic “yes!” She reflected further, “I was raised as a devout Catholic and studying Catholicism, Judaism and Islam has given me a greater understanding of my own culture and history, as well as that of others. This pursuit is a constant journey, one that is both exciting and scary. At the end of the day, these studies have helped me think more deeply and grow more open about who I am, who we as humans are, and what gives us meaning.”

Many thanks to Dr. Bahkos for sharing her impressive knowledge with our students.

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| athletics recap

ATHLETICS RECAP Victories, Milestones and Achievements This past school year brought abounding victories, milestones and personal and professional achievements for our #SailorStrong athletes. Collectively, Marymount girls earned six League Titles, set four new school records, and made five CIF-SS appearances. Three powerhouse athletes were named League MVPs, 42 tenacious girls were placed on All-League teams, and our dynamic Softball team was, once again, crowned CIF Southern Section Team Academic Champions.

Polo Team and has represented team USA in the Junior Pan American Games in Canada this summer. Our very own multi-sport athlete, Junior Malina Yago, was crowned Division IV CIF-SS Champion in the 800M, finished 7th in the State of California, and set a new school record in the 800M for the second year in a row. And 11 of our talented graduating Seniors will continue their athletic endeavors at nationally renowned colleges across the country this fall.

Individually, Senior athlete Lindsey McAllister competed with the All-State Team in Cross Country, Junior Cate Rozelle was named to the All-CIF Division IV Soccer Team, and Freshman Reagan Whitney was named to the USA National Cadet Water

Marymount continues to be proud of our #SailorStrong athletes.

These women have consistently demonstrated their grit, determination, ambition, discipline, commitment and leadership, and we cannot wait to see what the next year brings for our girls.

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11 ATHLETES TAKE CHARGE OF THEIR PASSIONS continuing their drive for sports in colleges and universities across the country this fall.

NCAA Recruited Athletes Sarah Allman Volleyball Villanova University

Lexie Freund Volleyball Bowdoin College

Krystyna Maruszko Volleyball Caltech University

Grace Olyphant Tennis Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Yurika Boyd Volleyball Yale University

Haley Kortekaas Volleyball Wake Forest University

Lindsey McAllister Cross Country / Track MIT

Taylor Villante Rowing Georgetown University

Lauren Douglas Volleyball Dartmouth University

Ruby Lightbourn Volleyball Bates College

Brooke Redington Soccer Stanford University

With the help of rising Junior LIA CAPPELLARI '19, the Sailor

Women’s Tennis Team was crowned Sunshine League Champions in 2016.

DEVON NEWBERRY '19 and our Sailor Volleyball team are ready for another tough year as they look to defend another Mission League title.

In her final year at Marymount, TAYLOR VILLANTE '17 helped the MAC Junior women bring home the Southwest Regionals Championship Trophy for the first time in MAC history.

MEGAN RYAN ‘18 powered

through the season as Swim capped off another recordbreaking year and advanced eight Sailors to CIF Preliminaries.

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| athletics recap

Athlete Profile: Malina Yago '18

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ulti-sport rising Senior, Malina Yago, has already competed in three different Varsity sports during her time as a Marymount Sailor, has broken multiple school records, was crowned Division IV CIF-SS Champion in the 800M two years in a row, and has been ranked 7th in the State of California after competing at the 2017 CIF State Championships this summer. Competing in Soccer and Track since her Freshmen year and Cross Country during her Sophomore year, Malina’s skills and achievements go far beyond just athletics. Malina has also served as a member of Marymount’s Honor Council since her Sophomore year and will begin her Senior year as the elected Honor Council President. In addition, she is an avid member of Marymount’s student-led Better Self for a Better World Conference since the summer of her Sophomore year, and she just spent the beginning of this summer playing a much larger role as a member of the Executive Team, helping to plan and coordinate the entire conference.

When asked when she first became interested in sports, she said, “It wasn’t until I moved to Mar Vista the summer before third grade that I began thinking about sports. I remember the first day I had soccer practice, I was terrified to walk out because I hated how my socks and shin guards looked together. Today, I love putting on my socks, shin guards, and cleats because it means I get to go play my passion: soccer. Alternatively, I became interested in track in 8th grade. I wanted to be awarded the Most Athletic Lion [Mascot at St. Mark School] of the Year Award, and to do so, I competed in a sport every season during my last year of middle school.

I didn’t know if I wanted to continue track while in high school, but I am extremely happy I did because it has taught me so much about myself and has brought me closer to some really amazing people.”

