Moreau Catholic High School is dedicated to the legacy and values of the Congregation of Holy Cross and its founder Blessed Basil Moreau. We are a college-preparatory school committed to outstanding achievement.
As a community of faith, we prepare our students through academic, social, and spiritual learning experiences that form and transform them as they become responsible citizens of our global community.
Another successful school year has completed with the Class of 2025 graduating at the
This year’s recipients are Mr. Peter Smith-Shelley and Ms. Araceli Catalan.
When Cecilia Silva graduated in 1973, she was part of a historymaking moment: Moreau High School’s first-ever co-educational graduating class.
MOREAUCATHOLIC.ORG
Comments or suggestions for The Vector are welcome. Email us at communications@moreaucatholic.org
EDITOR
Colleen Shively
DESIGN
Matthew Tominaga
PHOTOGRAPHY
Matthew Tominaga
CONTRIBUTORS
Tommy Abdenour ’08
Dr. Elizabeth Berkes
Tiago Dias ’25
Vihaan Kant ’27
Nikko Reed ’21
Cecilia Silva ’73
Lilia ten Bosch ’25
19
Moreau Catholic has launched multiple, new initiatives with CSU East Bay.
Fred Echaluse
Dion Evans
Brandon Ingalla ’25
Vihaan Kant ’27
Tyler Senner ’26
24
MOREAU TO THE PROS
Nikko Reed ’21 has begun his professional football journey after signing with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Dear Mariner Family and Friends,
Hooray! With grateful hearts, we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Moreau Catholic High School, the Holy Cross Year of Mission, the Jubilee Year, the extraordinary Class of 2025, and the successful conclusion of this school year! I am in awe of all we have accomplished to continue demonstrating excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts here at Moreau Catholic High School, and we are excited to share some of our many highlights with you in The Vector.
Our Mariner family continues to thrive, and we will be opening our new performing arts space, dedicated to Brother Donald Blauvelt, C.S.C., this fall. As Resurrection people, we are rising to the challenges of today with strength, unity, hope, and Mariner pride. And we have so much to be proud of… please read below an excerpt from our Principal’s commencement address to feel how blessed we are:
From Our Principal, Colleen Galloway ’77
“You have touched our school in so many ways, as a class and as individuals.
• You led our athletic teams to a state championship, NCS championships, and better seasons than in past years.
• You set school records in track and field; individual athletes won league championships
• You had Science Olympiad medal winners; a Diana Award winner; the Alameda County winning Mock Trial team;
• You were actors who were the first to perform a play adapted for high school;
• You went to Carnegie Hall in New York to sing;
• Musicians who brought home five trophies and a soloist medal from a national music festival;
• Your artwork and performances touched our hearts and souls,
• Your TEDx presentations inspired, called us to action, and filled us with hope.
• You were quick to share your smiles and laughter, support each other during difficult times and times of loss, and always knew how to play and have fun!
As you travel down your life’s journey, remember what Ms. Thomas brought up at Friday’s Baccalaureate Mass and decide what type of person you want to be: the one who watches things happen, the one who wonders what happened, or the one who makes things happen. You have made amazing things happen at Moreau Catholic High School, and I can’t wait to see how you make the world a better place!
As Dr. G emphasized, know that no matter where your journey in life takes you, you will always be Mariners and you will always have a home at Moreau Catholic.
Congratulations and God bless you, Class of 2025!”
We join Ms. Galloway in commending these Mariners, and we wish them many blessings as they head out into the world to continue their educational journeys, pursue their passions, and join you in making the waves that our world needs. We thank all of our faculty, staff, coaches, and administrators who have dedicated their lives to cultivating the minds and hearts of our beloved students. The impact of these phenomenal Holy Cross educators is transformational. We also thank YOU for supporting our beloved school and engaging in our ongoing transformation. Like our students and newest alumni, you will always have a home at Moreau Catholic. Please visit this fall!
With gratitude and hope,
Dr. Liz Guneratne President
Moreau Catholic High School proudly recognizes Mr. Peter Smith-Shelley as the 2025 Holy Cross Educator of the Year—an honor reserved for faculty who exemplify the Holy Cross mission through compassion, excellence, and faith-filled service.
