Graduation Edition | Summer 2017
Dear Friends of Presentation, Having just completed a milestone year at Pres, I am reflecting on what an amazing privilege it has been to be a member of this community for four decades. The men and women I have worked with are exceptional human beings and have carried the lantern of Nano Nagle with pride and a sincere resolve to continue the mission of the Sisters of the Presentation. They have been servant leaders who have left a legacy of educational excellence. “Our hearts are ever grateful.” The young women I have been blessed to know and teach are equally incredible. The longer I am here, the more I realize there is something about a Pres girl that is uniquely special and impressive. Though distinct individuals and personalities, there is a shared experience--belonging to a sisterhood--that is transformative. Lifelong friends are made here; the feeling of self-confidence that gives one the courage to find her voice is nurtured here; the sense of social justice and the resolve to give back is emblazoned in our hearts with “Not Words, But Deeds.” In the following pages, you will meet the Class of 2017; we are so proud of them for all they have achieved, but more proud of how they choose to live their lives. I will let their stories and images speak for themselves. The class chose “The Giving Tree” as a reading during their Class Day Mass. This simple little story is, in truth, an apt metaphor for every graduate of this school. Like Pres, the tree gives to the girl all it can as it patiently watches her mature and then leave. Years later, the tree waits for her return. I like to think of Pres as the constant in our lives--a place that helps us grow as young women, and a presence that remains no matter where life takes us. I hope you come to feel the same way. I believe members of the Class of 2017 do. Enjoy reading this celebration of women. I have a plaque on the wall of my office that reads: HERE’S TO GOOD WOMEN MAY WE KNOW THEM MAY WE BE THEM MAY WE RAISE THEM!! God bless you all.
Mary Miller Principal, Class of ’72
2 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Artwork by Isabel Wu ’17
SUMMER 2017 CONTENTS 2
Presentation Golf Tournament
3 4
Junior Ring & Father Daughter Dance
6
We are the champions!
36 37 38 42 44
40 Years in Plaid
12
Women at Work: Career Day
14
Breaking for Service
15 16 18
BOARD OF DIRECTORS | 2016-2017
Valedictorian Teacher of the Year & Class Day Administrative Awards Department Awards College Athletics
45
Alumnae: Once a Pres Girl, Always a Pres Girl
Circle & Platinum Dinner
46
Pres Girls at Work: Service
My Life is Plaid
51
Hall Decorating
Sticking the Landing
52
Hearts Are Ever 57 20 Our Grateful: Retiring Teachers from 22 Excerpts The Voice 24 Semester in Review 30 Commencement 2017 Matriculations 34 College Class of 2017
58 59 60 61
Sister Pam Chiesa, PBVM Katie Fanoe ’83 Jaeb Sister Michele Anne Murphy, PBVM Marian Stuckey Patricia Tennant Jon Yap
BOARD OF TRUSTEES | 2016-2017 Lisa Allen Linda Antonopoulos Maria Baron ’76 Cannon Gail Cirone Fred Crary Dan D’ali Bill Frederick Gary Giannini Bill Heil Bob Hencken John Hoffman
Beth Keifer ’69 Gaye Landau-Leonard David LaVelle Dave Lipscomb Fred Maguire Kirk McKim Marc Parkinson Beth Gutto ’99 Rhodes Brian Walsh Lissa Whelan
ASSOCIATES Manuel Alba Neil Fanoe Ernie Giachetti Sue James Becky Menne
Linda Okenquist Garrett Rajkovich Donna Teresi Richard Zahner
Class Notes
ADMINISTRATION
EDITOR Samantha LoCurto
Upcoming Alumnae Events
Mary Miller ’72 Principal Tim Case Vice Principal of Student Activities
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Katherine Georgiev Vice Principal of Academics Lisa Brunolli Vice Principal of Student Services
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Crab Feed & Presentation Fashion Show What is your favorite Presentation memory? In Memoriam Supporting Presentation
ADVANCEMENT
Krista Anderson ’03 Thomas
Bacosa Photography Karen Santos ’06 Nicole Chubb ’01 Ralston
Alice Dewhirst ’78 Ursano Director of Advancement Kristin Cooke ’90 Schneider Alumnae Director
PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
2281 Plummer Avenue, San Jose, CA 95125 | www.presentationhs.org | (408) 264-1664 Facebook: www.facebook.com/presentationhs | Twitter: www.twitter.com/presentationhs | Instagram: www.instagram.com/mylifeisplaid Presentation Magazine is published twice a year for parents, alumnae and friends of Presentation High School. For address changes or questions, contact Samantha LoCurto at (408) 264-1664 ext. 2420, or email slocurto@presentationhs.org.
SUMMER 2017 | 1
Presentation Golf Tournament At Cinnabar Hills Golf Course, aficionados and beginners alike hit the links to participate in the annual Presentation Golf Tournament. Golfers enjoyed unique pit stops along the course, a raffle and a live auction. All proceeds benefit our girls in plaid! 2 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Junior Ring
A tradition that dates back to the founding of the school, the Junior Ring Ceremony is a milestone that celebrates sisterhood. During this beautiful liturgy and ceremony, the members of the Class of 2018 were presented with their class rings--symbolizing the unity of their class level as they embark on their final year at Presentation.
Father Daughter Dance
This year’s Father-Daughter Dance was a star-studded production! Dads and daughters rocked the bright lights of Broadway at this New York City-themed event. Highlights included dancing, a costume competition, a Big Apple pie-eating contest, and much more!
SUMMER 2017 | 3
We are the
champions!
What a year for our girls in plaid!
In 2017 the Presentation Panthers delivered on the big stage. Presentation soccer and basketball varsity team are 2017 CCS DII champions. For the third year in a row, the Presentation Dance Team won a national championship. The Presentation Robotics team was ranked among the top 400 in the country and Speech and Debate sent three students to the National Speech & Debate Association’s national tournament.
CCS Champions: Presentation Varsity Basketball
In a tightly matched final, the #1 seeded Presentation Panthers varsity basketball team beat Leigh High School 48-33 to clinch the CCS Division II Championship. “The team showed perseverance, determination and dedication. Their ability to stay focused, despite challenges and tough competition, is what allowed them to win this championship for their school,” says Athletic Director Stacey Mallison.
Top-Seeded Champions: Presentation Robotics
This spring, the Presentation Robotics team was among 400 teams nationwide to compete in the FRC World Championships in Houston. Earlier in the year, the Presentation Invasion squad was part of the top-seeded alliances that won the Central Valley Regional in Madera and the Chezy Champs competition at Bellarmine. “The girls get to work in programming, design, CAD and assembling the robot. There’s also a lot of opportunity for leadership and teamwork,” says Robotics coach Jeff Mullins. “The best thing is seeing how the girls grow in confidence and responsibility. And we have a lot of fun doing it all!” 4 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Speech and Debate It was a banner year for the Presentation Speech and Debate team. Talla Khelgati ’17 and Manush Mobarhan ’17 made school history with an 11th place ranking overall at the Tournament of Champions in Lexington, Kentucky. Individually, Talla was ranked third overall (the highest-ranked female at the tournament). At the state level, Kaitlynn Sierra ’17 advanced to the semi-finals of expository speaking — the fourth year in a row Kaitlynn advanced to the elimination rounds at the California High School Speech Association State Tournament.
CCS Champions: Presentation Varsity Soccer The Presentation soccer capped off a successful season by claiming the CCS championship. Goals by Emily Cook ’17 and Cassie Snow ’19 sealed the decisive 2-0 win against Sobrato High School. “The team was talented and unified,” says Athletic Director Stacey Mallison. “They displayed great character, tenacity and determination throughout the season. Their ability to stay focused helped them achieve their goal--to become CCS champions.”
“Every day I bear witness to my students tackling big questions, figuring out their beliefs and how to express them, and pushing themselves to be better than they ever thought they would. This is the true treat of being an educator-as you witness your students transform over the short span of time that you spend with them,” says Speech and Debate Director Shawn Matson. “I’m proud of my team for working harder than ever this year, for including more people in our activity, and laying the foundation for a lifetime of being women of action.”
Presentation Dance Team Three-peat, complete! For the third year in a row, the Presentation Dance Team has won a national championship! Capping off an undefeated season, in which the Panthers won first place in every category in all six of its competitions, the team won national titles in the x-small and medium categories at the Contest of Champions in Orlando, Florida.
“This year we felt the pressure of winning nationals the past two years. I felt that all eyes were on us,” says dance coach Sara Fugate. “With hard work and dedication, this team pulled through for the third time — scoring higher than ever before at nationals. Each team member gave everything she had; I couldn’t be prouder.” SUMMER 2017 | 5
40 Years in Plaid Celebrating four decades of service
In the time that Mary Miller has been principal, Presentation has graduated nearly 6,500 students including some of the brightest and well-known women in the Valley and beyond. Known as “the builder” of Presentation, she’s spearheaded capital campaigns, erecting some of the widely-recognized facilities on campus, despite those who said it couldn’t be done.
A doer and a leader, Mary’s ability to inspire and bring out the best in those who cross paths with her is unmatched. A leader from her early days at Presentation, Mary has always looked to the future of Presentation and has sought to keep the lamp burning for generations to come. 6 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Celebrating 40 Years of Mary: Why do some memories never fade? By Joan Schlichting ’79 Guthrie When I get together with Mary Miller, we laugh. It’s a laugh that you can relate to because you probably laugh like this when you’re with your dearest friends, and you recall stories from your youth. It’s a laugh that keeps going, and you feel younger when it stops. That’s what happens when I connect with Mary Miller and we reminisce: her first class teaching when I was her enthusiastic student or school ski trips to Tahoe when Kolleen went flying down the mountain, or the crazy ASB trips to San Francisco roller skating in Golden Gate Park or fine dining at CAPPS. She sparked something in me during our walk down the halls of Presentation when she pulled me out of class my junior year to encourage me to get more involved at Presentation. I remember hugging Mary Miller at our graduation in 1979 and not really knowing how to thank her for all she had given me over the last four years. Mary Miller became “that teacher” who has had a big impact on my life and has been the reason I’ve stayed connected to Presentation. It only takes a spark to get a fire going, and what a spectacular fire it has been at Presentation. Marian Stuckey was the spark that lit the spirit of Presentation, and Mary Miller has kept the flames brilliantly glowing for the past 40 years. Yes, it’s true! Mary Miller has been at Presentation High School for 40 years! I’ve known Mary as a teacher, advisor, administrator, principal and treasured friend. I can’t list all the accomplishments she has achieved over these four decades
that have resulted in the amazing educational institution that resides on Plummer Avenue. What I can do is share with you what I know to be true about Mary Miller. She had a vision for all that Presentation could be and she made it a reality, keeping intact the true spirit of Presentation in the midst of years of incredible transformation. Today I celebrate her undying commitment, drive, and love for Presentation. Many of my priceless Presentation memories include everything from spirit weeks to the famous magazine, cannedfood drives, our junior ring ceremony, father-daughter dances, yearbook distribution, cheering at volleyball games, school masses, the crowning of Mother Mary, infamous Senior Sneak Day, and to graduation and bidding farewell to our four years at our beloved school. During my time at Presentation in the ’70s, students parked in the dirt parking lot; we had no showers, no gym, no pool. We were so proud of our tennis courts and darkroom. We had spirit leaders who wore overalls. That was then; let’s take a look at now. Each time I receive the Presentation Magazine in the mail and sit down with a cup of coffee to read it, I can’t help but think: “I went here — This is my high school. Look at these girls and their accomplishments! They’re exceptional!” This magazine highlights students and alumnae doing amazing things in the world. Then, there’s the emails with impressive YouTube videos of the Presentation Dance Team performing an amazing, upbeat dance routine to “Happy” that’s professionally produced by the students; and the girls are national champions. Our high school has a theater, chapel, dance studio, computer labs, huge gymnasium, pool, groomed sports fields, sports teams competing nationally, endless service clubs and property across the street — the list seems endless. How did these improvements, expanded academic programs, multi-year development projects on the property “happen” to our school? The answer is Mary Miller. She wasn’t afraid to take risks and to ask for more than she thought possible when raising funds to build Presentation into the stellar school it is today. Once she achieved one goal, she aimed higher and never stopped.
The students at Presentation today share most of the traditions all alumnae experienced yet have expanded opportunities to advance in the arts, sciences, technology, sports and community service. Mary Miller and her faculty have ensured the young women today are truly set up to delve into their interests and receive the support to achieve more than they believed possible. Presentation empowers young women to become themselves.
“Mary’s accomplishments for students, families, staff, alumnae and the surrounding community have been great and many.” Mary has been a constant model to always stand up for what you believe in, to do the right thing, and to remember to keep laughter in the mix. We have a treasure chest of memories that spark those deep, hard, rich laughs that start off gentle and keep going until your core is dancing with joy. It’s that familiar laughter I value most, the laughter of memories I made at Presentation (and continue to make) with those women I call my dearest friends. Those are the memories that will never fade. A big “Thank You” to Mary for all she has done to make us proud to be a part of the Presentation High School family. Through grace and confidence she consistently protects and preserves what is sacred about Presentation: sisterhood, a strong education, and the Catholic values of taking care of each other and giving back to the community. “Not Words, But Deeds” will always be a motto I live by, and for that, I am grateful. Mary’s accomplishments for students, families, staff, alumnae, and the surrounding community have been great and many. She has taught many of us to say “yes.” You’d think the stories would get old, but they don’t. May the laughter never fade as we recall wonderful stories from our high schools years; because at the end of the day, all we have are memories. P.S. It’s a brand new day.
