is published twice a year by: Ramona Convent Secondary School. 1701 W. Ramona Road Alhambra, California 91803 (626) 282-4151 (626) 281-0797 (fax) www.ramonaconvent.org
In an effort to reduce printing and mailing costs, we have eliminated the multiple copies of magazine mailed to each household. Please contact the Alumnae Office at 626-282-4151 ext. 135 if you would like to receive an extra copy or if you would prefer to receive your copy electronically.
Standard of Accuracy
We are committed to providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date information in all of our publications. However, unintentional errors may appear. As a result, we ask you to contact the Alumnae Office at 626-282-4151 ext. 135 in the event that there are any factual errors. We will correct these errors in the next publication. We appreciate the interests and concerns of our readers and welcome any assistance toward achieving our goals.
Ramona Convent is a welcoming Catholic college-preparatory high school for young women sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary and committed to excellence in education. Ramona’s graduates are empowered, resilient, socially conscious leaders well prepared to meet the challenges of life as contributive members of the global community.
A Ramona Graduate is a
A Woman of Faith
A Critical Thinker
An Effective Communicator
A Confident Leader
A Creative Problem Solver
Committed to Personal Growth
FULL DEVELOPMENT OF THE HUMAN PERSON
Cultivating and respecting the talents, abilities, and potential of each person, contributing to the development of all aspects of a person’s life.
EDUCATION IN THE FAITH
Creating an atmosphere that invites people to live, develop, and express their faith.
HOSPITALITY
Being a gracious, accepting, and welcoming presence for each person.
DEDICATION TO WOMEN AND CHILDREN
Seeing, understanding, and responding to the needs of women and children.
DEDICATION TO JUSTICE
Committing time, energy, and resources to the pursuit of right relationships of equality, justice, and solidarity.
SERVICE TO PEOPLE WHO ARE POOR OR MARGINALIZED
Reaching out and responding to people who are impoverished, abandoned, or living at the fringes of society.
COMMITMENT TO LIBERATING ACTION
Seeking with others the freedom needed to live life fully without oppression
LOVE FOR THE NAMES OF JESUS AND MARY
Embracing as guide, inspiration, and strength the persons and names of Jesus and Mary.
A Message from the President
Dear Friends,
Since we tread long the same path, let us reach out a hand to help one another.
~Blessed Marie-Rose
These familiar words of Blessed Marie-Rose come alive each day here on our beautiful Ramona campus. Her values, articulated in the CORE values of the Sisters of the Holy Names, grow and thrive in the minds and hearts of our school community and come to life in daily activities as well as special service projects. The value of hospitality was most evident as we welcomed forty-nine new sophomores, juniors and seniors to Ramona this semester. Though saddened by the closure of their schools, they embraced and were embraced by our students and faculty. From the welcoming luau in the summer, through the various back to school events, they have become Ramona Tigers, participating in student council, sports, theater, and a multitude of clubs.
On a larger scale, we could not have accomplished all that we have without the generous support of you, our alumnae and friends, who have reached out to lend a hand with your monetary donations. In the past few months we have undertaken some much needed major capital improvements, that have come with large price tags. Simply put: new air conditioning/heating units have been installed in the “old” science building, the kitchen and east administration wing, and the library. The latter called for the replacement of a huge (1967) cooling tower, which had to be broken down into smaller pieces to even get it out of the lower library.
Those of you who have been on campus recently, know that we have let the grass die along Alumnae Drive in the interests of ecology and water conservation. For the past couple of years, we have watered the trees and mowed down the weeds. Now, we are working with landscapers to develop a plan for installing a weed barrier, drip irrigation and drought tolerant plants in that area which is approximately 33,210 square feet. Needless to say, this, too, is a major expense, but one which is necessary to keep our campus attractive. For those who prefer to help with a specific project here at Ramona, this is your chance!! Gifts of any size are welcome.
Please know that we are grateful to all of you – your prayers and encouraging words, along with your monetary gifts enable us to carry out the mission of the Sisters of the Holy Names here at Ramona.
Sincerely,
Sister Kathleen Callaway, SNJM President
P.S. If you would like to make a donation to the Hillside Rejuvenation project, you can find more information on page 20.
Patty Lepe ‘79 Chair
Arthur Dominguez Vice Chair
Janice Burrill ‘75
Sr. Kathleen Callaway, SNJM
Michelle Del Rio ‘99
Kathleen Garvey
Cynthia Jarvis
Sr. Miriam Malone, SNJM ‘63
Marla Provencio ‘74
Felix Nuñez
Jennifer Siu ‘77
Linda Reilly Swick ‘76
Dennis M. Harley
Tom McKernan
Hon. Patricia Schnegg
Oppenheim ‘70
A Message from the Principal
Dear Ramona Community,
I am honored and enthusiastic to be serving as your Principal. For nineteen years, I have served as an educator, counselor, and administrator. I love Ramona Convent and am deeply committed to the mission and core values of the Sisters of the Holy Names.
My vocation has constantly reminded me of the need to help, guide, and support all of our students and families. More than ever, we must continue the mission of empowering young women to be the leaders of tomorrow.
At Ramona, educating the students is not simply about taking a robust set of classes but also nurturing the values, skills, and creativity that will shape our students into responsible, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals.
Our dedicated faculty invests in shaping confident leaders and problem solvers committed to personal growth and creating a love for learning. I always like to remind the community that this responsibility does not lie on one person but rather on a team, which means that together, everyone achieves more. Achieving more also allows us to initiate new opportunities!