Beloved for his energy, humor, and heartfelt dedication, Mr. Smith-Shelley brings more than academic knowledge to his theology classes—he brings joy, connection, and meaning. Known for his eccentric personality, corny jokes, and morning enthusiasm, he has a gift for making students feel seen, heard, and supported.
Students describe him as thoughtful, engaging, and deeply caring. Whether facilitating honest conversations, encouraging reflection, or helping students grow in both intellect and spirit, Mr. Smith-Shelly creates a classroom where authenticity and transformation thrive. As one student shared, “I’ve had many opportunities to reflect on my journey, personal and spiritual, in his class—and I am forever grateful.”
Congratulations to Mr. Smith-Shelley on this well-deserved recognition. Your presence at Moreau Catholic continues to shape hearts and minds with grace, wisdom, and unwavering care.
Respected for her clarity, organization, and approachable teaching style, Ms. Catalan has earned a reputation as an educator who “just makes things make sense.” But her true gift lies in how she makes students feel—seen, supported, and heard. “Her classroom feels like home,” one student shared. Another said simply, “She’s one of the best.”
Ms. Catalan’s dedication stretches far beyond the school day. Whether it’s staying after class to support a student, holding extra office hours, or quietly helping behind the scenes, her work ethic and kindness shine through. She brings intelligence, care, and a signature sense of humor to everything she does.
We are proud to honor Ms. Catalan as one of this year’s Holy Cross Educator of the Year. Her unwavering commitment to her students and the Moreau Catholic community is a true reflection of our mission—and a legacy that will continue to inspire for years to come.
The secret of success in dealing with those poor in self-love lies in winning their confidence.”
Blessed Basil Moreau
What is your fondest memory at Moreau Catholic High School?
My fondest memory at Moreau is my senior Kairos retreat. While I participated as a retreatant in the fall, it was especially fulfilling to come back as a leader. I remember feeling ecstatic when I was asked to return, as I secretly hoped to do so. As for the actual retreat, guiding my classmates and allowing them to feel safe enough to open up was beautiful to me. Overall, it was an honor to play a role in such a transformative experience—one that had already impacted me so profoundly just months before. Shout-out to Ms. Tabora and all of CMT for all of their amazing work.
What are you most proud of from your 4 years at Moreau Catholic High School?
From my past four years at Moreau, I am most proud of the progress and growth I’ve witnessed within our String Orchestra program. When I started as a Freshman, there were only seven students (most of them seniors) and the future of the program seemed uncertain. In response, I stepped up to support incoming students, leading warm-ups and fostering a welcoming environment. Today, our program is now more than triple the size. I’m not only proud of my own dedication, but of every student who has helped along the way.
What does it mean to you to be chosen to represent the Class of 2025 as their Valedictorian?
I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to share my story through my valedictory speech. The topic of overcoming learning differences is one that many people can relate to. After the ceremony, several people came up to me saying that my speech resonated with them. It was truly touching, and I’m grateful for the chance to connect over shared experiences.
What I’ll miss most about Moreau is the support I received every day from our caring faculty. There was something truly remarkable about working day to day knowing that every teacher genuinely believed in me and wanted to see me succeed. Also, I know that none of my accomplishments would have been possible without the guidance and encouragement I received through the Saints and Scholars program. Thank you, counseling department, for encouraging me to take charge of my high school journey.
stood out to you about Cal that made you choose it over the other schools you were accepted to?
For much of my time in high school, I had dreamed of moving to Los Angeles, convinced that completing rigorous music courses at a conservatory-style college was the only path forward. Ironically, Cal sat at the bottom of my college list, and I only applied because I figured, “why not?” But then, once acceptance letters started rolling in, I began to imagine myself actually attending these SoCal schools and started to reconsider what I truly wanted out of a college education. While I am certain that music is my greatest passion, I don’t want to give up on academics entirely. At a university with a lighter music program and phenomenal scholars, I’ll be able to explore all of my many other interests. While L.A. is the heart of the music industry, much more valuable to me at this stage of my life is the Bay Area. I have already made connections within the local music scene, and it helps to be in a familiar area while going through a period of change. It soon became clear that Cal was the perfect fit!