It all began with John Steinbeck, one of Mary Miller’s favorite authors By Natawanee Fritz ’02 Until my junior year of high school, I had little interaction with Ms. Miller. I only saw her speak at rallies and all-school events, occasionally heard her voice over the PA, or witnessed her always seemingly lead the winning homeroom team for magazine drive. By the time I was a high school student, she only taught one course a semester; as a result, very few students actually had her as a teacher. Walking into Modern Novel, I was intimidated and a bit petrified. But, after an extra-credit assignment where she awarded me double the points for my writing on how much I disliked an assignment related to East of Eden, I thought, “She’s not too bad.” Ms. Miller’s sense of humor, though, is only one part of what makes her a phenomenal teacher; her knowledge, passion and creativity are evident the moment one walks into her classroom. In my remaining years of high school, and into college, Mary became a mentor and a friend. She provided inspiration at our Senior Retreat, helped me navigate personal issues, and became a sounding board for small and big life decisions. Steadfast in her dedication to our community and social justice, she inspired me to join the Peace Corps and pursue a career in international development. These same pursuits pervade Pres life — whether its community service, weeklong volunteer trips, or the creation of the Lantern League. Underpinning it all is resolute commitment to education and the empowerment of young women. Mary makes students feel valued; we walk away knowing that we deserve every opportunity to pursue and achieve our dreams. Mary does this while teaching, fundraising, advising and leading a whole community of individuals and families who are committed to these same values. And, yet, she remains incredibly present in all that she does. It’s no small feat. She has built Presentation into an amazing community, taking on the roles of mother, daughter, sister and friend. At times, quite frankly, it is hard to remember that she’s only human. But, of course, she is, which is what makes her many contributions to Pres so impressive. So, Mary — Timshel. Thank you for choosing to spend the last 40 years with Pres and for a wonderful friendship.
8 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
It is certain that 40 years ago, Marcy Ray had no intention of making a career at an all-girls school in San Jose. With roots in Lake Tahoe (where she dealt black jack) and an avid love of travel and adventure, she imagined Pres a temporary stop after graduating from Stanford. Lucky for all of the students whose lives she has touched, she caught the Pres spirit and has been a legendary part of Pres history. When we look back at the story of the school, this “reluctant” woman has done so much to shape the vision of the English Department and the future of Pres through her wisdom in the hiring of exceptional teachers. We love you, Marcy Ray!
Celebrating 40 Years of Marcy By Julia Prodis ’81 Sulek Marcy Ray always had this look — chin down, a sly grin, a shake of the head. It was a “just-you-wait” kind of look that made us realize we were in for something surprising, something special. That look introduced us to Petruchio — whom most of us remember more for the anatomy-exposing tights he
wore in the film version we watched of Taming of the Shrew than his outlandish attempts to dominate an independentminded woman. Let’s just say that Miss Ray knew how to draw in teenage girls to the subject at hand. It’s hard to believe Miss Ray is celebrating her 40th year teaching at Presentation — or, come to think of it, that I was a freshman at Presentation 40 years ago. But as I found out from my daughter, Claire, and her friends from the Class of 2016, Miss Ray is just as inspiring now as she was then. “Hands down my favorite teacher,” said Loni Weger, who had Miss Ray for several classes including American Literature, Modern Novel and Film Appreciation. A span of 40 years, and she’s still got it. Aren’t we all so lucky? I was an avid reader when I came to Presentation as a freshman in the fall of 1977, but I wasn’t a writer until Marcy Ray. In her Creative Writing class, I developed an unusual attachment to Roget’s Thesaurus. It’s funny looking back now how I spent whole weekends with that tome, mining it for synonyms to replace nearly every noun, verb and adjective in my essays. I’m sure my reports were so laden with obscure words that they must have been unreadable. But boy, did I have fun putting them together. I still remember writing the words “pleasing breezes” after a poetry lesson from Miss Ray.
As always, she encouraged me and nurtured my love of words. She also had that cool factor — her funny asides, her flowing skirts (hey, it was the ’70s!), her celebrity connections. I mean, who else can brag that her cousin married TV heartthrob Tom Selleck, and that Miss Ray had actually met him. Swoon. I have been a journalist my entire career, from the Tahoe Daily Tribune to the Stockton Record to the Associated Press in several states across the country. When Claire was a baby, I returned to my hometown paper at the San Jose Mercury News. If anything, I have come to specialize in “narrative storytelling,” in-depth features with a literary arc. It’s a passion that clearly has its roots in Miss Ray’s creative writing class, where I tried to impress her — for better or worse — with every assignment. This year, I was part of the team that won the Pulitzer Prize for breaking news for coverage of the Ghost Ship fire in Oakland. The entry included stories I wrote in the first days of the horrific tragedy as well as a narrative story I co-wrote at the end of the week about the final desperate hours of the inferno that claimed 36 lives. For the most prestigious award in journalism, the Pulitzer Prize ceremony at Columbia University is the most understated. It involves a simple luncheon where the winners are handed certificates, but are not allowed to make speeches. It occurs to me that if I were asked to speak in front of a crowd of my fellow journalists, to remember the people in my life that helped get me to this place, I would thank Marcy Ray.
“As always, she encouraged me and nurtured my love of words.”
SUMMER 2017 | 9
The word “legacy” is often used to describe Mary Miller and Marcy Ray and their time at Presentation. Their influence and impact on the young women who have passed through the halls of Presentation has been profound. For forty years they have served the role of teacher, mentor, and friend. They did this all while sharing their love of literature, faith and service leadership with thousands of students.
Mary Miller “Thank you for your continued support to make Presentation amazing! Your dedication and love for the school, the girls and the community is palpable any time you talk about it. You are the reason the school has been so successful and I am always proud to say I am a product of Pres!” – Dana Longinetti ’96 White
“What an amazing legacy you have created. In the current world, I could not be more proud to be a woman. And I would never feel as strong or comfortable in my personhood without your guidance, example and continued grace. YOU made all the difference.” – Nycole Sanchez ’02
“Mary — congratulations on your tenure, and kudos for all of your amazing accomplishments making PHS the wonderful institution that it is! You should be extremely proud.” – Sue Stair ’75 Madden
“You foster and maintain an atmosphere that allows girls to become women — fearless women who are unapologetic for their intellect, abilities, passions and Pres girl spirit. You never stop fighting for each and every one of us, even when we have walked out the door. Happy 40th Pres-versary!” – Valerie Afroilan ’08 “During my senior year, I was tasked with coming up with the senior prank, which ended up being a dance party in the hallway before school hours during finals week. As we were dancing with the music pumped loud, the lights off, and a strobe light pulsing, you walked up to our group and made eye contact with me. I thought for sure I was going to get the finger hook saying, “Get into my office now” but instead you gave me a firm thumbs up and calmly walked away. Thank you for letting me be me!” – Liz DiNapoli ’07 “Brava, Mary, for your leadership and dedication. My fondest memories of you include ASB retreats and hanging out in your office doing crazy things like making human pyramids and eating junk food. Celebrate in style.” – Teri Ann Bengiveno ’82 10 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
“I transferred to Pres and graduated in 1981 (early in your career). You welcomed me into the Pres community and helped me fit in with my peers. I appreciated that you and Presentation took a chance on a transfer student. I am grateful.” – Carol Beck ’81
“Upon my graduation, Mary Miller said, ‘See you and Sundance’ to me as she handed me my diploma. I was stunned by her faith in me, because I struggle with my faith in myself. I’ve already made it to the Student Academy Awards and hope I can fulfill that sincere remark made to me by my Principal in the near future.” – Hayley Foster ’09 “You went to school with my mother and my aunts. You saw my sister through her time at Pres as a leading lady in the school musicals. And you watched me walk across that stage seven years ago. You’ve been there through my whole family history at Pres. I can only hope you’ll be there some day when my niece puts on a plaid shirt and learns the importance of ‘Not Words, But Deeds.’” – Emma Perotti ’10
“I was on a scholarship all four years of high school. It was without a doubt the second best thing I received at Presentation (the first was the amazing education). During the time when I worked in the front office and at school functions, Ms. Miller always greeted me with a hug and asked how my classes and school year were going. It meant so much to me that she would take the time to talk to me. I thank my lucky stars every day I made the decision to go plaid.” – DeAnna Berar ’16 In 2006, you took a leap of faith with us (Arille Virrey & Elaine Higashi) and let us start Pres’ first Robotics Team and take it to places that neither of us had ever imagined. My years at Pres are easily the most formative years of my youth — leading Elaine and me to careers in biotech (Elaine @ Roche Molecular) and technology (Arille @ Google). Your early investment in us and our team will always be sincerely appreciated.” – Arille Jeriza Virrey ’08 Stutler
Thank you for 40 years! Marcy Ray “Just this morning my son was telling me about his music class at school, and I thought of that class I had with you my freshman year. In addition to what we learned about music, I remember feeling comfortable about myself as a young woman. My introverted personality started to branch out to experience bigger and better things. Thank you for your devotion to PHS.” – Krista Hein ’87 Hochstatter
“Your poetry class was one of my favorites during my years at Pres! I still remember the spoken word performances, the poetry journals we had to write, and the fun we had diving into Tennyson and Dickinson!” – Megan Huber ’10
“Ms. Ray made me fall in love with classical music in Music Appreciation. Now that I’m teaching, I play it all the time for my students!” – Claire Zirbes ’12 “Thank you for your beautiful witness to the power of storytelling. Your grace-filled approach to teaching and to mentoring young people has stuck with me these 28 years since graduation — I can’t imagine a better legacy!” – Kristi Gonsalves-McCabe ’89
“Some of my favorite days at Pres were those in your AP Poetry class. You always made me feel challenged, yet so encouraged to speak up even if my observations were against the grain.” – Valerie Afroilan ’08 “The music class I took with you was so comprehensive and so exhaustive across so many different genres that it still serves me well as a base of knowledge on how to appreciate different types of music. Listening to music has given me so much joy throughout many difficult periods in life, and I know a large part of that is because of the way you opened our eyes to what was around us. Thank you for helping me see beauty in art — it has enriched my life immeasurably.” – Ruchi Shrivastava ’97 Medhekar “Being in your mentoring group, you witnessed my growth at Pres. I always loved coming to you for academic advice and loved how compassionate you always were. Thank you for believing in me and supporting me throughout my time at Pres!” – Snehal Desai ’07
“All the times I came to chat with you at the end of the day meant so much to me. Sharing music with you, conversing and eating butterscotch from that metal bowl by your door really is one of my fondest memories from that time.” – Erika Bruno ’09
“You inspired my love of writing and literature! My life is more interesting and colorful for it too--I always have something more interesting to say at cocktail parties. Your influence was great enough for me to pursue a lit degree but not so great that I became a card dealer (although I’d be lying if I said it never crossed my mind).” – Sasha Mobley ’85 “Your positivity and optimism was always so contagious. I will never forget lying on the floor in your music class and just listening and appreciating classical music. Until this very day, I still do that! Thanks for being such an inspiring role model.” – Jay Wangworawut ’11
“You can’t talk about Ms. Ray without mentioning her warm, friendly spirit. It is this spirit that makes Ms. Ray such an impactful teacher. You want to be around her, learn from her, and are inspired by her. She will forever be one of my most loved teachers.” – Kara Doolin ’05 Caselas “You’re one of the shining lights in my Pres memories — generations of girls are so blessed to have experienced you and your teaching! Congratulations on 40 incredible years! You have — and continue — to make a difference in young women’s lives. Wishing you continued health and happiness! Xoxoxo.” – Theresa Taft ’86 Wells
SUMMER 2017 | 11
WOMEN AT WORK: Career Day
Early this year, dozens of alumnae returned to the Presentation campus, offering advice and insight to students. Instead of attending classes, students spent the day learning about a variety of industries and career paths. A keynote was given by Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge Vanessa Zecher. A graduate of the Santa Clara University School of Law, Zecher was elected to the bench in 2010. Following her keynote, students attended a variety of panels led by alumnae who work in industries ranging from education, business, public relations, media, law, healthcare, engineering, event planning and more. In all, 77 alumnae shared their expertise and experience as women in the workforce.
77 SPEAKERS | 34 PANELS 6
Business and Executive Leadership
3
Marketing
2
Finance and Investment Management
2
Event Planning
3
Non-profit and Philanthropy
3
Human Resources
3
Local Government and Public Policy
3
Information Technology
2
Social Work
11 Education
7
Law
3
Environmental Science
8
5
Media and Public Relations
1
Veterinary Medicine
1
Networking
2
Visual and Performing Arts
STEM fields
and 12 Healthcare Medicine 12 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
After receiving their high school diplomas and embarking on their college careers, Presentation graduates go from plaid to professional in the span of a few short years. Vanessa Zecher ’80, a Superior Court judge in Santa Clara County, shared her insight and advice in a keynote speech to the student body. By Vanessa Zecher ’80 I am often asked how I got to this point. I will say that it has been a combination of hard work, the mentoring and dedication of others, some luck and a great deal of prayer. As a young person with a very challenging home life, I relied greatly on some female role models around me; I believe firmly they are responsible for shaping me into the person I have become. The first such role model is my grandmother — a strong, independent, very wise woman who lived to be 101. She watched me grow up and could not have been prouder of me. She kept me grounded and gave me a sense of selfworth. The other person is someone you all know and love — Mary Miller. Mary intuitively understood I was challenged in many ways other students were not, by a home life which was difficult to manage. Mary nurtured me and let me know that I was cared for on a deep level. I knew she wanted only what was best for me. She still does. I have tried to pay it forward by noticing what is going on around me and by making sure I stay attentive to folks who may be suffering privately even though they put on a happy public face. Life as a strong female can be complicated and challenging, both personally and professionally. The legal profession, like many other professions, is still associated with men although women have made great strides. The statistics are daunting. Women comprise 36% of the legal profession. Thirty percent of our state court judges—I am one of them—are women. We still have a long way to go. I am often asked about a work-life balance. I can tell you that it is easier said than done. So, I say the following: anchor
yourself to the things in life that make you happy and provide you with joy. If spending time over dinner with your family is what brings you joy, then anchor yourself to that and make sure that you make time for it every day. If completing a project at work brings you joy, anchor yourself to that. In other words, assert some control over what makes you happy; then make sure you spend time doing it.
