DoWell. Be Well.
A BOLD NEW VISION, A CLEAR PATH FORWARD
Dear Presentation Community,
Since 1962, Presentation High School has carried forward the spirit of Nano Nagle, who risked her life to educate Catholic students and walked by lantern light to serve the most vulnerable Today, her light continues to guide us as we prepare young women not just for college, but for lives of purpose, leadership, and compassion
Building on decades of insight into how girls learn and thrive, we recently undertook a thoughtful, researchinformed process to chart our path forward Through community conversations, national benchmarking, and reflection on our Catholic mission, one truth became clear: in a world of growing complexity, our students need both roots and wings They need to be well, grounded in faith, wellness, and community, in order to do well in a complex and rapidly changing world.
What we’d like to share with you is more than a strategic plan It’s a reflection of our identity, a response to the moment, and a vision for the future of Catholic education for girls
Our vision is bold Our direction is clear And our foundation is strong But we cannot do this alone We invite you to explore the vision and join us in this exciting endeavor Your partnership, with your investment, your presence, your ideas, and your support has never been more important. Together, we can ensure that every young woman at Pres has the opportunity to thrive and lead
As one community, we will carry the light forward, brighter than ever
With gratitude and great hope,
Ms Holly Elkins, President
Ms Kristina Luscher P’19 & P’21, Principal
OUR MISSION
Presentation High School is an inclusive Catholic, college preparatory school community serving young women Our transformative education, rooted in faith, justice, compassion and love, inspires students to bring positive change to the world
OUR VISION
Presentation High School will be the region’s preeminent Catholic high school for girls, distinguished by our exceptional programming and unique focus on balanced growth embedded throughout the Presentation experience
Our Strategic Priorities
Be Well. Do Well.
Support the personal growth and wellness of all students physically, mentally, socially, emotionally, and spiritually
Faculty & Staff Experience
Foster a professional and joyful environment that supports our educators and celebrates their impact
Deliver exceptional academic and co-curricular programs that prepare students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world
Responsible Stewardship
Ensure the school’s long-term sustainability by growing enrollment and philanthropic support, elevating community awareness, and investing in our mission and infrastructure
Be Well.
NURTURING COMPLETE WELLNESS
Wellness is not a trend at Presentation it is a foundational commitment When students are seen, supported, and spiritually grounded, they become resilient, self-aware, and ready to lead Our vision builds on this strong tradition with expanded programming, deeper connections, and an environment where every student can grow with confidence.
Equip Students with Tools for Resilience
We will enhance programs that promote physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health ensuring students are prepared to care for themselves and others
Building Community and Connection
We will cultivate a culture where every student feels known and valued, supported by intentional advisory programming, inclusive co-curriculars, inspiring retreats, and leadership opportunities
Strengthening Spiritual Lives
Rooted in our Catholic identity and Presentation charism, we will offer meaningful opportunities for students to explore faith, reflect on purpose, and live out Nano Nagle’s call to serve others with compassion, courage, and love.
Do Well.
EXCEPTIONAL ACADEMICS & CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMMING
At Presentation, students don’t just learn they lead, create, and discover Our campus is a hub of innovation and curiosity, where academic rigor meets real-world relevance From Robotics to Speech & Debate, from performing arts to athletics, our programs inspire students to stretch their minds, find their voices, and make their mark
Expand Innovative and Inclusive Programming
We will grow and diversify our academic and co-curricular offerings to meet the evolving needs of students and prepare them for a rapidly changing world
Inspire Confident, Purpose-Driven Learners
We will foster a learning environment where students take intellectual risks, build resilience, and develop their voices
21st-Century
Skills Grounded in Values
From collaboration and communication to ethics and empathy, our students will put learning into action and graduate with the skills and the heart to lead with integrity and impact
Faculty & Staff Experience
EMPOWERING THE PEOPLE WHO POWER PRES
At the heart of every transformative student experience is a trusted adult Our faculty and staff are mentors, role models, and mission-driven professionals whose care, creativity, and commitment define the Presentation experience When our people thrive, our students soar
Culture of Joy, Belonging, & Shared Purpose
We will cultivate a workplace that values collaboration, belonging, and shared mission
Support Professional Growth and Leadership
We will provide meaningful opportunities for continued learning, mentorship, and advancement
Attract and Retain Exceptional Educators
With competitive compensation, robust support, and a mission-centered culture, we will continue to recruit and retain educators committed to shaping young women of faith and courage
Responsible Stewardship
To ensure that Presentation can serve students and families for generations to come, we must be wise stewards of our resources investing in people, programs, and infrastructure in ways that honor our mission and support long-term growth
Growing Enrollment & Access
We will expand outreach and ensure that Presentation remains accessible to students of all backgrounds who are eager to learn and lead
Inspire Generosity and Investment
We will deepen relationships with alumnae, families, and partners to grow philanthropic support and foster a vibrant culture of giving
Invest in Mission-Aligned Infrastructure
We will share Presentation’s story more effectively and make strategic investments in facilities, technology, and operations all while upholding our Catholic identity and the highest standards of excellence
From Vision to Action — 2024–2025 Highlights
Already, this vision is taking shape. In the past year alone, we have launched key programs and made meaningful investments in support of our students, faculty, and future
Be Well. Do Well.