I will be pursuing a double major in Music and Cognitive Science at Cal. Music has been a lifelong passion, and it simply wouldn’t make sense for me to prioritize anything else. Outside of music, my interests are all over the place. I was pleased to discover that the Cognitive Science major at Cal follows a cross-disciplinary approach, drawing from anthropology, biology, computer science, education, linguistics, philosophy, psychology, and more. Now I will be able to explore my many interests while strengthening my knowledge of the human mind.
What are you most looking forward to in college?
I’m really looking forward to living in Bowles Hall. A historic castle nestled between the football stadium and the Greek Theatre (one of the most iconic concert venues in the area), Bowles Hall is independently student-governed. My mom was the project architect for its renovation in 2015, so I got to tour it when I was little. I’ll be living there for all four years, so I’ll have the chance to be mentored by older students, and then become a mentor myself when I’m older. Overall, Bowles Hall seems like a fun and unique community, and I’m excited to be part of its traditions and events in the years to come.
What are some “Words of Wisdom/Advice” you would like to leave your fellow Mariners?
From my Valedictorian Speech…“In times of division and uncertainty, self-respect allows us to make space for different voices—to see diversity as a strength, not a threat. In the words of Blessed Basil Moreau, ‘The secret of success in dealing with those poor in self-love lies in winning their confidence.’ The success he speaks of begins with individuals secure enough in their own value to in turn, empower others to be confident in theirs.”
No matter what you want to try, there will always be people rooting for you to do your very best.”
What is your fondest memory at Moreau Catholic High School?
My fondest memory at Moreau Catholic High School was my senior year Spirit Week leading up to Homecoming. This was no doubt filled with some of the most participation and fun our class has had together.
What are you most proud of from your 4 years at Moreau Catholic High School?
I am most proud of how involved I got at this school. I participated in various activities such as Rally Squad, Campus Ministry, Student Government, Student Ambassador, and much more. I believe that I served the community to the best of my ability.
What does it mean to you to be chosen to represent the Class of 2025 as their Salutatorian?
I was honored to learn I was chosen to represent the Class of 2025 as their Salutatorian. It signified to me that I was recognized as a valuable and honorable leader at our school. I am filled with so much joy and gratitude to be able to connect with the Class of 2025 in this way.
What will you miss most about Moreau Catholic High School?
I will forever miss the tight-knit community I built with everyone I knew at this institution. I have formed connections that will last a lifetime.
What stood out to you about St. Edward’s University that made you choose it over the other schools you were accepted to?
Knowing the experience and morals I have learned at a Holy Cross institution like Moreau Catholic, made me want to continue my education at a Holy Cross university, knowing that I will be joining another supportive and wonderful community.
What will you be studying at St. Edward’s University?
I will be studying Nursing at St. Edward’s.
What are you most looking forward to in college?
I am looking forward to focusing my attention on a subject I am passionate about, all the while making so many memories alongside my classmates.
What are some “Words of Wisdom/Advice” you would like to leave your fellow Mariners?
Never be afraid to be involved. No matter what you want to try, there will always be people rooting for you to do your very best. Don’t feel discouraged by negativity and doubt, but instead keep an open mind and use that as a drive to keep pushing. There will always be someone in your corner supporting you.
Cecilia Silva ’73 Reflects on Moreau’s First Co-Ed Class
When Cecilia Silva crossed the graduation stage in 1973, she wasn’t just receiving a diploma—she was making history. As a member of Moreau High School’s firstever co-educational graduating class, Cecilia was among the pioneering young women who helped redefine what was possible within those once all-male halls. With courage and determination, she and her classmates stepped into uncharted territory, shaping a bold new chapter in the school’s story.
Now, more than five decades later, Cecilia reflects on that transformative time— what changed, what remained, and how those early experiences helped shape her character, values, and lifelong connection to community and faith. Her story is one of resilience, adaptability, and trailblazing spirit—a testament to what it means to lead by example, even when the path forward isn’t clearly marked.
In this edition of The Vector, we proudly honor Cecilia Silva and the Class of 1973 for opening doors, breaking barriers, and laying the foundation for generations of Mariners who continue to walk in their footsteps.
