Ramona Magazine Fall 2024

President Sr. Kathleen Callaway, SNJM Callaway@ramonaconvent.org Principal José Alberto Chavarría achavarria@ramonaconvent.org Alumnae and Special Events Manager Kelsey Davidson ‘02 kdavidson@ramonaconvent.org Advancement Services Associate Monalisa Gonzales ‘90 mgonzales@ramonaconvent.org

Photos by: Patricia Contreras ‘94 Kelsey Davidson ‘02 Veronica Bacio Fernandez ‘00 Joseph V. Paguio Student Photographers

Cover Photo: Sister & Students –1898 Cecilians 1958-1959 Stduents-1986 ASB Officers –2024-2025

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.

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 626-2824151 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. 113 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.

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.

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A Message from the President

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133rd Annual Commencement

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A Message from the Principal

Get to Know Our Inspiring Department Chairs

New Courses and Programs Offered at Ramona

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Athletics Updates

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Holy Names Educational Ministries

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Coffee With the Principal & Ramona Family Alliance Alumnae Spotlight Legacy Luncheon

Rose Week of Giving GEM Society

Save the Date —For Fun Times at Ramona Class Reunions

Alumnae Updates In Memoriam

Celebrate Ramona’s 135th Anniversary with Fun Facts

A Message from the President

Dear Friends,

As we begin our celebratory 135th year, let’s place 1889 in context:  Victoria was the Queen of England,  Benjamin Harrison was President of the United States,  The Eiffel Tower opened, and  The first issue of the Wall Street Journal was published.

When news of such happenings could take weeks to travel to distant places, eight courageous women traveled by ship from Oakland to Southern California where James de Barth Shorb, listening to the entreaties of his daughter, Edith, had given fifteen acres of land for them to start a school. Imagine the Sisters’ feelings as they viewed their new home for the first time: “No trees relieved the bareness of the site. Wild mustard and scant grasses were the only vegetation. It had never been plowed but had served as a sheep pasture for some years.” This was in November 1889, but by January, 1890 the school was ready to open. The hitching post across from the library on Alumnae Drive is a testimony of the earliest students who arrived at school in horse & buggy.

The San Gabriel Valley has changed dramatically, however, Ramona’s mission of educating young women has not! Forensics, ASL and AP classes in every department have replaced the curriculum standards of the 1890’s; laptops are a necessity; and girls began playing Flag Football this year! As it has over the last 135 years, the curriculum is constantly changing to remain relevant to the needs of our students. Even the traditional classes are updated each year with new reading material and projects.

Not changing, however, is the importance of generous donors to partner with us in our ministry of education as we move into the future. Our dedicated faculty work daily to carry on the charism of Blessed Marie-Rose and the legacy of the 411 Sisters of the Holy Names who have served on our faculty and staff throughout the years. From the gift of land in 1889 to those who have signed on as GEMS, those who give to the Ramona Fund, to scholarships, or to special projects – all of you are our partners – and no gift is too small.

Each of you is important to us and we count on your continued support!

Gratefully,

Sister Kathleen Callaway, SNJM President P.S. We’d love to stay connected! Please remember to update us with any changes to your address, phone number, email, or any significant family events.

Patty Lepe ‘79 Chair Arthur Dominguez Vice Chair Janice Burrill ‘75 Sr. Kathleen Callaway, SNJM Mary Rose Colonna Caras ‘80 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, The 2024-2025 academic year will be a year of celebration. Ramona Convent proudly commemorates 135 years of educating young women, a significant milestone that fills us with pride and a sense of belonging. Blessed Marie-Rose, a woman of extraordinary faith and courage, was also blessed with a powerful vision of empowering young women to be lifelong learners. We are proud to continue her vision by being innovative and creative, building a curriculum that inspires and ignites a desire to pursue higher education. I am profoundly committed to providing our community with the most significant and viable programs to expose our students to what they want to pursue. I am so proud of igniting new programs that only continue to amplify our robust curriculum.