Launched Freshman Day of Service Program
Granted approval to join the West Bay Athletic League
New grade-level specific Advisory Program
New Math Lab supports students at all levels
Expanded College Counseling Team
Launched DEEDS Internship Program
Faculty & Staff Experience Responsible Stewardship
Invested in communitybuilding activities
Improved communication and meetings efficacy
Expanded benefits program
Granted Accreditation through 2031
Launched Alumnae Engagement Team
9th grade enrollment increased 14% for 25-26
We Are Presentation
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
As we look ahead, we do so with hope and conviction because we know the power of a Presentation education Guided by Nano Nagle’s legacy and carried forward by generations of women who lead with purpose, our future shines bright
We are Presentation People
Women of faith and intellect, dedicated to working with others, committed to personal growth
This is more than a statement it’s a promise To ourselves To each other And to the world we ’ re called to serve
Carry the light with us.
Your presence, your ideas, your support it all matters Together, we are building something lasting and filled with purpose
SCAN HERE TO SUPPORT THESE INITIATIVES THROUGH THE PANTHER FUND TODAY!
DoWell. Be Well.
Table of Contents
YEAR HIGHLIGHTS / 3
ATHLETICS / 5
THE ARTS / 6
FAITH & SERVICE / 7
LEARNING INTO ACTION / 9
JUSTICE / 10
THE CLASS OF 2025 / 11
COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES / 13
SPECIAL AWARDS / 15
STUDENT LEADERSHIP / 16
THE OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT / 19
CLASS HIGHLIGHTS / 20
LITTLE PANTHERS / 21
IN MEMORIAM / 22
On the Cover: Our Cover features our Core Ministry Team Learn more about them on Page 8
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
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The PRES Magazine is published for families, alumnae and friends of Presentation High School Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content in this magazine Please send any updates to news@presentationhs org Graphic Design & Copywriting: Megan Fletcher Photography: Bacosa Photography, Natalie Schaefer Photography, and Karen Santos ’06 Photography 2281 Plummer Avenue, San Jose, CA 95125 presentationhsorg | 4082641664
Featured in the photo, Sisters of the Presentation & Presentation High School’s Student Ministry Team members (left to right): Scarlet S ’25, Catalina E ’25, Jessie H ’25, Sr Ann Conlon, Sr Pam Chiesa, Sr Catherine Mary King, Sr Patricia (Pati) Reinhart, Sr Kathleen Sickly Sr Rosina Conrotto Sr Paula Baker Sr Gloria Loya Sr Maria Griego Tatiana S ’26 Marilyn N ’26 Grace G ’25 Maddy S ’26 Front row (left to right): Jacqueline M ’26, Gianna C ’25, Fernanda A ’25, Emilie L ’26, Gabriella W ’27, Cristina Y ’25 Natalia S ’26 Allegra H ’26 Bella G ’25 Sophie A ’25 Evana P ’26
W e L i v e O u r L i f e i n P l a i d
S I N 2 0 2 4 – 2 5
Visits Pres, Core Team at the Frosh Retreat, Mother–Daughter Capital City Classic, Carols & Cocoa Holiday Choir Concert, ASB Christmas Parade, and Donuts at the Feast of the Presentation ayer Service, ASB Celebrates Valentine's Day, Plaid to Meet the Out to the Class of 2025
Ms. Sue Kent
Ms. Mairead Brodie
Ms Krista Rentschler
Ms Andrea Morris
Ms Chelsea Althouse
Ms. Stefanie Silva
Ms. Angelena Sanfilippo Paxton
Mr Jeff Mullins
Ms Monica DePalmo 15
Mr. Hanh Nguyen
Ms. Laura Zepeda ’04
Ms Sarah Thomas 20
Ms. Sara Fugate
Dr. Tracy Hughes
Thank you for embodying our school motto: "Not Words, But Deeds," and for your dedicated service and commitment to excellence We offer our sincere gratitude for shining your light daily at Pres! Years Years Years Years 10 5
Pres Launches Flag Football
“A moment I’ll always remember was our first game of the season, where I got the first touchdown ever for the team It was such a fun experience celebrating with the team in the end zone We were all so excited, it felt like the start to our amazing season ”
Z Z Y M . ’ 2 7
This year marked a historic first for Presentation High School Athletics: the launch of the Flag Football program Assistant Coach Ms Lisa Brunolli says the team’s creation was inspired by the sport’s meteoric rise in popularity and the school’s commitment to expanding athletic opportunities for young women
“I love starting new things and building programs, ” said Brunolli “Being part of this first season felt like we were making history creating something brand new and building a strong foundation that future Pres athletes can be proud of.”