Waking up at 6:00 a.m. and oftentimes not finishing practice until 9:00 p.m., Malina knows what it takes to

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see success on and off the playing field. “Practice makes progress,” Malina said, “I say ‘progress’ and not ‘perfect’ because there is always room for improvement. In order to be at my best, I give 100% of my effort in practice and train more than just practicing with my club or school team. But it’s easy to forget that in the road to success, there are a lot of setbacks: there are times where I get discouraged or feel unconfident in practicing or training and, as a result, I get upset with myself. With the help of my coach, and by utilizing my own internal energy, I motivate myself and eventually overcome these mental obstacles.”

As Malina steps into her final year at Marymount, she already knows that she will do everything to make it an unforgettable year and continue to strive for success academically, athletically and personally. With larger goals of traveling the world, attending both the men and women World Cup games, and making cherished memories with her family and friends, Malina looks toward the nearer future. Already committed to Brown University, Malina is excited to see what college will have in store. “Though I am interested in Sports Medicine and Kinesiology right now,” she explained, “Brown’s wide selection of majors will probably lead me to another interest that I have that I have not yet explored.”

“To the incoming Freshmen student-athletes,” Malina said, “try and always be confident. Even now, I still find that I sometimes struggle to believe in myself and my abilities, but this is such a crucial skill to have and one you must always work on. As my soccer trainer once told me, ‘Believe in yourself and you are halfway there.’

I fully live by this quote and I impart it on all of you.

Don’t be intimidated by your older classmates, bond with them – they can train you, give you advice, answer all of your questions, and be your mentors. And always have fun and love what you’re doing…you will always take away something from every practice and every game, so enjoy it.”

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| athletics recap

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| leadership

REACHING OUTSIDE OF ONESELF Students showcase their dedication to service at Marymount’s Annual Kingdom Fair.

“There is a true difference between ‘volunteering’ and ‘service,’” Head of School Jacqueline Landry said while addressing students, faculty and staff at our 2017 Annual Kingdom Fair on Wednesday, April 19. “It is essential to who we are as a school.” She shared, “In the spirit of our Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary mission, it is important that we continue to celebrate our service commitments with the same focus and enthusiasm as we do all other subjects.”

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| leadership

Each grade undertakes a significant servicelearning project at Marymount. Juniors, have an unprecedented opportunity to contribute to life-changing organizations both locally and abroad and gain an understanding of the organization’s mission and how that mission is lived through dedicated service. The program culminates in a Kingdom Fair presentation, at which students showcase their hard work, learning and commitment to helping others, which is a true testament of our RSHM core values.

New to the program this year was the incorporation of design-thinking and creative problem-solving within each organization.

Students had the opportunity to apply

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ver the past three years that the Junior Class has spent at Marymount, they have studied everything from scripture to social justice, creating their own unique roadmap which has focused on what accountability and justice means to them, and how they can use their gifts to serve the greater good. Helping to define a greater sense of their purpose and identity, members of the Class of 2018 proudly spoke about their intensive service projects at our Annual Kingdom Fair.

Kingdom Fair is a perfect opportunity for students to dedicate themselves to a cause or organization and reach out to those in need. This year’s Kingdom Fair was different because students were given the creative freedom to tackle an issue in their own way. Instead of a traditional essay and poster board, some students drafted proposals to gain funding, made websites for organizations, or created videos to raise awareness.

This culminating project inspires our community to remember the RSHM mission, ‘that all may have life and have it to the full’ and to continue to serve the world around us.

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- Ms. Boyoung Kim Theology Faculty and Service Learning Coordinator

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innovative principles to the social and environmental issues they observed while at their chosen organization.

They then proposed and, if possible, implemented fresh and unique solutions by the end of their engagement.

Theology faculty member and Service Learning Coordinator Ms. Boyoung Kim, one of the core members of the team which includes Theology faculty Ms. Carol Fitzsimmons and Ms. Christie Borges, reflected on this new programmatic addition: “These projects are not just about community service, they are meant to truly help make a difference in the communities we serve by offering a fresh perspective and an innovative approach.”

For example, Victoria Sanchez '18 designed a mobile app for the after-school program where she was volunteering. Noticing that teachers, tutors and afterschool administrators often did not have an opportunity to communicate effectively about each student’s needs, Victoria conceptualized an app that would provide a resource for communication, helping connect all these groups together to better serve the kids.

Other Juniors worked in our Makerspace to create physical tools and solutions for their organization of choice. While Marina Davis '18 was volunteering at Cedar Sinai Hospital, she observed that patients recovering from surgery often faced boredom and depression while trying to regain their motor skills. To address these issues, she conceptualized, designed and printed a puzzle utilizing our Makerspace specifically geared toward motor and cognitive rehabilitation, teamwork and fun.

