PIONEERS THEN & NOW

Assistant Director of Development, Alumni Engagement, Sheridan Vititoe ‘12, sat down with Providence High School alumnae and current parents, Stephenie Hope ‘79, Ida Brienza-Tagliente ‘84, and Christina Sanchez ‘95 to chat about their experiences as students and their experiences now as parents of current Pioneer students.

Questions: Describe your time at Providence High School. What are some of your favorite memories?

Christina Sanchez: I originally went to Bell Jeff, then started Providence my Sophomore year. Providence helped me connect to my Catholic identity. I was involved in Campus Ministry and Cross Country. I’m still a runner and fell in love with it thanks to Paul Sutton. Other Providence teachers I loved were Jan McLaughlin and Dr. Harjani. I met my husband, Danny, at Providence. We began dating after Senior Kairos and have been together ever since.

PHS alumna Christina Sanchez’s Class of 1995 senior portrait

Questions: Tell me about revisiting Providence High School through the lens of your child, Natalya.

Christina Sanchez: It’s been pretty amazing to see Natalya’s experience at Providence. She is thriving in Tech Focus under the guidance of the wonderful Dr. Nicdao. I appreciate the parent access Providence provides and always knowing Natalya is taken care of.

Daughter, Natalya ‘24 (left) with PHS alumna mother, Christina Sanchez ‘95 (right)

Question: As an alumna, what made you select Providence High School for your children?

Ida Brienza-Tagliente: It was my immediate first choice. I knew it was the right place for them to flourish and grow. Providence’s sense of community and commitment to wellness was the biggest draw as a parent. My children are thriving here.

PHS alumna Ida Brienza-Tagliente’s Class of 1984 senior portrait

Question: What do you hope to see for Providence in the next 5 years?

Ida Brienza-Tagliente: I hope Providence continues to be mindful of student wellness and building the bridge for even more diversity in the school community.

PHS alumna mother, Ida Brienza-Tagliente ‘84 (left) pictured with Adrianna Tagliente ‘26 (center), and Felix Tagliente ‘26 (right)

PHS alumna Stephenie Hope’s Class of 1979 senior portrait

Question: What strengths has Providence upheld over the years?

Stephenie Hope: Providence has a long-standing history of providing a superior education. The school continues to send students out into the world understanding the meaning of service.

Schulyer Henry ‘23 (left) with PHS alumna mother, Stephenie Hope ‘79 (center) and Kiernan Marie Henry ‘23 (right)

Question: Why are you grateful for Providence High School?

Stephenie Hope: Providence has been my partner in crime in helping me raise conscientious, kind human beings. Whatever difference they make in the world, it is because of this education.