“Anchor yourself to the things that give you joy.” Every person is valuable. We should treat each other in a way which values our unique skills, creativity, capacity to love, and ability to make our world a better place. Recent events on our political landscape have, in my opinion, negatively impacted our ability to make room for the diverse opinions that are all around us. We learn so much from the people who agree with us, but we learn even more from the people whose opinions are different from our own. We learn tolerance, the ability to assimilate, and the ability to manage disagreement with grace and dignity. Our ability to listen and to really hear another person is a gift. There is a lot of loneliness and isolation in our world—remember that and be aware of what is going on around you. Please try to look for opportunities to do good in the world. Don’t wait for the opportunities to come to you. Actively seek them out. Do good work. Do God’s work. Anchor yourself to the things that give you joy and let go of the things that weigh you down. Experience lightness and happiness where you can. Take seriously the challenges life brings. Most of all, have fun. All of us who have come before you have prepared the path for you. Presentation has prepared you well to travel that path.
Breaking for Service During break this February, nine Presentation students traveled to L’Arche Tahoma Hope, a community that brings together people with and without developmental disabilities. On this Washington state farm, students worked side-by-side with community members as they transplanted plants, helped with seeding, removed weeds, tilled soil and crafted.
By Kaitlin Rooney ’18 Founded in 1964 in France by a man named Jean Vanier, L’Arche is a network of international communities where people with developmental disabilities--known as CORE members--live and work together with volunteers. During February break, I was among nine Presentation students who worked and lived at L’Arche in Tacoma, Washington. On the farm we grew plants, food and took care of chickens and bees. Most of what is made is sold in local farmers markets. When I say L’Arche works with people with disabilities, I want you to understand that it is a lot of work. I went into this trip believing that I was going to help people with disabilities by assisting with work at the farm and performing daily tasks. But I realized that I wasn’t there to help them. They didn’t need my help; they were perfectly capable of doing the work on their own. Instead, I was there to stand with them and work together as a community and as a family. I realized this lesson one day after lunch when the farm manager, Pat, came to check in on us as we were shoveling manure into buckets to move from one end of the farm to the other. Pat didn’t give any of the CORE members any slack. If any CORE members were just standing around, he would tell them to get back to work. He held them to the same standards as he held us. That’s when I realized that we weren’t any different from them. It illustrated perfectly a popular saying at the farm: working together is better.
14 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
I also learned to never again judge a book by its cover. On our first day, we walked into a house called Hope Spring and met Debbie. Lying on the couch and watching a horror movie, she was very hard to understand and very quiet. When I was told Debbie would be working on the farm with us, my first thought was, “Yeah, sure. She’s going to work on the farm.” Like we all do from time to time, I made a quick judgment. Yet, over the course of the week, I came to realize that Debbie was the hardest-working person on the farm. Her work ethic and her joyful spirit was something that continued to motivate me throughout the trip. Comparing my first impression with what I saw during our week had a major impact on me. It will forever change the way I view people. The CORE members at L’Arche have so much to offer. Often, they are labeled and judged by their disabilities. But, in many ways, they are more able than we are. I am someone who always wants to be the strongest and look the toughest. When I need help, I don’t want to have to ask someone for help. Yet, the CORE members, who truly value their independence, are never afraid to ask for help. Their humility was so sincere. It made me want to be more like them.
That’s when I realized that we weren’t any different from them. It illustrated perfectly a popular saying at the farm: working together is better.
Circle & Platinum Dinner Held each spring, the Circle and Platinum Dinner honors those who embrace the school’s “Not Words, But Deeds” motto with contributions of $1,500 or more during the 2016 calendar year. During the event, graduating senior Chloe Zhou reflected on the generosity of the Presentation community and how the legacy of Nano Nagle has impacted her.
“Before attending Presentation, I wasn’t entirely conscious of how being a female changes the perceptions and expectations others have of me. Now, I am encouraged to fight for my beliefs and work towards my aspirations regardless of societal pressures. When people try to interfere with my goals, I stand firm and share my differing thoughts respectfully. When I witness injustice in my community, I find ways to bring awareness. At Pres, we highlight the motto, “Not Words, But Deeds.” I intend to live out that motto now and through my future endeavors. I am empowered to go forth into the world with confidence and the hope that I can enact real change.” – Chloe Zhou ’17
SUMMER 2017 | 15
Want a snapshot of life at Pres? See it through the eyes of our students! During classes, in the hallways and around campus, our Social Media Squad acts as a team of roving reporters--giving you an inside look at life in plaid.
1
2
3
4
5
6
HOUSE OF CARDS U.S. History students build structures out of cards to represent the causes of the Great Depression. Photo by Betel Daniel ’19
7
LEAP OF FAITH A group of seniors jumps with joy during Senior Retreat at the Presentation Center in Los Gatos. Photo by Neda Amin ’17
8
BUILDING BLOCKS AP Psychology students enjoy play time with the children of alumnae during a unit in child development. Photo by Katrina Kavanagh ’18
9
CRACK UP Seniors Sarah Proffitt and Isabel Velez are all smiles before the annual egg drop event in fifth period physics. Photo by Neda Amin ’17
10
HUDDLE UP Teammates get together for a quick strategy session as the freshmen and juniors battled the sophomores and seniors in the third annual Panther Puff game. Photo by Betel Daniel ’19
11
UNMASKED The national championship-winning Dance Team wowed the crowd at the annual Dance Cabaret. Photo by Katrina Kavanagh ’18
12
NWBD Homemade items from Nicaragua and L’Arche were sold at this year’s Solidarity Dinner, an annual event where students reflect on their immersion trip experiences. Photo by Sophia Brahney ’18 PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT Fathers and daughters practice their poses in the gym ahead of the 2017 Presentation Fashion Show, Let Yourself Blossom. Photo by Katrina Kavanagh ’18 FUTURE PRESIDENTS Presentation students meet with staffers in the Washington, D.C. office of Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D). Photo by Katrina Kavanagh ’18 BEST FLUTE FORWARD Members of the liturgical band, Mass Hysteria, prepare for an upcoming mass. Photo by Sophia Brahney ’18 ACTION SHOT Junior Ava Williams commands the court during a varsity basketball game. Photo by Adriana Ferrari ’17 NEON NIGHTS Students glowed bright during the Dance, Dance Revolution-themed Winter Mixer. Photo by Neda Amin ’17
See more of our student perspective by following @mylifeisplaid on Instagram, or tagging your campus photos using #mlip. 16 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
SUMMER 2017 | 17
STICKING the Landing During competitions — between chalking her hands, checking her wrist wraps, and hoisting herself onto the uneven bars — McKenna Zimmermann ’17 locks her focus by repeating a mantra to herself, “I say, ‘I am in control of my body, 100, 100, 100.’ It means I have 100 percent control over how it’s going to go.” That determination and positive self-talk has led Zimmermann to be one of two Pres girls to earn a gymnastics scholarship to college this year. The other is her teammate at Airborne Gymnastics in Santa Clara, Gabrielle Landess ’17, who also gives herself pep talks to push through difficult routines. “I eliminate all no’s and negative words,” says Gabrielle. “I tell myself I can do it, and that there’s nothing different about a meet versus practice. It’s a different setting, a different audience, but you’re the same person with the same body. And it’s amazing what your body can do.” The teammates and classmates were introduced to the sport by their mothers, both of whom had experience in high school gymnastics. “I liked doing flips and somersaults in the house. So my mom thought it would be a good idea for me to take a class,” says McKenna, who started attending recreational gymnastics classes at the age of three. For Gabrielle, love of the sport came at the age of six at a friend’s gymnasticsthemed birthday party. “I wanted to swing on the ropes. I thought it was all play,” says Gabrielle, who went on to attract the notice of a pre-competition coach at the gym. “The coach told my mom, ‘She looks very strong. Can I have her try a few things?’ The next thing I know, I was enrolled in that class.” 18 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
For McKenna and Gabrielle, the journey from those initial recreational classes to the competition circuit has come as the result of dedication, commitment and sacrifice. Year-round, they practice five hours a day, five days a week. “Gymnastics throws a lot of challenges at you,” says McKenna. “You learn how to overcome them and persevere through adversity. You also learn the importance of a team, respecting your coaches, and time management.” Gabrielle agrees, saying the hard work is worth it to do something you love. “There’s a lot of perseverance and pushing through being tired, being injured or having a lot of homework. But it’s fun. Maybe it’s not the most fun when you’re sweating and really tired. But going upsidedown and flipping around, that’s the aspect we enjoy.” The sacrifice has paid off. Both McKenna and Gabrielle qualified for and competed in the Junior Olympic Nationals, among countless other competitions. This fall, McKenna will compete for Seattle Pacific University and study nursing while Gabrielle will join the UC Davis squad and major in neurobiology, physiology and behavior. “Since I started gymnastics, I’ve learned a lot of lessons along the way,” says McKenna. “College gymnastics fulfills those lessons I’ve learned and the sacrifices I’ve made.” As they look forward to their college careers, both girls say they feel prepared to tackle challenging majors while pursuing their sport. “Pres has really prepared me, which makes me feel confident,” says McKenna. “To be able to have that scholarship and acceptance in my hands, I am really proud of myself and I’m excited to compete for the team.”
McKenna Zimmermann ’17 Scholarship to Seattle Pacific University • 17 years old Nursing
On beam, there’s a lot of variations you can do. It’s four inches. I’ve been doing it for so long, I don’t really get nervous. It feels natural. I’ve been doing the same skills, so it’s about perfecting them. I feel Pres has prepared me well to be a collegiate athlete. I think college gymnastics requires less hours, so I’ll have more time to manage it with school work. Gym throws a lot of challenges at you. You learn lessons about how to overcome challenges and persevere through adversity. You also learn the importance of a team and respecting coaches and how much they help you. My proudest moment was making and competing in Junior Olympic Nationals. I think, as a gymnast, many think about quitting. I actually did quit for a month or so. I was really tired of it, and I wasn’t enjoying it. But I think taking that break made me realize how much I do love it and how much I missed it. In practice, for me, I say certain words. Specifically on bars, I say, “I have control over my body, 100, 100, 100.” It means I have 100 percent control over how it’s going to go, and I can either be negative or positive.
Gabrielle Landess ’17 Scholarship to UC Davis • 18 years old Neurobiology
At meets, I tell myself, “In practice, you’ve done this a million times. Here, you just have to do it once and you’re done.” It really helps to calm my nerves to emphasize that I can do it and there’s nothing different about it being in a meet. It’s a different setting, a different audience, but you’re the same person with the same body. Muscle memory is so important. It’s so amazing what your body can do, and especially after you’ve done it for a while. You could be out for weeks, yet your body just remembers how to do something. It’s so cool. It boggles my mind. You have certain words or you think about your technique or form, but you don’t think of every little detail when you’re up in the air. Your body takes care of the little details itself, and you just focus on the little things. I received an offer close to after my dad died, so it was a proud moment for me. He was so supportive of my gymnastics. I was like, maybe he’s proud of me. Pres has definitely prepared me, which makes me feel confident. I wanted to go to the Olympics when I was younger. I always thought, “I’m going to the 2016 Olympics” and then, pretty early on, I realized that wasn’t going to happen, so I was like, “Okay, new goal: college gymnastics.” There’s a lot of the perseverance aspect and there’s pushing through being tired, being injured, having a lot of homework, being able to take criticism. SUMMER 2017 | 19
Our Hearts BARB PURDY By Lisa Dalton There was clay all over the ceramics studio. Some clay was dry, some being wedged, some freshly cut or about to be thrown. It was on the floor and countertops, in students’ hair, smeared onto their aprons. Barb Purdy was covered in a fine clay dust. Clearly, this was not going to be an ordinary sub assignment. When I reported about halfway through Barb’s ceramic class so she could leave for an appointment, I was in awe of Barb’s ability to swiftly move from one potter’s wheel to another, answering students’ questions, and demonstrating correct throwing technique. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Barb for 18 years but have never seen her teaching in the ceramics studio. Barb will be retiring from Pres this year and will be greatly missed. Barb began working part-time at Pres in 1995 and became full time in 2001. During her career at Pres, she has taught Drawing and Painting, Graphic Publications (Yearbook) and Ceramics. Julie Edson reminds us that Barb oversaw the Yearbook for over a decade! Barb is in her eleventh year as Department Chair. During that time, she developed and taught the Advanced Art I and II classes as well as AP Studio Art. Katherine Georgiev recalls, “Barb relentlessly supported Advanced Art students, always finding room in one of her classes to squeeze in Advanced Art or an AP Art student.” During Barb’s tenure as department chair, the choir program blossomed from a single choir that met after school to two choirs with classes during the school day, and Theater Productions became a class. In addition, NAHS and the Fashion Club flourished under her leadership, and she gave countless students the opportunity to exercise their love of art outside of the classroom. Barb gave all of us — students and faculty alike — a greater appreciation for art in all its forms. Our hearts will be “forever grateful” to God for Barb and the gift she has been to Pres. 20 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
I have had the pleasure of Barb’s friendship since I came to Pres. I will miss sharing prep and homeroom periods, lunches and many conversations about children and family, as well as mutual friends. Barb is a generous and gentle woman. She loves community service and hopes to do more in the near future, especially teaching art. Those are fortunate art students indeed! Continue to love and appreciate beautiful things, Barb. Travel and spend as long as you want in the art museums! Enjoy retirement. We will miss you.