Some organizations faced business and marketing challenges that our students were uniquely positioned to address. While working at St. Roberts Center, a nonprofit in Venice, CA that aids the homeless, Patricia Lara '18 and Gabriella Kimbrough '18 realized a huge gap in the organization: St. Roberts Center did not have a professional website. “In the modern-day world,” Patricia told our student body, “every organization needs a website in order to garner support, donations and to reach the populations it is hoping to serve. St. Roberts Center didn’t have the time or resources to create a website, so we designed one for them.” This beautiful solution, made possible by our students’ well-developed skills in graphic design and coding, provided a real-world benefit to St. Roberts Center that they would not have otherwise been able to access.

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In addition to these creative and innovative solutions, our students were also given the option to create a presentation that utilized digital technology to better communicate their messages. Several students crafted short films about their projects, from an impressive animated short about the Ballona Wetlands Restoration Project to an engaging piece on the Children’s Center.

These digital records will be compiled and saved in a resource center, available for all of our students to watch for years to come in order to learn more about service opportunities.

In reflecting on the culmination of this project, Ms. Kim said, “Reflecting on service helps you make connections with larger issues in our society today. Our students have

had the opportunity to observe the community directly in new ways through their projects and to think creatively about how the community can best be served, and we’re looking forward to seeing what new and innovative solutions our girls come up with in years to come.”

We congratulate our Juniors on their incredible projects and their dedication to service. A special thank you to all of the inspiring organizations that graciously hosted our students this year and in years past and that undertake essential and challenging work that benefit our local and broader communities. Many thanks also to our wonderful Theology faculty, Ms. Fitzsimmons, Ms. Borges and Ms. Kim, who worked tirelessly to bring this wonderful event to life for our students.

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| internships

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“One of the biggest things I have learned during my time at UCLA has been to not be afraid to ask questions, no matter how trivial they may seem. Questioning practices, studies or facts is a very important part of research science - I have found that often when I ask a question, it leads to another question, and before I know it, I am fully engaged in a deep discussion.�

- CAMERON KAHN '18 Intern at UCLA Advanced Heart Failure, Mechanical Support and Heart Transplant Program, David Geffen School of Medicine

CAMERON KAHN '18 & MARINA DAVIS '18 listen to Dr. Mario Deng as he discussed Relational Medicine during their internship at UCLA Advanced Heart Failure, Mechanical Support and Heart Transplant Program, David Geffen School of Medicine.

Throughout the course of their summer internship, Cameron and Marina learned about tests created for heart transplant patients and tests geared toward genetic profiling, which determines the best treatment option for patients suffering from Acute Decompensated Heart Failure.

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| internships

Students Advancing in Internship Learning & Leadership (SAILL) This summer, over 70 students participated in various internships and/or advanced study programs throughout the Greater Los Angeles area through our signature Internship Program, Students Advancing in Internship Learning & Leadership (SAILL).

Allowing students to gain real-life work experience under the guidance of inspiring and world-renowned mentors and providing opportunities to pursue their interests in ways that leave a lasting impact, internship placements range from Finance to STEAM fields, and from Interior Design to Marketing and Entertainment.

For a full listing of the 2017 Marymount Internship Program placements, please see the sidebar on page 19.

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NOEL ERMER '19 worked in the lab of Dr. Adam Smith and Ph.D. mentor Stephanie Gee to find more efficient ways to generate methane rich biogas to be used as an energy source. By experimenting with different metals and bacteria, they are seeking to determine which combination will produce the most gas. Biogas is a cleaner energy source and could be generated by using food waste and other discarded materials, which can positively impact the environment.

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“Having research experience in a science laboratory as a high school student is invaluable. With this internship, I have learned how to operate many different machines, how to perform procedures when testing organic material, and how to conduct a sterile experiment (in addition to using a professional pipet)! I now know that I want to pursue research in whatever career I take part in.”

- NOEL ERMER '19 Intern at USC Viterbi School of Engineering’s SHINE Program (Summer High School Intensive in Next-Generation Engineering)

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“I’ve been spending the majority of my internship making sensors to measure thermal comfort. I’m learning a lot with the support of my mentor. I wanted to try something new and different which is why this internship was so good for me. Since my sister is majoring in biomedical sciences, I wanted to see what this field could be like!”

- VICTORIA SANCHEZ '18 Intern at USC Viterbi School of Engineering’s SHINE Program (Summer High School Intensive in Next-Generation Engineering)

VICTORIA SANCHEZ '18 has been working with with Ph.D. student Ashrant Aryal on developing sensors to determine the atmospheric conditions of a room to maintain a comfortable environment for people, allowing buildings to be more energy efficient by not wasting unwanted heat or air conditioning.