Before the start of the school year, I established a parent group that would create fun activities for the community. I strongly encourage our parents to join our Parent Alliance Group. We have many more activities planned with the objective of building a stronger, more united community. I am also happy to share that I was able to purchase a shuttle van. Our goal is to expand our recruitment pool to the larger community, possibly picking up students and transporting them to Ramona.
My vision for Ramona Convent is immense. Although this is just the beginning, please join the movement and the incredible spirit that connects us all to what we do with great joy and passion. My love for Ramona Convent will continue to be demonstrated by the excellent programs and opportunities that await our students.
I look forward to a year filled with achievements, personal growth, and memorable experiences. Let us continue to build on what Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher set out to do.
Sincerely,
José Alberto Chavarría Principal
Sr. Kathleen Callaway, SNJM President
José Alberto Chavarría Principal
Halina Szymanski Associate Principal for Curriculum and Faculty Development Elena Margallo Director of Business Office
132nd Annual Commencement
May 27, 2023
As decades of graduating classes had done before them, the Class of 2023 processed through Rose Heath amid families and friends eager to share in their special day. The graduates excitement was unmistakable as they realized that their commencement ceremony marked the conclusion of four years of demanding work and that their time together was quickly coming to an end.
For Lisa Tran, DDS MD ‘03, being guest speaker was particularly meaningful as she herself had bean a member of the graduating class twenty years ago!
Salutatorian Carolina Torres movingly shared memories of the unique (Pandemic) high school experience she shared with her classmates and hopes for the future.
Congratulations Class of 2023! We wish you much happiness and success as you pursue your dreams!
Salutatorian Carolina Torres ‘23
Guest speaker Lisa Tran , DDS MD ‘03
Father Chris Ponnet addressed the graduates at the Baccalaureate Mass on Friday evening
Alexandra Mullis and Sofia Sahagun walk through Rose Heath as new graduates!
Our Legacy moms proudly pose with their daughters
l-r: Richelle Rios Huizar ‘87 with Isabella, Elizabeth Salinas ‘92 with Mia, Monalisa Gonzales ‘90 with Madeline, Elizabeth Ramirez Echeverri ‘90 with Alexis, and Guadalupe Perez ‘83 with daughter Elizabeth.
Meet Our Principal, Mr. Alberto Chavarría
Last spring, President Sister Kathleen Callaway, announced long-time faculty member, Alberto Chavarría, as Ramona’s new Principal. “His commitment and concern for Ramona and our students is evidenced by the eighteen years he has spent here as teacher and counselor.”
Although new to the role of principal, Mr. Chavarría is entering his nineteenth year serving students at Ramona. His positions include AP Spanish Teacher, Guidance Counselor, Director of Guidance, and Associate Principal for Academics and Student Life. He brings a high level of integrity and energy to the position. As a passionate advocate for all-girls’ education, he successfully showcases its value through his commitment to making sure each young woman at Ramona thrives in college and beyond, living a meaningful life filled with confidence and purpose.
When hearing the news of his appointment, many of our younger alumnae enthusiastically acknowledged his expert assistance and advice as they moved through the
college application and subsequent acceptance process.
Mr. Chavarría constantly reminds the community, and especially his students, on the importance of obtaining guidance. He states, “My passion in providing academic guidance and college guidance is paramount for students acquiring confidence. I believe our students need support and positive reinforcement. If I can lend a hand, no matter what my role is, I will do what I can to provide that support.”
Honored to be working at an all-girls’ school, he shares his love for Ramona by adopting one of our slogans, Ramona. For Life. He serves the mission and charism of the school with pride.
Mr. Chavarría approaches his new role of Principal with the goal of ensuring that wellness and balance are a priority in his life and the life of our students. In his own life, he creates balance by traveling with his family whenever possible and his personal commitment to wellness by visiting the gym consistently.
Chavarria assists Marley Gonzalez ‘23 during College Boot Camp for seniors in Fall 2022.
Mr.
A few of our amazing parents started a new group this year "Ramona Family Alliance" and parents, grandparents, and guardians have been invited to be part of it. It's a PTA/Booster Club fusion and is supported by Ramona administrators. They have several great events and fundraisers planned for the upcoming school year!
The group is led by Mrs. Veronica Fernandez, Ramona Director of Marketing and Public Relations and Mrs. Nathalie Zuletta, parent of an alumna from the class of 2012, and current junior and current sophomore. She was born and raised in Inglewood and has worked in higher
education for nearly twenty years. Although she’s not a graduate of Ramona, she’s honored to be a member of our Tiger Family. She understands the importance of being resilient and striving for academic excellence while also serving others. Nathalie hopes the newly established parent group, Ramona Family Alliance, unites forces among parents, faculty, staff, and students to help Ramona girls across generations.
The first big Family Alliance event this year was a successful, fun, and family-friendly Harvest Festival in early October. Our parent and student volunteers managed game and snack booths but also had time to visit with friends and sample the delicious cuisine provided by Austyn’s Burgers, Tacos Las Reinas, Puzzle Pizza, and Paradise Cookies and Ice Cream. We welcomed Ramona families, alumnae families, and prospective Tigers for the big event as guests and vendors. We closed out a beautiful day with performances by Ballet Folklorico de Ramona and "Dying for Pie" cover band.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Family Alliance, please contact Mrs. Zuletta at familyalliance@ramonaconvent.org.