By Cecilia Silva ’73
When I think back to my time at Moreau, I remember the thrill of being part of something new. I was a member of the first co-ed class—a milestone that, at the time, didn’t feel as monumental as it does in hindsight. We were young, just starting high school, and this new chapter was simply our normal. But looking back, I realize how unique it was to walk the halls without older girls ahead of us. In many ways, it felt like we had the school to ourselves.
There was a certain joy in being the upper classmen girls on campus. We were looked after with care by the staff and supported as we found our place in the Moreau community. There were definitely moments of adjustment—some of the older boys understandably struggled with the cultural shift. But overall, we were warmly welcomed and quickly embraced by the Mariner way.
One of the most profound differences I noticed in transitioning from the public school system to Moreau’s Catholic environment was the emphasis on service. It wasn’t just a requirement—it was a value that shaped how we saw ourselves and our role in the world. Respect, accountability, and a commitment to community were woven into daily life. We were given real opportunities to live out those ideals, and as the first class of girls, we carried the added responsibility of setting the tone for future lady Mariners. The way we showed up— how we acted, how we led—was a reflection of the school itself.
What I carry with me most from those years are the family values Moreau instilled. It was a politically tense time in the world, yet our ethics classes encouraged us to ask questions, think critically, and stay grounded in truth. That progressive yet principled approach helped me form a strong sense of integrity—one that still guides me today.
And now, decades later, I look at my daughters, who also graduated from Moreau, and my grandchildren, who attend Moreau, and I feel nothing but pride. Watching their faith formation grow, in a place that values academic excellence, spiritual growth, and personal integrity, is deeply meaningful. It’s a legacy I feel honored to have started in my family.
To current and future Mariners, I offer this: Hold onto the values Moreau instills, especially during turbulent times. Lean on what you learn there and always remember to respect yourself by valuing humanity, as you have been taught how to treat your fellow man. Also, have fun and enjoy learning. Embrace the world around you by trying new things, asking questions and listening to others.”
Scan the QR code to view all of the photos from Baccalaureate Mass:
Scan the QR code to view all of the photos from graduation:
We sincerely apologize to Keanna Ramos and her family for our error on Graduation Day.
Keanna proudly graduated with the highest academic honors—Summa Cum Laude. This fall, she will be continuing her journey at Pepperdine University. Congratulations, Keanna!
The 2024–2025 school year was one for the record books at Moreau Catholic High School, as Winter and Spring sports continued the momentum from an already standout Fall season—bringing home titles, breaking records, and making school history.
Boys’ Basketball captured the North Coast Section (NCS) Division II Championship— Coach Knight’s fifth at Moreau Catholic—and advanced to the Sweet 16 in the CIF State Division I Tournament. Girls’ Basketball placed third in NCS Division III and reached the Elite 8 in the CIF Division IV Tournament. Boys’ Soccer earned backto-back NCS tournament appearances, while Girls’ Soccer made major strides from last season. Rally Squad placed third at Regionals, securing a spot at Nationals in Anaheim.
Track & Field standout Krish Sandhu ranked 22nd in California for the 300m hurdles, while Sherry Liu claimed her fourth consecutive NCS Division II Badminton title. Baseball and Softball both hosted NCS playoff games, thriving under new leadership. Boys’ Volleyball made program history by qualifying for NCS Division I and repeated as MVAL champions. Multiple Track & Field athletes advanced to the Meet of Champions, and Alfred Valdes narrowly missed the cut in NCS Boys’ Golf. Boys’ Tennis, Swimming, and both Lacrosse teams also saw significant progress and near-qualifying performances.
Two Mariners signed their National Letters of Intent this spring: Kylah Isidro (Basketball, University of La Verne) and Giselle Henley (Volleyball, UC Merced). We celebrate their achievements and wish them continued success at the collegiate level.
With program firsts, titles, and personal bests, this year has truly been a landmark season for Moreau Catholic Athletics.
The Class of 2025’s College Destinations
By Vihaan Kant ’27, Founder & Team Captain
Science Olympiad is a prestigious national STEM competition featuring 23 events across biology, physics, earth science, chemistry—and even hands-on engineering challenges like building functional aircraft or robotic vehicles. It demands deep academic mastery—cell biology, genetics, analytical chemistry, electromagnetism—and high levels of commitment, preparing students for future STEM careers.