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Summer 2017 Internship Placements & Advanced Study Programs • Adventures of the Mind • America’s Funniest Home Videos: AVF • California Pizza Kitchen • California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) • Clairobscur Dance Company • CO Architects • The Gotham Group • Hemming Morse, LLP • Imperial Capital, LLC • The Jeffrey Foundation • Los Angeles Superior Court, Torrance • The Getty Conservation Institute • UCLA Advanced Heart Failure, Mechanical Support and Transplant Program, David Geffen School of Medicine • UCLA Cancer and Stem Cell Research • UCLA Department of Pulmonary Care • UCLA High School Summer Research Program (HSSRP), the Engineering Science Corps (ESC) at the Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science (HSSEAS) • UCLA HSSEAS Summer High School Tech Camp, the Engineering Science Corps (ESC) at the Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science (HSSEAS) • UCLA Medical School Department of Neurosurgery & Pediatric Neurology, Steve Tisch BrainSPORT Program • UCLA Orthopaedic Center: Sports Medicine • USC Summer High School Intensive in Next-Generation Engineering (SHINE), Viterbi School of Engineering • Youth Theology Institute (YTI), Loyola Marymount University (LMU)

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| class of 2017

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| class of 2017

WISHING THE

Class of 2017

A FOND

FAREWELL

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he Class of 2017 graduates as one of our most accomplished classes to date. Earning a 100% acceptance rate to over 150 collegiate programs and admission to many of the country’s top colleges and universities, these women are future lawyers, scientists, diplomats, doctors, teachers, mothers, advocates for social change and will likely be at the top of professions that have yet to be created. Heading off to over 65 collegiate institutions this fall across three countries, the Class of 2017 is made up of leaders who will shape tomorrow’s future for the greater good. It is, in part, with the foundation learned at Marymount: sisterhood, teamwork, kindness and understanding, that they will continue to thrive as adults.

The Class of 2017 will bring their grit, humor and love of learning to every new blessing and challenge in their lives after Marymount.

It was fitting that our inspiring commencement speaker, Carla Christofferson, posed a poignant question in opening her address to our graduating Seniors: “Some people ask the question, ‘What would you do if you knew you wouldn’t fail?’ I prefer to ask the question, ‘What would you do even if you knew you were going to fail?’” Ms. Christofferson’s remarks, which centered around the lessons of being fearless despite feeling terrified and turning “fabulous failures” into growth and learning experiences, were valued by this class of ambitious, compassionate and unstoppable young women.

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SOME PEOPLE ASK THE QUESTION, ‘WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU KNEW YOU WOULDN’T FAIL?’ I PREFER TO ASK THE QUESTION, ‘WHAT WOULD YOU DO EVEN IF YOU - CARLA CHRISTOFFERSON KNEW YOU WERE GOING TO FAIL?’

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As the EVP of Legal Affairs at AECOM and former owner of the LA Sparks, Ms. Christofferson has forged her own unique path full of both success and failure. She made her way from a small town in North Dakota to Yale Law School to her current position today, facing unique challenges and overcoming odds to become one of LA’s most prominent lawyers and businesswomen. Her inspiring story provides a wonderful lesson: Even when you are terrified inside, face that fear boldly. Before you know it, you’ll be accomplishing things you had no idea you were capable of. As our students embark on a new journey, navigating life outside of Marymount’s gates, they can reflect back on these words of encouragement to find the fearlessness and strength within.

The Commencement Ceremony not only honored the individual accomplishments of each of our Sailors, it also celebrated the sisterhood formed between the members of the Class of 2017. As the graduates took the stage, their sense of togetherness and sisterhood was palpable.

Ms. Christofferson herself, who met with a group of students prior to graduation, was struck by the strength of the bond among this class. “All of you talked about how much you were going to miss each other and the sense of sisterhood you’ve all developed towards each other,” she

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shared. This bond will go on to be a lifelong gift and source of strength, long after our students leave Marymount’s halls. “I encourage you to stay in touch with your sisters in this room,” Ms. Christofferson continued. “The person to your left or your right could be just the person you need to help you land a job 10 years from now. She could be the partner you need to start your own business. She could be the comfort you need when you have a setback, or the friend you celebrate with when you achieve a goal.”

Ms. Christofferson’s eloquent address complemented our Student Address and the Invocation, as each touched on the gifts of sisterhood, confidence and poise with which each graduate in the Class of 2017 is uniquely armed.

Sloane Leipzig '17, who delivered the Student Address, reflected on the wonderful lessons that her classmates have taught her throughout her time at Marymount.

Sloane’s address, delivered as a “Love Letter to the Class of 2017” brought students and parents to tears and laughter in its thoughtful celebration of this class’ humility, grace and kindness (see page 25 to read Sloane’s full speech).