New Honors Symposium Introduces Freshmen to Art Appreciation
The Freshman Honors Humanities Symposium is a yearlong project designed to push our strongest, most engaged students towards exploration of and appreciation for the arts. Each quarter, the students participating in the symposium will rotate through one of our four English teachers. Each teacher will hold some type of event, discussion, or gathering as an opportunity for intellectual growth, investment in the arts, and community building. Students will be able to discuss engaging works, create intellectual community, and go on field trips to some of the best art spaces in Los Angeles.
Dr. Matthew Carrillo-Vincent hosted the first quarter symposium. Students read and discussed Aristotle’s Poetics, a book about what makes good art and what makes beautiful art. The event the students enjoyed was a trip to the Getty Museum.
Did you know?
Ramona is one of only a few Catholic high schools paired with the L.A. Community College District to offer students the option to take college courses during their school day. Students may take 3 courses per year and earn college credit. Courses offered through the Ramona partnership are UC/CSU transferable.
Dr. Carrillo-Vincent with the Symposium students at the Getty.
Disconnect to Reconnect (in the Fun Zone)
Over the summer Mr. Chavarría and Dean of Students, Ms. Green sat down to discuss what we at Ramona want to see in our in our daily school lives. We want to foster a real sense of community, to welcome all of our new students, as well as to connect to the students who have called Ramona home for years. We want the kids (and faculty) to disconnect and enjoy each other’s company at lunch.
When Mr. Chavarria’s idea of the Fun Zone came about, a multitude of games and activities were purchased for students to use during lunch. We’ve added a ping pong table, giant Connect Four, two tetherball poles, multiple jump ropes and double dutch ropes, ladder ball, corn hole, and a variety of board games and card games. Student council is responsible for putting the games out at lunch, and storing them at the end of lunch. Student Council also runs a playlist of music during lunch to help liven things up.
In the coming weeks, we will be installing a pickle ball court at the lunch yard as well. New games will be added, as well as a storage shed to keep all of the supplies close to the students, and safe from the elements. Once the pickle ball court is in place, we hope to encourage tournaments and competitive matches throughout the year. Additionally, we are looking to schedule a “Tournament of Champions” with the Connect Four games.
The goal is to engage with students on a different level, but to also have them put the phones down and play. Playing games, whether physical or mental, increases serotonin in the brain, thus alleviating some of our students’ stress.
Last semester the Engineering curriculum needed an activity that taught how engineering requires bringing together many seemingly disconnected disciplines to solve complex problems and to turn the results into valuable products. Engineering teacher, Mrs. Flagan identified an activity that accomplished this goal while exciting and enabling students to fabricate an exceptional product that goes beyond usual academic exercises in math, geometry, structural dynamics, materials, physics and electronics. The students would also be required to learn about acoustics, develop skills in project management, and apply their knowledge of art and music to create that product – an electric guitar.
The project started with a math exercise in which students calculated the cost and quantity of all the components needed to build the guitar. In doing so, students learned basic business math computation and the use of Excel spreadsheets with formulas. They also learned to search and locate specific items online; how to compare and contrast the quality vs. cost of different options for purchasing, make final selection decisions for each part and identify each component of an electric guitar anatomy.
diagrams: one showing the ground wiring and the other showing the signal wiring. The students inserted the electronics into the guitar's electronic cavity as well as strung ferrules into the back of the guitar body.
Engineering Project: Making an Electric Guitar
Students learned to calculate fret position using the physics of vibrating string. They also assembled the magnetic pickups with their associated frames and made the final solder connections inside the electronics pocket; students discovered that setting the guitar's intonation is made easier by positioning the bridge saddles prior to installing the strings. In the next activity, students identified the various threaded fasteners that are required for this project, learning industrial descriptions of their attributes: application type, head, length, diameter, thread, and material. They secured the necks with wood screws that went through a backing plate to the body. Finally, the students installed the bridges and strings, which they tuned to complete the instrument. After finishing their guitars, faculty member Dr. CarrilloVincent taught students the basics of playing the guitar.
Next, students decided what type of finish to apply to the guitar body; water-based wood stain, varnish or paint. They learned about finishing choices and decided to use the hydro dipping technique to stain their guitars.
The next activity involved learning how to build and install electronics. Students learned to use a soldering iron to solder the guitar's control circuit, and to install the basic control harness. They learned to read two types of wiring
New skills were acquired through this project. Student learning and technical confidence were enhanced so that in the future students will be able to conduct a series of self- and team-driven experiments in Engineering. This new project provided many opportunities for the students to explore technical problems and develop solutions to these problems. By integrating hands-on, self-directed learning throughout the course, the students developed mastery of the fundamentals of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.
Twenty Years of Ramona Robotics
It’s hard to believe that our Robotics program is twenty years old. According to Ramona legend, in the early years our students were building the robot in Mrs. Flagan’s garage in Pasadena because there wasn’t a dedicated space on Ramona’s campus. Eventually, Rooms 1 and 2 of the old science building became the robotics home. Two decades of students have designed, measured, cut, sanded metal, hammered, drilled, programmed, and assembled until they had built a functioning robot. Along the way, they have been guided by an amazing group of mentors and parents.
Beginning in January, each team is given six weeks to construct a robot with the necessary capabilities to perform the tasks required in the competition using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules.
Ramona Robotics has valued its twenty year association with FIRST Robotics. The FIRST Robotics Competition is a unique varsity sport of the mind designed to help high-school-aged young people discover how interesting and rewarding the life of engineers and researchers can be. FIRST redefines winning for these students because they are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and the ability to overcome obstacles.