When I arrived at Moreau Catholic High School, I noticed a gap: we had many talented, curious STEM students but no structured outlet for competition and collaboration. Drawing on my own middle-school Science Olympiad experience—where I saw how building community and tackling real-world problems deepened my passion for science—I decided to launch Moreau’s first team.
What I love most about Science Olympiad is how it turns classroom theory into hands-on practice. Instead of asking, “When will I ever use this?”, we get to design flying planes, analyze mock disease outbreaks, investigate forensic scenarios, and perform advanced chemical procedures. Each event pushes us to apply what we learn in new, creative ways.
Our inaugural season reached its high point at Stanford University’s invitational. After months of late-night practices and problem-solving sessions, stepping onto that campus felt like a powerful validation of our efforts. My teammates moved confidently from one event to the next, and together we celebrated how far we’d come and how much further we could go.
We owe so much to our moderator, Mr. Reaker. Even though he was new to Science Olympiad, he became our team’s backbone—mentoring each of us, offering personalized guidance, and staying dedicated through every challenge.
Looking ahead, I envision Science Olympiad at Moreau as more than just a competitive team. My goal is to cultivate a thriving scientific community where students freely explore STEM interests, collaborate across disciplines, and solve real-world problems. By inspiring teamwork, curiosity, and innovation, I hope our program will empower tomorrow’s scientists and become an enduring pillar of the Moreau community.
By Dr. Elizabeth Berkes
Can you get college credits while still in high school without taking an AP class? That dream became a reality this spring for a lucky group of Moreau Catholic High School students.
Moreau Catholic has officially set sail on an exciting new educational adventure: a concurrent enrollment program in partnership with Cal State East Bay. This innovative program allows high school students to enroll in college-level courses, earning real 4-year college credit that goes straight onto their permanent college transcript and can’t be ignored by a college or university like Advanced Placement scores. Yes, you read that right—our students are now Mariners and Pioneers (that’s the CSUEB mascot for those keeping score).
The program quietly launched this past spring with a small pilot cohort—just five trailblazing Mariners chosen by their school counselor for their maturity, academic readiness, and pioneering spirit. And because we know Mariners thrive with their crew nearby, we intentionally kept the cohort tightknit to foster both academic support and, let’s be honest, convenient carpooling.
Their first plunge into college academics? A fascinating Public Health course titled Investigating Disease Outbreaks and Epidemics (PH 270). Under the guidance of Dr. Ryan Gamba, an Associate Professor whose credentials read like a greatest hits of California universities (UC Davis, UC Berkeley, and back again for a Ph.D.), students spent their Monday and Wednesday afternoons from 4:00 to 5:15 p.m. tackling the science of epidemics. Dr. Gamba—a seasoned epidemiologist and nutrition scientist—didn’t just teach; he welcomed the high school students with open arms and worked seamlessly with Moreau Catholic administration to make sure their first college experience was both rigorous and rewarding.
Behind every great academic adventure is a team of advocates making it happen. The program is the brainchild of Dr. Elizabeth Berkes, Director of Advancement at Moreau Catholic and also the Director of the school’s multiple CSUEB partnerships launched this year. Dr. Berkes worked closely with Dean Danika LeDuc, Ph.D., from Cal State East Bay’s College of Science, to design a program that wouldn’t just challenge students—but would also be accessible. Thanks to their efforts, Moreau Catholic students received a fee waiver to eliminate financial barriers, ensuring this opportunity was open to all qualified students.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Moreau Catholic program without the full support of school leadership, including Principal Mrs. Colleen Galloway, Assistant Principal Mrs. Kristin Hannon, and Counseling Department Chair, Mr. Jonathan Aguilar, who are already making plans to expand the program for the 20252026 school year.
With the pilot semester complete, Moreau Catholic is already charting the course for what’s next. More students will soon have the chance to earn college credits, explore academic passions early, and experience life as a college student—all while staying anchored by the support of their Mariner Family.
Consider it just another way Moreau Catholic is preparing students to lead with heart, act with courage, and serve with compassion—whether in high school, college, or beyond.
