Priorities #67: Spring 2017

A Magazine of the Priory

Issue #67 · Spring 2017

TRUDELLE

FAMILY TRACK A Legacy for a Legend

Abbot Mark Cooper, OSB Father John Fortin, OSB Father Benet Phillips, OSB Father Martin Mager, OSB Father Maurus Nemeth, OSB

Dear Priory Community, It is hard to imagine that the end of the year is just a few weeks down the road. This celebration year of the 60th anniversary of the founding of the monastery by Father Egon has allowed us to reflect in a spirit of gratitude for the Priory of today and the values which are as strong as they were in 1956. While the landscape has certainly changed, the Priory’s mission has remained steadfast “to assist all students in creating meaningful and balanced lives.”

Board of Trustees Brian Axe Catherine Boyle Dave Brett Mike Calbert Mike Carusi Laura Cornish Craig Dauchy Eileen DiGiorgio Kathryn Fitzgerald Mark Gainey Cathy Gawne Phil Golden ‘76 Karen Gregory Sally Harris Eric Harrison Kathryn Henkens Sandy Herz Bob Larson Father Jonathan Licari, OSB Nancy Newman Guy Nohra Stan Pierson Stewart Putney Ray Rothrock Kari Rust Maureen Sansbury Dave Schinski Sally Screven Edward Sun ‘87 Phil Young

In February I was fortunate to accompany eight Priory girls along with Father Martin and Britta Brown to a service trip in New Orleans. We spent the week fixing homes that were damaged in Hurricane Katrina. Our crew worked hard, crawling under homes to attach insulation, painting, spackling, mudding, and measuring twice and cutting once for baseboards. It felt good to give back, and those eight girls, or the “Dream Team” as I like to call them, came home with a feeling of accomplishment. Be sure to read the article in this issue written by student Eva El Fishawy ’18 for more details on our adventure.

Priory is rich in history, and this spring we had some historic firsts!

• The boys and girls basketball teams both advanced to the NorCal playoffs.

• The boys took home second place in CCS and the girls made school history with their first CCS Championship.

• The first girls lacrosse team took to the field, and the bustling team of over thirty girls are already surprising their competitors with how quickly they are picking up the game.

• The “Enchanted Forest” Gala lived up to its name, and the magical evening topped school records by raising over a million dollars. We are so very thankful for our generous Priory community.

Priorities magazine is published in the Winter, Spring and Summer by Woodside Priory School for its alumni, parents, students, neighbors, and friends.

Contact the Communications Office at 650-851-6131 or the school at 650-851-8221.

Editor: Kelly Sargent Contributing Writers: Melissa Barrow, Matthew Carusi, Suzanne Couch, Eva El Fishawy, Kelly Sargent, Thea Sullivan Design/Production: Jim Kirkland, J. Ennis Kirkland Creative Services Photos: Hovey Clark, Justin Kase Conder, Gardner Grout, Jennifer Hammer, Jim Kirkland, Sam Linville, Father Martin Mager, Shawn Matson, Kelly Sargent Printing: Colorprint, Mark W. Allen Proofreaders: Diane Lanctot, Matt Lai, Michelle Taffe

Chapel Services

Masses at 7:15 a.m. Monday-Saturday 9:30 a.m. Sunday 11:00 a.m. Sunday Hungarian service All are welcome.

On the Cover

Track hurdlers (l-r) Betty Chen ‘18, Miranda Prince ‘18, and Emma Jaeger ‘19 on the new Trudelle Family Track.

Our Building Ingenuity campaign is in full swing with four building projects in progress. On the lower campus, the pool renovation is well underway to create a swimming/water polo pool. Also on the lower campus near the new track and field, we are building two track houses. One will be a team locker room and the other building will be for storage of track and field equipment. The upper campus view is changing drastically with the STREAM building construction well underway and a new entry pavilion for the Franklin Garden. Just imagine what this campus will look like one year from now for our 60th anniversary!

The season of Lent has just come to a close and the tradition of Lenten Talents began some fifteen years ago. The concept for Lenten Talents comes from the Parable of the Talents in Matthew’s Gospel and happens during the forty day season of Lent.

Each student, faculty, and staff member is given a single dollar and challenged to multiply that dollar using their talents. The Priory community is full of highly talented people in a wide range of areas. For instance faculty member Tess Tran made homemade kombucha and almond milk; Father Martin made beautifully hand-crafted cutting boards; Dot Kowal delivered flower arrangements; and George Schnurle made 3D printed nameplates. Students have done bake sales, made snowcones, bracelets, babysitting, and other creative endeavors to multiply their dollar. All of the proceeds are donated to the Rebuilding Together project in which over thirty Priory volunteers helped to renovate a local home in need of repair. Lenten Talents is just one of the many significant Priory traditions.

I know you will enjoy reading this issue of Priorities and seeing once again how we live out our Benedictine heritage and ministry. May you always Ora et Labora.

Tim Molak Head of School

HEAD OF SCHOOL

Board of Directors

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Spring at a Glance MS Athletics US Athletics Performing Arts Visual Arts Track and Field Dedication Student Spotlight: Genevieve Chiu-Schaepe Student Spotlight: Matthew Carusi

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New Orleans Service Trip Service Week Living and Learning in Balance Volunteer Appreciation Last Volunteer Standing: Peg Phelps Gala Class News Sustainability Monastery News

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Woodside Priory School Celebrating 59 Years of Benedictine Education

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2. The pool construction is well underway.

3. Gabe Tang has a hearty laugh with Rick Riebhoff at the electives fair.

4. Morgan Serughetti ‘17 takes aim at the annual dodgeball tournament.

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5. Dodgeball champs (l-r) Max Stephan ‘17, Nico Arslaner ‘17, Alicia Talancon ‘17, Matt Boyle ‘17, Grant Phelps ‘17, and Zach Weiss ‘17 have won the coveted dodgeball tournament three times.

4 1 6. MS Dodgeball Champs (l-r) Saul Mora ‘21, Teddy Pasquesi ‘21, Paul Barton ‘21, Zach Zafron ‘21, Ethan Veghte ‘21, Ellie Barton ‘23, and Nina Pasquesi ‘23.

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1. The 2016-17 ASB members as they prepared to run the dodgeball tournament.

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2. Maisy McWright ‘19 receives ashes from Dr. Owens on Ash Wednesday.

3. Father Martin with his 33rd tall clock!

4. Flying high is Grant Whitman ‘20 at the

7. Height was not a problem with this dodgeball team!

iFly field trip.

8. Will Tomlinson ‘23 wound up

5. Students eagerly filled out notes for alumni during the #Love4Priory campaign.

at the MS dodgeball tournament.

6. Sixth graders filled bags with groceries during their retreat.

7. Noah Willis ‘18, Vincent Cullinan ‘18, and Devin Schinski ‘18 worked in the Tenderloin during the Junior retreat.

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8. Hovey Clark gave two thumbs (and a cast) up for the hardworking freshmen who worked in the garden during their class retreat.

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SPRING AT A GLANCE

SPRING AT A GLANCE

1. Kindra Briggs’ English class regularly meets with chef Claudia Geoly in the Franklin Garden.

MARCH MADNESS!!!

1. Devin Rautio ‘18, Geri Tibold ‘18, Mick Jeon ‘18,

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and Kieran Pandey ‘18 are fashionably challenged on “Fashion Disaster Day.”

2. John Max Byrne ‘22 pulled off the triple tie look and won the Fashion Disaster contest.

3. Carmen Akamine-Alvarez ‘20 and Arjun Kumar ‘19 are relaxed on Pajama Day. 4. Rachel Goines ‘17, Margo Heron ‘17, and Alicia Talancon ‘17 are furry and cozy on Pajama Day.