Flag Football’s mix of strategy, teamwork, and intensity quickly captured the hearts of student-athletes The team’s standout moment came when they took home the championship trophy at the Santa Clara High School Invitational an early milestone that set the tone for a season of resilience and pride.
“I never expected that this is where high school would take me, ” said Alexa V ’26 “Being part of the first flag football team is probably so much bigger than we realized I’m so blessed I got to be part of that inaugural team, and by the end of the season, I understood how much it meant ”
Special Achievements in Panther Athletics
Advanced to the CCS 2nd Round CCS D4 Qualifiers
8 CCS QualifiersKaila R ’28 - 2nd Place WCAL
Mica B ’25 - 2nd Place WCAL
Audrey K ’27 - 3rd Place WCAL
Ananya M ’27 - 3rd Place WCAL Brooklyn B ’28 - 2nd Place WCAL W R E S T L I N G
200 Medley Relay 2nd Place WCAL; Madison H ’262nd Place WCAL in 100 Back; Gabrielle L ’28 - 2nd Place WCAL in 100 Breast; Shana O ’26 - 3rd Place WCAL in 100 Breast; CCS Qualifiers in 3 relays and by 5 individuals JV 4 x 100 3rd Place in WCAL; Amitha I ’262nd Place in WCAL in 300 Hurdles & CCS qualifier
From left to right: Arushi K , Cross Country/Track & Field, Grinnell College | Tabitha P , Dance, University of Northern Colorado | Toni M , PGA Golf Management Program, University of Nebraska | Madeline F , Cross Country/Track & Field, Rochester Institute of Technology | Gracie V , Soccer, Quincy University | Ava A , Volleyball, West Valley College | Tracy W , Track & Field, University of Portland
Stage Frights Done Right
This year ’ s winter musical, The Addams Family, brought a playful mix of spooky fun and heartfelt moments to the Pres stage Theater Director Ms Catherine Brady chose the show for its strong ensemble opportunities, quirky characters, and creative production design “We wanted to spend time with the confidently unique, delightfully macabre, and passionately devoted members of the Addams clan,” she shared
The cast included both seasoned performers and new talent, many of whom first stepped onstage in our no-cut fall production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella “It’s always rewarding to watch students grow and shine in new ways, ” said Brady, highlighting the Ancestors an ensemble of strong singer-dancer-actors who helped set the tone for the entire production
Students from other schools joined the cast as well, continuing a long-standing tradition of collaboration in Pres Theater “It’s such a joy to welcome new performers and expand our creative circle,” Brady noted
The Addams Family was one of three full-stage productions presented by Presentation Performing Arts Theater this year, alongside Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella and William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar
Sophomore Nina L ’27 added, “Being in The Addams Family was such a great opportunity It was so much fun to rehearse with my friends and make new ones I was able to learn so much working with all of my incredibly talented cast mates ”
Brady reflected, “These productions aren’t just about putting on a show they’re about building confidence, community, and a deep love for the arts ”
“Getting to be in The Addams Family has truly made me feel like a part of the Pres community! This show gave me the opportunity to get to know a lot of other students and really feel like I was a part of something, and I’m so grateful to have found a family within the cast ”
Be Well. Do Well.