Are Ever Grateful
JEAN MEYER By MaryLynne Rodriguez From the moment Jean Meyer set foot in Presentation High School, her presence was known. Jean was a member of the College Counseling Department for five years. During her first year, Jean’s office was across the street in the newly renovated development building. As one can imagine, it was difficult for her to see her students as regularly as she would have if her office was in the main academic hallway. Jean never once complained; she was merely happy to be present, working with each of her students, no matter the inconvenience of her location. After our College Counseling Department was able to expand with a third office, Jean did not miss a beat in integrating herself into the life of the school. Often working
late in the afternoon, and typically the final one to shut the doors to our center, she made her part-time position as a College Counselor seem ever-present. Jean spent many of her days off answering emails from students and parents, and sharing the latest college information with colleagues. Jean often would spend more than the typical appointment time allotted with her students. Always deeply engaged in conversation, she made it a point to make everyone she worked with feel important and heard. Her favorite saying, “carry on,” would be the signature goodbye for many a student as they left her office, almost certainly feeling better than they had when they entered her office. Her contagious laughter and smile will be missed. Jean contributed a great deal to the College Counseling Department with her knowledge and expertise, and her presence will be missed. Enjoy your retirement, Jean! SUMMER 2017 | 21
From the moment we first meet with our college counselors to the arrival of our final acceptance letter in the mail, the question sits heavily on our shoulders: “Where do you want to go to college?” Yet, that question is unfortunately compounded by the enormous weight of another: “What college wants me?” And in mid-March, for many prospective applicants, the question becomes: “What do I do if the college I want to go to didn’t accept me?” Some might cry or resolve to take a gap year and reapply. Others might pick themselves up and decide that if they weren’t accepted, they didn’t belong there anyway. Either way, the pain will fade. That’s what Sharada Saraf ’14 says. Although aiming for UCLA, Sharada was admitted to every other UC before choosing to attend UCSD. However, she looks back on her experience positively. “I was so busy learning about the programs and campus life at UCSD that I didn’t really think about what it would’ve been like if I had gotten into UCLA,” Sharada says. “Accepting the decision and being confident in yourself and your worth as a scholar makes the college selection process so much more enjoyable. Getting into your dream school or not getting in doesn’t matter if you don’t put in the effort to succeed.”
COLLEGE REJECTION REFLECTION BY MEGAN MUNCE ’18 ASSISTANT ONLINE EDITOR DECEMBER 12, 2016
In many Pres girls’ college decisions, brand names can hold more weight than anything else. Yet, smaller or less well-known schools can be just as rewarding — without the weight of competing academically with the rest of the top 20 percent of the nation. As Jacqueline Remmel ’13 puts it, “Don’t apply to a school just because someone tells you that it’s a great school. Apply because you think it would really be a healthy place for you.” Don’t feel afraid or embarrassed to attend a college that might not break Forbes’s Top 50 list. If they didn’t want you, you didn’t belong there anyway.
As you scroll through filters on Snapchat, you probably swipe through a lot of designs. You expect to see dog filters and face swaps. What you might not expect, however, is to see your own artwork. Yet, in the Graphic Design program at Presentation, students have been able to experience that feeling firsthand.
PRES STUDENTS DESIGN GEOFILTERS BY SARAH AVILA ’18 REPORTER MARCH 13, 2017
22 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
In the Graphic Design I class, students have the opportunity to explore the vast world of digital art. Besides the more typical lesson plans--ranging from stickers, typography and book cover design-students this year had the chance to design their own Snapchat geofilters for non-profit public locations. Each student submitted her work to Snapchat, with three students’ work chosen as official geofilters for specific locations. Lynnea Jeung ’19 created a geofilter for the San Francisco Zoo, Ellie Peyton ’18 developed a geofilter for her street, and Angelina Martino ’19 designed a geofilter for the city of Carmel. “I was trying to come up with a place that had a lot of meaning to me,” said Martino. “Carmel is a place that my family and
END OF AN ERA: PRESENTATION CENTER CLOSING BY MIA HERNANDEZ ’17 REPORTER APRIL 11, 2017
retreats offered are held at the Presentation Center. It has been difficult for Campus Ministry to find new locations for the larger freshman and peer ministry retreats, as locations that can handle the size of the groups are scarce. Members of the Presentation community have definitely felt an emotional loss due to the closing. “It’s the end of a very big era,” says Principal Mary Miller, “It’s like getting evicted from your home.”
After months of nonstop homework, tests and stress, many students look forward to a few relaxing days of camaraderie and meditation during retreat at the Presentation Center. Unfortunately, this will no longer be the case as the Presentation Center will be closed on June 30 of this year. This spiritual retreat center, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, is run by Presentation Sisters and is affiliated with the Catholic Church, but people of all religions are welcome. The history of the Presentation Center goes back to about six years before Presentation High School was founded in 1962. The Presentation Sisters residing in San Francisco needed to find a new facility to educate prospective and current sisters and began looking in Santa Cruz. They acquired what was then known as the Montezuma Mountain School for Boys, and it became Presentation College. Following the Second Vatican Council, the sisters moved the school back to San Francisco, and the Presentation Center as we know it — was born. According to a statement from the Board of Directors of Presentation Center, the center has “struggled to maintain fiscal stability while simultaneously honoring its mission to provide a place for affordable opportunities for prayer, respite and spiritual renewal.” Pres has deep connections to the Presentation Center, as many students take time to unwind there every semester. According to Claire Hansen, Director of Campus Ministry, eight out of our ten
I visit a lot. It really meant a lot to me to be able to design a filter for this place.” Beyond the public recognition on Snapchat, the students say what’s most meaningful to them is expressing themselves artistically through graphic design. Peyton says, “I was never a creative person. I never thought of myself as an artist of anything, but our teacher, Ms. Lee, showed me that I can actually be really creative through graphic design and technology.”
“Ms. Lee, showed me that I can actually be really creative through graphic design and technology.” Ellie Peyton ’18
Senior Core Team member Raziel Santos agrees that the Pres Center feels like home: “Since retreat sophomore year, [the Presentation Center] is where I became super close to my friends,” she says. “Every time I went there, it felt like I was at home.” Her fellow Core Team members are feeling the same sorrow. “Over the years, I have been on over twelve retreats at the Center, and I was so disappointed that the center was closing because it’s a nice place to get away,” says Senior Emma Fontana. “I love to sit by the pond on this tree stump and meditate.” Hansen says she will miss visiting and catching up with the Sisters, especially Sister Claude. Through their financial struggle, Pres did all that it could to help keep the center open by continuing to host the majority of our retreats there. Hansen says, “We did a great deal to keep our retreats there over the years and to support their mission and their financial health.”
ACADEMICS The entire Class of 2019 took P.E. Health and is now CPR and AED certified. Women on Weights wrapped up the semester with a Decathlon Obstacle course on the field. Math and Science Independent Research students Annika Bhanot ’19, Anusha Ghosh ’20, Shloka Janapaty ’20, Roma Kidambi ’19, Shannon Miranda ’20, Kanika Nair ’17, Swathi Ramprasad ’17, Zara Shariff ’20, Anjali Sinha ’19, Regina Ta ’19, and Alyssa Ungerer ’18 all earned project awards at the Synopsys Silicon Valley Science and Technology Championship. Shloka Janapathy ’20 won a special award from the Air and Waste Management Association and was invited to compete at the California State Fair in April. Also among the winners was science teacher Dr. Tracy Hughes who earned an Outstanding Teacher Award. SEAS Club students went camping at Little Basin in April. Students did a nature walk and made their own dinner over fire. The Panthers Exploring Medicine Club went on a field trip to Intuitive Surgical.
Spanish 1 students created a “mercado al aire libre,” or open air market filled with a variety of clothes, accessories and food items. Students practiced their Spanish while bartering for prices and describing each item in Spanish. As an activity for their cultural event assignment over 100 students from Spanish 1, Spanish 3, Spanish 3 Honors and Spanish 4 attended an after-school salsa class taught by Ms. Caroline Murray. French 1 students designed and presented their “ideal bedroom” to the class in French. Some students included an art studio, pool, music center and personal home theater in their bedroom. 20 World History students attended the Day of Learning in San Francisco to learn more about the Holocaust from Holocaust survivors and scholars.
Graphic Design students designed and produced pins that they sold on campus. The students raised over $100 for She Should Run organization.
Photography students Natalie Launder ’19 and Madeline Luscher ’19 both received honorable mentions in the Now & Forever Studio Contest. The first AP Calculus AB class at Presentation completed their year of study.
24 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
AP Computer Science students designed apps using MIT App Inventor to solve common problems, with the option for future publication on the Google Play store. Algebra 1 and Honors Algebra 2 students used the Thinglink and Desmos apps on the iPad for projects that showed how math is used in real-life structures and drawings.
CAMPUS MINISTRY
51
students in Peer Ministry led freshmen, sophomore and junior retreats this year! Retreat leadership offers a chance for students to share their faith, build community with their peers, and practice conducting small group discussions and prayer experiences.
85
This semester we celebrated two of Presentation’s longest traditions: The Junior Class Liturgy and Ring Ceremony and the May Day Prayer Service. These are two of five traditions that have been happening since the school’s first graduating class. Georgina Chavez ’17 and Zahira Trejo ’17 honored Mary with flowers, and Carson Myers ’17 gave a reflection on how she has come to know the Blessed Virgin Mary during her time at Presentation.
20
seniors planned and participated in the Class Day Liturgy.
returning students have stepped forward to serve as Peer Ministers next year. The Peer Ministry program is designed to deepen the spiritual experience of its members, as well as that of the school. These students are empowered to develop and share their gifts and faith interests through prayer, small group sharing, retreats, and participation in various forms of ministry.
15
juniors and seniors have been selected to serve on the Core Team next year. They will grow in their faith and leadership as they lead Angel Groups (small groups), retreats, liturgies and prayer services.
57 students served as Eucharistic Ministers, Lectors and Altar Servers at our school liturgies during this school year. Students report loving liturgical ministry because “it gets me out of my seat” and “I am more engaged in the mass.”
31
students led our campus in 103 Monday, Friday and daily Lenten morning prayers during this school year.
SUMMER 2017 | 25
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Two Platinum Projects were completed by four students: Carson Myers partnered with Swim South Bay to offer complimentary swim lessons for low-income families in the Bay Area. Carson teaches kids of all ages to swim who otherwise might not have the opportunity due to the expensive cost of private lessons. She has worked with over 75 kids, and is continuing her program this summer.
$22,616 for our Presentation Sisters in Nicaragua and Guatemala.
Sophomore Jacqueline Gill, senior Lucia Gomes, and junior Isabel Jaffer hosted educational meetings about water crises on the local, national, and international levels. They organized volunteer opportunities around the Bay Area that focused on water pollution and conservation. By the end of the project, they were able to get over 30 people involved and bring awareness to this issue throughout the Presentation community.
43
juniors and seniors participated in four different immersion trips this past semester.
During February Break students traveled to Los Angeles and Tacoma, Washington. In Los Angeles students spent their days volunteering at the Presentation Learning Center teaching English to recent immigrants and serving meals at homeless shelters in downtown L.A. In Tacoma students engaged in daily farm work activities alongside members of the L’Arche community. L’Arche is an international organization made up of individuals with and without developmental disabilities who are committed to simplicity, faith, and living in community. In March, students traveled to San Francisco to learn more about urban poverty, spending two days visiting various non-profits, serving meals and reflecting on homelessness.
26 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Our annual Mission Drive raised
Presentation students served
958
hours this semester at organizations such as BAWSI, Martha’s Kitchen, LifeMoves, Sacred Heart, Santa Maria Urban Ministries, Reading Partners, Vintage Silver Creek, TeenTech SF.
Over Spring Break students traveled to West Virginia, Arizona and Mexico to learn more about issues such as fracking, extreme poverty in the U.S., and immigration. While in Arizona and Mexico, students worked with the Jesuit organization Kino Border Initiative, attending deportation hearings, meeting with immigrants seeking asylum and volunteering at a soup kitchen. Simultaneously, students in West Virginia worked in Doddridge County at Nazareth Farm repairing dilapidated homes and building relationships with the people in the local community. Students learned about the socio-economic and environmental impacts due to fracking in Doddridge County. In June, nine students traveled to Nicaragua to visit two schools supported by Mission Drive. Students also spent the week working with Bridges to Community, where they helped build a home for a family in need in Mojon.
PERFORMING ARTS Footloose: Forty-five performers and a dozen technicians presented the upbeat musical Footloose in January. The addition of this winter musical production allowed many underclassmen to perform in lead roles. Sophomore Laura Powers and freshman Tori Baroni played Ariel and Rusty. Blue Plaid Players: Our loyal band of adult performers took the stage in April to present: From Stage and Screen, an evening of songs from the golden age of Hollywood and Broadway. Writer and producer Dan D’ali once again presented an entertaining fundraiser and raised funds for our performing arts program.
Frosh Snip-ITS/Spontaneous Combustion: A double feature. First, it was our student improv team, Spontaneous Combustion, in an epic comic battle against some of their funny teachers... the students won! Then, the freshman class represented themselves in songs and scenes from popular musicals in Frosh Snip-ITS. The most freshmen ever took the stage for this display of up-and-coming talent in scenes directed by other students.
Musical Snip-ITS: Many of our sixty-five ITS members lent a hand in creating this yearly revue, a series of songs and short scenes from musicals, perfect for audiences with short attention spans. Seniors and juniors directed their peers and created a memorable night of entertainment.