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5. Preppy Day brought out the lacrosse in Yuri Morales ‘17 and Rheya Jain ‘17.

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6. Students enjoyed putting around on the green on Preppy Day.

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SPRING AT A GLANCE

SPRING AT A GLANCE

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9 3 1. Lucas Harris ‘18 and Isaac Roybal ‘18 were a huge hit with their snowcone sales for Lenten Talents.

2. Matt McWright accompanied by his daughter Maisy McWright ‘19, offered handmade truffles for sale.

3. Alumni parent Leo Kusber visits the Priory on a weekly basis to bring fresh eggs from his chicken farm!

4. Kathy Gonzalez and Amy Payne raised Lenten Talents money with their fortune teller foresights.

5. Father Martin with his handmade cutting board

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that he auctioned off for Lentent Talents.

6. Mandarin students bond with pandas during Lunar New Year.

7. Lots of plaid and smiles at the Lumberjack Mile fun run.

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7. Zoe Weiss ‘18 captured Morgan Serughetti ‘18 on Safari Day.

8. Amazing cheetah makeup by Katy Oseguera ‘17 with AnaMalia Veamatahau ‘19 and Gabby Ruiz ‘19.

MS ATHLETICS

SPRING AT A GLANCE

1. Saint Anselm student teachers presented Tim Molak and Father Martin a Saint Anselm banner during their weeklong study at the Priory.

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2. Claudia Tamer ‘17 and Alicia Talancon ‘17 have fun playing basketball with Special Olympics competitors.

3. Konstantin Larin ‘17 strikes the mat with all his might during the self-defense class for seniors.

4. A powerful front kick by Sam McCabe ‘17.

5. Rachel Goines ‘17 and Grant Phelps ‘17 work with students at the Special Olympics.

6. The Retreat Team at their Reflect and Renewal retreat.

7. Model United Nations members in New York during

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a MUN competition.

8. The Robotics team had an amazing season. The team finished regular play ranked #3 (of 47 teams) and advanced to the finals in the #1 ranked alliance.

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4 1. Harry McAdam ‘23 takes a long shot for the JV boys basketball team.

2. Will Tomlinson ‘23 quickly maneuvers down the court.

3. It’s a foot race for Calvin Katz ‘21 during the VB boys basketball game.

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4. Zach Zafran ‘21 drives to the hoop.

5. Ethan Veghte ‘21 powers the ball down field for the

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VA boys soccer team.

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6. A great save by Will Tomlinson ‘23.

7. Jessica Fathers ‘22 slips through the defense for the

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VB girls basketball team.

8. Emily Stanger ‘21 goes in for a quick score.

9. Quick feet and precision by Julianna Birn ‘22.

10. The JV girls soccer team.

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US ATHLETICS

US ATHLETICS

1. Winter sports All League winners.

2. Matthew Barber ‘19 charges ahead

Girls Basketball Makes School History with First CCS Championship!

for the boys soccer team.

The girls basketball team captured the first Central Coast Section victory with a 69-48 win over St. Francis-Watsonville.

3. Morgan Serughetti ‘18 with an amazing sliding save.

4. The boys JV basketball team with point guard Jaeden Barker ‘19 leading the way.

5. Ayo Aderoboye ‘18 with an easy dunk during a CCS playoff game.

6. Nico Arslaner ‘17 is sky high with his defensive block.

7. Lala Nui ‘20 at the CCS championship game.

8. Amaya Gray ‘20 with the girls soccer team.

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9. Alicia Talancon ‘17 outruns her defender.

10. The girls soccer team

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won the West Bay Athletic League-Skyline Division Championship!

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1. Middle school students perform a fun and lively “Staying’Alive” song and dance.

Upper School Show

2. The Pops Concert was full of talented performances including Grace Beriker ‘20, who performed “The Wind” by Cat Stevens.

The 1992 Los Angeles riots left over 50 people dead and over 2,000 injured. Shortly after the riots, Anna Deavere Smith conducted interviews with over 300 people in Los Angeles, from politicians to shop owners to rioters to police and everyone in between. This play is the result, and every word from the play is word-for-word from those interviews.

– Except from John Sugden in play program

3. Caleb Pollack ‘19 rocked out with “Nobody But Me” by Michael Bublé with his group.

4. Zoe Weiss ‘18 crushed it with her performance of “I Want You Back” by the Jackson 5 at the Day for the Arts.

PERFORMING ARTS

PERFORMING ARTS

Twilight: Los Angeles 1992

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5. Kieran Pandey ‘18 has a great smile and rhythm on the drums.

6. Freshmen students proudly display the fun artwork on Day for the Arts.

7. Ada Fathers ‘20 and Justine Biscay ‘20 glow with their flowery face paint.

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2. Glass goblet by Genevieve Chiu-Schaepe ‘19.

3. Glass plate by Isabella Ajaka ‘18.

4. Digital photography photo by Vincent Cullinan ‘18.

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Faculty “Hidden Talents” photography assignment resulted in eye-catching photos and layouts by the class.

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5. Father Martin spread by Grace Beriker ‘20.

6. David Neale spread by Max Habeck ‘18.

7. Damien Cohen spread by Elizabeth Duncan ‘18.

8. Ryanne Saddler spread by Ally Sinclair ‘20.

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VISUAL ARTS

VISUAL ARTS

1. The Metals and Computer Science classes teamed up to design these beautifully crafted wine glasses for the Gala.

FEATURE

FEATURE

Ready,Set,Go!

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On April 18th the Priory community gathered on the new track and field to mark the official opening of the track. A dedication was done by Father Maurus as he spoke about the history of the field from what he remembered fifty years ago was a “low swampy area.” He recalled the origin of the soccer field parcel: “In the early seventies a wonderful benefactor, Mrs. Mici Briggs bought it from the Gambettas and donated it to the school so that we might build a second sport field.“ “The renovation became a wonderful community effort. Soon earth moving equipment arrived (all donated by parents who owned construction companies) and started to shape the area, cutting the hillside, bringing truckloads of soil from other parts of the campus, filling up the swamp.

Then students, faculty, parents and monks with shovels and rakes in hand, [we] shaped our new soccer field.”

Inspirational speeches by Head of School Tim Molak, Athletic Director Mark Stogner, Building and Grounds board

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1. Tim Molak welcomes the crowd.

2. Building and Grounds board member and alumni parent, Dave

member David Brett, and student body Vice-President Ryan Calbert ‘17 emphasized the excitement about the new field and how it will enhance both the athletic program and the entire school.

The track was officially named, the “Trudelle Family Track,” with Paul Trudelle graciously accepting the honor and speaking of his family’s love of running. The field will continue to be named for Father Christopher, the Headmaster, soccer coach and special Benedictine monk who inspired both on and off the field.

The event was topped off with a thirty-yard race down the track between Pax the Panther and the Robotics robot. Students lined the track cheering in excitement to see whether animal or machine would win. In the end, both Pax the Panther and the Priory community were winners on the stunning new track and field we now call home.

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Brett encouraged everyone to get out and use the track.

3. Paul Trudelle thanked everyone after the track was named the “Trudelle Family Track.”

4. The entire Priory community gathered on the field.

5. Athletic Director, Mark Stogner expressed his enthusiasm for what the track and field will do for the athletic program.

6. Father Maurus blessed the track and field.

Blessing of Priory Track and Field

By Father Martin

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FEATURE

FEATURE

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Almighty God, as we, the Priory community, gather on this special day we ask your blessing on this athletic field and track. We ask that these facilities may always be a place where the spirit of good sportsmanship will prevail and where athletes, coaches, trainers and fans will enjoy healthy competition. We ask that you will give us the grace to always welcome and respect opposing teams – and then beat them – fairly. We pray that all who participate here may be kept healthy and free from injury, and we ask that, in victory or defeat they will stand proud because they have given the very best until the final whistle has blown and the last event has taken place. We also ask your blessings on all those who have made this day a reality by their financial and moral support. We ask your blessing on all members of the Priory community, on the Portola Valley community and its leaders and all who are with us to celebrate this day. We ask you to bless us Lord, and be with us always. Amen.