At Presentation, the Core Team a group of 18–20 students each year is the leadership branch of our Student Peer Ministry Team. These students do more than help with retreats and liturgies they grow into leaders grounded in faith, purpose, and compassion As they plan Campus Ministry events, they reflect deeply on their spiritual lives and step into roles that challenge them to lead with courage, creativity, and care This leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence, perseverance, and prayer
Peer Ministers support Campus Ministry through service at liturgies and retreats, but Core Team members take on a greater leadership role developing, planning, and executing events, and guiding their peers by example. They mentor Peer Ministers, offering both spiritual and logistical leadership throughout the year
Core Team embodies the spirit of Be Well Do Well , finding balance between serving others and nurturing their own hearts and souls They learn to lead from a place of inner strength, cultivating habits of reflection, empathy, and resilience that will serve them far beyond high school
“These students aren’t just organizing events they’re opening themselves to deeper encounters with their faith, their peers, and themselves,” says Ms Lisa Brunolli, Director of Campus Ministry “They remind us that true leadership begins with compassion and grows through community ”
Core Team is more than a leadership opportunity it’s a journey of transformation that shapes students into leaders who bring light to every community they touch
In Their Own Words...
“Being on Core Team has shown me that sometimes stepping back from the constant cycle of school, homework, and extracurriculars is exactly what my mental health needs It gives me time to rest and process emotions I might not fully understand in the rush of daily life If we’re not well mentally, we can’t give our best whether that’s in school, our relationships, or other commitments ”
"Being part of Core Team gave me a community that shares my values and challenges me to grow into the best version of myself not just as a leader, but as a person It’s been the most meaningful experience I’ve had at Pres One moment that especially stands out was leading the Junior Retreat this year. Watching the next generation begin to find their own light made me feel deeply connected to the Pres community and ready to pass the 'lantern' on. It was a powerful reminder of the lasting impact faith and sisterhood can have "
"Serving as a Core Team leader has deeply shaped my personal, spiritual, and leadership growth Through leading retreats, giving talks, and guiding meetings, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about speaking it’s about living your faith authentically every day. There’s something transformative about walking with others on their spiritual journey; it challenges you to be more intentional in your own In moments of vulnerability, prayer, and shared faith, I’ve felt God working not just through me, but within me This role has brought me closer to God and shown me what it truly means to be a servant leader."
"Being part of Core Team has given me a place at Pres where I feel fully myself confident in who I am and deeply connected to my faith Leading and participating in retreats has created some of my most meaningful moments, surrounded by a welcoming community where everyone is free to share their journey without fear of judgment."
M A D D Y S . ’ 2 6
“Being on Core Team has really helped me live out the idea of Be Well. Do Well. You’re surrounded by a supportive group of leaders who check in on each other and lead with integrity It’s pushed me to lead by example and grow deeper in my faith I’ve had the chance to work with the sweetest people, and it’s truly shaped my experience at Pres helping me become a leader that others can look up to.”
“I joined Core Team not really sure about my faith I had grown up in a Catholic household, but I felt disconnected from it Serving as a Core Team leader helped me reconnect with my spirituality, and now I feel more confident in my beliefs and values Core Team taught me how to be a strong individual, and being part of it is something I wish I could experience all over again ”
Innovation Rooted in Empathy
For the second year in a row, Presentation High School students are participating in Project Invent, a national nonprofit that empowers high schoolers to invent technologies that address real-world challenges The program is led at Pres by science teacher and alumna Ms Diane Fiock ’94 Rosenthal P’24, P’28, and continues to inspire bold, purposedriven innovation in the classroom
This year, one team who call themselves the “Blockheads” designed Pour Mate, a two-part assistive device that helps individuals with visual impairments or depth perception issues pour liquids safely and independently The idea was sparked through conversations with their community partner, Jimmy, a blind airline mechanic who shared his struggle with aligning a pitcher to a cup and determining when to stop pouring
Pour Mate uses sound cues to guide the user: a sensor on the pitcher detects alignment and beeps when it's positioned correctly, while a second sensor on the cup alerts the user when the cup is full Compact, portable, and easy to use, the product was thoughtfully designed with accessibility, hygiene, and dignity in mind
The Blockheads’ creativity and thoughtful design earned them the Moonshot Award for best overall product at this year ’ s Project Invent Demo Day an incredible achievement that marks the second consecutive year Presentation students have brought home this top honor
Pour Mate is just one of several impressive student inventions developed through Project Invent at Pres Each team’s work is a powerful example of how our students are applying empathy, creativity, and STEM skills to make a meaningful impact
"What I love about our product is that, while many tools exist to help the visually impaired pour liquids, ours is designed to support both individuals with visual impairments and those with various processing disorders We worked really hard to make our device both portable and affordable because you can’t put a price on independence "
Changemakers
Launched in partnership between Presentation High School and Bellarmine College Preparatory, the Changemakers course is a cross-campus, justicecentered seminar that challenges students to engage deeply with the world around them Co-taught by Pres English teacher Ms Angelena Paxton and Bellarmine Religious Studies teacher (and Pres alumna) Ms Erika Franey ’09, the class meets weekly across both campuses and is designed to inspire students to lead lives of purpose, advocacy, and service.