Bella Voce had a superior year. The choir was asked to be the feature performance at the California ACDA conference. Students attended the Western Division Choir Concert Tour visiting and performing in Seattle, Vancouver, and San Francisco. At Music in the Park, Belle Voce and Cantabile won their divisions with Belle Voce receiving first overall. At California Music Education Association, CMEA, Lucia Gomes ’17 received a Superior rating on her solo performance.
For the third year in a row the Dance Team was crowned National Champions in the extra-small and medium classifications at the Contest of Champions in Orlando, Florida. The team earned 1st place finishes in every dance at every competition (West Coast Elite, Forte Dance Showcase, USA Regionals, USA Nor Cal Championships, Lincoln Celebration of the Stars, and the Cupertino Festival of Champions) on their way to a three-peat at nationals.
Placing in solo competitions throughout the year were Megan Maasberg ’17, Emily Schultz ’17, Tess Skulich ’17, and Mallory Andresen ’17.
SUMMER 2017 | 27
STUDENT ACTIVITIES Speech and Debate finished their season with a great showing at the National Debate Coaches Association National Tournament, the State Tournament, and the Tournament of Champions in Lexington, Kentucky. At NDCA Nationals, Amy Santos ’17 advanced all the way to finals and ended her season in 2nd place in Lincoln-Douglas Debate. At California States, Kaitlynn Sierra ’17 finished 11th overall, advancing to semifinals in Expository Speaking. This was the fourth straight year Kaitlynn advanced to elimination rounds at States. At the Tournament of Champions, Talla Khelghati ’17 & Manush Mobarhan ’17 advanced to the Octafinals (Top 16) of Public Forum Debate, and Talla was ranked the 3rd Speaker overall in the tournament, being beat out only by the two eventual champions. Also qualifying were Megan Munce ’18 & Laurenn Vives ’18 in Public Forum Debate, Aarushi Sahejpal ’17 in Congressional Debate, and Regina Ta ’19 in Original Oratory. The following students competed at the National Speech and Debate Association National Tournament in June: Kaitlynn Sierra ’17 competed in Informative Speaking, Aarushi Sahejpal ’18 in Congressional Debate, and Megan Munce ’18 in World Schools Debate.
The Robotics Team capped off an amazing year with a Championship performance at the Central Valley Regional Tournament. The team was chosen as part of the winning alliance of robots and swept their elimination round matches before eventually winning the Championship. As a result of their victory, the team qualified and attended the FIRST National Tournament in Houston, Texas.
The Women’s Advocacy Club (WAC) organized the first Presentation “Dress A Girl” event focused on making dresses for women and young girls in the developing world. The event was a success, as the club and students from Pres made more than 70 dresses that will be sent to Nicaragua to people in need.
Rithu Paramesh ’20, Nikitha Kalahasti ’20, Anusha Ghosh ’20, Gumehr Klair ’20, Mahal Tran ’20, and Mizuki Kadowsaki ’18 were all named Champions of the math contests sponsored by the California Math League and American Mathematics Competitions throughout the spring as part of our Math Contest group on campus.
Lily Chuck ’18 (FatherDaughter Dance) and Molly Lowney ’17 (Spring Leadership Conference) were recognized for their completion of Capstone projects as part of the Leadership Academy. 28 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Swimming and diving finished in 4th place in the WCAL with an overall record of 4-3. They had great wins over Notre Dame Belmont and Valley Christian this spring season and nearly all the swimmers improved their times over the course of the season. The Junior Varsity swim team swept the WCAL for the third year in a row to earn the WCAL Championship! Way to go, Panthers!
ATHLETICS The Varsity Basketball team won the 2016-2017 CCS Division 2 Championship! They earned a 15-12 overall record and were given the #1 seed in the CCS tournament. This year’s varsity team represented Presentation with great pride and honor; they truly kept the tradition of excellence alive in our basketball program. On the soccer field, the Panthers defeated Sobrato High School 2-0 in the CCS championship game with goals by Emily Cook ’17 and Cassie Snow ’19. The soccer team also found time to volunteer this season, collecting children’s books and pajamas over the Christmas holiday for underserved children in our community. Varsity Softball finished in 3rd place in the WCAL with an overall record of 19-7. This year’s team racked up big wins against WCAL champion St. Francis as well as Valley Christian, St. Ignatius and others. The varsity softball team also went 4-0 in the NorCal Classic tournament in Tracy and were named tournament champions! Kevin Saldivar became a Certified Athletic Administrator (CAA) in April. A huge accomplishment, the certification takes at least three years to complete. Congratulations, Kevin!
Varsity Track & Field finished in 3rd place in the WCAL. Senior Gabrielle Avila is the 2017 WCAL Pole Vault Champion; she’s also ranked #3 in CCS with her 12’ personal record jump. Junior Mackenzy Jaques took 2nd place in WCAL, and sophomore Isabella Grant took 3rd for Presentation to sweep the pole vault event in the WCAL championship meet.
Spring Signing Day Announcement Gabrielle Avila – Track & Field at Baylor University Audrey Berner – Swimming at Worcester Polytechnic Institute Desiree Cadena – Cross Country and Track & Field at the University of Redlands Alexa Grau – Water Polo at Santa Clara University Jasmine Parada – Softball at the University of Redlands The Athletic Department is blessed with many parents who are willing to lend a helping hand. One set of parents have been exceptionally helpful while their daughter was attending Presentation. The 2017 Athletic Department Volunteer of the Year recipients are Tom and Patty Evans. Thank you!
SUMMER 2017 | 29
Congratulations to the
CLASS OF 2017
Erika Sofie Ackley Madison M. Affourtit Carly Virginia Agelson Neda Amin Mallory Lee Andresen Jacqueline R. Andrews Shreya H. Asher Gabrielle Grace Avila Amanda Maria Awad Mia Gabrielle Bellafronto Yvonne Bellido Sarah Elizabeth Bergen Grace Louise Bernal Audrey Anne Berner Gretchen Jane Bigelow Hannah Renee Blazing Juliane Blevins Julia Isabel Botkin Gianna Elizabeth Brewer Jacqueline Macaraeg Burd Gabriella SiWei Busco Timiko J. Butterick Desiree Angelica Cadena Sarina Josephine Caltagirone Jessica Marie Campoy Olivia L. Catelani Elena Marie Chack Sophia Constanza Chapman Georgina Chávez Celine Marie Chuapoco Victoria Elizabeth Conway Emily Rose Cook Rose Madeline Cunningham Hannah Curley Feliza Thao Dao Jordan Alana Davis Victoria Ashley De Guzman Samantha Brooke Denny Mayli Díaz Infante Ulloa Marie Elizabeth Duffy Francesca Margherita Duncan Sahaana Durgam Lydia Cecilia Estavillo Mariana Del Rosario Estrada Ellen Evans Hailey Ann Fagundes Adriana Pamela Mae Ferrari Colby Finucane Emma Marie Fontana Gabrielle Forbes
Madeleine M. Fox Hannah Margaret Franchetti Isabel Clare Frazier Julia Gray Fuqua Sanjana Garg Aryanna Celeste Gasca Carla Marie Gillespie Brittany Rose Gillingham Kelly Theresa Golden Lucia Regina Gomes Gabriella Mirei Gomez Alyssa Renee Gonzales Alexandra Noel Gonzalez Natalia M. Gonzalez Alexa W. Grau Shannon Rose Greene Alejandra Chung He Hahn Abby Marie Harris Samantha Claire Hatcher Erin Kendra Healey Kendall Keiko Hearney Mia Rose Hernandez Emma Grace Hewlin Aurelia Annamarie Hill Natascha Holenstein Arti Jain Rachel Jamison Johnson Andrea Mary Kais Talla Khelghati Samika S. Kikkeri Alyssa Barbara Kloczl Justine Knappenberger Samhita Krishnan Kimberly Ladd Emilia Frances Lambert Gabrielle Landess Monique Carmen LaPierre Abigail Le Dai-An Nguyen Le Haven Ann Downing Lee Sarah M. Liggett Francesca Elizabeth Longoni Mary Ruth Lowney Maia Angelina Lwin Megan Nicole Maasberg Leah Nicole MacArt Daria Laurent Maliesky Allison Claire Malone Yaxcha Guadalupe Mariles Carleen Markey
30 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Eliana Marks Maria Lillian Mason Natalie Ayda Matian Cortlynn Yuriko Matsuo Teresa Lorraine McCarthy Kiana Tiffany McCaul Mallory Dean Menne Bridget Martin Menne Britney Andrea Mesa Madeline Grace Meyer Monica Maryann Mifsud Reagan Adele Milligan Manush Mobarhan Fabiola Monje-Alvarez Olivia Gates Morin Katelyn Rose Murphy Shannon Marie Murphy Charlize Nicole Murray Carson Taylor Michaeli Myers Shanaya Nagendran Kanika N. Nair Bianca Laryssa Navarro Erika Brynn Neargarder Ankitha Neelavar Dorothy Qùynh Diêm Nguyên Hillary Ly Nguyen Katelyn Nguyen Maria Andrea Nguyen Michelle Nhu Quynh Nguyen Kayla Ann Nicholson Anya Marie O’Flaherty Caitrin Elizabeth Olivieri Natalie Katherine Olsen Katherine Elizabeth Ornellas Sidney Kate Ovrom Jasmine Violeta Parada Monique Marie Minh Châu Parker Lucy Anne Parks Taylor Marie Pavicich Lauren Marie Peller Janelle Clotilde Pereira Kaitlyn Anne Poncetta Sarah Marie Proffitt Irene Qin Audrey Marie Sayoc Ramirez Swathi Ramprasad Isabelle Angela Randazzo Leah Elisabeth Robbie Delaney Marie Roberson Celeste Rodriguez
Emily Koan Roland Maddison Leigh San Diego Romo Olivia Rooke Talia Grace Rossi Anna Roth Frinneth C. Rueda Amy Leigh Santos Raziel Therese Remollo Santos Stacie Louise Schaniel Carly Nicole Schnoor Emily Anne Schultz Analisa Marie Sedano Bianca Elise Aida Melina Lucia Shaw Aubrey Margaret Sherry Kaitlynn Taylor Sierra Hannah-Marie Alicia Singh Sophia Marie Sklar Elizabeth Maris Skotz Teresa Maria Skulich Natalie Renee' Sousa Ashley Laurelle Stephens Lea Alma Stith Ivana Ruijia Su Claudia Alexis Suez Swati Swaminathan Megan Kathleen Tallman Elizabeth Rosalia Tapia Maya E. Tarter Katherine Grace Taylor Ashley MaryAnn Ticzon Kathleen Lauren Tomlinson Angelina Tran Zahira Trejo Maria Alexandra Valdez Holly Francis Caroline Vanderhoof Isabel Yulisa Velez Elizabeth Villa Amy Vu Clare Elizabeth Watson Jessica Lauren Weigel-Peña Alison Victoria White Autumn Malaea White Isabel Pae-Roam Wu Caroline Anne Young Natalie Ann-Marie Zakher Jillian Paula Zane Olivia Reid Zelony Chloe H. Zhou McKenna Zimmermann
SUMMER 2017 | 31
32 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
SUMMER 2017 | 33
COLLEGE MATRICULATION | CLASS OF 2017 University of California
Private Colleges in California
Out of State Private Institutions
Berkeley Davis Irvine Los Angeles Riverside San Diego Santa Barbara Santa Cruz
California Baptist University Chapman University Loyola Marymount University Marymount California University Occidental College Saint Mary’s College Santa Clara University University of the Pacific University of Redlands University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of Southern California Whittier College
American University Baylor University Boston College Columbia University Connecticut College Cornell University Creighton University DePaul University Duke University Duquesne University Elon University Gonzaga University Loyola University, Chicago Loyola University, New Orleans New York University Northeastern University Regis University
California State University Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo East Bay Monterey San Diego San Francisco San Jose Sonoma
34 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Saint Louis University Seattle University Seattle Pacific University Southern Methodist University St. Edward’s University Swarthmore College The George Washington University Tulane University University of Notre Dame University of Portland Washington University in St. Louis Worcester Polytechnic Institute Yale University
Out of State Public Institutions Arizona State University Clemson University Indiana State University at Bloomington
Longwood University Miami University, Oxford Purdue University Texas A&M University Texas Christian University University of Alabama University of Arizona University of Colorado, Boulder University of Hawaii, Manoa University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign University of Maine University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Michigan University of Missouri, Columbia University of Nevada, Reno University of Oregon University of Texas, Austin Washington State University
Non-U.S. Institutions Les Roches International School of Hotel Management University of Westminster
Two-Year Institutions De Anza College Foothill College Mission College West Valley College
SUMMER 2017 | 35
Valedictorian
SWATHI RAMPRASAD The valedictorian this year is Swathi Ramprasad. She is certainly well-qualified for this honor. Academically, she ranks among the top of her class with a GPA of 4.66. She plans to pursue this level of excellence next year at Duke University. The following is an excerpt from Swathi’s valedictory address to the Class of 2017, on Saturday June 3. “I’d like to begin by congratulating you: we did it. Our successes are unparalleled. Our dance team brought home its 3rd national championship, our Speech and Debate team has racked up several national level titles, our robotics team has won a regional championship, our choir was selected as the top women’s choir in the state, and our sports teams have won numerous trophies, including two CCS championships this year in soccer and basketball. Who says girls can’t win? We are undefeatable.” “I want to share five lessons we have learned over the last few years.” Lesson 1: “Always cite your sources.” “Today we celebrate our achievements as the Class of 2017, but we owe everything to all of you sitting here today. We are each a canvas, painted upon by each one of you who has taught, inspired and guided us.” Lesson 2: “United we stand.” Throughout American History, progress and stability were achieved through the collaboration of the citizens towards a shared objective. We have collected almost $160,000 over our four years for Sacred Heart, benefitting the marginalized in our own community. We have raised almost $140,000 for Mag Drive, guaranteeing the excellence of a Presentation education to those who may not be able to afford it.” 36 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Lesson 3: “The two feet of justice are charity and social change.” In our Social Justice class, we learn that charity starts small. This is the spirit of Pres. It is asking the question, “Can I help you?” in every spectrum of situations.” Lesson 4: “Force = mass times acceleration” Mrs. Rosenthal and Ms. Kennedy have taught us Newton’s Second Law in Physics, losing an egg or forty along the way. After attending Catholic school for four years, mass means something very different to us. Through liturgy and the sacramental gifts, we are encouraged to develop a personal relationship with God. We learn that regardless of background, faith is a valuable component in how we accelerate despite life’s challenges. Lesson 5: “Don’t forget sister C.” For those of us who have taken Ms. Goldau’s Calculus class, we know that we can never integrate indefinitely without adding a constant to the end. Today marks our indefinite integration into the world. Reflecting back to my days as a freshman, I remember asking myself, “When are we going to use this in real life?” That time is now. And as we take the next step, let us not forget the most important lesson of all, “Not Words, But Deeds.”