The school year began with Ms. Vianney Vasquez, our 9th grade counselor, meeting with each incoming 9th grader and her parents in the summer to provide an academic plan that is achievable and full of support and guidance. This personalized approach is designed to reassure our students and parents, instilling a sense of confidence in their academic journey. At the same time, Mrs. Maria Gomez, our 12th grade counselor, has met individually with each senior and her parents to introduce the college process. As we all know, this process can be arduous and filled with anxiety. However, Mrs. Gomez has provided numerous resources, including a college boot camp, application workshops, and access to college representatives, all willing to help. She has been a beacon for our seniors, helping to minimize their stress levels. Additionally, students also had the opportunity to enroll in our new program College 101—a semester course dedicated to help students fully navigate and complete their college applications.

Another reason to celebrate is the expansion of our audio production program. Our Ramona Radio is growing exponentially and becoming increasingly popular with significant segments. This growth is a testament to the vibrant and engaging nature of our campus, filling us all with excitement. We are also preparing to launch Ramona Records. Thanks to a generous donation from a Ramona parent, we have created a space for students who love to write and make powerful music while learning about the software. Under the direction of Dr. Vincent, I encourage everyone to stay tuned as our talented musicians begin to create beautiful music. We are also expanding our TNT network, remodeling what was the computer lab into a complete news broadcast station. One of our generous parents has taken the initiative to design this room into a complete news studio, and we eagerly await the arrival of a custom-made news desk, news cameras, and lighting. The opportunity for students to become audio engineers is something we are excited about, with a longer-term vision of offering a journalism course.

These contributions continue to underscore Ramona Convent’s commitment to Mother Marie-Rose’s vision. We are dedicated to expanding and creating opportunities for young women to take on new challenges that will pique their interest. Excitement, exposure, and celebration continue to thrive on our vibrant campus as we remain steadfast in our mission to empower young women through education.

Sincerely,

José Alberto Chavarría Principal

Sr. Kathleen Callaway, SNJM President José Alberto Chavarría Principal

Halina Szymanski Associate Principal for Curriculum and Faculty Development

Renee Collymore Director, Business Office

133rd Annual Commencement May 25, 2024 The Ramona Convent community gathered in Roseheath, to honor the Class of 2024 in a beautiful traditional ceremony, filled with sunshine and the vibrant spirit of our graduates, families, and friends.

This year’s Commencement speaker, Danielle Cendejas ‘00, returned to Ramona to inspire the graduates. In her heartfelt address, she welcomed the Class of 2024 into the Ramona alumnae sisterhood, congratulating them on their hard work, dedication, and resilience. She emphasized, “Your Ramona education is a competitive advantage. Remember that you've earned these opportunities. You belong. Know the value you bring to these spaces. When you have an opportunity to recruit a team, reach out to your sisterhood. Open the door for other women to join you on the journey. Be a mentor so that younger women can follow in your footsteps.”

Commencement Speaker Danielle Cendejas ‘00

Ramona Salutatorian Sidney Nicole Barrientos ’24 shared her own reflections, stating, “Starting high school under full lockdown seemed impossible, but everything turned out fine. We don’t know what college will look like for each of us, but no matter what, remember that change is good. Embrace change. Try new things. Keep on growing. Be brave, because all of us are capable of such great things.”

As each graduate received her diploma, the audience celebrated the impressive list of honors and awards, highlighting the remarkable achievements of the class, including a staggering total of 18,083 service hours. Additionally, the graduates collectively earned an impressive $6,162,000 in merit scholarship awards, reflecting their hard work and dedication.

Salutatorian Nicole Barrientos ‘24 Legacy moms proudly pose with their daughters, celebrating the traditions that connects generations of Ramona graduates. l-r: Diane Valero ’90 with Ivy, Nancy Gonzalez ‘97 with Sidney, Susana Oros-Mijangos ’98 with Marissa, Claudia Espinoza-Wilson ‘96 with Leticia, and Jennifer Lacson ‘90 with Kiana (not pictured Wendy Garza ‘97 and Sasha)

Get to Know Our Inspiring Department Chairs!

Each leader brings unique expertise and passion, guiding our students toward academic excellence and personal growth.

New Courses and Programs Offered at Ramona Exciting changes are underway with the introduction of new classes and programs designed to inspire and engage our students! This year, we’re thrilled to offer new courses in Sociology, College 101, and Ramona is now offering four years of American Sign Language (ASL), allowing students to explore their passions and develop new skills.

Additionally, our extracurricular programs are expanding, featuring new equipment for digital multi-media. This upgrade will provide students with the tools they need to explore their creativity in video production and more.