“What makes this class so special is the heart each student brings,” says Paxton “They’re brilliant, but more importantly, they care deeply about the world around them ”
Throughout the year, students hear from guest experts on issues like climate justice and legal equity, collaborate on justice-focused service projects, and attend the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice in Washington, D C the largest annual Catholic social justice gathering in the country After meeting with lawmakers and witnessing student-led advocacy from around the country, they return empowered to make change at home
“This experience shows students that real change is possible,” Paxton shares “We want them to leave not just informed, but transformed ready to use their voices and actions to lead with courage, compassion, and conviction ”
"Being in the Changemakers program has honestly been life-changing for me. I started high school as an introvert, and I don’t think I’d be where I am today without this class It’s helped me find my voice and discover my passion "
Class of 2025
“From our time at Pres, we ’ ve gained a clearer, broader perspective on the world and the conviction that we should do good in it.”
“Becoming isn’t a straight line. It is full of detours and dead ends It’s human to want to deny our failures, to smooth over the mess, make excuses. Your setbacks are not signs that you are on the wrong path. More often, they are the path ”
College Acceptances
C L A S S O F 2 0 2 5
Adelphi University
American University
Amherst College
Arizona State University (Downtown Phoenix)
Arizona State University (Polytechnic)
Arizona State University (Tempe)
Arizona State University (West)
Art Center College of Design
Auburn University
Azusa Pacific University
Baldwin Wallace University
Ball State University
Baylor University
Belmont University
Beloit College
Boise State University
Boston College
Boston University
Cal Poly Humboldt
California Baptist University
California College of the Arts
California Lutheran University
California Polytechnic State University (San Luis Obispo)
California State Polytechnic University (Pomona)
California State University (Bakersfield)
California State University (Channel Islands)
California State University (Chico)
California State University (East Bay)
California State University (Fresno)
California State University (Fullerton)
California State University (Long Beach)
California State University (Los Angeles)
California State University (Monterey Bay)
California State University (Northridge)
California State University (Sacramento)
California State University (San Marcos)
California State University (Stanislaus)
Carnegie Mellon University
Carroll University
Carthage College
Case Western Reserve University
Catholic University of America
Central Washington University
Chapman University
Coastal Carolina University
College of the Holy Cross
Colorado School of Mines
Colorado State University (Fort Collins)
Colorado State University (Pueblo)
Concordia University (Saint Paul)
Corban University
Cornell University
Cornish College of the Arts
Creighton University
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
CUNY New York City College of Technology
CUNY Queens College
De Anza College
DePaul University
Dominican University of California
Drexel University
Durham University
Eastern Oregon University
Eastern Washington University
Elon University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Daytona Beach)
Emory University
Fashion Institute of Technology
Florida Gulf Coast University
Foothill College
Fordham University
George Mason University
George Washington University
Georgetown University
Georgia Institute of Technology
Gonzaga University
Grand Canyon University
Grinnell College
Harvey Mudd College
Hawai'i Pacific University
Illinois Institute of Technology
Indiana University (Bloomington)
Johns Hopkins University
Kent State University
lafayette College
Lehigh University
Lewis & Clark College
Linfield University
Lipscomb University
Louisiana State University
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola University Chicago
Manhattan University
Marquette University
Marymount Manhattan College
McMaster University
Menlo College
chigan State University
nnesota State University (Mankato)
ssion College
ssissippi State University
olloy University
ontclair State University
ount Holyoke College
ount Saint Mary's University
uhlenberg College
tional University
zareth University
w Jersey Institute of Technology
w York Institute of Technology
w York University
wman University
hols College
rtheastern University
rthern Arizona University
erlin College
cidental College
lahoma City University
n College of Engineering
egon Institute of Technology
egon State University
ce University (New York City)
ce University (Westchester)
sons School of Design at The New School
nn State University (University Park)
nn State University (World Campus)
pperdine University
zer College
nt Loma Nazarene University
nt Park University
rdue University (Main Campus)
een's University
incy University
ed College
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Rowan University
Rutgers University (Camden)