Lesson 1: Always cite your sources Lesson 2: United we stand Lesson 3: The two feet of justice are charity and social change Lesson 4: Force = mass times acceleration Lesson 5: Don’t forget sister C
Teacher of the Year
SHERRIE RAPOSA MATH DEPARTMENT Mrs. Raposa has exemplified dedication to her students and has an outstanding knowledge of her mathematics. She inspires her students to work harder in order to expand their horizons and perform beyond their potential. Her energy and commitment to each student’s individual educational needs is obvious throughout class lectures and activities. She is eager to participate in school events and is always supportive of students in every realm of campus life.
Class Day
She is most widely recognized by her loud voice that can be heard just about anywhere on campus. And you can always hear her coming down the hallway in her funky heels. Her students note that not only is she a respected member of the math department and the entire Presentation faculty, she has also demonstrated her passion and dedication on the pool deck as a swim coach.
“She has so much patience and is always extremely encouraging to everyone in the class. These attributes have allowed her to thrive as an educator and we know that they will also carry over into her next endeavor as a mother.”
SUMMER 2017 | 37
Nano Nagle Award
LUCY PARKS & CHLOE ZHOU
The Nano Nagle Award, which is named for the foundress of the Sisters of the Presentation, is the school’s highest honor. It is given to a student who exemplifies the best in a Presentation graduate: she is intellectually competent, dedicated to serving others, committed to personal growth and a woman of faith.
Nearly every major program at Presentation has been blessed by their leadership and passion. Lucy Parks and Chloe Zhou will leave a permanent mark here at Pres: from athletics to student government to performing arts to campus ministry to community service. While these two young women are unique, they possess much in common: they are smart and insightful, they are inherent leaders with vibrant personalities, they are filled with compassion — and resolve — to put their faith into action. As Principal Mary Miller shares, “Lucy Parks is always upbeat and serves with a smile and an infectious positive attitude. She gets what it means to be a servant leader. She does not seek the limelight; she never asks you to do anything she won’t do; she cares about people and makes every person feel special in her presence.” “Chloe Zhou is a special person,” writes Principal Mary Miller. “Her faith is real and guides her actions; she is a competitive athlete and amazing singer. She recently told me that she wants to live a life of purpose; I believe she already has.”
“Lucy gets what it means to be a servant leader.” “Chloe’s faith is real and guides her actions…”
Alison E. Smith Memorial Scholarship
LAUREN PELLER The Alison E. Smith Memorial Scholarship honors a beloved member of the Class of 1996 who learned she had an inoperable tumor during her sophomore year. Alison fought bravely for a year and a half before succumbing to cancer in 1995. The grace and dignity with which she handled her illness were an inspiration to those who knew her. This award is presented to a student who has persevered through hardship and intends to pursue higher education. Lauren Peller is a hard-working young woman who has lived with a chronic condition that requires frequent medical procedures and, quite often, hospital stays for days at a time.
“This young woman has handled all that life has dealt her with maturity, grace and courage.”
38 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Vice President Katherine Georgiev notes, “Lauren possesses many of the same qualities Alison possessed: determination, courage and a positive attitude. Her quiet demeanor and her can-do attitude are admirable, and her ability to manage a sport, tennis, as well as hours of community service and full participation in PAC is impressive. This young woman has handled all that life has dealt her with maturity, grace and courage.”
Alyssa Messier Memorial Scholarship
JASMINE PARADA The Alyssa Messier Memorial Scholarship honors a beloved member of the Class of 1999 who coped with epilepsy until her death in 2000. Rather than let the disease get the best of her, Alyssa inspired those around her through her enthusiasm for life and sports. This award is given to a senior who embodies many of the exceptional qualities Alyssa demonstrated during her years at Presentation.
During her time at Presentation, Jasmine Parada has been a PAC Officer, an active member of Community Involvement, and a loyal participant in the Panther Report. She has worked side-by-side with her father volunteering with the Rebuilding Silicon Valley Organization.
“...taking a leadership role and inspiring her teammates.”
Vice Principal Tim Case shares, “Like Alyssa, Jasmine has been an active and enthusiastic participant in the Presentation community. Also like Alyssa, she has a passion for softball. She’s been a valuable player on the Pres Varsity Softball Team for her entire four years, taking a leadership role and inspiring her teammates.”
Our hearts are ever grateful, for memories we love, of Presentation High School... Carmel Vaudagna Memorial Scholarship
ZAHIRA TREJO The Carmel Vaudagna Memorial Scholarship was established by friends and family of a dedicated Presentation parent volunteer who passed away in 1977. This award is given to a student who truly lives the motto “Not Words, But Deeds.” Zahira Trejo is known for being extremely hard-working and very unassuming. Not one to call attention to herself, she could easily slip into the background and not be seen, something she is skilled at doing due to her experience on the Tech Crew, a passion she has been dedicated to while at Presentation.
“...shows up ready to give her all.”
As Vice President Lisa Brunolli writes, “The level of support and time she gives to her family is nothing short of inspiring. This student somehow always sees the bright side of life, and despite her own trials and tribulations, shows up ready to give her all.”
SUMMER 2017 | 39
Christina Asbury Memorial Scholarship
OLIVIA ZELONY The Christina Asbury Memorial Scholarship was established by friends and family of this much-loved member of the Class of 2005 at Christina’s request. Christina succumbed to cancer the year after she graduated from Presentation and is remembered with great admiration for the passionate way she lived, even in the midst of her battle. This award is given to a Presentation graduate with similar zeal, positivity and enthusiasm.
“...fully engaged with all that Presentation has to offer…”
Throughout her time at Presentation, Olivia Zelony challenged herself with a very rigorous course curriculum and participated in co-curriculars such as Peer Ministry, Speech and Debate, Peer Tutoring and CI — serving as an officer and accumulating hundreds of community service hours. She has also been active in all of our drives — collecting toys, food and money for Sacred Heart Community Center. As teacher Rosemarie Healy points out, “From wheelchair to walker. From crutches to a sassy walk with a hop, skip, and a jump in her step, this student has fully engaged with all that Presentation has to offer with enthusiasm, commitment and an extraordinarily positive attitude.”
...named for our Queen above, our gratitude we give you, our promise to be true... Presentation Leadership Award
BRIDGET MENNE The Presentation Leadership Award recognizes the contributions of a student who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in school activities. This award is not given every year; it is only awarded when a worthy student emerges.
Bridget Menne has demonstrated leadership in her four years at Presentation as a member of the Leadership Academy, co-founder of a club and club officer, a class level officer, and an ASB officer. She has worked hard to use her leadership positions as an opportunity to make Presentation a fun place and has repeatedly demonstrated that she can work well with anyone in any situation.
“She has repeatedly demonstrated that she can work well with anyone in any situation.”
40 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
ASB Moderator Mrs. Colvin writes, “She is extremely reliable and has been my go-to person on ASB this year. When she’s the point person on an event or activity, I am always confident that not only will she get the job done, it will be done exceptionally well.”
Lindsay Parkinson Memorial Scholarship
ELIZABETH VILLA The Lindsay Parkinson Memorial Scholarship honors a spirited member of the Class of 2000 who lost her life in a car accident during her first year of college. The award is given to a student who shares Lindsay’s commitment to intellectual growth, deep personal faith, and strong family ties. Elizabeth Villa has always placed her education first. She has worked to overcome the various barriers she has encountered, and pushed herself well beyond her comfort zone. She has done very well within her academic coursework, and has challenged herself with honors and AP courses each semester since her freshman year.
“...one whose stories you could listen to for hours.”
As college counselor MaryLynne Rodriguez writes, “Elizabeth has led an interesting life thus far, and with this life experience, comes a rich and dynamic young woman, one whose stories you could listen to for hours, and whose perseverance is nothing short of inspiring.”
...to you our Alma Mater, our dearest Gold and Blue. Sr. Thecla Memorial Scholarship
ALYSSA KLOCZL The Sr. Thecla Memorial Scholarship honors Sr. Thecla Cronin, a Presentation sister for nearly 75 years and a teacher at Presentation for 23 years. She is remembered for her genuine love and concern for others. This award is given to a senior who shares these qualities and plans to pursue a career in education. Alyssa Kloczl has never doubted her desire to be an elementary school teacher. While a very busy student at Presentation, she completed many hours of community service — teaching at Vacation Bible Camp, working at Sacred Heart in the after-school Homework Club, and teaching catechism to kindergartners at Holy Family Church.
“...a perfect candidate for mentoring young children…”
Teacher Rosemarie Healy reflects, “Her delightful personality, nurturing character and engaging zest for life makes her a perfect candidate for mentoring young children who thrive on these attributes in the classroom.”
SUMMER 2017 | 41
DEPARTMENT AWARDS Presentation High School salutes seniors who excel in a variety of subject areas. These students are selected by our academic and co-curricular departments for their outstanding work and dedication.
ERICKA ACKLEY Fearless Leader in Journalism
NEDA AMIN Senior Service Award
HANNAH RENEE BLAZING Community Involvement Award
42 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
MALLORY ANDRESEN Excellence in Dance
JULIA BOTKIN Senior Service Award Outstanding English Student Outstanding Math Student Outstanding Spanish Student Outstanding Social Studies Student
SARAH BERGEN Film and Media Leadership
SARINA CALTAGIRONE Fearless Leader in Journalism
GRACE LOUISE BERNAL Campus Ministry Award
MARIANA ESTRADA Religious Studies Student Award
EMMA MARIE FONTANA Campus Ministry Award
SANJANA GARG Editorial Leadership in Graphic Publications
ALEXA GRAU Scholar-Athlete Award
RACHEL JOHNSON Outstanding French Student
TALLA KHELGATI Outstanding Speech and Debate Competitor
MAIA LWIN Outstanding Writer Excellence in Technical Theater
TERESA LORRAINE MCCARTHY Campus Ministry Award Religious Studies Student Award
ANKITHA NEEVALAR Performing Arts Inspiration Award
ISABELLE RANDAZZO Senior Service Award
TALIA GRACE ROSSI Campus Ministry Award
RAZIEL THERESE REMELLO SANTOS Campus Ministry Award Excellence in Performing Arts
KAITLYNN SIERRA Outstanding Speech and Debate Member
KATHERINE TAYLOR Outstanding Science Student
ZAHIRA TREJO Excellence in Technical Theater
JESSICA LAUREN WEIGEL-PENA Community Involvement Award
AUTUMN WHITE Excellence in Visual Arts
ISABEL WU Excellence in Visual Arts
CAROLINE YOUNG Outstanding French Student
CHLOE ZHOU Ella Fitzgerald Award
EMILY SCHULTZ Excellence in Dance
SUMMER 2017 | 43
COLLEGE ATHLETICS This fall several Presentation Panthers will play sports at the collegiate level. These scholar-athletes epitomize hard work, dedication a nd resilience. We congratulate them for what they have already achieved and look forward to their future success.
Gabrielle
Audrey
AVILA
TRACK & FIELD
Desiree
BERNER
CADENA
FORBES
SWIMMING
CROSS COUNTRY AND TRACK & FIELD
SOFTBALL
University of California, San Diego
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Brittany
Alexa
GILLINGHAM
VOLLEYBALL
Santa Clara University
University of Redlands
California State University, Monterey Bay
Emma
Gabrielle
GRAU
HEWLIN
WATER POLO
VOLLEYBALL
Santa Clara University
Kiana
MCCAUL
SOFTBALL
Columbia University 44 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Gabby
LANDESS –
Connecticut College
Jasmine PARADA
SOFTBALL
University of Redlands
GYMNASTICS
University of California, Davis
McKenna
ZIMMERMANN
GYMNASTICS
Seattle Pacific University
ALUMNAE: ONCE A PRES GIRL, ALWAYS A PRES GIRL Generations of Pres girls are embarking on new and exciting chapters of their lives. Flip through the next few pages to catch up with classmates and old friends while getting acquainted with a few new faces. Enjoy the milestones and memories!
SUMMER 2017 | 45
PRES GIRLS AT WORK: SERVICE Beyond the halls of Presentation and into the working world, these women have heard the call of service. Striving to be the best version of themselves while making a difference in the lives of others, especially those most vulnerable, these women have chosen paths that are truly special.