Similarly, Sage Strieker '17 centered the Invocation around the idea of gratitude. She gave thanks for the “gifts

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and people who have graced our lives, captivated our imagination and helped us to envision the world in a completely new light where all may have life and live it to the full.” These gifts have helped equip our Seniors with the strength and confidence needed to thrive in college and beyond, and Sage’s thoughtful prayer reflected this understanding. (To read Sage’s full prayer, see the side bar to the right).

As they carried their diplomas down the aisle and greeted their proud families and friends, each of our graduates seemed filled with joy, sadness and an overwhelming sense of pride in one another. It was together that they made their way through the challenges and joys of high school. Together, they studied for tests, practiced for sports games and shared in each other’s heartbreaks and accomplishments.

While they may be geographically separated during their next journey, their bonds are unbreakable, and they will continue to celebrate one another with as much enthusiasm and support as they do today.

We extend our sincerest thanks to Ms. Christofferson for her thoughtful remarks and openness in sharing her journey, to the 2017 Student Commencement speakers, and to the entire Class of 2017 for the incredible impact they have had on our community. The same gifts they contributed here at Marymount will continue to serve them as they embark on their next step.

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Invocation SAGE STRIEKER '17

Good morning Ms. Landry, Members of the Board of Trustees, Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, Ms. Christofferson, Faculty, Parents and My Sailor Sisters. We all know the importance of the Word of God in Scripture, we see the importance of words in Literature, History and even Science and Math, and we thank you Lord for giving us a deeper understanding of how words can impact us, and how we can use them to impact one another and the world. Today, I use my words in prayer to express to God the gratitude of the Class of 2017.

In the name of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

Dear Lord, on behalf of the Class of 2017, I would like to thank You for giving us this precious moment in the presence of so many loving friends and family. I ask that You bless them for years of caring for us and supporting us on our journey.

And God, I ask a special grace for the Marymount faculty, whose passionate teaching has excited our minds, put tears in our eyes and smiles on our faces. They have taught us to seek the human connection with those we meet, to never take ourselves too seriously and to always maintain a love of learning.

God, as I stand here today, I wish to express my gratitude and the gratitude of my sailor sisters. You have given each of us a unique identity, the intelligence to learn, understand and speak with confidence. I think we can all agree that for all of us on this stage, these past four years together have been the best gift that You, God, could have ever given us, and so we thank You and ask You to stay with us on our journey.

And then God, there are some words that can never express how we truly feel. This is the case with our loving and supportive parents who were the first to teach us to use our words, who guided us through 17 years of life and who have been an example of love for us. Please Lord, bless our parents.

And as for the Class of 2017, we are so thankful for all the gifts and people who have graced our lives, captivated our imagination and helped us to envision the world in a completely new light where all may have life and live it to the full. Thank You, God, for giving us great friends who live life with humor, confidence and just a little bit of swagger. Please give us the grace to never forget what You have accomplished in us or question the extent of what You can accomplish through us and always let our words be a positive force in the world. In the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

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| athletics recap

THE MARYMOUNT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2017 BULLETIN

Student Address to the

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Class of 2017 SLOAN LEIPZIG '17

Good morning, everyone! On behalf of the Class of 2017, I would like to thank Ms. Landry, the Board of Trustees, the faculty and staff, parents and friends for joining us here today.

Imparting advice to the Class of 2017 is a daunting challenge because for the past four years the best spects of me have been informed and enriched by the women sitting around me. During our time at Marymount, this institution has instilled morals within us that we hope to maintain for the rest of our lives. This institution has taught us about Literature, History, Math and Science.

But, my classmates taught me the most important lesson I have learned: be true yourself.

As we embark on this next adventure, we have been counseled to be smart, kind, ambitious and steadfast in our beliefs. While all of this is expert advice...

...the women sitting around me need no reminding. They do not need to be told to be smart; they have never known anything else. They do not need to be told to be kind; it is in their nature. They do not need to be told to stand up for what they believe in; they would not dream of failing to advocate for what is right.

Our mission as a Marymount community of teachers, staff, coaches, students and alumna is rooted in the compassion of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary: that all may have life, and have it to the full. The class of 2017 includes athletes, scholars, artists, activists and leaders. These women, my sisters, are future doctors, lawyers, directors, mothers, CEOs, and we’ve probably got a president or two in our midst. These women will not achieve these successes by being bolder or smarter or kinder or stronger, we will attain these goals because working hard to achieve our dreams is intrinsic to our beings.

For this class, being yourself means giving your all everyday; being yourself means serving others; being yourself means being strong and confident and powerful.

Being yourself does not imply complacency. Being yourself means continually growing, renewing, learning and embracing change. The Class of 2017 lives life to the full everyday, and with boldness goes into the world to learn and to work so that someday, ALL may live life to the fullest.