Stay tuned… the best is yet to come!
This summer, Moreau Catholic High School students aren’t just enjoying the sunshine—they’re hard at work unlocking the secrets of California’s most endangered plants. Thanks to months of preparation, hands-on training, and a dash of good old-fashioned Mariner ambition, a dozen students from Moreau Catholic’s STEAM Forward Club have landed coveted summer internships at Cal State East Bay’s Green Biome Institute—a program on the frontlines of plant conservation and biotechnology.
The story of this remarkable collaboration started back in fall 2024, when STEAM Forward Club President Anika Bhat (pictured left) and her fellow student leaders set their sights on the Green Biome Institute internship—an opportunity usually reserved for college students and advanced young scientists.
The club spent the first half of the school year building excitement for science on campus, organizing hands-on experiments open to the entire student body. But when spring rolled around, it was time to get serious about their internship goals.
First up: a field trip to Rondo Therapeutics, a Bay Area biotech company, where students got a behind-the-scenes look at the cutting-edge world of therapeutic antibody development. They were hosted by none other than Dr. Shelley Force Aldred, founder, CEO, and Mariner parent, who shared her journey from scientist to biotech entrepreneur—proving that science can take you places you never imagined.
Then, it was back to campus for some serious lab prep. Under the guidance of their faculty advisor, Dr. Elizabeth Berkes (who doubles as Moreau Catholic’s Director of Advancement and biotech enthusiast), students attended a series of pipetting workshops to sharpen their lab skills. The grand finale? Each student completed a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) experiment, simulating a forensic science crime lab—a rite of passage for aspiring molecular biologists.
Armed with newfound confidence—and plenty of pipette practice—the students headed to Cal State East Bay’s Braddock Center for Science and Innovation for their official internship orientation. There, they met Professor Chris Baysdorfer, Director of the Green Biome Institute (GBI), a research initiative with a mission as noble as it is urgent: to preserve the genetic diversity of California’s most imperiled plants.
The Green Biome Institute isn’t just another research lab. Its work lies at the intersection of conservation and cutting-edge science, with projects that safeguard the DNA of rare and threatened species, many of which are at risk from climate change, wildfires, and human encroachment. The institute collaborates with government agencies, botanical gardens, and researchers to collect, analyze, and store genetic material from plants found nowhere else on Earth—many of which play critical roles in their ecosystems.
As part of the internship, Moreau Catholic students now find themselves working in this high-stakes environment, assisting with genetic analysis, plant tissue culture, and other essential lab techniques. Several of these student interns are hoping to earn an even rarer honor: an invitation to continue their research during the school year as official high school research interns at GBI.
Explore the work of the Green Biome Institute at www.csueastbay.edu/csci/green-biome-institute/index.html
Because saving the planet, it turns out, starts in the lab.
Mariner Explorers Hands-On Science: Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead
Eighteen middle school students participated in the newly revamped Mariner Explorers program, “Hands-On Science: Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead.” Led by Yericza Quintero, a rising Cal State East Bay senior who completed the Hands-On Science Teaching class, the two-week, all-day program sparked curiosity and a love for science through engaging, hands-on activities.
Moreau Catholic’s Jazz Ensemble wowed the crowd at the legendary Yoshi’s Jazz Club in Oakland on the evening of Monday, March 24th. This marked a spectacular first show under new Band Director Justin Firmeza ’20.
Former director, Ted Newton, who led the program for 39 years, was in attendance and enjoyed the show as a VIP, celebrating the next chapter of Moreau Catholic’s jazz legacy.
For a chance to say thank you to the teacher who gave his talent and his passion, help us name the band room for Mr. Ted Newton by scanning below.
Our brand-new Br. Donald Blauvelt Performing Arts Center (BPAC) opens in just a few weeks!
This building is equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and sound, a beautiful classroom for dazzling performances, and a vibrant gathering courtyard to host class Masses and casual gatherings.
Your support will help bring the BPAC to and help us showcase the incredible talents of our students.
Moreau Catholic High School alumnus Nikko Reed ’21 has begun his professional football journey after signing with the Los Angeles Chargers as an undrafted free agent (UDFA).