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4 1. Students arrive for the track dedication.

2. Vincent Cullinan ‘18, Max Fairon ‘18 and David Moseley, who are part of the Drone Club, took aerial photos and videos of the event.

3. A full stage of presenters and important supporters who made the track and field become a reality.

4. Pax the Panther raced the Robotics Club robot to the delight of the crowd.

5. The Robotics Club team that drove the robot. *Aerial photo courtesy of the Priory Drone Club.

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6. Wako Morimoto ‘17 distributed special commemorative bracelets to each attendee.

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Genevieve Chiu-Schaepe ’19 launched Wildher to inspire girls and women of all ages to explore the outdoors. What is Wildher? Read on to hear from Genevieve herself!

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Wild About

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Wildher is for girls outdoors, brought to you by women from around the world. It’s a website and Instagram page that features the words and photos of passionate women to inspire ladies of all ages to discover and embrace their passions in the outdoors.

Wildher’s mission statement: Supporting genuine voices to stand up for our place outside.

I kept the mission pretty broad to encapsulate the many ways Wildher can be interpreted and accepted. To me, though, it has two distinct meanings. First of all, I want to inspire and empower women to feel comfortable in the outdoors and to discover the places that they resonate with the most. Secondly and equally as important, I want to encourage the protection of these places we belong to and hold closest to us.

What inspired you to create Wildher?

The power of nature that I experience when I’m outdoors.

I love being outside because I feel like the most accurate portrayal of myself, with fewer distractions and more of the headspace that leads to greater change. Being in touch with the outdoors has had such a positive impact on my life and I thought it would be so cool if more girls could experience it all for themselves.

From the idea conception to when the site went live, how long did the process take you?

The idea came to me out of the blue last Mother’s Day, so May of 2016. At first I really struggled because I didn’t know to articulate the idea and bring it to life. After a summer of work on it, including a rough version of the site and name change, wildher.com and @_wildher_ on Instagram emerged in late August.

Tell me about some of your own adventures? What are some of your favorites?

Every summer since I was eight I’ve gone to Tikchik Narrows Lodge in southwest Alaska for a week of fly fishing in Alaska’s largest state park. Just getting to the lodge is an adventure. It takes three planes to get there, including a six

seater floatplane that can take off and land within seconds on a stretch of river. Every day you witness miles and miles of untouched wilderness as you fly out to a new plot of river to fish world class waters. It’s no wonder that it’s my favorite place on earth.

What are your hopes for the future of Wildher?

Like any creator, I want my creation to grow. My goal for the future of Wildher is to reach more people and broaden the variety of content that people can engage with. Right now this means organizing three to six featured posts a week on Instagram and putting together blog posts with featured writers. An idea I really want to throw into the mix is creating a cause-based online store on wildher.com to sell merchandise and my glass artwork.

Do you have any adventure trips planned for the future?

Yes! Summer is the time for adventure trips and this summer is no exception. Every year I find my summers getting more and more packed with fly fishing trips, which always brings really exciting and unique experiences. This year you’ll find me wading in the upper Sacramento River, floating along the Smith River in Montana, exploring the vast landscapes of southwest Alaska, and hiking along the McCloud River near Mount Shasta.

By Matthew Carusi

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hey say that Civil Air Patrol is the Air Force’s best kept secret. When I tell people that I’m in Civil Air Patrol, they usually stare at me with a look of confusion, but for the past three years I’ve had the honor of being a cadet in this remarkable organization. Through all my experiences, I’ve not only learned how to be a leader and a follower, but how to live a life that puts integrity first and is always striving for ways to serve other people.

Civil Air Patrol or CAP for short, is the United States Air Force’s official auxiliary and we specialize in three missions: cadet programs, emergency services, and aerospace education. I’m part of Squadron 10, located at the Palo Alto airport, and we meet every Tuesday for two hours to teach aerospace and conduct leadership activities. I am part of the Cadet Program and currently hold the rank of Cadet Second Lieutenant. As an officer in Squadron 10, I’m the commander of what we call a flight, or a group of about five to six cadets I will train to grow into leaders who can one day inherit my position. It’s a job that I take incredibly seriously and there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing Cadets promoting and advancing through the Cadet program like I once did.

I joined in April 2013 when I was 15 years old because I was curious in pursuing a career as a pilot in the United States Air Force. Upon joining, I was immediately thrown into situations that I had never experienced before, and no such experience embodied this feeling more than going to a one-week boot camp known as Encampment. I had to attend this program in order to become an officer and when I arrived on day one, I was greeted by shouting instructors who made it very clear to us cadets that we would never survive the week if we didn’t work as a team. Through the rigors of inspections and drilling, my flight of cadets and I started to grow into a finely tuned team, which made me realize that I could push myself beyond what I thought was possible simply by working together.

Going to encampment was a life-changing experience for me, and the leadership skills that I obtained there have

been invaluable not just in CAP but in school and in life. After returning from encampment, I participated in a number of other state activities including a leadership school, which taught me how to excel in public speaking, and a conference in San Luis Obispo where I had the chance to meet a former USAF nuclear missile operator. In addition to state activities, CAP also offers multiple national activities that specialize in everything from Air Force Pararescue training to getting your private pilot’s license. This past summer I attended a one-week Air Force pilot orientation program at Laughlin Air Force base, where I trained on actual USAF flight simulators and flew five hundred feet off the ground in a T-1 aircraft. Attending this program was one of the most exciting weeks of my life, and meeting some of the Air Force’s finest pilots gave me a new profound respect for the men and women of our armed forces.

This though is just a small sampling of what a cadet can do in the Civil Air Patrol, and being part of it has changed my life forever. It’s not only taught me what it means to be a leader, but how I can better serve my country and how I can always keep looking for ways to give back.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

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CIVIL AIR PATROL

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On February 18th, with bags in hand, I along with six other Priory girls, Kate, Kate, Cate, Olivia, Olivia, Chelsea, and Jenna, and our three brave chaperones, Father Martin, Mr. Molak, and Mrs. Brown, stepped out into the heavy, unfamiliar air of New Orleans, Louisiana. The intrepid gang that would eventually be lovingly referred to as “The Dream Team” had just embarked on a Rustic Pathways service trip.

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By Eva El Fishawy

Our mission was to assist in the recovery of New Orleans post the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. At the time, we did not know each other very well and had no inkling of the exciting and inspiring journey ahead. I dreamily stared out the window of our van at the city skyline draped in the orange haze of a setting sun. We were all oblivious to the ways in which our small community, awkward at first, would come together in work and play and how each of us would be deeply affected by the charm and character of New Orleans.

We were warmly welcomed at the Rustic Pathways base house with homemade jambalaya, the first of many incredible Louisiana style meals. As we settled in and introduced ourselves to our two Rustic leaders, Josh and Ashley, each of us was content and sleepy from both the delicious food and the long flight. The leaders described to us the tragedy of Katrina using the documentary When The Levee Broke. We witnessed the dysfunction and abandonment that the hurricane left in its wake. We saw how the destruction of the levees and the consequent flooding left 80% of the city under water. Before the trip many of us knew very little about Katrina. Before watching the film I did not fully understand the complexity of the hurricane and the importance of the work we would be doing. We drifted to sleep that night with visions of flooding water, hot sun, bursting levees, and all those people packed into the Superdome.