These opportunities not only foster creativity and critical thinking but also encourage collaboration and community building among students. We believe these new offerings will enrich the educational experience and empower our students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom!

“Girls to the Front”: Ramona Radio and Ramona Records Open their Doors!

Over the past couple of years, we have been developing the Ramona Audio Production Project, an “Arts Makerspace” that spans two unique areas on campus, allowing students to literally and figuratively find their voices.

Ramona Radio serves as the flagship club for our fully operational Podcast Studio, located in the library and equipped with professional-grade RODE microphones and a RODECaster Pro audio interface.

The success of the Podcast Studio last year paved the way for the launch of its sister space, Ramona Records. Similar to the Podcast Studio, Ramona Records—our music recording and production studio adjacent to the Junior Living Room—will enable students to explore both the performance and engineering sides of music creation. Recently, students in the Senior English class completed a songwriting unit, and workshops, along with individual studio time, will be available throughout the year. Additionally, J-Term will feature a focused audio production class option. This initiative has truly been a communal effort. We are especially grateful for the support of our generous donors who have contributed funding, talent, and expertise, particularly our friends at the Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory. Now, let’s get ready to raise our voices!

Behind the Scenes of Tiger Network Television The Rhythm of Ramona

Just before the first bell rings, an entirely different kind of buzz fills the air.

It’s not just the chatter of students rushing to class or the sound of lockers slamming; it’s the vibrant energy of the school’s morning news channel, Tiger Network Television (TNT). This student-led initiative has influenced how the school community connects, informs, and engages.

As the school year progresses, the team is excited to expand its reach. Plans are underway to introduce new technology segments focused on community initiatives. Additionally, the team hopes to partner with local news stations for mentorship opportunities.

In the age of 21st century media, TNT will soon integrate high-definition cameras to capture stunning views of school events and sports games. The team will also utilize advanced editing software that will allow them to produce polished segments quickly. With tools for graphics and animation, they can incorporate visual elements that engage viewers and keep the content fresh.

Moreover, TNT aspires to start streaming live on platforms like YouTube, allowing them to reach a wider audience beyond the school walls. This move not only enhances their visibility but also provides opportunities for real-time interaction with viewers, turning every broadcast into a community event.

The success of TNT would not be possible without the unwavering support of our mentor and sponsor, Ms. Carmelita Ramirez-Sanchez, parent to Oshun Ramirez and Executive Director of the Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory. Her guidance and encouragement have been instrumental in helping students navigate the challenges of production and develop their skills.

As the camera rolls and final edits are made, the members of Tiger Network Television know they’re not just delivering news; they’re shaping the narrative of their high school experience—one broadcast at a time.

College 101 COLLEGE 101 is a new course offered to Ramona seniors. This semester-long course is designed to guide and support students through the college application process.

In the first part of the course, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the various components involved in applying to different colleges.

In the second part, the focus shifts to influencing factors that affect their success in college and beyond.

Topics include personal responsibility, motivation, self-advocacy, health and wellness, and the importance of work ethic.

Discovering Sociology—A New Class at Ramona This year, we’re excited to introduce a new Sociology class at Ramona, aligned with the American Sociological Association’s national standards for high school sociology. This course offers students a comprehensive overview of the field, covering its key concepts and foundational theories.

Students will explore the origins and development of Sociology, learning how it differs from other social sciences. Key topics include social life, social change, and the causes and consequences of human behavior and interaction—focusing on culture and social structures that influence our daily experiences.

What makes this course truly engaging is its interactive nature. Students will think critically and apply their sociological imagination through lively discussions, collaborative projects, and a variety of media. We even had a surprise visit from Sister Daleen, who enriched our conversation about social structures with her insights!

Throughout the course, students will investigate how groups, organizations, and societies operate, examining how individuals interact within these frameworks. They will address important issues of social inequality and analyze the historical factors that have shaped these inequalities.

In addition to classroom learning, students will engage in hands-on sociological inquiry. They’ll conduct observations, create surveys, and analyze the data they collect, connecting theory to real-world applications. By the time you read this, students will have begun their research projects, diving deeper into the sociological topics that interest them.

This Sociology class is all about understanding the world around us and fostering critical thinking skills. We can’t wait to see how our students apply what they learn to make a positive impact in their communities!