Thank you to everyone who has given their time and expertise to our Robotics program!
On September 16, 2023, we held a Robotics Reunion for those who were able to attend.
Fall 2023 Athletics Updates
Volleyball has just concluded its season and all three teams finished well. This year Coach Eason returned as the varsity coach and led his Varsity team to another year of playoffs with a 13-2 league record. Varsity finished in 2nd place in the Santa Fe League and earned a spot in CIF Southern Section playoffs. The team made it all the way to quarter finals before their season came to an end. We are excited to announce they made it to quarter finals for the first time in known Ramona history. Coaches Taylor De Luna ’17 as the JV Coach and January Nava '21 came back to coach as well as to share their love of the game and teach our Frosh/Soph and JV players. The program has a great unity and cohesiveness and the volleyball program has a bright future.
Cross Country led by Coach Ramiro Virgen and Assistant Coach/Athletic Director Rebecca Bermudez has twenty-five athletes this season. We are excited to have so many runners in our new league.* Cross County has completed four invitationals and two league races. JV is currently in 1st place and Varsity currently in 3rd place. Cross Country will concluded its regional season at League Finals at Santa Fe Dam on Oct. 31st. We look forward to finishing the season strong and heading to CIF Southern Section Prelims.
*This year Ramona Cross Country moved up to the more competitive Camino Real League within the association and Volleyball moved up to Santa Fe from the Soledad League. They are both thriving and representing Ramona well.
Farewell and Thank You, Mr. Gray
As a Communications major, it was not David Gray’s original intention to become a teacher but he noticed that several of his friends’ parents who were teachers really seemed to like their jobs. He obtained the necessary credentials and taught in Connecticut for a year.
He moved to California and gave himself one year to see if it would work, answered an ad placed in the LA Times by Ramona, and was interviewed by Kathleen Pillon and Sr. Margaret Spiller. “Can you teach AP Government?” “Sure.” It was his first and only job interview in California. That was 1990. At the end of the 2022 - 2023 school year, David retired.
When I interviewed David for Ramona magazine in 2018, I asked him why he had stayed at Ramona for so long, his sincere answer gave insight into his longevity. “Ramona is a nice place to work and the teachers have autonomy (within reason). The faculty are dedicated and want to do a good job for the students. Ramona’s environment allows the students to concentrate on learning.” It was obvious that David had high expectations for his students.
An example of the practical, real life spin that David included in his classes was a year-end senior Economics assignment, named “On Your Own.” The purpose of which was to provide the students with a realistic idea of what it would be like to live on their own without parental support. The girls researched all of their living expenses: finding a job, paying for health insurance, car insurance, rent, utilities and other living expenditures. The goal was
to determine whether or not their income covered all their expenses. It was quite an eye opener! They also discussed obtaining bank accounts, credit cards, understanding credit and the stock market. This is practical, real world economics that provide life skills.
When alumnae share their post-Ramona stories with him and tie their experiences in with something they learned in class, he says it makes him feel good. “Someone listened, learned, and now appreciates it.” His favorite thing to say to alumnae is “Are you a productive member of society or a drain on my taxes?” So far no one has said they are a drain on his taxes.
To share your favorite Mr. Gray memories or wish him well, visit bit.ly/mrgrayretirement to post on his Kudoboard.
Lisa Tran ‘03 with David at Ramona’s 2023 Commencement ceremony
Ramona’s 2016 Commencement ceremony
We would like you to meet two sisters that compete in the unique sport of Dragon Boat racing, Patricia Salazar ‘21 and Angeli Salazar ‘25. They proudly represented the United States at the 16th Annual International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) World Championships in Thailand in August. Angeli won six gold medals and two silver medals, and Patricia won four silver medals. We asked them to share their insight and enthusiasm by answering several questions so we can better understand this sport.
Why did you get involved in Dragon Boat Racing?
Patricia My dad paddled in the Philippines in high school. He moved to the U.S. in his 20’s and started paddling when I was born. I began paddling when I was six years old. I would wake up at 6 am every morning on the weekend for 7 am practice in Long Beach. Mostly, I enjoyed hanging out with my dad after practice because we would get breakfast together. When I turned ten, I started competing with the adult teams and kept training harder to become a better paddler. When I was fifteen, I was part of the U.S. National Team that competed in the International Dragon Boat Championships. I have been a part of Team USA for the past three cycles: 2019, 2020, and 2023.
Angeli I became involved in Dragon Boat Racing through my dad. He brought our whole family into the sport. My mom, dad, brother, sister and I all paddle together on the same team. I honestly didn’t like it that much when I was a kid, but as I got older and had more friends going into the sport, I realized that I actually enjoy paddling and the friends I have made makes it easier to go through the practices.
What qualities should a competitor have?
Patricia The qualities a competitor should have are teamwork, trust, and resilience. These three qualities coincide with each other. There are twenty paddlers, one caller, and one steersman. No one can pull the 400 pound boat by themselves, but they can as a team. Everyone must enter, pull, and exit together. This will allow the boat to glide through the water faster. Everyone must trust each other because dragon boat is not a one-man sport. Lastly, dragon boat needs resilience because the only way to become better is to push yourself past your limit. In most sports, pain and tiredness is all mental. The body is stronger than you think. All three qualities make me a better paddler and athlete.