After the devastation we saw in the film the night before, I was unprepared for the charm of New Orleans and our adventures in Jackson Square. I have never seen a city with more culture and diversity than New Orleans. Live music, jazz and funky blues, can be heard from every corner and the delicious smells of food waft from restaurants and pubs. The city features a plethora of unique architectural styles, from creole cottages to the grand mansions on St. Charles and the balconies of the French Quarter. Enjoying the foreign atmosphere and exotic cuisine, we strolled, shopped, and ate. We admired paintings and street performers, and I even had my palm read by a fortune teller.

At one point we found ourselves in the middle of a Mardi Gras parade. People were singing, marching and throwing the famous Mardi Gras beads at us. Soon we were decked out in beads, flower crowns, and huge smiles.

That day we also visited the Hurricane Katrina museum and the areas most hard hit by the storm including the famous 9th Ward, a wetland grave, and the levees. The museum opened our eyes even more than the documentary.

Walking through the museum I felt frustrated by the lack of attention and care to people who were suffering during and after the hurricane and flooding. I couldn’t believe that my country’s government would abandon people in a crisis for months without basic necessities. I was astonished that after a decade these people were still undergoing hard-

SERVICE TRIP

SERVICE TRIP 26

NEW ORLEANS

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SERVICE TRIP

SERVICE TRIP 28

1. Installing insulation under a home.

2. Britta Brown and Chelsea Feng ‘20 take careful measurements under the home.

3. Father Martin puts his expert woodworking skills to work.

We worked Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm on Ms. Mary and Ms. Sharon’s houses. Each of us performed tasks we had never done before: installing baseboards, putting up insulation, and priming or painting. ship. Most saddening of all was the conspiracy theories that arose after the flooding. Many people believe a levee was bombed to direct flooding away from a wealthy district and into the impoverished 9th Ward. In addition, we learned how the environmental damage and neglect in the decades before the storm exacerbated the damage.

Wetlands which normally should act as a natural barrier are currently the fastest disappearing land masses on the planet. They have been ravaged by pesticides, dams and global warming. A large port was built, displacing thousands of acres of wetlands and channeling floodwater directly into the city. Visiting the 9th Ward and the breached levee made everything we learned real for us. By the end of that day we were enchanted by New Orleans and dedicated to do our part in helping the community.

We couldn’t wait for our first day of building and repairing houses!

After Father Martin’s fortifying prayers each morning we set off to work, packed lunches in hand. We worked Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm on Ms. Mary and Ms. Sharon’s house. Each of us performed tasks we had never done before: installing baseboards, putting up insulation, and priming or painting. Ms. Mary required insulation to be installed underneath her house which meant that the majority of us would be in a small crawl space, cleaning out chicken wire and nailing in insulation boards. Some of us were hesitant to do some of the more dirty jobs at first, but by the end of the day we were all tired, sweaty, and covered in paint, dirt, and caulking.

One rainy day we worked at Ms. Sharon’s house. Ms. Sharon was struck by more than her fair share of bad luck over the past ten years. When the storm hit, her home was flooded with eight feet of water, forcing her and her family to move into a FEMA trailer park. Soon after the hurricane, her husband died of a heart attack and while she was living in the trailer, she fell and was paralyzed. She was able to move back into her house about three years later and since then has recovered, but her house was flooded twice. Amazingly, she wasn’t angry at her misfortune. On the contrary, she felt blessed and grateful that she was able

to recover each time. We replaced Ms. Sharon’s baseboards that were damaged in the second flood. The work was tricky but Father Martin, master carpenter, led the way and we soon got the hang of it. Ms. Sharon couldn’t have been more hospitable. She baked pralines for us all day and Mr. Molak kept us sugared up with ice cream and goodies. By the end of the day we were well fed and quite proud of our handiwork.

After each day of hard work we enjoyed the city’s unique nightlife. We went to Mardi Gras parades. We had fabulous meals of crawfish, barbeque, hot dogs, po’ boys, king cake, and beignets. New Orleans is one endless stream of parades, live music, dancing, and partying.

There is no distinction between spectator and performer at a Mardi Gras parade. We all screamed and cheered at the magnificent floats as performers on the floats threw beads and goodies to us. One evening we visited Rock and Bowl, a bowling alley with live music. The most unique experience was an airboat ride on the bayou. That night we watched the sun set on the bayou just a couple feet away from a 500 pound alligator named Big Al. We witnessed an alligator chomp down on a pig leg and each of us got to hold a baby alligator that our boat driver grabbed out of the water.

Reflecting on the journey, I realize that this trip has taught me important things and reinforced Priory values.

I was impressed by the rich culture and tremendous resilience of the New Orleanians after everything they had been through. We saw this culture in the live music, the delicious food, and the incredible Mardi Gras parades. We saw resilience in the wonderful people like Ms. Sharon who inspired us to work hard and always have a positive attitude.

Overall, the trip taught me to leave judgment behind and view the world with an open heart, to have resilience in my own life through my own suffering and rebuilding, and to reach out as part of the community to help those in need.

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4. Olivia Beriker ‘19 puts the final touches on the baseboards.

5. Eva El Fishawy ‘18 gives Ms. Sharon a big hug.

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6. The French Quarter was filled with live performers.

7. The girls enjoy experiencing the Mardi Gras parade.

8. The “Dream Team” in the French Quarter.

9. Hardworking chaperones, Tim Molak, Father

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Martin, and Britta Brown.

10. Kate Mawhinney ‘20 gets fitted with a flower crown.

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The Priory Way

“I couldn’t have been happier with the effort the volunteers put out each day while removing non-native species from our outdoor spaces and the earnest desire to learn about ecology.”

The Freshmen and Sophomore classes took a step outside the classrooms for the week of January 17th-20th to experience the firsthand needs of the communities that surround them. The week has come to be known as Service Week.

Freshmen had four locations that they rotated among. They went to the 49er Academy, Acterra, Ecumenical Hunger Program, and The Sequoias. Sophomores were allowed to select a non-profit organization to work with for the week, including Abilities United, Camp Jones Gulch YMCA, Siena Youth Center, Cesar Chavez Academy, St. Anthony’s Padua Dining Room, San Carlos Adult Day Service, and on campus Priory Stewardship and Sustainability.

Students developed relationships with the people they served and the volunteers they worked with. The hope is that the experiences will ignite interests and passions that extend beyond this experience and students will live out the Priory’s Mission and become “lifelong learners and stewards who will productively serve a world in need of their gifts.”

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“My most memorable moment was accompanying one of the older ladies to do Tai Chi because I could see how important it was in the joy she brought.

It felt really good to know that we were bringing them some joy, when they feel so lonely.”

“I loved to serve others.

Seeing their smiles when I handed them coffee or water was unparalleled by any other service that I have done in my life.”

“I witnessed Individuality today when I thought about the difference between my privilege and advantages in life versus theirs, to know the difficulties of not having food every day. I connected this thought with the idea of monks and not having anything to your name.”

SERVICE

SERVICE 30

Giving Back:

“It was a wonderful experience to go and help the community around the area of the school. It felt fulfilling to help preserve nature that is left in this world. I also learned a lot about plants, animals and native species vs. non-native.”

“Awesome volunteers, it was a special experience for our organization.”

“The best thing about serving others with a group of people is that it builds community by putting us in positions where we had to rely on others, and one person couldn’t do it by themselves.”

An E. E. Ford Foundation Grant Recognizes Priory’s Work to Reduce Student Stress

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By Thea Sullivan When Brian Schlaak began as Priory’s Academic Dean eleven years ago, one of the first things he did was read the previous year’s Senior Exit Surveys. These are evaluations of the school experience by outgoing seniors, and they showcased many positives. But one finding in particular concerned him. Too many students reported suffering serious stress while at Priory, feeling overwhelmed by academic pressure, and even cheating to survive.

Mr. Schlaak was pretty sure this situation wasn’t common knowledge among faculty and administrators, and he vowed to bring the issue to others’ attention. When he did, most everyone agreed. Rampant integrity violations and a lack of balance flew in the face of Priory’s core values.