Ms. Contreras' class explored the museums in Ramona’s Heritage Center to research the question, 'How have gender roles evolved and transformed the Ramona experience over the past 135 years?' Students examined pictures and artifacts related to fashion, academics, careers, leadership, and more.

Discover Dance: An Exciting Elective at Ramona Dance is an elective survey course open to all students at Ramona, with no previous dance experience required for Dance I. Students enrolling in this course are expected to be hardworking, responsible, and open to trying new things. The purpose of this course is to provide students of varying dance abilities and experiences the opportunity to enrich their kinesthetic awareness by exploring several genres of dance, including ballet, jazz, modern, lyrical, hip hop, international, and musical theatre.

In addition to learning various dance styles, students will also be introduced to the academic aspects of dance, such as terminology, history, composition, music, and dance production. Throughout the course, students will develop and maintain a positive self-image while learning the origins and histories of different dance styles. They will gain experience in improvisational skills and problem-solving, all while enjoying the benefits of health-related fitness. Furthermore, students will have the opportunity to create dances that express their personal ideas and feelings, ultimately strengthening their technical skills and achieving performance readiness.

Whether the student is a seasoned dancer, or a complete beginner, the Dance elective at Ramona offers a welcoming environment to explore your passion for movement and creativity!

Cultural Survey Class Hosts Author Eric Nusbaum The Cultural Survey class had the privilege of hosting Eric Nusbaum, the author of Stealing Home: Los Angeles, the Dodgers, and the Lives Caught in Between. This quarter, the students are focusing on the Latin American experience, exploring the history and narratives of underrepresented groups in our nation's story.

In Stealing Home, Nusbaum details the series of events that led to the condemnation and forced evictions of the communities in Chavez Ravine, originally intended for a massive and innovative public housing project that ultimately gave way to Dodger Stadium. Prior to Mr. Nusbaum's presentation, students engaged in a thorough examination of the events that led to the defeat of the housing project and its connections to the Red Scare.

During his presentation, Nusbaum provided valuable insights into the process of writing history and discussed how his research influenced his perception of the Dodgers, a team he has loved for many years. He emphasized the importance of actively listening to others, allowing their stories to unfold instead of filling silence with one’s own words.

Mr. Nusbaum, a former sports editor at VICE, expressed his enthusiasm for returning to speak with our class again next year. His work on sports history and culture has also appeared in ESPN, Sports Illustrated, Outside, The Daily Beast, Deadspin, and The Best American Sports Writing Anthology. Born and raised in Los Angeles, he has spent countless hours attending games at Dodger Stadium and reflecting on his experiences.

Following his presentation, students had the opportunity to ask questions about his career, research, and book, making for an engaging and insightful discussion.

Fall 2024—Athletics Updates Ramona Convent Welcomes Flag Football In 2023, the CIF officially recognized flag football as a sanctioned sport for high school girls, marking a significant milestone in girls’ athletics. To gauge interest in the sport at Ramona Convent, an Intro to Flag Football class was offered during J-Term in January, drawing over 40 enthusiastic students. This overwhelming response indicated a strong excitement for flag football within the school community.

In May, Ramona Convent took the next step and formed a flag football team, becoming the eighth sport offered at the school. The team officially began practicing in the first week of August, with a focus on essential skills such as flag pulling, catching, and throwing, as well as an introduction to the rules and terminology of the game. Players and coaches have been dedicated to improving each week.

The support and spirit from the Ramona Convent community have been evident, with numerous fans attending the games. The players have shown tremendous dedication, proudly representing the school on and off the field.

Ramona Convent Flag Football emphasizes teamwork, effort, and pride as the team embodies the motto, “Go forth, cast fire, and liberate life.” With continued support and commitment, Ramona Convent Flag Football is poised to grow and reflect the ideals that define a Ramona Convent student.

Cross Country

The cross country team has participated in three meets so far this season, showcasing their determination and skill on the course. While they’re still building momentum, the athletes are eager to compete in their next big meet!

Volleyball The varsity volleyball team is currently in second place and eagerly anticipating the CIF SS Playoffs, thanks to their hard work and commitment. The junior varsity team recently won the Sierra Vista Volleyball Tournament under Coach Taylor, a proud Ramona alum, showcasing their talent and teamwork. Meanwhile, the freshman team, led by Coach January—also a Ramona alum—has been performing well, continuing our tradition of excellence.