DANIELLE ARIGONI ’87 Danielle Arigoni ’87 is the Director of the Office of Economic Development for the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Why are you drawn to this work? At the Department of Housing and Urban Development, we deploy block grants, and improve technical assistance and policy to create better, healthier and more resilient communities. Did you know that research shows that a person’s life span can be determined by what zip code they live in? I deeply believe that by creating better communities -- with more housing choices, more transportation options, and better infrastructure -- we can make the world a better place. Everything from asthma rates in kids, to mobility for the elderly, to the CO2 emission are directly tied to what sort of a built environment we choose to create. What is the biggest reward of your work? I love seeing great places emerge: small towns like Healdsburg, CA, that have found their niche and are now thriving, and attracting new residents, and big cities, like Pittsburgh, PA, that have totally shifted their economic growth approach and are now leading the way to a more sustainable future.
46 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
What part of your work do you wish was more widely known? I wish that people understood the global and health consequences of our conventional approach to suburban sprawl; it has been damaging to our air, water, land, and people in many ways. And that public service is a noble and often unrecognized vocation, despite it being pilloried in our political process. How did Presentation shape your desire to make a difference in the world? Public service was never a question for me; it felt like a natural extension of my education at Presentation. And in all that I do, ultimately, we ask and try to address the question: How does this affect the most vulnerable among us, and how can we improve their lives through better public policy? What is the greatest lesson you’ve ever learned on the job? The passion and zeal of a team of individuals to create better communities can make a difference.
KARIN COOKE ’92 Karin Cooke ’92 is the Director for the Innovation Fund for Technology for Kaiser Permanente Why are you drawn to this work? During graduate school, I learned that educating parents about how to manage their family’s health was key to avoiding absences at school and in the workplace. As a result, they were also able to avoid unnecessary and costly visits to the emergency room. I lead a technology innovation group at Kaiser Permanente. It is exciting to look at all the latest developments and work to understand how they can enhance the quality, service and affordability of health care. Can you share one of your favorite projects? One of my favorite projects was an automated calculation tool for insulin dosage connected to our electronic medical record. It eliminated complicated calculation errors and saved precious minutes of time per calculation since many patients need to be checked hourly. Partnering with the nursing team, we were able to get a prototype working in a couple of months, and this tool is now available for doctors and nurses to use.
What part of your work do you wish was more widely known? Any new solution is much more about people and process than the technology. Over the years, my team has become very focused on human centered design, and ensuring that all those impacted (patients, families, clinical teams) are able to provide input on the design and experience of any solution. How did Presentation shape your desire to make a difference in the world? The community service activities felt core to my high school experience. I always felt a strong sense of community and inspiration whenever I volunteered, most memorably at Sacred Heart. Since then, I have been driven to more mission-related jobs, as I am able to do work that I love, but also tap into a strong sense of purpose and community. It also means that I’m surrounded by people who are also excited about tackling big problems and trying to make a difference. What is the greatest lesson you’ve ever learned on the job? Don’t accept the first “no” you hear. Listening to others, understanding where they are coming from, and realizing common goals can often lead to “yes.”
SUMMER 2017 | 47
MARY HELMERS ’79 Mary Helmers ’79 is a pediatric nurse in the Cystic Fibrosis Center at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital
Why did you choose nursing as a career? When I was a child, I liked to take care of people and animals. I was always there to watch if someone got hurt and would feed all the animals in my neighborhood. I never thought of being anything else but a nurse. It is extremely satisfying knowing you’ve helped someone and made a difference in their life. It can even be as simple as a gentle touch, holding their hand, hugging them, sitting beside them, talking or listening to them, and/or just being quiet with them. That is what makes it a unique job and one that has fulfilled me for the past 34 years. What is the biggest challenge of your work? What is the biggest reward? Biggest Challenge is not having the time to complete all my work and do everything I want to do for my patients and families, and having to fight with private and state-funded insurance groups to get my patients approval for all the treatments, medications and care they need to survive. Biggest Reward is by far the smiles on my patients’ faces… or all the hugs from my patients…or the “thank you” from the parent whose child just passed away and knowing I did everything I could to help ease their sadness just a little bit…or comforting the family members of patients who are end stage. Just the fulfillment of being a nurse.
“Presentation taught me that I can do anything I set out to do in life.”
48 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
What part of your work do you wish was more widely known? I believe most people know all about my role and my work. I am winding down in my career and would like to retire, but with that said, I cannot imagine not working as a nurse, since it has been a part of my life for so many years. The patients I take care of hold a very special place in my heart and being their advocate for all these years is very rewarding to me. I could not have imagined my life without my career, even though I always just wanted to be a stay-at-home “mom.” I am very lucky to have had many successes throughout my 34 years of working as a nurse. How did Presentation shape your desire to make a difference in the world? Presentation taught me that I can do anything I set out to do in life. In addition, anything I do can change things in this world we live in. Having a positive attitude and believing in myself, knowing that I do make a difference in the lives of others (my patients). Knowing I can accomplish anything, in turn, gives me what I need to make a difference in the lives of others. What is the greatest lesson you’ve ever learned on the job? Respecting the person’s right to die with dignity, whether it be a child or an adult. Also helping them have a dignified death. We help people come into this world, and we need to help people leave this world, too. Also, every person who walks through the door — no matter what the color of their skin or language they speak — deserves care (that is my belief).
CHELSEA SIOXSON ’09 Chelsea Sioxson ’09 is the Creative Director and Founder of MAGIC Dance Arts, a non-profit focused on bringing music and movement to children with sensory sensitivities.
What is it about this line of work that speaks to you? In my field of work, I’m always “on my toes.” I am grateful for the opportunity to get to know such a unique population and learn about how they interact with the world. With MAGIC, I am able to combine both my passion for dance and my passion for working with the differently-abled. On a personal note, dance was always my favorite and most comfortable form of expression. Because of this, I am able to connect to our students on a deeper level. When learning about our target population, most people notice the differences. I focus on our similarities, and I’m continuously amazed at how this can be so unifying and eye-opening. What is the biggest challenge of your work? In this field, curriculum is not “one size fits all.” We promote a sensory-friendly environment. Everyone experiences their senses differently. To cater to all of these experiences requires an immense amount of creativity, open-mindedness and flexibility. What part of your work do you wish was more widely known? I wish more people recognized the value of movement and music in regards to child development. We’re not just teaching our students technique and choreography; they’re engaging in social interactions, improving motor development, fostering communication skills, and so much more.
How did Presentation shape your desire to make a difference in the world? Our motto, “Not Words, But Deeds,” is forever ingrained on my soul and is the driving force for everything that I do. I can take countless classes and read an endless number of books on how to help our target population, but none of that matters if I don’t put it into action. Presentation challenged me to walk among those who are different than I am and try to find empathy in their struggles to enrich my own experiences. This is what I try to do every single day. What is the greatest lesson you’ve ever learned on the job? The greatest lesson that I’ve learned is that our differences are something to be celebrated. Oftentimes, being different results in isolation and harassment. But when you really take the time to appreciate what sets us apart from one another, you begin to understand how dynamic relationships and multiple perspectives can create MAGIC in everyday life. We were not all meant to be the same.
Our motto, “Not Words, But Deeds,” is forever ingrained on my soul and is the driving force for everything that I do.
SUMMER 2017 | 49
MCKENZIE TAYLOR ’06 Mckenzie Taylor ’06 is a program specialist for the Peace Corps at headquarters in Washington, D.C..
Why are you drawn to this work? What is it about this line of work that speaks to you? I believe the Peace Corps has an incredible mission, and I respect the grassroots approach to development that they utilize — working side by side with their community counterparts for two years. I saw and felt the impact I was making when I volunteered in Ukraine and now I see and hear stories about the impact thousands of other volunteers are making on a daily basis as well. It is truly inspiring. What is the biggest challenge of your work? What is the biggest reward? The biggest challenge is that people don’t understand the full extent of the impact that our organization is making. When I first accepted the offer to serve as a volunteer in Ukraine and shared my news with others, they were unaware that the Peace Corps was still around. Now, having worked as a volunteer and currently as a full-time employee at HQ in Washington, D.C., I have so much respect for my colleagues here in the U.S. and for those keeping things running overseas at our different posts. What part of your work do you wish was more widely known? We have roughly 8,000 volunteers serving in 62 different countries. The organization was established in 1961 by John F. Kennedy, and the mission has remained the same: to promote world peace and friendship.
50 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
How did Presentation shape your desire to make a difference in the world? My Catholic faith has encouraged me to be a woman for others. I was taught from a young age that if we are blessed in life, it is our duty to give back the gifts we have been given and to make sure that we are always helping those who are less fortunate. Presentation further solidified this foundation. What would you tell a student who is aspiring to be in the Peace Corps? If you have a strong desire to help make a difference in the lives of others and a passion for learning about other cultures and travel, then the Peace Corps is definitely the right choice for you. I cannot even describe the ways that the Peace Corps has impacted my life. My time as a volunteer helped me grow as a professional, a leader and a compassionate person, and now I am fortunate to work for an amazing federal government agency in D.C. Being a Peace Corps volunteer is truly the hardest job you will ever love.
“...if we are blessed in life, it is our duty to give back the gifts we have been given and to make sure that we are always helping those who are less fortunate.”
Hall Decorating During Spirit Week, each class level decorates a section of the Presentation hallway with spirited displays. This year, the theme was Around the World. In a close contest, a Rio de Janeiro-themed hall from the juniors beat out a New York City-themed hall by the seniors, a Hollywood hall by the sophomores, and a visit to Mexico from the freshmen. But, with festive decorations for all to enjoy, everyone is a winner!
SUMMER 2017 | 51
CLASS NOTES 1960’s Noelani Sheckler-Smith ’66 is currently a NACC board certified chaplain working at Sonoma Developmental Center, a state institution (like Agnews was) near Sonoma, CA.
Beth Keifer ’69, her mom and Dennise McNulty ’69 Carter gathered with classmates at Presentation during Dennise’s father’s memorial.
’69 Joanne Polverino ’69 is pleased to announce her niece, Mairead Polverino, will enter Presentation in the fall. She is very excited to join the Presentation family. Chris Shyba ’69 Russell and her husband Jim, who she’s been married to for 35 years, traveled to Africa and went to a lion rescue camp in Zimbabwe. Orphaned baby lions are brought to the camp and taught to live and hunt in the wild and then are released. She recently had dinner with fellow classmates Diana Wheatley, Michele Conroy, Marian Mazzuco and Susie Marti.
’69
1970’s Tami Anastasia ’77 facilitates three local Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Groups. One of the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Groups she facilitates is one of the largest caregiver support groups that the Alzheimer’s Association sponsors. Tami has also expanded her counseling services for guidance, support and strategies to family members caring for a loved one with dementia. 52 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Amy Hayashimoto ’79 LaReau writes, “I’ve been living in London for the past 5 years, because my husband was transferred for a work assignment. We will be returning to the Bay Area this summer. Living in London has given me the opportunity to focus on my passion of figure skating. I have been training with an awesome coach, ’79 John Hamer (3-time British Men’s Champion). I competed in the British Adult Championships in April and won a gold medal. Looking back, I never thought I would still be skating at 55 years of age, but I have no plans to stop anytime soon.”
1980’s Shannon Hare ’80 is working in marketing for Sutter Health Palo Alto Medical Foundation, which keeps her very busy. Shannon writes, “I recently spent a wonderful girls’ weekend in Napa along with Mary Zarka Almada ’80, but my favorite memories from this spring will surely be watching my daughter Gabriella Gomez ’17 sing her ‘senior solo’ for choir and walk alongside her model, in the dress she designed and created for the Presentation Fashion Show.”
Julia Prodis ’81 Sulek shares, “Just a few weeks ago, in April, I was part of the team that won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize in breaking news for coverage of the Ghost Ship Fire in Oakland — the devastating fire that claimed the lives of 36 mostly young people living in the artists’ live/work space.” The prize went to the East Bay Times in Oakland, the sister paper to the Mercury News, where Julia has been a reporter for 18 years. The two papers are owned by the same company and share newsrooms and resources on big stories. As Julia reported: “This was no natural disaster, no earthquake, no terrorist shooting. This disaster was avoidable; 36 people were victims not just of the smoke and fire, but of recklessness, bureaucracy and indifference.”
CLASS NOTES Linda Horton ’82 currently lives in Suwanee, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta, with her husband of 27 years. Their 24-year-old son graduated from college two years ago. ’82 He was a collegiate lacrosse student athlete who now works as a police officer. Their 18-year-old daughter will graduate high school this month and will also be a collegiate lacrosse student athlete. Terry Downing Gallo ’83 recently started a new role as the Development and Outreach Manager for Rebuilding Together Silicon Valley, a nonprofit that completes home repairs and safety modifications for homeowners in need. She also recently received a Behavioral Health Hero’s award from Santa Clara County. Cecilia O’Brien ’84 Jackson reports, “The latest news in our house is the big excitement that Paige and Grace were accepted to PHS class of 2021!! We are so happy they will have the PHS experience. ’84 Paige was so excited she ripped the bottom of the letter getting it out of the envelope. I’m one proud alum!”
1990’s Mary Beth Basile ’95 and her husband Edward Ring welcomed their daughter Leanna Grace Ring on December 4, 2016.
’95 Nicole Cefalu ’95 Tuttle was recently honored as one of the 2017 Women of Influence in the San Jose Business Journal. In the Silicon Valley Business Journal article Nicole shared, “The Director for Global Procurement at eBay, Cefalu Tuttle had been at eBay for seven years when she had her first child in 2010. She decided to work part time since and has never looked back, earning three promotions and the respect of her colleagues for her consistently strong performance and commitment to work-life balance.” Gina Bouska ’96 Livingston is teaching 5th grade at Saint Frances Cabrini, where her children attend school. One of the highlights of her job is teaching the daughters of Presentation graduates, like Diane Fiock Rosenthal, Anne Cronin Stenseth, and Christina Scalzo Simpkins, who had her mom, Sharon Bouska, as a teacher!