Rutgers University (New Brunswick)
Rutgers University (Newark)
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University, Madrid
Saint Mary's College of California
San Diego State University
San Francisco State University
San Jose City College
San Jose State University
Santa Barbara City College
Santa Clara University
Savannah College of Art and Design
School of Visual Arts
Scripps College
Seattle University
Smith College
Sonoma State University
Southern Methodist University
Southern Oregon University
St. John's University
Stevens Institute of Technology
Stony Brook University
Sweet Briar College
Syracuse University
Temple University
Texas A&M University
Texas Christian University
Texas Tech University
The Master's University
The New School
The Ohio State University
The University of Alabama
The University of Nottingham
The University of Tennessee (Knoxville)
The University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Dallas
Trinity College
University of Alabama at Birmingham
University of Arizona
University of Birmingham
University of British Columbia
University of California (Berkeley)
University of California (Davis)
University of California (Irvine)
University of California (Los Angeles)
University of California (Merced)
University of California (Riverside)
University of California (San Diego)
University of California (Santa Barbara)
University of California (Santa Cruz)
University of Colorado (Colorado Springs)
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Denver
University of Glasgow
University of Hawaii at Manoa
University of Idaho
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
University of Iowa
University of Kansas
University of Kentucky
University of La Verne
University of Maryland (College Park)
University of Massachusetts (Amherst)
y Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State
Congratulations to the 2025 Scholarship & Award Recipients
Back Row (left to right): Kate P ’25 – Jennifer Martin Memorial Scholarship, Ahriana M ’25 – Sister Thecla Memorial Scholarship, Sophie L ’25 – Valedictorian for the Class of 2025, Keira M ’25 – Carmel Vaudagna Memorial Scholarship, Ritika A. ’25 – Lindsay Parkinson Memorial Scholarship, Lauren P. ’25 –
Alyssa Messier Memorial Scholarship / Jennifer Martin Memorial Scholarship Front Row (left to right): Aanya B ’25 – Christina Asbury Memorial Scholarship, Enia G ’25 – Nano Nagle Award, Fernanda A ’25 –Leadership Award, Ximena A ’25 – Alison E Smith Memorial Scholarship
VIEW MORE AWARD WINNERS
Staff Awards
Our congratulations to Ms. Stephanie Neustadter ’99 for winning the Lasting Impact Award at Pres for the 2024–25 school year
Our congratulations to Ms Diane Fiock ’94 Rosenthal P’24, P’28 for winning the Teacher of the Year Award at Pres for the 2024–25 school year
Meet the ASB T
S C T I
“My proudest achievement as a leader was helping launch Pres’s first ethically sourced shirt, living out our school’s mission of ‘not words but deeds’ by advocating for workers’ dignity and environmental responsibility ”
“My proudest achievement this year as a leader was finding my voice I realized I didn’t have to stay in the shadow of another leader I could step up, take initiative, and successfully plan and execute fun events and ideas ”
"To me, leadership means not only being a voice for others, but also empowering them to use their own voice for good."
"Leadership is about using your voice, influence, and actions to uplift those who aren’t always heard. It takes courage to take risks and make thoughtful decisions that serve the greater good not for recognition, but out of a deep sense of responsibility to those you represent "
“My proudest achievement this year was helping organize the ‘kidnapping’ of Bellarmine’s Mini Man It was so much fun collaborating with students from both schools and creating videos and photos for social media everyone, even the teachers, got a kick out of it and loved taking pictures with him!”
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2025 | 10AM–1PM
Presentation Now,
What an incredible year of community connection at Presentation! Our philanthropic foundation grew stronger than ever, thanks to the many generous donors who believe in our mission of educating young women to meet the challenges of their time
From the successful One Pres Campaign that brought Faculty & Staff participation to 97%, to meaningful alumnae engagement through the Circle Reception and Reunion events, we've witnessed the transformative power of people giving to people Our Presentation community embodies Nano Nagle's enduring motto "not words, but deeds" as together we develop these young women into leaders prepared for the future
As we look toward the 2025–26 School Year with expanded "Pres on the Road" national meet-ups, we each carry the responsibility to preserve Nano Nagle's revolutionary vision Together, we're ensuring Presentation equips young women with faith, intellect, and courage while safeguarding this transformative legacy forever supporting today's Panthers and countless generations of future changemakers who will shape our world with purposeful action, grounded in faith and intention Presentation Now, Presentation Forever.