Introducing Our New Ramona Song Team Get ready to cheer on our Tigers with our very own Ramona Song Team! These spirited leaders play a vital role in boosting school pride by cheering at games, attending special events, and performing at school rallies. Their enthusiasm and dedication help create an electrifying atmosphere that unites our community.

This summer, launched a new Song Leader program designed for our talented students. This program provides an excellent opportunity to learn new dance skills, strengthen dance fundamentals, and master exciting routines, all while embracing their tiger spirit. Song leaders even had the opportunity to learn from guest choreographers.

Lisa Tran ‘03 with David at Ramona’s 2023 ComThe team has been working diligently to prepare for the mencement ceremony upcoming season, and they’ve been actively participating in fundraisers to support their activities. Their commitment not only showcases their passion for dance but also their dedication to enhancing school spirit. So, whether at a pep rally or a game, you will find the song leaders energizing the crowd and showcasing their school pride.

Ramona’s 2016 Commencement ceremony

Coffee with the Principal Mr. Chavarria kicked off the school year by introducing a new way to engage with our parent community: the "Coffee with the Principal" series. This initiative provides parents with the opportunity to learn more about the exciting developments happening on campus.

So far, two sessions have taken place, and the response has been outstanding. Mr. Chavarria's energy and enthusiasm for keeping parents informed fosters a sense of connection with the day-to-day operations of the school. Additionally, these gatherings allow parents to meet one another while enjoying a cup of delicious coffee.

We look forward to more sessions in the future, as this initiative strengthens our school community and keeps parents actively involved!

If you would like to attend a future Coffee with the Principal, the next one is scheduled for November 12, 2024.

The Ramona Family Alliance (RFA) is a dynamic fusion of PTA and Booster Club supported by Ramona administrators, that organizes exciting events for parents and families while raising funds for our students. They have kicked off the year with energy, starting with hosting a successful Harvest Festival. Stay tuned for upcoming events!

Holy Names Educational Ministries

St. Mary’s Academy Portland, Oregon Founded in 1859

Holy Names High School Oakland, California Founded in 1868

Holy Names Academy Seattle, Washington Founded in 1880

The Sisters of the Holy Names sponsor six schools around the United States. They were all founded in a thirty-year period with Ramona being the last in 1889. We also sponsor two nontraditional educational Ministries: Holy Names Music Center in Spokane, Washington, and Next Step Learning Center in Oakland, California.

In order to ensure the viability of our schools and the continuation of the charism of Blessed Marie-Rose and the Sisters of the Holy Names, we have united them under a new corporation entitled Holy Names Educational Ministries which has an Executive Director. Its leadership group is composed of both Sisters and outstanding, highly committed lay colleagues. While this does not change anything in the day-to-day operation of the school, it provides more resources and support for our upcoming leaders along with a charism assessment/self-study process which each school will undergo along with their ordinary accreditation process.

The fact is, that in each of our schools there are fewer sisters present in a leadership position or on a day-to-day basis, so we need to look to our lay partners to carry on our ministry. Important, too, is the annual Network of Schools meeting in which the leaders of our schools come together to share ideas, to discuss common concerns, and strengthen the bond that exists among us. We want all of our schools to move into the future and to “Go forth, cast fire, and liberate life” in the tradition of Blessed Marie-Rose.

Academy of the Holy Names Tampa, Florida Founded in 1881

Academy of the Holy Names Albany, New York Founded in 1884

Ramona Convent Alhambra, California Founded in 1889

To celebrate the incredible contributions of Julie Huntley, we reflect on her remarkable journey from a Ramona graduate in 1972 to a cherished member of our staff.

April 2023

April 2023

April 2023

In her heartfelt message, Julie reflects on her enriching experiences connecting with Ramona alumnae across generations.

16th Annual Legacy Luncheon August 16, 2024 On August 16, 2024, the Alumnae Department proudly hosted the sixteenth annual Legacy Luncheon, a cherished tradition celebrating the enduring bond between Ramona alumnae mothers and their daughters currently enrolled at the school. The event was a heartwarming occasion, where alum moms shared fond memories of their Ramona days with their daughters, sparking nostalgic conversations around the table.