Changes needed to be made.

Mr. Schlaak, now Upper School Head, says, “As a Benedictine school, we don’t get to pretend that such problems don’t exist. We are compelled to ask certain questions because of our mission.” He cites a monk named Father John who describes Benedictine education as being ultimately about how to live well—physically, intellectually and spiritually—through balance, reflection, and care. He wanted to find ways to bring those core values into the lives of Priory students in a practical, everyday sense, even in the face of rigorous academics and the pressures endemic to a place like Silicon Valley.

Over the next decade, with the help of consultants at the Stanford-based organization Stressed Out Students Program (now Challenge Success), Priory experimented

with various changes designed to alleviate student stress.

The first and biggest change was the daily schedule. Passing bells were eliminated, class periods were lengthened and their number per day reduced, and breaks were added, including a late-start day once a week so perennially overtired students could catch up on sleep. After an initial period of confusion, a new sense of peace descended on campus, and in time, others took notice. As Mr. Schlaak notes in the Ford grant application, “The bell schedule we created is still used by Independent School Management as the gold standard for independent school schedules employing sound theoretical design.”

Subsequent efforts included hiring more counselors, rethinking the homework load, and eliminating high stakes, “do-or-die” tests and assessments.

A decade later, those changes have paid off. Exiting seniors now report being happier at school, feeling less overwhelmed, and feeling less compelled to cheat than their counterparts a decade ago. Given the epidemic of student stress in affluent communities, these achievements are significant and for some students, potentially life-saving.

But questions remain. Which of the changes have been most effective, and how do we know? How can Priory nurture the enthusiasm of students and teachers, keeping rigor high without burning kids out? And, given the real dangers of stress, how can Priory remain vigilant and share what we’ve learned with others?

“It’s like a many-headed hydra,” says Mr. Schlaak. “All the teachers are fighting for more time with kids. They each

“It’s like a many-headed hydra. All the teachers are fighting for more time with kids. They each feel their subject matter is most important. And that’s who we want teaching, because of their passion.” feel their subject matter is most important. And that’s who we want teaching, because of their passion.” Everyone has the best of intentions, he explains, but the problem tends to crop up over and over again.

That’s where The Edward E. Ford Foundation came in.

The organization’s stated mission is to “strengthen and support independent secondary schools and to challenge and inspire them to leverage their unique talents, expertise and resources to advance teaching and learning throughout this country.” A prestigious E. E. Ford grant, highly sought after in the education world, allows schools like Priory to identify best practices, collaborate with other schools, and share what works.

In mid-2016, Priory applied and was awarded a $50,000 matching grant around the core principle of balance by the Ford Foundation, whose people were genuinely excited about the concept. If all went well, they said, Priory might be considered for a $250,000 Leadership Grant to further the work.

The purpose of the initial grant is threefold: to analyze the impact of the changes Priory has already made around the principle of balance; to host a summer colloquium where schools can share ideas on the subject; and to support professional development, so faculty members can keep on learning.

But before any money could be received, the Priory community needed to match the grant amount through its

own fundraising efforts. That turned out to be easy. Once word got out, the match was exceeded in less than a month.

“It shows you how invested parents are in addressing these issues,” says Mr. Schlaak.

In September, the newly formed Priory Balance Committee met for the first time, with each member of the group offering a unique perspective. Kindra Briggs and Amy Payne are representing the faculty, Nancy Newman the Priory trustees, and Matt Lai and Brian Schlaak the administration. Kawai Lai brings experience from the National Association for Independent Schools (NAIS), Yvonne Faisal will facilitate, and Campus Minister Molly Buccola aims to articulate Benedictine wisdom for the group.

That task—defining balance from a Benedictine perspective—is not a simple one, but the Rule holds clues.

“Nothing harsh, nothing burdensome,” Benedict counsels.

Ora et labora is the balance of prayer and work. Time for reflection is key.

As a Benedictine school in high-octane Silicon Valley, Priory has long had a paradoxical identity. Now those familiar tensions—between old and new, wisdom and information, a reflective stance and a rush into the future—and our insights into how to manage them make us uniquely suited to guide other schools forward.

“We could be a national leader in the conversation,” Mr. Schlaak says, “If we do it well.”

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1. The Balance Committee pictured l-r: Brian Schlaak, Barbara Humphery, Adam Siler, Molly Buccola, Yvonne Faisal, Matt Lai, Amy Payne, and Kindra Briggs. (Not pictured Kawai Lai and Nancy Newman.)

2. An example of balance in the classroom: making mandalas in Ms. Saddler’s theology class.

3. Enjoying chocolate fondue in Ms. Ghazal’s French class.

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BALANCE

BALANCE

Living and Learning in Balance:

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APPRECIATION

APPRECIATION 34

Volunteer Appreciation Brunch From Compassion to Action

Volunteers speak from the heart and on April 26th, Rothrock Performing Arts Center was beaming with love and pride in celebration of our beloved parent volunteers for the 2016-2017 school year at Priory’s annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch. This event serves as a beautiful recognition of our volunteer community’s unwavering dedication to the school.

Father Martin offered a meal blessing while our guests dined on a delicious lunch, talking and laughing together at their exquisitely decorated tables with woodland centerpieces repurposed from the Gala, all masterfully arranged by the lovely Christel Parmentier.

Our 2016-2018 PPA Co-Presidents, Kathy Fitzgerald and Kari Rust expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to be of service to the Priory community. They acknowledged the contributions of the PPA Event, Activity, and Program Chairs. The school would not be what it is today without the countless hours spent on the diverse offerings afforded to our students. From Kathy and Kari, “Priory is a community because of the deep meaningful connections parents make with our monks, faculty, and students. We applaud and honor you!”

Head of School Tim Molak recognized our marvelous Gala Chairs Christy Occhipinti and Jennifer Youstra for their phenomenal leadership of this year’s Enchanted Forest which generated over $1 million—smashing all previous gala records!— and strengthened our community in support of each Priory student. Christy and Jennifer called their fantastic Gala Team up on stage to thank them each personally for the role they played in making this year’s event a success beyond measure!

With Priory’s exemplary hospitality, alumni mothers—led by Karen Gregory and Paula Hughes—showed the community’s gratitude by greeting guests and most importantly, welcoming Senior parents to life after Priory by presenting them with an alumni parent Priory Panther key ring after a heartwarming blessing from Father Martin.

Tim then initiated a custom known as The Last Volunteer Standing. He asked all those who had volunteered for at least one year to please stand and be recognized. At first, everyone in the room was standing. He continued to call out higher and higher numbers of years, and more and more volunteers sat down, until at last there was only Peg Phelps, the Last Volunteer Standing with nine years of dedicated service to the Priory community. After a standing ovation for a volunteer who has gone above and beyond donating her time, talent, and treasure during her time at Priory. We are ever grateful for her dedication!

To close out a lovely celebration, Director of Development, Suzanne Couch acknowledged those volunteers who helped generate support for Priory’s Annual Fund, introduced the development staff, and shared a video message from the entire student body chanting, “Thank you Priory volunteers! Thank you, very much!”

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1. Kim Lazarus, Jennifer Nash, and Sandra Fairon enjoyed a chat before the brunch.

2. Volunteers Nuha Shuman, Valerie Huffman, Najwa Tamer, and Liz Lahham.

3. Senior parents: Kari Rust, Catherine Boyle, and Peg Phelps.

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4. Gala Chairs Jennifer Youstra and Christy Occhipinti thank Donna Chandra.