With gratitude,
Featured in the photo: The Presentation High School Advancement Team (left to right): Ms Danielle Najmeh ’01 Dennison Ms Caroline Gardhouse P’23, Ms Sterrin Bird, Ms Beth Elmer P’19, Ms Julianne Hausle ’96 Garnett P’27, and Ms Cassie Caron ’18 (pictured on page 20)
AClass Highlights
S T O R I E S F R O M O U R S I S T E R H O O D
’ 2 1
Alexandra Gorth ’21 earned the highest honor and most distinguished award, the Dean’s Golden Medallion from Loyola University Chicago’s Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing In a letter from the Dean herself to the awards committee she states, “Academically, Alex is outstanding She maintains a perfect 4 0 GPA in one of the most rigorous undergraduate programs at Loyola University Chicago, all while completing over 600 hours of diverse clinical experience in highacuity settings such as the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Hematology/Oncology units at Lurie Children's Hospital Her intellectual curiosity, strong clinical judgment, and seamless integration of classroom learning into compassionate, patientcentered care consistently sets her apart from her peers ”
N I T H Y A K I R O N ’ 1 5
Nithya Kiron ’15 graduated from UC Law San Francisco this spring and will be joining the law firm O’Melveny & Meyers as an associate in the fall
She credits her time in speech and debate during high school with sparking her passion for advocacy a
Ella just graduated from St Mary’s College and will be teaching a 1st/2nd grade combo special day class in the fall She chose to become a teacher, specifically in special education because school was never easy for her growing up Having gone through the whole testing process herself, she wanted to take her own experiences and be the positive light for students She hopes to put a positive spin on things and make sure that her students do not feel defeated in the classroom She is so happy to be going into the field of Education and is so grateful to say that she is a Pres G
Samantha Caron ’13 Sacks is the proud mom of two kids, Shaye (4) and Riley (2) Now an elementary school teacher in Washington, she
credits her inspiration to pursue teaching to her mom, fellow alumnae Shelly Campagna ’83 Caron, and beloved Pres Teacher Amy Fields Samantha is looking forward to celebrating 10 years cancer-free in 2026
U Y E N ‘ 1 9
Since graduating Pres in 2019, Catherine T Nguyen has obtained her BFA in Film and Television at NYU with a minor in Business Entertainment, Media and Technology She is a director/producer with films attending prestigious film festivals around the world such as Tribeca, NFFTY, CAAMFest, Hawaii International Film Festival and beyond She thanks her film teacher at Pres, Grace Lee, for inspiring her to become a fearless filmmaker
Alumnae
Share your stories with us!
We’d love to hear from you, get your career updates, see the family, watch your travels send it all our way!
Email: alumnae@presentationhs.org
ENGAGEMENT TEAM
Pictured left to right: Ms Cassie Caron ’18, Marketing Manager, and Ms Danielle Najmeh ’01 Dennison, Philanthropy Officer
Little Panthers
C A L L A N
Claire Zirbes ’12 Normandin, a current teacher at Pres, and Scott Normandin welcomed their baby boy, Callan Scott Normandin, on September 30, 2024
C A M E R O N
Nicki Affonso-McMorrow ’10 Westhauser and her husband, Greg Westhauser (Bellarmine ‘10), welcomed their daughter, Cameron, in October 2024 They currently live in Nashville, TN, and recently celebrated Cameron’s 6month birthday with a lunch surrounded by family and friends
L U C A
Selena Picazo ’13 Martinez and her husband, Nicolas, welcomed their baby, Luca Michael, on December 21, 2024
A D R I N A