I once heard that greatness lies on the other side of fear.

For this class, greatness lies within. Class of 2017, as you go out into the world, I ask you to look inwards. There you will find the strength, intellect and grit to reach even your wildest of dreams. I am proud everyday to be a member of this class, not because we are the only class in history to be back to back spirit week champions, but because being a part of the Class of 2017 means sharing an indelible bond with women who will go out into the world and lead. As their parents, family members and teachers, you already know that these women are incredible and will exceed every expectation, goal and challenge they face.

As we move on from this place, I pray, along with you, for nothing more than that these women reach their fullest potential, so that the world may reach its potential as well.

In closing, all I have is a Love Letter to the Class of 2017 and our legacy.

Girls, thank you for being my friends, my role models, my teammates and most of all, my sisters. Throughout my years here I have learned about History and Science and Math, but the greatest lessons I’ve learned are the result of living four years at your side. Each and every one of you has taught me MORE than any book. Go out into the world and impart the wisdom you have taught me; go out into the world and spread the joy you have given me. Go out into the world and always be yourselves, because there is absolutely no one better. On days when you feel lost or low, just remember that you have 100 sisters that would do anything to lift you back up. I love you all. And above all else, think pink, because that’s what champions do. Congratulations, Class of 2017, we did it!

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CELEBRATING THE

Class of 2017

We are incredibly proud of our Class of 2017 graduates who have achieved a 100% acceptance rate to four-year collegiate programs. Below is a select list of acceptances for the Marymount Class of 2017. Numbers in parenthesis represent acceptances to each institution. Every school with a graduate attending is represented and denoted in bold.

American University (4) American University of Paris (4) Amherst College Bard College (2) Barnard College (4) Bates College Belmont University (3) Berklee College of Music Boston College (9) Boston University (6) Bowdoin College Brandeis University (2) California Institute of Technology California Lutheran University (2) California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo California State University, Los Angeles California State University, Northridge (4) Carleton College Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University Centre College Chapman University (5) Clark University (2) College of Charleston (5) College of William and Mary Colorado College Colorado State University (2) Columbia College Chicago Dartmouth College DePaul University (4) Drexel University Elon University Emerson College (5) Emory University (2) Fairfield University Fordham University (19) George Mason University Georgetown University (3) George Washington University (10) Georgia Institute of Technology Gettysburg College (2) Goldsmiths, University of London Gonzaga University (2) Guildhall School of Music & Drama Harvard University Harvey Mudd College Indiana University at Bloomington (10) Lafayette College (3)

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Lehigh University Lewis & Clark College (4) Loyola Marymount University (7) Loyola University Chicago (4) Loyola University Maryland Loyola University New Orleans Manhattanville College Marist College Marymount Manhattan College Massachusetts Institute of Technology Miami University, Oxford (8) Michigan State University (4) Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design New York University (3) Northeastern University (8) Northern Arizona University Northwestern University Occidental College Ohio State University (2) Ohio Wesleyan University Oklahoma State University Otis College of Art and Design Pace University, New York City Pennsylvania State University (4) Pepperdine University Providence College (4) Purdue University Rhodes College (3) Royal Central School of Speech and Drama Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama Rutgers University-New Brunswick Sacred Heart University Saint Joseph’s University San Diego State University San Francisco State University (4) Santa Clara University (7) Santa Monica College Sarah Lawrence College (2) Savannah College of Art and Design (2) School of Visual Arts Seattle University Sonoma State University (2) Southern Methodist University (14) St. John’s University - Queens Campus (3) Stanford University (3) Stony Brook University Suffolk University SUNY Morrisville State College Swarthmore College

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Syracuse University (5) Texas A&M University Texas Christian University (7) The New School - Parsons (2) Trinity College (4) Tulane University (2) University of Alabama (6) University of Arizona (7) University of Edinburgh (2) University of California, Berkeley (8) University of California, Davis (6) University of California, Irvine (3) University of California, Los Angeles (9) University of California, San Diego (7) University of California, Santa Barbara (6) University of California, Santa Cruz (8) University of Colorado at Boulder (13) University of Delaware University of Denver University of Georgia University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (3) University of Iowa (2) University of Maryland, College Park University of Miami University of Michigan (12) University of Minnesota, Twin Cities University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of Northern Colorado University of Notre Dame (3) University of Oregon (7) University of Pennsylvania (3) University of Portland University of Rhode Island University of San Diego (4) University of San Francisco (4) University of South Carolina (2) University of South Florida University of Southern California (8) University of St Andrews (3) University of Tennessee, Knoxville University of Texas, Austin University of Washington (3) University of Wisconsin, Madison (2) Villanova University (6) Wake Forest University Whitman College Williams College Worcester Polytechnic Institute Yale University