5. Ella Shum and Sharon Fotré are both stylish and volunteer extraordinaires!

6. Christy and Jennifer thank the Gala committee for their hard work.

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Last Volunteer Standing Perennial Volunteer Peg Phelps: Volunteer Recklessly Peg Phelps’ illustrious nine year stint as one of our most dedicated parent volunteers started when her oldest son James ’15 enrolled in 6th grade. As her youngest son Grant ’17 prepares to graduate from Priory in a few short weeks, she reflects on what sharing her time and talent with the community has meant to her.

At first, the thought of taking on leadership roles for some events seemed daunting, but Peg says “I am so glad I said yes! Over the years, I’ve been so blessed and incredibly rewarded by the connections and special bonds I have made with peer parents, students, faculty and staff, and especially the monks.” Whether volunteering for the 8th Grade Graduation Breakfast, as a Class Parent, a PPA Co-President, or a Gala and Fashion Show Chair, Peg has one main takeaway: “You will get out of it more than you can ever imagine.” The relationships she has made through her volunteerism have been lasting and memorable, and certainly something that she will look back fondly on as she transitions into life as a Priory Alumni Parent.

One thing that Peg feels it is important to remember is that volunteering comes in all sizes, and each individual must find the role that suits them best! There’s certainly no shortage of opportunities for parents to give back to Priory to sustain a community that continually benefits its current students, which leaves roles both big and small open for all who are able and willing to so generously give of themselves.

Peg’s Top Four Reasons to Volunteer (based on research): 1. It connects you to others and creates lasting relationships.

2. It’s good for the mind and body, increasing self-confidence, giving one a sense of accomplishment and pride, and combating depression. You actually live longer!

3. It can advance your career, adding to your skillset and allowing you to learn.

4. It brings a new sense of fun and fulfillment to life and an escape from your normal routine.

Peg has created a lasting legacy and has been a true inspiration to parents both current and past, something that the Priory has been lucky enough to witness and count on these past nine years with her at the helm of countless events and committees. Peg says, “I have volunteered extensively at every school my boys have ever attended. But Priory is a special place, and it has been my honor and pleasure to serve this community. I will always be willing to help.”

Though Peg mentions feeling blessed by her volunteer experience here, it is really Priory who should feel blessed for the immense amount of time and talent she has lent us all these years. Thank you, Peg!

This winter’s phenomenal rainfall officially ended the drought and brought stunning changes to our landscape. Certainly the quintessential California hillside is a lush, vibrant green and from the Dining Hall, Windy Hill has never looked more verdant. New structures have also cropped up and sprouted to life on campus this winter. The seeds were planted in 2013 with the launch of our Building Ingenuity Campaign. So far we’ve raised 88% of our goal, and if we stay on course, the campus will be in full bloom by January 2018.

Parent engagement in the life of the school is flourishing, inspiring us all with their life-giving, energetic support. From the Golf tournament to the Gala, from the bleachers to the Board of Trustees, in the garden and the PAC, for the dormers and the faculty and staff–parent volunteers shared their abundant talents, skills, experience and creativity in service, building community in support of every single student at Woodside Priory School. These wonderful parent resources have been cultivated and harvested with lovely leadership from PPA Presidents Kathy Fitzgerald and Kathy Rust who finish the first of their two year term.

The Gala had a luxuriant harvest as well. The largest Gala committee ever worked tirelessly to create an extraordinary event generating over $1 million dollars in support for the Priory. The Enchanted Forest delighted us all thanks to the most gracious leadership of the Gala Chairs, Jennifer Youstra and Christy Occhipinti.

In the spirit of balance, on April 26th, we paused to reflect on the year-to-date to recognize and celebrate the goodness of all our parent volunteers at our third annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch. An article on the VAB is in this issue.

Annual giving from our parent community this year hit an all time high. Every gift is important. Every gift makes a difference. Hearty thanks to our Annual Fund Class Chairs who generated early, enthusiastic support! For the first time, counting gifts and pledges, the Annual Fund goal was achieved before Thanksgiving.

There’s been new growth in the Development Department as well.

Melissa Barrow joined the staff in April as Associate Director for Annual Giving.

With 10 years of advancement experience, Melissa has worked for Sacred Heart Schools, Stanford University and most recently Presentation Center in Los Gatos.

Britta Brown, formerly Assistant Director of Development, brings 8 years of university experience in member engagement and annual giving to her new role as Associate Director for Marketing and Alumni Engagement.

We have all grown great together in wholesome synergy during this rainy season. D a i l y sunshine is back, shining on all that has been accomplished since the start of school. We are indeed fortunate for the incredible support of our parent community, our Board of Trustees, our beloved monks and our students–our hope and promise for the future.

With gratitude,

Suzanne Couch Director of Development

Year-to-date rainfall in Portola Valley is 148.9% of normal according to weatherdb.com.

DEVELOPMENT

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT 36

LVS

With enough resources, at the right time, everything blossoms

37 We are indeed fortunate for the incredible support of our parent community, our Board of Trustees, our beloved monks and our students–our hope and promise for the future.

Year-to-date gifts to the Annual Fund are 132% of what they were same time last year.

GALA

GALA

4

What a Magical Night It Was …

A magical night for Priory!

Alchemy was in the air on April 1st when Priory’s 36th auction came to life in The Enchanted Forest at Sharon Heights Country Club. Jennifer Youstra and Christy Occhipini graciously chaired and championed the largest gala committee in recent history whose splendid offering generated an astounding $1,100,000!

It was an extraordinary evening! A most enthusiastic response to the theme brought many of the three hundred and forty guests attired as fairies, gnomes, wood nymphs and elves. They wandered through the silent auction enjoying cocktails and appetizers in awe of the imaginative silent auction displays fashioned by Christine Sloss. Judi Jaeger once again curated an amazing selection of wines while Martha Deevy, Valerie Russell and Kristi Patterson concocted alluring events and activities with faculty and staff.

For the 27th year, Head of School Tim Molak oversaw the Live Auction–this year as King of the Forest - which was expertly orchestrated by Jennifer Youstra and Kristi Patterson. Peg Phelps and Julie Dickerson’s creative compilation of cakes received a rousing response to start it off.

Highlights of the live auction included Father Maurus’ Duck Dinner, Michele and Rick Reibhoff’s handbuilt Longboard Surfboard, a trip to Fashion Week in New York, a stay in an Irish castle, a trip to Monte Carlo and the Grand Prix, an extraordinary outing with David Moseley to an NBA game in Portland and a private tour of Nike HQ and, of course, Father Martin’s hand-crafted, heirloom quality Tall Clock– the 33rd in a limited edition series.

This magnificent coming together of the Priory community; parent volunteers and donors, faculty and staff, students and, our beloved monks to create The event may be over but it will live in our memories for years to come.

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Fund a Future

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This year, once again, the Gala’s Fund a Need focused on financial aid and was renamed Fund a Future. Following a compelling video featuring alumni students, Fund a Future chair, Carolyn Putney, enjoined Gala guests with the following: “Let us come together as a community and improve the future for everyone by sending forth individuals well prepared for whatever the world has to offer. Let us not deny any qualified student the chance to benefit from our timeless values and superior education, based on their bank accounts.

Let us make a commitment to improve tomorrow by making a gift of the Priory, to others today. “

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In response, bid paddles were lifted in a flurry, raising nearly half a million dollars for Priory’s financial aid program!

4. A sea of bid paddles for the “Tacos and Tequila” party.

5. Jeanette Sinclair and Linda Thomas were decorated in beautiful flower crowns.

6. Christine and Ben Sloss got spirited with the Enchanted Forest theme.

1. The Enchanted Forest Gala Committee.

2. Christy Occhipinti and Jennifer Youstra with the “King of the Forest” Tim Molak.

3. Brent and Belinda Johnson are creative with their 2

magical woodland creature costumes.