High school sweethearts Marina Latomase ’10 and Joshua Farinha welcomed their baby girl, Adrina on January 10, 2025
In Memoriam
R E M E M B E R I N G O U R
C O M M U N I T Y M E M B E R S
John Wilcox III: Grandfather of Emily Wilcox ’19
Robert Aquino: Father of Ms Catherine Aquino ’87 and Emily Aquino ’88 Cervino, and Grandfather of Abigail Enney ’22
Myrtle Carey: Mother of Dawn Schaniel and Grandmother of Stephanie Schaniel ’11 and Stacie Schaniel ’17
Noel Pearman: Father of Laurie Pearman ’89 Scarborough
Amanda Stone: Grandmother to Annaliese Lum ’21 and Alexandra Lum ’19
James Jones: Father of Sarah Jones ’99
Dianne Lagana ’69: Beloved Pres teacher and Alumna
Nina Saglimbeni: Mother of Maria Saglimbeni ’83 Jones and Grandmother of Gina Saglimbeni ’18, Stella Saglimbeni ’24, and Maddie Saglimbeni ’26
Mary Beth Peterson ’66 Corbin: Pres Alumna
John Hammett: Grandfather of Delaney Hammett ’26
Zenaida Cruz Esteban: Grandmother of Chloe Ysabel Federe ’13
Manuel Albino Sousa: Father of Jennifer Sousa ’97
Betty Anne Johnson: Mother of Colleen Johnson ’98
Dr Thomas (TJ) Osborne: Father of Ashley Osborne ’16 and a past Parent Board member at Presentation High School
Shirlee Schiro: Mother of Pres Alumna: Erin Mulcahy ’73 Stein, Paula Mulcahy ’78 Keane, Stephanie Schiro ’79 Ronco, Dom Schiro ’81 Gotelli, and Grandmother of Alumna: Elizabeth Ronco ’06 Pfiffner, Alexandra Ronco ’11 Kringas, Clair Mulcahy ’06
David Novak: Father of AnnMarie Novak ’90 Kelly and Grandfather of Gabriella Kelly ’22 and Lindsay Kelly ’26
Claire Hare: Grandmother of Mary Anderson ’12
Patty Montalbano ’71 Ashworth: Pres Alumna
Mary Sweeney: Mother of Anna Sweeney ’82 Crockett
Angelina Maciel ’14: Pres Alumna
Peggy Wedge: Grandmother of Katie Fotion ’12
Michael Peller: Father of Natalie Peller ’26
Wesley D. McKenzie: Grandfather of Angelina Wiens ’25
Bob Chimenti: Husband of Kate Chimenti, Father of Megan Chimenti ’01 O'Connor, Claire Chimenti ’02
Harriet Anderson: Beloved Pres teacher
John Brunolli: Father of Pres Director of Campus Ministry, Ms Lisa Brunolli
Rita Gonzales: Mother to Christine Gonzales ’85
Richard Forst: Grandfather to Christina Forst ’08
Dorothy Fernandez: Mother of Liz Fernandez ’78 Aurelio
Dawn Quinn: Grandmother of Kelly Quinn ’12 and Courtney Quinn ’10 Winstel
Norma Heinrichs: Grandmother of Lauren Heinrichs ’08
Dale Sklar: Father of Emily Sklar ’12 and Sophia Sklar ’17
Bill Schisano: Father of Christine Schisano ’01
Diane Piziali: Wife of Ron Piziali, Mother of Dana Piziali ’88 Carollo, and Grandmother of Emily Carollo ’16
Marlene Abbott: Great Grandmother to Isabella Fonseca ’25
Trevor Harrison: Grandfather to Scarlett Sanders ’25
Gloria Pizzinelli: Alumna of Presentation High School San Francisco and Great Grandmother to Peyton Pritchard ’28
Ghanashyam Baruah: Grandfather to Isha Bora ’26
Michael E Fox Sr : Grandfather to Madeleine Fox ’17
Karen Bryant: Grandmother of Lauren Ramos ’05
Joye Crespo: Mother of Andrea Crespo ’72 Ivan
Kirstin Krall ’94 Sims: Pres Alumna
Clifford "Barry" Swenson: Grandfather of Kate Massura ’14, Mallory Menne ’17, and Bridget Menne ’17
Alice Dwyer: Grandmother of Anne Dwyer ’07 Cirone, Mary Dwyer ’00 Lyngstad, Katherine Dwyer ’09, Carrie Dwyer ’00 Cook, and Kathleen Dwyer ’06
Joseph Pascale: Father of Sophie Pascale ’26 and Hailey Pascale ’29
SISTERS OF THE PRESENTATION
Sister Ann Therese Lynch (San Francisco) Sister Jane Kelly (San Francisco)
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Oktoberfest (21+ Community Event)
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Mother-Daughter Mass & Brunch
Sunday, October 26, 2025
Life in Plaid Fashion & Art Showcase
Saturday, April 18, 2026
PRES ALUMNAE EVENTS All Alumnae Reunion
Saturday, November 22, 2025