Mothers who graduated around the same time enjoyed the chance to reconnect with old classmates, reminiscing over yearbooks from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, which ignited plenty of laughs and lively discussion.

As a special touch, mother-daughter photos were taken, framed, and creatively personalized by the guests themselves, creating beautiful keepsakes to commemorate the day. This thoughtful activity added an extra layer of meaning to the event, leaving everyone with not only memories but unique treasures to cherish.

Class of 2028 Legacies

Class of 2025 Legacies

Rose Week of Giving

Ramona proudly celebrated our 3rd Annual Rose Week of Giving from October 6-12, embracing a spirit of generosity through a series of exciting events! The festivities kicked off with the Harvest Festival on Sunday, followed by a delightful dinner at Canoe House on Monday. Tuesday brought friendly competition with Flag Football and Volleyball, while Wednesday featured enlightening guided tours of Ramona’s Heritage Center. We concluded the week with a lively virtual celebration on Thursday via Zoom.

Thanks to the incredible support of our alumnae, parents, and friends from across the country, we exceeded our goal and raised over $60,000 to benefit the amazing students of Ramona Convent! A special thank you to our generous alumnae, whose contributions enabled us to match donations to The Ramona Fund, The Ramona Scholarship Fund, the Sr. Margaret Spiller ’61 Memorial Fund, and the Carole Platz Memorial Fund. Together, we’ve made a meaningful impact on our Ramona community!

Thank you to everyone who supported Rose Week of Giving! If you haven’t had a chance to donate yet, it’s never too late to contribute. Simply visit ramonaconvent.org and click on “Donate.” Your generosity truly makes a difference!

Hillside Rejuvenation A Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Project Ramona’s landscaping project along Alumnae Drive is almost complete, designed with sustainability in mind to conserve water and protect the environment. The weed abatement is finished, the irrigation system is installed, and the weed barrier is being laid. Next, nutrient-rich soil will be added to promote healthy plant growth.

Our upcoming step is to select drought-tolerant plants. With an area of 26,000 square feet, we’ll need plenty of shrubs, succulents, and flowers to fill the space and create an attractive, eco-friendly landscape. Drip irrigation will be discreetly placed beneath mulch, decorative rocks, and decomposed granite. Large plants, which can cost $100 or more each, will add to the visual appeal.

Your contribution to the Alumnae Drive landscape project will help us bring this vision to life, enhancing the beauty of this important part of our campus.

To make a donation to the Hillside Rejuvenation Project, scan the QR Code or visit www.ramonaconvent.org and click “Donate”

Save the Date—For Fun Times at Ramona Young Alumnae Reunion—January 8th Classes of 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024— you’re officially invited to our Young Alumnae Reunion back on campus!

Catch up with your old friends, swap stories with your favorite teachers, and enjoy lunch, laughs, and some fun games!

Keep an eye on your inbox for your official invite coming in early December. Let’s make some new memories together!

Calling all Ramona alumnae— Save the Date for Alumnae Weekend! Feb. 28 & Mar. 1 It’s time to reunite, reminisce, and raise a glass!

Friday Night Happy Hour: Let’s kick off the fun with cocktails, laughs, and memories!

Saturday Homecoming Prayer Service & Luncheon: Gather with us for a moment of reflection and gratitude, followed by a delicious meal and even more time to catch up!

Honoring our 50-year celebrants the Class of 1975 and all honor years ending in 5’s or 0’s.

Mark your calendars and spread the word—we can’t wait to see you there! More details to follow!

La Fete 2025 – April 5th We’re throwing a party for the 135th Anniversary of Ramona Convent at La Fete 2025, our annual auction dinner-dance and largest fundraiser of the year! Get ready for a night of fun, philanthropy, and unforgettable memories!

Want to be part of the magic? We’re looking for energetic planners to join our committee and help make this event epic! Interested? Please fill out the google form at bit.ly/lafeteplans Stay tuned for more details—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Planning Your Class Reunion 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 kdavidson@ramonaconvent.org

Commemorate Your Special Year with a Class Gift Reunions affirm that the Ramona ex perience 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 Ramona’s Advancement Department.