Angeli A competitor should be aggressive, positive, know what they want, and try to achieve that goal. Being aggressive helps make you stronger and more competitive during the races. Being positive, or optimistic, helps when you make a mistake during a race, or you don’t feel as strong, then you can brush it off and try again. Lastly, knowing what you want to do and trying to achieve that goal is something you should have in every sport. Whether it’s to get a faster time on the water or trying to beat the person next to you, it’s all about getting better so you can grow through the sport.
Patricia ‘21 and Angeli ‘25
What make Dragon Boat racing a unique sport?
Patricia It is a unique sport because of the amount of people involved. I don’t think there is another sport that has so many people on one boat/team. Each person relies on one another to move the boat. Another reason this sport is unique is the community. Everyone comes from different backgrounds, ages, and divisions. People can start paddling at six years old or seventy-six years old. It’s a great way to learn different skills, meet new people, and travel (my favorite part).
Angeli You have to work with a team consisting of twenty-two people. Everyone has to work as a team and stay in sync with each other. They have to listen to the person who is yelling at them and try to react immediately. You would think it is easy being in sync with a bunch of people, but trust me, it can be a little tricky. Learning to trust that the people in the boat are thinking the same way you’re thinking is what helps make this sport unique. It helps you understand to some extent how much fun it can be and how much effort we put into doing everything right.
What else would you like to say about Dragon Boat racing?
Patricia Dragon Boat is for everyone. Do not be afraid to try something new. If anyone is interested in this sport, let me know. We want everyone to enjoy this sport as much as we do.
Angeli Everyone in the Dragon Boat community supports one another through the good and bad times. The people you’ll meet and the friends you make will make you want to come back for more.
Angeli (with white paddle)
Patricia (first paddler on left)
Marie Rose Guild Origins
With the fall Marie Rose Guild luncheon quickly approaching, we thought we would share the story of how it came to be. Now, seventy years later, guild members are referred to as volunteers. Enjoy the story...
The Marie Rose Guild as we know it today traces its origins to 1950 when Mother Helen Irene, Mistress of Novices, met with twenty women, most of whom were mothers of the postulants and novices. At that time the novitiate, the infirmary, and the province offices were moving from Oakland to Los Gatos and their help was needed with fundraising to furnish the new building. Over the years, the Guild expanded to include chapters in Los Gatos, San Francisco, Marin County, Santa Cruz and Southern California with a variety of fundraising activities ranging from luncheons, card parties, fashion shows and boutiques, to rummage sales. In 1951, Ramona’s Chronicles report: “The Marie Rose Guild recently organized in Oakland for the benefit of the new novitiate building had its echo in a luncheon served here today. The attendance and proceeds surpassed all expectations. To explain the ends of this organization, Sister Josepha Mary came from Oakland where she has taken particular interest in its making and results. Sister addressed the ladies in the assembly room of the junior school and gave an inspiring account of the work accomplished in the North by this group.”
And thus was born the Southern California chapter of the Guild. Two years later on May 6 the same Chronicles recount a celebration of the second anniversary of the Guild with a luncheon and fashion show – the fashions being the creations of the students taking sewing at Ramona. The event was deemed a huge success, raising $600. Two years after that the luncheon had a unique Hawaiian luau theme – again in the Junior Living Room. The years passed, and regular luncheons accompanied by a boutique became the norm. When members were more numerous and had time to be more creative, “stand alone” boutiques featuring beautiful handmade items created by the members were offered to the public.
1958 Los Angeles Examiner Public Relations photo Mrs. Bernard H. Schneider, Mrs. Horacio Guzman, and Mrs. Daniel Connell pose for a publicity photo for the Marie Rose Auxiliary Benefit Dinner Dance.
As the Southern California volunteers became more active once again, the luncheons, held at Ramona, have been enhanced by a boutique and a short presentation/update on the Sisters and how the funds raised by the group are helping to care for the elderly and infirm. They carry on the legacy begun by family members. Lisa Boore Lambert ‘82 follows in the footsteps of her mother, Vicki Pauls Boore ‘61, whose mother Thelma Pauls Bescos was a former President of the Guild. The times have changed and the activities have come full circle but the support of these dedicated volunteers has been unwavering.
Why not make fundraising fun? Rose Week of Giving is Ramona’s unique Giving Day combined with the school’s Rose Week celebration honoring our foundress, Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher.
The week began with a very successful fundraiser at Shaker’s in South Pasadena. On Tuesday and Wednesday, we offered tours of our historic museums in Founder’s Hall (formerly the convent), Thursday was our annual Donor Thank You Party, and Friday we celebrated Mass in honor of Mother Marie-Rose.
All during the week, our alumnae and friends were making donations to the Ramona Fund, Scholarship Fund, and named scholarships. Matching gifts, provided by several of our generous donors, helped to make donations go twice as far.
On the creative side, many of our student clubs created videos showcasing their group that could be viewed on the Rose Week of Giving website. Participants were able to vote ($5) for their favorites with the proceeds going to the clubs. The big winners this year were Ballet Folklorico de Ramona Convent and our Theatre program!
We are very grateful to those who supported Rose Week by donating, voting, or visiting Ramona. Thank you! class banner.
Our ASB officers say thank you!
#GivingTuesday
Ramona Convent is excited to announce that we are participating in GivingTuesday on November 28th! GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world. GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Over the past ten years, it has grown into a global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.
GivingTuesday strives to build a world in which the catalytic power of generosity is at the heart of the society we build together, unlocking dignity, opportunity, and equity around the globe. Visit RamonaConvent.org/support to make a donation in support of our mission to educate and empower young women!