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100%

ACCEPTANCE RATE TO FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE AND/OR UNIVERSITY PROGRAMS

99

GRADUATES OVER

70 %

OF THE CLASS WAS ACCEPTED THROUGH EARLY ADMISSION PROGRAMMMING

1

QUESTBRIDGE SCHOLAR

50%

Over of the class will attend a highly selective school (admitting 35% of applications or less)

College acceptances to over

165

institutions, with students matriculating this fall to 66 of these institutions, spanning 21 states and 3 countries

1

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLAR

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RECRUITED ATHLETES THE MARYMOUNT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2017 BULLETIN

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Class of

2017

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TOP ROW (L TO R): Jacqueline King, Kristiane Alphson, Britt Alphson, Elizabeth Staver, Haley Kortekaas, Krystyna Maruszko, Genevieve Whittell, Erica Lydon, Grace Olyphant, Anna Grigsby-Brown, Clare Cooper, Molly Mason, Emily Torp, Ruby Garland, Rebecca Schulist, Carmen Voskuhl, Tess Coleman, Naomi Smith 2ND TO TOP ROW (L TO R): Weixuan Fang, Kelly Maiden, Meagan Burke, Lauren O’Brien, Blaine Policella, Ellen Taurich, Mirna Kamel, Natalie Elliot, Cailin Stroyke, Ruby Lightbourn, Lexie Freund, Sarah Allman, Natalie Barnes, Ivieosa Aimufua, Abigail Nathanson, Catherine Saade, Isabella Cornwall

3RD FROM TOP ROW (L TO R): Krystal Fang, Ava Adams, Olivia Thomas, Adrienne Jeong, Christine Gemperle, Gabriella Pacini, Chloe Shaw, Hanako Romo-Kikuchi, Grace Rector, Kimberly Bleak, Lauren Kelly, Victoria Daly, Adrianna Silerio, Nora Kilroy, Olivia Kiene, Brooke Kaiserman, Isabella Kulukundis, Megan Mika

2ND FROM BOTTOM ROW (L TO R): Ally Walsh, Valory Banashek, Caroline Cooper, Isabella Mendoza, Cecilia Hartge, Bianka Gravillis, Isabella Giannulli, Megan Dunne, Nicole Jackson, Sloan Leipzig, Lauren Douglas, Yurika Boyd, Clara Lacey, Hannah Robinson, Lindsey McAllister, Courtney Bagnall, Sarah Gill, Nina Taurich

3RD FROM BOTTOM ROW (L TO R): Rachel Liao, Nikki Livitsanos, Caroline Williams, Megan Carroll, Hyewon Lee, Maya Roberts, Katherine Kolligian, Madeleine Zaloom, Brooke Redington, Sienna Wymbs, Kathryn Hauser, Taylor Villante, Riley McMahon, Sage Strieker, Danielle Nelson, Lucy Isaak

BOTTOM ROW (L TO R): Olivia Scott, Claire Pregler, Alexandria Hernandez, Vineta Oliva-Rendler, Judith Ashby, Jourdan Emerson, Samantha Obel, Julia Kozlowski, Syndey Rosenberg, Eden Mack, Ayanna Neal, Allison Harrigan

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Graduation

AWARDS & HONORS Valory Banashek The Gailhac Award This award, named after the Founder of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, is presented to a senior who has consistently demonstrated the energy, enthusiasm, warmth, leadership and joy that promote the special family that is unique to Marymount.

Caroline Cooper The Katherine Alfs Caldwell ‘35 Memorial Award This award is presented to a senior class leader for her initiative, devotion, commitment and spirited contribution to her class.

Hyewon Lee The Les Anges Award This award is given to a senior who has consistently demonstrated the high ideals of a Marymount education, who has taken full advantage of the unique opportunities of that education, and who has consistently contributed to her school community.

Olivia Kiene The Marian Award

This award is presented to a senior whose devotion to the pursuit of excellence is complimented by a sincere dedication to the highest standards of character and integrity.

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Lindsey McAllister

Marymount Outstanding Scholar Award

This award represents Marymount’s highest academic honor and is presented to an exceptional senior who has achieved excellence in a multitude of disciplines.

The Kristin Klein Keefe '88 Award This award is presented to a senior who has displayed excellence in academics and who has participated in interscholastic sports with the highest standards of sportsmanship and integrity as exemplified by Kristin Klein Keefe '88 during her years at Marymount.

Grace Rector The Alumnae Association’s Marymount Young Woman Award This award is given to a senior for her dedication and service to Marymount High School and her devotion to the principles of Christian womanhood.