7. Kathy Fitzgerald was a walking piece of artwork with her elaborate face and body paint.

8. Fund a Future chair, Carolyn Putney.

9. Father Maurus proudly delivers the Monks Cake to Olivia Gaynor-Long.

10. Eric and Anne Harrison were delighted to win Father Martin’s 33rd tall clock.

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Congratulations to all our Priory alumni who graduated from college this year! Best of luck in all your future endeavors. Always we begin again.

CLASS NEWS & NOTES

CLASS NEWS & NOTES

Note: If you would like to become a Reunion Class Agent, please contact the Alumni Office at alumni@prioryca. org. And remember to check out Woodside Priory Alumni Association on Facebook for additional photos and updates!

1978 1970

1970

Tim Molak met up with Priory alumni in Seattle on St. Patrick’s Day. From left to right are Sue Lyon ’05, Erik Lyon ’08, Charlie Heffernan ’70, Daniel Hoffman ’12, and Katrina Wang ’12.

1978 40

Matt Dickenson visited with his son Mason to show him his high school. Matt toured the campus with Al Zappelli and met up with Paul Trudelle and Father Maurus. Matt lives in Fort Worth and flies for American Airlines.

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1993

William Lisac has been married to his wife Desire since 2003 and live in San Jose with their three children. William has his own construction business, Lisac Construction, Inc. that he started 12 years ago.

1997

Max Lui graduated with his brother Lambert Lui. He currently is living in Hong Kong and working in his family’s business.

He has a 2-year-old daughter named Renee.

2001

2001

Elena Basegio, Kendall (Holland) BrownW, Emily (Kirkland) Mangini and Kit (Newman) O’Malley recently gathered to celebrate at Emily’s baby shower.

Elaina Basegio was featured in the April issue of Climate Magazine. The article centered on the unique father/daughter working relationship with dad, Doug, and the success of Elaina’s popular Fillmore Bakeshop in San Francisco.

1997

2006

Scott Bader visited campus in April to help the Alumni Association and Development department launch the school’s inaugural Senior Gift Campaign. He spoke to the Seniors about the impact Priory has had on his life since graduation and the importance of giving back to the school.

2006 2001

2007

Christine Ahlstrom volunteered as the Alternative Winter Break Tahiti advisor and took a group of 16 USC students to Tahiti for a ten-day cultural and environmental preservation trip. They participated in various service trips throughout the island, including an ocean cleanup, weeding taro fields, clearing out invasive plants (Miconia), cooking and serving a traditional Tahitian meal to underprivileged families, etc. They learned traditional Tahitian cooking, dance and song, and received the most tremendous hospitality from the Tahitian people they met, including the host families they stayed with for two nights. They met the mayors of two towns, Vaira’o and Teahupo’o, which houses the Billabong Pro Tahiti Surf Competition every year.

Laura Hohnsbeen married Max Clarke on September 24, 2016 in Washington D.C., where the couple live.

2007

Samantha Hiller (A) moved to Washington D.C. in January of 2016 after graduating from the University of Southern California. Originally intending to only spend three months in D.C., she has moved from internships with the U.S. Department of State, U.S. House of Representatives–Office of Adam Kinzinger (IL-16), to the U.S. Senate within the year, where she is now Senator John McCain’s Deputy Press Secretary. As much as she loves California and misses her family, Washington D.C. continues to open doors and teach invaluable lessons that are grounds for a stimulating career and future.

2010-C 2011

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Marie Trudelle (B) brought her students from the California School for the Blind to compete in the second annual track meet at the Priory. Marie teamed up with the Priory track and field coaches and team to make the event a memorable occasion.

2010-B

Jonathan Yam (C) came by the Priory for a visit. He recently graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a degree in MSc in Marketing and Business Analysis. The thing he loved about going overseas for his post-graduate studies was being able to meet people from around the world and experience new cultures. The program helped him land a job in New York City, where he will be working as a Marketing Analyst Associate for a marketing consultancy.

2010-A

2011

After graduating from Priory, Alix Traeger went on to study Health and Human Sciences at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. Emphasizing nutrition in her studies coupled with her passion for food and cooking, she started food blogging through college and moved to Stockholm, Sweden after graduation. While she moved there as an Au Pair, she continued blogging and soon after started working as a Food Stylist for the largest newspaper in Sweden.

After a year in cold and dark Scandanavia, she scored an internship with BuzzFeed Tasty in Hollywood. After a quick move she jumped straight into full-time work life, and found her passion and knowledge of food and cooking made up for her lack of film and editing experience. She finished her internship in December and was promoted to Video Fellow, focusing on producing as many viral food videos as she can! She’s always grateful to Priory for fostering her love of adventure and creativity in the seven years she was here.

2012

Max Barnes (A) was accepted into a program at the Stanford d.school. This University Innovation Fellowship, of Stanford’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design (d.school) was created as part of the National Center for Engineering Pathways to Innovation, a five-year National Science Foundation grant. Max majored in finance at Menlo College and was nominated to apply and interview. Max also started an entrepreneurship club at Menlo, the Pioneer Club, where he is connecting student-entrepreneurs with mentors, developing professional business skills and hosting bi-monthly dinners or lunches with their mentors to develop ongoing relationships. In addition to managing the Pioneer Club, he’s had two paid internships, one at GSV Asset Management, a venture capital firm, and the other at Brand Capital, a private equity firm. He annually volunteers for the Help One Child Foundation as a senior camp counselor for the Signs of Hope Camp for at-risk kids and foster children, and frequently volunteers for Safe@Home & Rebuilding Together in the San Francisco Bay Area.

2012-A

2012-B

Doug Galdamez (B) made a special trip to Priory to help with a video project for the school gala. Doug just graduated from San Diego State with a degree in finance.

CLASS NEWS & NOTES

CLASS NEWS & NOTES

2010

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SPOTLIGHT CLASS NEWS & NOTES

CLASS NEWS & NOTES 44

Darrah Shields chatted with Joe Montero ’76 (C) at the new track and field. Darrah just graduated from Claremont McKenna College in December with a Human Biology degree. She is planning to attend graduate school for physical therapy but in the near future she is looking to play professional soccer in a European league.

2014

Paolo Castro and Sasha Korey (A) visited Priory during break. Paolo loved watching the Rose Bowl and the win by USC. Sasha is at DeAnza College but will soon be heading north to Vancouver, Canada to attend school.

Will Latta (B) visited with Mr. Sargent and came to the boys basketball game to help support the team during playoffs. Will is currently living in Berkeley with fellow Priory alumnus Charlie Tidmarsh.

2015

2012-C

Anna Brett came to campus before heading back to Boston University.

2016

Justin Koerner and Nick Jaeger (A) dropped by the school on their spring break. Nick is returning to Boston to continue his work with Community Overcoming Relationship Abuse (CORA) and Justin was on spring break from UC Santa Cruz.

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2014-A

Annie Kroo and Jack Herrera (B) met with Ms. Mauss. Annie is currently at Olin College and was on campus to help Richard Paige with his computer science class.

Michael Zhao (C) visited with Matt Lai. Michael is currently at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign.

2015

I Can… and I Will!

Priory traditions go back to 1956 when Father Egon envisioned their new home in America as he crossed the San Francisco Bay Bridge on his thirty-ninth birthday. The vision of Priory’s Hungarian and American Benedictine monks, the “American Miracle”, is their legacy. For those of you who have shared this experience, you can be a part of that legacy while providing for Priory’s future through planned giving.

2014-B

There are a variety of ways to make a planned gift. The easiest is to name the Priory through a bequest in your will or by making Priory a beneficiary or owner of a life insurance policy. Other options exist through transferal of real estate or by creating a charitable trust.

All that is needed is to inform the Priory that you have included the school in your estate plans or your intent to do so. You will join others who have taken this step. These friends of the Priory are members of the Saint Benedict Society and come from many parts of the Priory community: current and former parents; alumni and faculty; as well as, Friends of the Chapel.