15th Annual Legacy Luncheon
August 18, 2023
One of our favorite alumnae/school events is the Annual Legacy Luncheon. On Friday of the first week of school, the Alumnae Department hosts a luncheon so our Legacy moms and their daughters can get to know each other. We are happy to welcome our new Ramona girls and sad (but proud) to wish our graduating seniors farewell.
RC Connect & Alumnifire
Join the RC Connect Challenge!
From The Alumnifire Team - Why They Started!
Alumni networks may be the most valuable things we have that we don't use. In fact, 9 out of 10 alumni tell us that they prefer to hire a fellow alum if given the choice, but this happens less that 4% of the time. That's a lot of doors nobody's opening.
Alumni networks surround us - from college and high school networks to employer and volunteer networks. Members of these networks want to help each but 99% of them are strangers. They're not connected to each other on social media or anywhere else. Reaching out shouldn't be a cold call.
Alumnifire is the first independent and organic digital networking platform powered directly by alumni. It engages members to open doors and create opportunities for one another in the real world and on their own terms.
At Ramona - Our Alumnae Challenge!
Ramona has partnered with Alumnifire to create RC Connect, a social media platform that is ONLY for members of the Ramona Alumnae community. RC Connect gives you the opportunity to personally connect with Ramona grads from all over the world. Ramona has just launched RC Connect as a way for alumnae to connect with other alumnae about jobs, careers, stories, and life. It is a safe and secure way to keep in touch with all generations of Ramona Tigers!
Update: we reached the 100 member milestone and a lucky alumna, Jordan Amper ’21, won a $100 Amazon gift card! Our next drawing will be at 250 members. To be eligible all you have to do is register on RC Connect. So, join RC Connect today It's easy, fun, and the best way to stay connected with the Ramona Community. Take a minute and check it out!
To register for RC Connect, scan the QR Code above or visit RamonaConvent.alumnifire.com
Hillside Rejuvenation A Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Project
Many of you who have visited campus lately have seen that the hillside north of the Administration building and English Wing has returned to a more natural, grassless state. It probably looks much like the original adobe hill that sheep grazed on back in 1889 when Ramona was first built.
Our Hillside Rejuvenation project consists of installing a weed barrier, drip irrigation, and drought feet. The area runs from the stairs to the west of the Administration building to the Lourdes Grotto. This is necessary to keep our campus attractive and environmentally friendly. As Sister Kathleen said in her letter on page 2, here at Ramona, this is your chance!! Gifts of any size are welcome.” You can make a donation by using the QR code below. Thank you.
To make a donation to the Hillside Rejuvenation project, scan the QR Code above or visit www.ramonaconvent.org/support/donate
Mark Your Calendars and Call Your Friends, It’s Time to Start
Happy Hour
Friday, March 1, 2024
Homecoming
Saturday, March 2, 2024
Class of 1963 Scholarship Commemorates
60 Years
Last year, with their 60th reunion quickly approaching, members of the Class of 1963, led by Sr. Miriam Malone, reached out to their classmates to create a Class of 1963 Scholarship. The amount raised was $4313.00. The proud recipient of the scholarship is current freshman, Malia Perez ‘27.
Not only did their outreach effort provide a scholarship, But the fundraising communications resulted in some lovely reconnections among classmates across the country. In addition to supporting a student at Ramona, members of the Class of ’63 remembered and celebrated their years together at Ramona with gratitude.
We would like to thank the Class of 1963 for their generous gifts to their scholarship!
Commemorate Your Special Year with a Class Gift
Reunions affirm that the Ramona experience endures for a lifetime, and while buildings and teachers may change the values at Ramona remain constant. Reunions are also an opportunity to commemorate your Ramona experience with a reunion class gift through the Alumnae Scholarship Fund. Each reunion class sets ambitious dollar and participation goals to send a powerful message that your class is committed to the ongoing vibrancy of Ramona.
Reunion Giving Campaigns provide the opportunity for the entire class to honor their milestone year with a collective contribution to a single purpose. A scholarship
fund can be established for your class, then classes are encouraged to share their Reunion Giving Campaign and inspire their classmates to join!
Reunion Giving Campaigns are led by volunteers who dedicate their time and talent to inspire their classmates. In this role, the Class Gift Leader will share why philanthropy to Ramona is an important part of their alumnae experience and will solicit gifts from classmates. If you would like to be a Gift Leader for your class, please contact Julie Huntley.
Malia Perez ‘27 with the Class of 1963 banner
Class reunions are as diverse as the classes themselves! Many classes celebrate at a private home or local restaurant the weekend of Ramona's annual Alumnae Weekend celebration which is held the first weekend in March. Whatever your class chooses to do, it's a great way to reconnect with old friends!
If you need to stick to a budget or just want to take a walk down memory lane, consider having your reunion here at Ramona. The Holy Family Room, Junior Living Room, Pavilion/Fountain area or tent can accommodate different size groups. You will not have the time constraints or expense that renting a banquet room does. Some classes have celebrated by having a family picnic in Rose Heath.
In today’s busy world, it’s difficult to find the time to organize a reunion. We recommend using the Homecoming Luncheon as your reunion celebration day. Individual classes are seated together so you can just sit back and enjoy each other’s company! Organizing your reunion is the responsibility of the class itself. The Alumnae Office provides information, answers questions, makes catering recommendations, and happily connects you with other alumnae who have recently organized their own reunions.