Class of 2003 Celebrating 20 Years The Class of 2003 recently took a joyful stroll down memory lane at their reunion on Ramona's campus, and what a beautiful event it was! The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, sparking laughter and smiles all around. It was the perfect setting for alumnae to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the memories that have stood the test of time. A huge shout out to everyone who helped make this reunion unforgettable!

Class of 1974 Commemorates 50 Years The joyous sounds of laughter, cheers, and excitement filled the Holy Family Room as the Class of 1974 gathered for their 50th anniversary reunion early in September.

Gathering from Pennsylvania, Virginia, Arizona, Idaho, various parts of California and all places in between, it hardly seemed like fifty years had passed since many of them were back on campus.

The bond among these women was renewed with much enthusiasm and conversation recalling special memories.

Lots of texting and emails went back and forth to connect with classmates who could not be there – and even a FaceTime or two. Their committee of Gail Hall Gevorkian, Kathy Centola DeLorimier, Anna Sharp Cody, Terri Hurtado Boyle, Marla Provencio, Joanne Distaso Olander, Janine Bizzarri Hattem, Christy Paulin, Claudia Van Gordon, and Denise Melendez Killpack started planning early making contacts, selecting the date, and making all the arrangements.

The décor was perfect from their banner prominently displayed, Alone We Are None, but Together We Are One, to the yellow roses to the gold and white décor, the ambiance was perfect. Though cards at each place contained the words of the alma mater, no one needed to use them as Dearest Ramona rang through the room without a second thought. Another card at each place reminded us of special events that happened in 1974 when we were seniors. A special touch, too, were the little candy boxes each with a bee on top and small bee pins – a reminder of the Class of ’74 mascot.

Special thanks, too, from the committee to Kelsey Davidson for all of her behind the scenes help to ensure that a wonderful time was had by all.

Thank you to the Class of 1974 for their generous gift of $4,075 to the Class of 1974 Scholarship.

The following classes are in the early stages of planning a reunion. If you are interested in joining the fun, please reach out to the contact person listed.

35th Reunion

Monica Nuño—mnuno72@gmail.com

20th reunion

A reunion is being planned for June 21, 2025 Angela Mercado Caballero—amercado87@gmail.com

10th reunion

A reunion is being planned for Dec. 21, 24 Briana Salatino—bsalatino1@gmail.com

The reunion will be held the weekend of Oct. 3rd5th, 2025 at the Wyndam Hotel San Diego Bayside.

A block reservation has been made with the hotel at a fixed rate.

A weekend of fun is in the planning! Come for the weekend or play for a day!

More details to come soon. Look for them on our Facebook page “Ramona Convent Secondary School, Alhambra, CA, Class of 1975”. Haven’t joined the page? Join now and keep in the know.

For more information, please feel free to contact Vickie Carone Rosenberg (909) 576-4732 or vmrosenberg@gmail.com vmrosenberg75 gmail.com

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Alumnae Updates We’re excited to share the latest news from our Ramona Convent alumnae! From career achievements to personal milestones, our graduates continue to inspire us with their accomplishments and journeys. Join us as we celebrate their successes, reconnect with old friends, and highlight the impact they’re making in their communities and beyond.

Kristin Collins-Jimenez ‘99

Nadia Ramos‘19

Araceli Sager ‘19

Sabrina Solis ‘19

In loving memory and thanksgiving of our Ramona Alumnae who have gone before us.