Sage Strieker

The Mother Butler Award

Marymount’s highest honor is given in memory of the Foundress of the Marymount Schools in the United States and Europe. It is awarded to a senior who has best integrated the ideals of a Marymount education through her academic excellence, leadership, loyalty and supportive presence to the school community.

Los Angeles Athletic Association Sportsmanship Award MEGAN DUNNE

Los Angeles Athletic Association Scholarship Award CLAIRE PREGLER

The Archdiocesan Christian Service Award CATHERINE SAADE

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Marymount

GOLD MEDAL AWARDS

Social Studies, Theology VALORY BANASHEK

Science ANNA GRIGSBY-BROWN

Visual Arts ADRIENNE JEONG

Performing Arts OLIVIA KIENE

English CLARA LACEY

Math, Visual Arts KRYSTYNA MARUSZKO

English, Math, Social Studies, Science, Theology LINDSEY MCALLISTER

Math CLAIRE PREGLER

Spanish GRACE RECTOR

French HANNAH ROBINSON

Science SAGE STRIEKER

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Theology CATHERINE SAADE

Performing Arts ELLEN TAURICH

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French, English OLIVIA SCOTT

Visual Arts GENNA WHITTELL

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LEGACY FAMILIES AND SIBLINGS

Alison Adams '20, Ava Adams '17

Lelosa Aimufua '16, Ivieosa Aimufua '17, Amara Aimufua '20

Kristiane Alphson '17, Britt Alphson '17

Antonia Ashby '19, Judith Ashby '17

Valory Banashek '17, Aza Trillo '20

Diane Dayton-Bleak '79, Kimberly Bleak '17

Jennifer Burke '18, Meagan Burke '17, Allison Harrigan '17, Molly Burke Harrigan '80

Megan Carroll '17, Katharine Carroll '14

Bridget Cooper Osterhaus '95, Mary Cooper '20, Caroline Cooper ‘17, Jennifer Given Cooper '89, Margaret Daily Given '66

Madeleine Daly ‘16, Victoria Daly '17, Annabelle Daly '20

Lauren Douglas '17, Caroline Douglas '19

Margaret Roach Dunne '80, Megan Dunne '17, Bonnie Ogilvie '07

Virginia Garland '19, Rubina Garland ‘17

Charolette Gemperle '18, Christine Gemperle ‘17

Nicole Hauser '15, Kathryn Hauser ‘17

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One Sisterhood Kendall Isaak ‘12, Lucy Isaak '17, Alyssa Isaak '15

Mariam Kamel '19, Mirna Kamel '17

Isabella Kiene '19, Olivia Kiene '17

Kevin Kilroy '15, Nora Kilroy '17, Megan Kilroy '02, Bridget Kilroy

Haley Kortekaas '17, Jacqueline Kortekaas '19

Monica Kozlowski ‘07, Julia Kozlowski '17, Kristin Kozlowski '05

Isabella Mendoza '17, Paula Mendoza '15

Samantha Obel '17, Nicolette Obel '13

Mariana Marrone Aguilar '08, Vineta Olivia-Rendler '17

Talia Pacini '15, Gabriella Pacini '17, Alexandra Pacini '11,

Claire Pregler '17, Katherine Pregler '14

Brooke Redington '17, Natalie Redington '15

Hanako Romo-Kikuchi '17, Talia Romo-Kikuchi '20

Paula Sison '15, Adrianna Silerio '17

Naomi Smith '17, Emi Smith '19

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Many Sisters & Legacies Sarah Staver '15, Elizabeth Staver '17

Brooke Stroyke '15, Cailin Stroyke '17

Ellen Taurich '17, Nina Taurich '17

Mimi Stevens Torp '74, Emily Torp '17

Taylor Villante '17, Catherine Villante '20

Anna Whittell '15, Genna Whittell '17, Jesslyn Whittell '13

MaryAnn Williams '20, Caroline Williams '17 Nell Zaloom '10, Maddie Zaloom '17, Sophia Zaloom '12

Not pictured • Isabella Giannulli '17, Olivia Giannulli '18 • Jessica Fang '17, Krystal Fang '17 • Riley McMahon '17, Meghan McMahon '15

C 1 NNECT

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The Marymount Magazine is published by the Marketing & Communications Office.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. If we have made an error or if you would like additional copies of this magazine, please contact the Marketing & Communications Office at communications@mhs-la.org.

Thank you to all the contributors to this publication, including: Photography: Stephanie (Guerami) David Kambria Fischer Sr. Margaret McKenna, RSHM

Dawn Regan Maggie Williams Tom Zimmerman

Student Contributors:

Design & Printing:

Noel Ermer '19 Cameron Kahn ‘18 Victoria Sanchez '18 Malina Yago ‘18

Design by Marymount High School Printing by Southern California Graphics

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