This is how we can help your reunion be a successful one:
Provide the class list for your invitation outreach.
Advertise the date in Ramona Magazine, the alumnae e-newsletter, and on our website.
If you are having your reunion here on campus, we will do the room set-up and arrange for access to the campus.
For more information, please contact:
Kelsey Davidson ‘02, Alumnae & Special Events Manager (626) 282-4151 ext. 130 or kdavidson@ramonaconvent.org
Marie Huerta Brown '99 was awarded "Entrepreneur of the Year" at the Annual Chingona Community Awards Scholarship Gala at the Grammy Museum in LA. Marie has taken on a Business Management/co-owner position alongside her mom to increase the visibility of their family restaurant El Camino Family Restaurant
Alicia Lopez '99 was featured on the U.S. Bank online stories blog. Alicia is their Translation Governance Manager and leads the team that manages the bank's translations. She is a bilingual and bicultural professional with experience designing and executing national Hispanic public relations, marketing, and social media campaigns for clients such as McDonald's, Coca-Cola, American Honda, and other major corporations.
Christen Limon '06 has been promoted to Music Coordinator for iHeartMedia Los Angeles KYSR ALT 98.7 FM. She will also continue in her role hosting nights on ALT 98.7 weekdays from 7 p.m. – midnight. She started her radio career in 2011 as a phone operator and eventually became a producer for Mornings with Carson Daly. In October 2019, Limon took over middays at 97.1 AMP Radio in LA, and in December of 2021 moved on to iHeartMedia Los Angeles' ALT 98.7 hosting nights.
Lauren Del Rio ‘07 received a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia from the University of Southern California.
Caitlyn Gumaer '09 was excited to share that she just completed her last final exam of her academic career. She's spent over ten years working toward a Master’s Degree, Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification, a Doctorate Degree, and California Board of Psychology Licensure!
Patricia McJunkin Contreras ‘94
Marie Huerta Brown ‘99
Alicia Lopez ‘99
Manika Beltran ‘11
Manika Beltran ‘11 received a M.S. in Cardiovascular Perfusion from the University of Utah School of Medicine.
Ariana Rodriguez ‘11 received a M.A. in Journalism from the University of Southern California.
University Los Angeles.
received a Master of Social Work
Sierra Gruca ‘14 received a M.A. in Marriage and Family therapy from Chapman University.
Cynthia Castaneda ‘12
Melissa Silva ‘11
Beatriz Sanchez ‘14
Julieta Perales ‘14
Ashley Rice ‘16
Students. Victoria is finishing her nursing program at Concordia in Irvine this August and the presentation was part of her final research project.
Victoria Garcia '17 visited our summer Speech and Communications class as a guest lecturer to present on stress and anxiety among First Generation College
Engineering from Santa Clara University.
Veronica Duarte ‘19 received a B.A. in Psychology from Mount St. Mary’s University.
Stevie Garcia ’19 received a B.A. in Communication from the University of Southern California.
Stella Rugama ‘16
Emma Frias ‘17
Victoria Garcia ‘17
Penelope Bernal Cabildo‘19
Annelise Deusch ‘19
received a B.S in Criminology and a
Engineering from California State University Long Beach
University of La Verne.
received a B.A. in Communications with in Screenwriting at Trinity College in Dublin.
Ashley Herrera ‘19
Alexandra Montoya ‘19
Lilliana Perez ‘19
Nadia Ramos‘19
Araceli Seager ‘19
Sabrina Solis ‘19
Melissa Valenzuela ‘19
Valenzuela ‘19 received a BFA in Dance from California State University Long Beach.
Kiley Kraft ‘20 is playing softball for the Whittier College Poets! Kiley was a 4-year Varsity Softball athlete here at Ramona, coached our 2021 Tigers, and has played for the Pasadena City College Lancers.
Ramona on the Road
When Sister Kathleen was in Northern California last July, she reached out to local alumnae to meet for dinner. She had a great time catching up with Ramona girls Kathie Cusack Sheehy ‘71, Evelia Chacon Ferreira ‘04 and Kristine Karnos ‘81. If you would like to organize a Ramona alumnae get together, contact Julie Huntley ‘72 at jhuntley@ramonaconvent.org
Melissa
Cassian, son of Andrew & Ashley Salazar Ghattas ‘10
Elijah Jordan, son of Rich Fallat & Regina Benevides ‘02
Join Us…
for a few minutes of reflection and thoughtfulness. In February we initiated our Monthly Moment of Prayer. It’s only ten minutes out of your day and it’s a good way to break up your week and begin again refreshed. Add us to your calendar...the last Wednesday of every month...we’re looking forward to seeing you!
Watch for reminders in your email and social media.
Did You Know?
The Sisters’ dogs, Classie and Shannon, were familiar to many students in the late ‘60’s and early 70’s. Pictured here with Sister Gerarda Marie Joubert.
Smart Ways to Give Before 2023 Ends
Would you like to finish this year with a gift that maximizes your impact and reduces your taxes? Consider the four smart options below.
Make an Immediate Difference
When you support our mission by simply writing a check, you make great things happen and may receive a federal income tax charitable deduction. If you itemize, you can write off the amount you’re donating, resulting in lower taxable income. Unsure of whether your gift is tax-deductible? Contact your financial advisor or tax consultant.
Did you know? Your envelope must be postmarked on or before Dec. 31 for your donation to qualify this year.