A standout at Oregon, Reed’s signing was part of a group of seven Ducks from the 2024 national champion Oregon squad to join NFL teams as UDFAs. For Reed, this opportunity is just the beginning as he aims to make an impact in NFL training camp and beyond.
What’s next?
Reed will attend the Chargers’ rookie camp this summer and compete for a roster spot in the upcoming training camp starting July 17 at The Bolt (chargers.com). Stay tuned as our hometown hero transitions from Oregon standout to NFL cornerback.
Here are a few questions we asked Nikko about his time as a Mariner and his future as a Charger!
Can you share how it felt to hear that the Los Angeles Chargers wanted you on their team?
It was a surreal moment. Hearing that they wanted me on their team was very exciting. It felt good to know that an NFL team reached out to ME to be a part of their organization. Although it was a dream come true, I wasn’t shocked because I’ve been preparing for this moment my whole life.
How did your time at Moreau Catholic help shape you—both on and off the field?
Moreau taught me the power of discipline and hard work. From making sure I showed up to school for 6 am workouts to helping me learn the balance of being a student-athlete which shaped how I approached college.
Are there any teachers, coaches, or mentors at Moreau who had a lasting impact on you?
My football coach, Robert Gatrell, had a lasting impact on me. Everything I’ve been taught over the years, was rooted in the foundation he built at Moreau. He’s a coach who’s had experience in the NFL so I took his advice with me after leaving high school.
What are you most excited about as you begin your NFL career?
Community & Legacy. I’m most excited about what’s coming next, which is competing in training camp and playing in my first NFL preseason game.
What does it mean to you to represent Moreau Catholic at the professional level?
I am a proud alumnus of Moreau Catholic. I will always remember the experiences and lessons. It means a lot to have the support of a prestigious high school. Once a Mariner, always a Mariner.
The Miniature Moreau High School Class of ’71 (A) held their reunion at Tom Binder’s place in Washington State in August 2024. From the left: Greg Palin, Pat Forte, Peter Churchill, Alan Andree, Tom Binder, Jeff Clausen, and Peter Killeen. We’re the Class of ’71, and we’re all 71!
’72
The Class of 1972 (B) started the Baseball Season by attending a San Francisco Giants vs. Milwaukee Brewers game April 24th, Giants winning 6 to 5. Attending were Pat Paich, Mark Van Metre, Brian Whitaker, Rick Nagy, Roque Samarron, Gary Mason, Guy Holley, John Dykzeul, Mitch Sill, and Brad Faria with two non Moreau friends Bob and John. Brad Faria has promised Roque Samarron that the next game will be in Sacramento to see the A’s play as he came from the Reno, Nevada area to S.F. A Great time was had by all riding the ferry and watching the game.
’72
Greg Dannis was recently selected as the 2025 Hillsborough Citizen of the Year (COY) by the Hillsborough City School District All Parents Group in recognition of his 17 years of service as a school Board Trustee (and still going!). The COY recognizes individuals who have made a significant and long-lasting contribution to the District and greater Hillsborough community. In addition to his Board role, Greg still actively practices law in his firm of Dannis Woliver Kelley representing districts and community colleges throughout the state.
’93
Omar Morales (C) signed an exclusive publishing contract with Amazon’s Comixology Originals for a new graphic novel titled, Major Thomás. It is about a Chicano farmboy that becomes NASA’s first hyperspace traveler, and just as him dreams are about to blast off, he gets lost in the middle of a space war, where action and adventure abound. The book released on March 25th, 2025 and is available worldwide via the Kindle platform. You can keep up with Omar and his comic book projects at theforcemedia.com.
’94
Manny Moreno (D) is currently serving as the Chair and Chief Elected Officer of the Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA). He is also the President of PJMB Commercial, Inc., a real estate services company based in Pleasanton, CA. Manny and his wife, Ruby live in Mountain House, CA, where they have resided for the last 18 years. They have two children, Lauren and Dominic, both of whom attend St. Mary’s College of California in Moraga. Their daughter is in the Class of 2025 and will graduate with her B.S. in Politics. Connect with him on LinkedIn or Instagram.