2016-A

Planned gifts are creative ways to make a lasting impact to the Priory without a major impact on current cash flow, lifestyle or family security.

Al Zappelli, Senior Director for Strategic Initiatives Office: 650-851-6101 · azappelli@prioryca.org “The dream must not end … It must be carried on beyond the time Divine Providence has allotted us on this blessed soil. We continue to dream and hope we have contributed, and Woodside Priory keeps contributing to the rise of a new American generation.”

– Father Christopher Hites, OSB, Founder and former Headmaster

2016-B

2016-C

SUSTAINABILITY

SUSTAINABILITY 46

Greetings Earth People, This school year we continue to see progress from the Priory sustainability program. At various levels, the school has demonstrated sustained efforts at greening the campus. It is exciting to have a chance to provide details on a few of our efforts.

In December, the school once again submitted an application to the Green Ribbon Schools award program.

This award program is sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Education.

Once again, the school’s sustainability efforts were showcased with positive results, leading us to earn a gold medal level of recognition for the third year in a row. Highlights on this year’s application included details about the student-made living wall, the award-winning green architecture in the new classroom building, the school’s leadership in drought planning and water conservation, new developments in the garden, and the spirited efforts of the student Sustainability Club. We are looking forward to maintaining this level of success and recognition in the future.

On another front, I am proud to describe our efforts at the eradication of a non-native species on campus. This has been a collaborative effort between members of the sustainability club and the school’s service learning projects. This year’s sophomore service week included opportunities for students to remain on campus and help to remove yellow star thistle. Yellow star thistle is a nasty non-native and invasive species that has found its way into San Mateo County and onto the Priory campus. Star thistle makes the Priory hillside uninviting to hikers, and reduces habitat quality for native members of our grassland community. We are hopeful that our efforts at removal can continue into the future, and can ultimately triumph over this vexing plant. Indeed, the environmental problems that confront this and future generations of students will need to be managed with sustained and collaborative efforts that are enacted in disparate places and by people who are not known to one another. It is our hope that the lessons that students learn from tackling a local environmental problem can be applied to strategies for solving global environmental problems.

A major cornerstone of the Priory’s sustainability program is the Franklin Garden, where students enrolled in the ecological design class, the food in literature class, and the Garden and Food production class have worked to keep the garden flourishing. The classes have developed an enclosed compost area and most importantly, raise a flock of nearly 60 hens, which eat through kitchen food waste and produce manure essential for nourishing the plants of the garden. The hens have become important new members of the Priory community. The eggs from the hens as well as other produce from the garden will be available for sale in weekly farm-stands in the carpool line after school.

So, as the final days of the school year wind down and we welcome the approach of summer, we are proud of our continued learning and stewardship here at the Priory, and we look forward to the chance to continue our work in the future. Always we begin again!

Sincerely,

Hovey Clark Sustainability Director

47 What’s In a Number: Yellow Star Thistle (YST) removal at the Priory 39 Number of acres of the Priory’s 51-acre campus on which YST can be found.

10, 000 Number of seeds potentially produced by a single YST plant in one year.

28 Number of wheelbarrows of YST removed by students .

3.5 Number of dumpsters filled with YST after service week.

3 Number of years that YST seeds are viable.

5 Number of years that Mr. Clark estimates are needed before YST can be completely eradicated from the Priory campus.

MONASTERY NEWS

MONASTERY NEWS

Molly Buccola has been the Campus Minister since 2006. Molly shares with us what a Campus Minister does and how she has expanded her role recently.

What does a Campus Minister do at Priory?

I do a variety of things, from organizing weekly chapel services, to organizing, planning, and facilitating retreats for our community. Starting in 2011, Fr. Martin and I have been offering retreats for our parents, alumni, and alumni parents. I try to highlight the Benedictine charism (the “feel” of the school) and promote Priory’s unique mission and identity. I’m thankful for our monastic tradition that inspires faith and deep relationships. I work with monks at Saint Anselm College to organize an annual Benedictine Life and Spirituality Seminar (BLSS) for faculty, staff, and members of our Board of Trustees. BLSS celebrates our Benedictine tradition and its value in this day and age.

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What is your background in theology?

I was majoring in Psychology at Santa Clara University and saved the required Religious Studies courses for last because I didn’t think it was my “thing.” I ended up loving the required courses and packed more into my schedule. After four years, I earned degrees in both Psychology and Religious Studies. I then visited various high schools and observed Theology classes. I wanted to teach Theology in a way that was both thought-provoking and inspiring. While in the Catholic Educational Leadership program at University of San Francisco, I visited Priory and observed Scott Parker’s Theology class and loved it. The rest is history...

Molly Meet

You also coordinate the class retreats. What do students do at retreats and who runs them?

When I arrived, teachers facilitated the retreats yet there were talented and passionate students ready to step up. So I started a Retreat Team in 2007. These students have two of their own leadership retreats each year and meet as a team each month to discuss their Benedictine reading. I work closely with the Retreat Team to plan, organize, and facilitate retreat activities and reflections. Like Priory classes, each retreat is founded on specific Enduring Understandings and Essential Questions that are rooted in our Benedictine tradition. All retreats consist of rituals (class mass, letters to self, candle ceremony.)

Why did you start offering parent retreats?

Parents are people too. Parents need retreats as much as students. Life in the Bay Area is ultra chaotic and fast-paced and Benedictines offer specific tools that address these challenges. Humans have always struggled to navigate relationships, social norms, and external pressures. I strive to offer background on Benedictine life and ways the tradition could provide a little sanctuary within school/work communities, home, and especially the self.

What is the goal of retreats?

To create an experience for people to step outside the daily norm, in order to reflect, pray, and reconnect with that which is truly important. For centuries Benedictines have been structuring time to reconnect with the self in silence, reconnect with each other through relationships, and connect with God in prayer. The ultimate goal is to create time and space to develop relationships with ourselves, others, and God.

Molly with her 2016-17 Retreat Team.

The Saint Anselm student teachers with Molly and Father Martin.

Molly during one of her many spiritual parent retreats she organizes.

Beyond the Brick

An investment in Priory’s future.

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It is a Priory tradition to create and install a commemorative brick for every senior whose family makes a donation of $500.00 or more to the Annual Fund. A symbol of the building blocks Priory has provided to launch our graduates into a world in need of their gifts. Each brick is inscribed with the graduate’s name and class year - tangible evidence of the mark each student has made on the school and the students who will follow in their footsteps.

Since 2012, the Board of Trustees has honored graduating classes by establishing a Class Legacy Fund in their honor with a gift of $50,000. Moving forward, alumni parents are asked to support this fund in honor of the impact Priory has made on their children.

The Class Legacy Fund Endowment will continue to grow and will ultimately provide the opportunity for a new generation of Panthers to reach their grasp while at the same time, ensuring the long term strength and viability of the Priory.

A gift to the Class Legacy Fund Endowment will last for generations to come.

Stay Connected Friend us on our Facebook page where you can keep up to date with the latest Priory events. www.facebook.com/woodside.priory.5 See photos on Flickr of past and current events. www.flickr.com/photos/paxpanther/ Follow us on Instagram @woodsidepriorypanthers. People love our Throwback Thursday photos from the archives. You never know, you might be in one!

View past performances, slideshows and other various videos on our YouTube Channel. www.youtube.com/user/paxpanther ALUMNI!

Let us know what you are up to. We love learning about the interesting things you are doing! Send an email with any address updates or news to alumni@prioryca.org Like and Friend us on our Alumni Facebook page “Woodside Priory Alumni Association” www.facebook. com/groups/22629168008 Connect and network on the Priory Alumni Association LinkedIn page.

A CLASS LEG CY FUND

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