Use Appreciated Securities
By donating appreciated securities that you have owned for longer than one year, you receive the same income tax savings as you would by making a gift of cash. You also eliminate any tax on the appreciation.
Did you know? If the securities are electronically transferred to us, the gift date is the day the securities enter our account - not the date you ask your broker to make the transfer.
Contribute to Your Donor Advised Fund (DAF)
Add funds to an existing DAF or open a new one by a written agreement at a community foundation or sponsoring organization.
Did you know? You qualify for a tax deduction when you make a gift to a DAF, without immediately having to choose the organizations you want to support. If you are ready to start making an impact with your DAF, consider recommending a grant (or recurring grants) to support Ramona Convent Secondary School.
Make a Gift From Your IRA
If you are 70½ or older, you can give any amount up to $100,000 from your IRA directly to Ramona Convent Secondary School. (Note: This amount will be higher in subsequent years to adjust for inflation.) You will not pay income taxes on the transfer. If you are required to take minimum distributions, you can use your gift to satisfy all or part of your obligation. Your IRA administrator must remove the funds from your account by Dec. 31 for your donation to qualify this year.
Did you know? If you have check-writing features on your IRA, your check must clear your account by Dec. 31 to count toward your required minimum distribution for the calendar year.
The Countdown Is On
As we approach the end of the year, we are happy to help ensure that you realize the greatest benefit for your kindness. Please contact Julie Huntley '72 at 626-282-4151 or jhuntley@ramonaconvent.org.
Information contained herein was accurate at the time of posting. This information is not intended as legal or tax advice. For such advice, please consult an attorney or tax advisor. Figures cited in any examples are for illustrative purposes only. References to tax rates include federal taxes only and are subject to change. State law may further impact your individual results.
In loving memory and thanksgiving of our
Ramona
Alumnae who have gone before us.
Betty Hartfield Davis ‘39
Dorothy Meehan Levy pp’39, sister of Nanette Meehan Fletcher ’42 (RIP); aunt of Mary Fletcher Marthe ‘70
Norma Zell Oster ‘40
Barbara Ellis Belous pp‘42
Gloria Murphy McCardle ‘45
Mary Ann McLoughlin McGill ‘47
Glorianne Castagnola Gendron ’48, sister of Mary Ellen Castagnola Campbell ‘52
Cecilia Robinson Matthews ‘48
Yelba Salmeron Chilingar ‘50
Nancy Nolan Ignatieff ‘52
Jean Lauchlan O’Brien ‘53
Kathleen Nally Johnson ’54, sister of Maureen Nally ’51 (RIP)
Margaret De La Paz Valentine ’55, sister of Alice De La Paz Brzykcy ’54, Rose Marie De La Paz
Brown ’58, and Teri De La Paz Peinado ‘61
Rita Martin Roben ‘56
Gloria Jean Escobedo Palmer ’58, sister of Lupe Escobedo Barbere ’52 and Mary Lou Escobedo Gross ‘61
Leslie Teeple Schenker ‘63
Barbara McGrath Fleming ‘66
Maureen Linehan ’72 (former faculty), sister of Elizabeth Linehan ‘78
Elizabeth Linehan ’78, sister of Maureen Linehan ‘72
Arleen Anaya ‘90
Cindy Montanez ‘92
Erica Delgado pp ‘05
Lawrence Berg, brother of Elisabeth Berg Favello ’46 and Sr. Mary Petra Berg, SNJM (RIP); uncle of Mary Berg Wibberly ’65; great uncle of Brittany Berg Harrison ‘07
Gloria Carone, mother of Victoria Carone Rosenberg ‘78
Abe De La Cruz, friend
Jack Distaso, father of Theresa Distaso ’80 and Rose Distaso Cameron ‘84
Edward Huntley, uncle of Julie Huntley ‘72
Gene Loscialpo, brother of Renata Loscialpo ‘67
Herman Magdaleno, father of Melissa Magdaleno ‘88
Ileana Pallais Maltez, mother of Cynthia Maltez Vasquez ’82; grandmother of Ileana Vasquez ‘16
Gladys Manzanilla, mother of Lina Manzanilla Kramer ’82 and Nora Manzanilla ’84; grandmother of Dahlia Zamudio ‘25
Mary Marshall, mother of Matthew Marshall (faculty); grandmother of Eloise Marshall ‘25 and Evelyn Marshall ‘25
Dave McEachen, brother of Sally McEachen ’62; uncle of Kia McEachen Paschall ‘97
John Rasich, husband of Ann Conway Rasich ‘62 (former faculty)
Dolores Sanchez, mother of Gloria Sanchez Alvarez ‘75
William Rich, father of Channel Rich (faculty)
Nick Rodriguez, father of Arlene Rodriguez ‘76
Manuel Ruiz Rubio, father of Laura Ruiz Ortega ‘78
Patti Stauch, sister of Jackie Emmanuel Bruno ‘72
Dorothy Van Gorden, mother of Claudia Van Gorden ’74 and Marie Van Gorden McCoy ‘84
Alumnae, family, and friends are included in our daily prayers and our Book of Intentions in the Chapel.
UPCOMING EVENTS
December 1-31, 2023
Christmas Calendar Daily Drawing
March 1, 2024
March 3, 2024
Alumnae Weekend Happy Hour
March 2, 2024
March 4, 2024
Alumnae Weekend Homecoming Luncheon
April 27, 2024
La Fête
May 10, 2024
Strawberry Day
May 10, 2024
Paint & Pour
Be on the lookout for more information about these activities and more!