’15
Angela Pedrigal (E) was recently appointed to the Alameda County Commission on the Status of Women (COSW). The Alameda County Commission on the Status of Women advocates for the advancement and equitable treatment of women across all ages. The commission promotes social equality in housing, employment, healthcare, education, and community services through advocacy, policy recommendations, and engagement, striving for a more inclusive and just society. “I’m incredibly grateful for my upbringing, strong foundation, and Holy Cross education at Moreau Catholic—a community that nurtured my passion for public service! I’m excited to bring my Mariner spirit to the COSW and serve the East Bay community, a place I’ve proudly called home for over two decades.”
’20
Jaelynn Cid (F) started running marathons in her 2nd year of college, and in 2024 qualified to run the Boston Marathon. Running Boston was like no other race she had run. The atmosphere, the people, the course, it was all so different but also so amazing. Fortunately for Jaelynn, Boston’s notorious Heartbreak Hill did not break her thanks to a Pabst Blue Ribbon someone was handing out at mile 18. And while Boston is her 6th marathon it’s only the beginning as she attempts to run the six world major marathons.
Antonia Celeste Dias (G) graduated from the University of San Francisco, Summa Cum Laude (and in only 3 years!), with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Design, and a Minor in English in Writing. She will move to Ireland this fall to pursue a master’s degree at Trinity College Dublin.
Mariners, we want to know what’s going on in your life!
Submit your photos and stories so your classmates and friends can know what you are doing these days. Please scan the QR code or copy the link below.
www.moreaucatholic.org/ alumni/vector-submit-a-wave
Mark J. Azzarito ’86
Kevin Chapman Sr. father of Kevin Chapman ’25
Juanita Cisek, Board of Trustees Emeritus
Roberto de León ’85
David Dunlap
father of Craig Dunlap ’85, Traci (Dunlap) Franco ’87, and Tiffany (Dunlap) O’Connor ’97
Gregory Galati
father of Aidan Arnold-Galati ’20 and Ben Arnold-Galati ’23
Sidney Greenbaum
father of Ben Greenbaum ’00, Faculty
Kathleen Hoffman ’80
Renee LaPlante ’75
James Tominaga
grandfather of Matthew Tominaga, Staff
Roy Towers Jr. ’73
Ilona Walsh
mother of Frederick Walsh ’86
Would you like to advertise your business for all of Mission Boulevard to see?! Would you like your business to be featured at any, or all, of our sporting venues?
Sponsorships are available at any level that fits your budget!
Please scan QR code below to learn more!
www.moreaucatholic.org/sponsorships
Join us for a special day of reflection, celebration, and community as we honor 60 years of Moreau Catholic High School and the generations of Mariners who have helped shape its legacy.
As part of this milestone celebration, we will proudly dedicate the new Brother Donald Blauvelt, C.S.C. Performing Arts Center (BPAC) with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony—marking an exciting new chapter in our commitment to excellence in the arts.
Moreau Catholic High School is thrilled to announce the upcoming 42nd Annual MCHS Golf Classic supporting the Brother Gary Stone, C.S.C. Scholarship Fund to be held on Monday, October 27, 2025 at Moraga Country Club.
FORMAT
Four-Person Scramble
TIME 11:30 am, Shotgun Start
FOURSOME: $950
Includes lunch and dinner for FOUR
INDIVIDUAL: $250
Includes lunch and dinner for ONE
DINNER ONLY: $85
TEE SPONSOR: $250
1 Tee Sign, Name recognition in event program
MASTER: $5,000
Includes TWO Foursomes | Tee Sign placed on Hole #1 | Full Page Ad on Inside Cover of Program | ONE 6x4 ft Banner placed at Registration | Logo Recognition | Dinner for EIGHT
PRO: $2,500
Includes ONE Foursome, Tee Sign placed on Hole of Choice (2-18), Full Page Ad in Program, Logo Recognition | Dinner for FOUR
AMATEUR: $1,000
Includes TWO Player Registration | Tee Sign placed at Putting Green | Half Page Ad in Program | Logo Recognition | Dinner for TWO
GREEN & GOLD SPONSOR: $500
Includes ONE Registration | ONE Tee Sign | 1/4 Page ad in event program | Dinner for ONE
To register or for more information, scan this QR code:
www.moreaucatholic.org/golf-classic