Charla Sullivan ’84 writes, “I am so excited to share that my husband and I have moved back to the Bay Area from Denver, Colorado as of May 1, 2017. After 26 years away, our life has come full circle. I am so looking forward to connecting with my PHS peeps in person after relying on Facebook to stay in touch.” Staci Caparelli ’88 Arnold, is currently principal of Lakeview Elementary School in Lakeside. Staci shares, “In addition to my school family of 710 students and 68 staff members, I also have four children of my own and have been happily married for 20 years. I am profoundly grateful for the many blessings in my life and for the strong educational foundation that PHS provided me.”
’96 Debbie Wayne ’96, Cory Cochrane ’96 Laurence, Christina Brown ’96 Coleman and Shelly Glennon ’96 attended the Women’s March in Washington, D.C. on January 21. Debbie shares, “It was great to be able to march with these ladies on such a historic day!” SUMMER 2017 | 53
CLASS NOTES
Michelle Cassidy ’99 married Andrew Shepard on October 22, 2016 at Mission Santa Clara. After celebrating 10 years at Integra Employee Benefit Insurance Services, Michelle received a promotion to Vice President of Client Services.
’99
Jenna Martarano ’01 Granneman and husband Michael Granneman, had an eventful September. Two weeks after moving back to Willow Glen, they welcomed their first child. Barrett Henry Granneman was born ’01 on September 29, 2016, weighing 7lbs 9oz and 19.5in. Jenna and Michael are so glad to be back in the area with friends and family.
Megan Alpers ’02 and her husband, Will, welcomed their first child, Abigail Gwenn Raschefsky, on February 6, 2017.
’99 Theresa DeGuzman ’99 Chung works for the San Jose Fire Department as a Fire Protection Engineer. She received the 2016 Pride of San Jose Award for her involvement with the interdepartmental team for “Sparta Student Housing.” The project was recognized as a catalyst for future developments in downtown San Jose. Honorees of this award represent the highest level of public service and commitment to the City of San Jose and its residents.
2000’s Pres alums from 2001 recently gathered for a baby shower for Elysia Alvarez ’01 Woodworth due with a baby girl in July. Pictured with fellow pres girls left to right Maria Westendorf ’01 Quillici, Catrina Bliss ’01 Pak, Katie Haggerty ’01 O’Keefe, Elise Beckley ’01 Wallace, Michelle McGovern 01’ and Shana Bliss ’04 Lourdeaux.
’02
Adeline Rose Lourdeaux was born to Joe and Shana Bliss ’04 Lourdeaux on February 14, 2017. Shana and her family live in Marin county.
’04
Stephanie Kurtz ’04 Dockendorf and her husband, David, welcomed their first child, Christian, on March 20, 2017.
’01 54 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
’04
’04
CLASS NOTES Francesca LeBaron ’06 accepted a full Consortium Fellowship to attend UC Berkeley Haas for her MBA starting in the fall of 2017.
’91
’99
’04
’05
’11
Amanda Martin ’04 Bates married Danny Bates on June 5, 2016. The ceremony was at the Santa Clara Mission followed by a reception at Cinnabar Hills Golf Club. Jenn Earley ’13, Amanda Uyesugi ’11, Maelyn Suba ’91, Pauline Tryforos ’05, Michelle Cassidy ’99 and Alison Walewski ’04 celebrated with Amanda on her special day.
’05
’13 ’06
’04 Paula Russo ’05 Reardon gave birth to her son, Giovanni Paul Reardon on July 4, 2016. Paula writes, “We will be celebrating his first birthday this year. He is growing up so fast and we can’t believe how quickly the time is going.”
After graduating from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in May 2014, Kim Grelli ’06 moved to Seattle for her residency training in Pediatrics at the University of Washington. This July she will be moving to San Francisco to begin fellowship training in Neonatology at UCSF. Kim shares, “While I enjoyed exploring the Southeast and Pacific Northwest, I am excited to return home to the Bay Area!”
Leann Witherspoon ’07 Sobrato and her husband Jeff will be celebrating their first wedding anniversary in June. Jeff and Leann were married last year in Napa. Since then, they have moved back “home” from Los Angeles and have been enjoying their home after an extensive six-month renovation.
’07
Loreli Alba ’08 married J.P. Alanis in Los Cabos, Mexico at Misión de San Jose del Cabo on May 27, 2017. They met while attending USC. Loreli’s bridal party included four Presentation alums, Monica Alba ’05, ’08 Megan Black ’08, Michelle D’Arpino ’08 and Gabrielle Jarvis ’08. For gifts for her bridesmaids from Presentation, Loreli gave them a ring with 37.2831 N, 121.9004 W engraved on it, the longitude and latitude of Presentation.
’05
’08 SUMMER 2017 | 55
CLASS NOTES 2010’s Sarah Kuhs ’11 graduated with a B.A. from SJSU last May and is finishing up her first year teaching 2nd grade at Saint John Vianney Catholic School, as well as her first year at Santa Clara University in a graduate education program. Sarah shares, “My 2nd graders are starting to receive their First Communion, which is exciting for both them and myself! I am thrilled to have the opportunity to teach at a Catholic school — I love having the ability to pass on the values my elementary school (Holy Family) and Presentation taught me to my students.”
’09 Julie Rataczak ’09 and her husband enjoyed a trip to Tokyo to celebrate their one-year anniversary.
Chelsea Sioxson ’09 got engaged to her high school sweetheart, exactly 10 years after the day they met. Also Chelsea’s sensory-friendly dance company MAGIC Dance Arts (Music, Art & Gross-motor Integration for Children) celebrated one year of being in business and became a non-profit.
Kaitlyn Leahey ’11 just finished her first year of medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She will also be doing a dual degree while she is in medical school. For her dual degree, Kaitlyn will be pursuing a Masters of Science in Medical Ethics at the University of Pennsylvania. During this masters program, Kaitlyn will develop an independent empirical ethics research project. Brooke Veronda ’13 graduated from the University of Nevada Reno, in three years (one year early) last May. She has been working as a Medical Device Sales Representative for almost a year now and was awarded Top Sales Producer and Rookie of the Year for 2016. Brooke also earned an allexpense-paid trip to Greece for being in the President’s Club for 2016!
’09
56 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Mark Your Calendar Upcoming Alumnae Events 2017-2018
AUGUST
OCTOBER
MARCH
Class of 2007 and 2012 Reunions
Alumnae Luncheon in New York
Circle dinner
August 19
October 7
Class of 1987 and 1997 Reunions
Adventure in Wonderland Auction
August 26
October 14
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER
Class of 1977 Reunion
Feast of the Presentation
September 9 Class of 1967 Reunion
September 23
November 17 JANUARY Alumnae Hall Judging
January 29 FEBRUARY Crab Feed
February 10
March 1 Gold and Blue Line at Blue Line Pizza in Campbell
March 6 Alumnae Day of Service
March 10 APRIL Fashion Show
April 21 MAY May Day Prayer Service
May 4 Golf Tournament
May 11 SUMMER 2017 | 57
Crab Feed
Fashion Show
58 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
What is your favorite
Presentation memory?
Caitie Clancey ’06 Lunchtime on Halloween with my friends! “Once on This Island” with Mr. Houle. Eating bread and cheese and cookies galore! Ann Chu ’00 Blomquist There are so many special memories from formal dances to performing in shows. Looking back what stands out now is simply hanging out by our lockers before school swapping stories, sharing laughs. Those moments make me look back and love my years at Pres. It’s the friends you make there, that makes the time there special. Daniela Curiel ’14 Senior lock-in. Not only were the events themselves a lot of fun (and where I found out I could be hypnotized) but it’s at the point in our high school career where everyone realizes it’s the beginning of the end, and the sisterhood feels the strongest. Cliques and groups didn’t exist as much that night. We just enjoyed all being together. Maddie Van Hoorickx ’12 I was on the swim team. One day I was going to see a boy I liked at a meet, and I was eating lunch by the Mary statue in the quad, so I pulled a razor out of my swim bag and started dry shaving my legs. Ms. Miller and Lagana walked by, and Ms. Miller just looked over and said “now I’ve seen it all.”
Lindsey Covarrubias ’04 Being a performer in the inaugural production at the Valenzuela Theatre. It was my first time getting ready in a dressing room with those traditional vanity lights that frame the mirrors. I remember feeling so professional, putting on makeup and curling my hair before the show. Nithya Kiron ’15 At the end of mass everyone would immediately put their hands around each other, sing the alma mater, and basically trample over each other trying to leave the gym. Marissa Henry ’13 When Mr. Schmuck drove the California contemporary issues class to Monterey and took us kayaking, followed by a beautiful nature hike and delicious wharf clam chowder. It was one of the most fun days ever! I got one of the worst sunburns that day. Nicole Gomes ’10 One of my favorite Pres memories is performing in Pan Pan with my fellow Panther Pride officers. I had never had the chance to attend it before, so being able to perform in it and experience all the excitement and hysteria firsthand was a fun event, especially when our game included whipped cream pies in the face. SUMMER 2017 | 59
IN MEMORIAM MARIA MARTINEZ Grandmother of Sofia Martinez ’20 ROBERT DWYER Grandfather of Mary Dwyer ’00 Lyngstad, Carrie Dwyer ’00 Cook and Kathleen Dwyer ’09 BEV STAIR Mother of Pam Stair ’73, Sue Stair ’75 Madden, Lynn Stair ’80 Crowell, Grandmother of Katie Madden ’06 SISTER CLAUDE POWER, PBVM Past Superintendent of Schools for the San Jose Diocese OLIVIA GRAY Mother of Lisa Gray ’87 Fuqua, Tanya Gray ’89 Reinhardt and Grandmother of Olivia Fuqua ’14, Julia Fuqua ’17, Maria Fuqua ’19
ROBERT MEYER Grandfather of Karen Hughes ’02 Buckner and Kaitlin Hughes ’06
TONY POCH Grandfather of Makayla Davis ’15 and Jordan Davis ’17
JAMES MCNULTY Father of Dennise McNulty ’69 Carter
ELOISA PEDROZA Grandmother of Ruth Perez ’20
GEORGE ZAKHER Grandfather of Natalie Zakher ’17
KENNETH KERLEY Grandfather of Morgan Kerley ’20 and Lesley Kerley ’13
FIDENCIO VILLALOBOS Grandfather of Scarlett Puentes ’15 and Natalie & Nicole Puentes ’18 GENEVIEVE ESTHER IACONIS Mother of Debra Iaconis ’70 Kearney and Grandmother of Andrea Iaconis ’08 and Melissa Iaconis ’09 AL LAMPERT Father of Andrea Lampert ’00 and Amanda Lampert ’02 King
SEAN MURPHY Grandfather of Shannon Murphy ’17
BOB QUINN Father of Gemma Quinn ’99
DEBIKA GUHA Grandmother of Anusha Ghosh ’20
CATHY CAO Grandmother of Chau Nguyen ’19
LUC TRAN Grandfather of Mahal Tran ’20
RICHARD ALTON BARDIN Grandfather of Megan Tallman ’17
INES MONTANARI Mother of Ivana Montanari ’72 Hoholik LOUISE FACTOR Grandmother of Teresa Ponikvar ’99 RICHARD MINNIUM Grandfather of Natalie Olsen ’17 MARGOT HESSLING Mother of Renee Hessling ’02 Mortisen and Mother-in-law of Lindsay Sanchez ’02 Hessling DON RYAN Father of Kelly Ryan ’83 Burns, Katie Ryan ’84 Boenninghausen and Grandfather of Caitlin Burns ’13
Supporting Presentation
How to Give
Your support makes learning possible. Making a donation to Presentation means you are empowering the next generation of smart leaders, creative thinkers and global citizens.
ONLINE
Donations to the young women of Presentation can come in many forms. A gift to the Presentation Annual Fund or Direct Aid has an immediate impact. Or you may contribute to our Endowment, for a gift that lasts for generations. We also hope to see you at our memorable fundraisers. Your investment of money and time is invaluable.
PRESENTATION ANNUAL FUND
Directly supports academic programs, co-curricular activities and other important needs of the school.
DIRECT AID SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Go to www.presentationhs.org and click the “Support Pres” button on the Presentation homepage.
BY PHONE
Call Advancement Director Alice Dewhirst ’78 Ursano at (408) 264-5110 ext. 2447 to make a pledge.
MAIL OR DROP OFF A CHECK Presentation High School Office of Advancement 2281 Plummer Avenue San Jose, CA 95125
WISHBOOK
Each year teachers submit requests for specific items that support classroom learning and school programs. www.presentationhs.org/wishbook
Provides immediate funding for tuition and other expenses, ensuring that any qualified student may receive a Presentation education regardless of her family’s ability to pay tuition.
PLANNED GIVING
ENDOWMENT
COMPANY MATCHING
Endowment gifts are held, and only the interest earned is used to assist the operating budget and the financial aid program.
Take care of yourself and Presentation High School. www.phslegacy.org
Do you want your gift to make a bigger impact? Look into your company matching program!
For more information on these and other opportunities, visit www.presentationhs.org/giving or contact Advancement Director Alice Dewhirst ’78 Ursano at (408) 264-5110 ext. 2447 or aursano@presentationhs.org.
Presentation High School 2281 Plummer Avenue San Jose, CA 95125
Save the Date: Saturday, Oct. 14 VILLA RAGUSA, CAMPBELL WWW.PRESENTATIONHS.ORG/AUCTION