Clara Sugar Aragon ‘53

Anna Marie Turner Stephens ‘54

Dolores (Deanna) DeMartin Eastman ’55

Carylann Ruiz Meier ‘57

Herlinda Garcia ‘58

Cheryl Ann Henderson ‘59

Mary Ann Faherty Latimer ‘63

Julia Creahan Hanna ‘65

Catherine Noriega Custard ‘78

Teresa Romo ‘83

Yvonne Moreno-Chau ‘90

Julie Gilb Langard ‘72

Clara Sugar Aragon ‘53 Anna Marie Turner Stephens ‘54 Dolores (Deanna) DeMartin Eastman ‘55 Carylann Ruiz Meier ‘57 Herlinda Garcia ‘58, sister of Ana Garcia Schlatter ‘68 and Jessie Garcia Reynoso ‘57; aunt of Gloria Garcia French ‘78 and Alicia Garcia ‘71 Cheryl Ann Henderson ‘59, sister of Sandra Henderson St. Martin ‘62 Mary Ann Faherty Latimer ‘63, niece of Mary Carletta Anderson Stensby ‘24 (RIP), Catherine Anderson Jones, ‘28 (RIP), and Sr. Carletta Marie Anderson, SNJM ‘32 (RIP); sister of Eileen Faherty Halliburton ‘57, Kathleen Faherty Recupero ‘60, Joan Faherty Takasugi ‘69, and Sheila Faherty Hugo ‘72; cousin of Carletta Stensby ‘54 (RIP) Julia Ann Creahan Hanna ‘65, sister of Catherine Creahan Hornsby ‘69 and Patricia Creahan Heatley ‘70 (RIP) Julie Gilb Langard ‘72 Catherine Noriega Custard ‘78, sister of Laurie Noriega Deasy ‘76 Teresa Romo ‘83 Yvonne Moreno-Chau ‘90, mother of Krystal Chau ‘17 and Kirsten Chau ‘21

Eileen Archibald, sister of Sr. Kathleen Bryant, RSC ‘67 Antonio Argueta, grandfather of Amanda Argueta ’11 (Faculty) Paul Cazian, father of Rozann Cazian ‘77 and Madeleine Cazian Marco ‘80 David Crawford, son of Nancy Ortega Crawford ’93 Rick Dickinson, son of Judy Humm Dickinson ’61; nephew of Marianne Humm Miller ’57 and Carolyn Humm Martin ’68 Edward Elizondo, brother of Nora Elizondo '48 (RIP); father of Jacqueline Elizondo '83, Patricia Elizondo-Kehrer '85; grandfather of Danielle Elizondo '96 Margaret Louise Flock, mother of Linda Wolffe (staff); grandmother of Valerie Green (faculty), Audrey Wolffe-Castleberry '07, and Ashton Wolffe-Chalker '14 Jose Gonzalez, father of Janie Cass Buck '77, and Jere Cass Fernandes '78 Virginia Hurtado, mother of Teresa Hurtado Boyle ’74 and Patricia Hurtado ’76 Christopher Jonas, nephew of Margot Melieste (former faculty) Ken Klaren, husband of Nancy Neubeck Klaren '58 Nicole Laborie, mother of Francois Laborie (faculty) Guadalupe Lozoya, father of Janice Lozoya-Corona ’89 Jesus Maldonado, father of Jaylie Maldonado '23 James Noyes, husband of Susan DeSalvatore Noyes '70; brother -in-law of Veda DeSalvatore Tronske '69 (RIP), and Sandra DeSalvatore Miller '73 Ronald Parada, sister of Judy Parada Gutierrez ’75 and Joan Parada ’76 Ciriaco Quezada, father of Thaies Quezada-Deda '20; cousin of Patricia Lepe ’79 Teresa Shaw (Staff) Bill Stark, brother of Sr. Mary Anne Stark, SNJM '48 (RIP), Nancy Stark Ellis-Balough '51, and Margaret Stark '53 Donald Thomas Throenle Sr., father of Teresa Throenle-Somani ’80 Conrad Toepfer, step-father of Patricia Lepe '79

Celebrate Ramona’s 135th Anniversary with Fun Facts!

This year marks the 135th anniversary of the founding of Ramona. While there will be special celebrations throughout the year, we will also be including a fun fact each week on our social media. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for more!

With classroom space at a premium for the Junior School, classrooms were built on the upper campus in 1948, and the Junior Living Room was completed in 1949. When the first six grades were gradually phased out beginning in 1968, those classrooms then accommodated the 7th and 8th grades and eventually became home to the English Department.

By 1901 the enrollment at Ramona had grown so large that it was evident additions were needed. Extensive plans were drawn for the remodeling and renovation using California Mission architectural style. The original red brick building was hidden under a coat of plaster, and with the addition of a new wing, the main building was enlarged. With the completion of the project, everyone was looking forward to having more needed room. In September, 1912, the Sisters were prepared to receive 132 residents, but 152 arrived. Rather than refuse them, the Sisters gave up the living quarters planned for them. From that time until 1947 when the convent (now Founders’ Hall) was built, the Sisters had no private rooms.

In 1957 ground was broken for the Holy Family Room, hence its name because it was built by families for family gatherings under the protection of the Holy Family. It has been an invaluable asset on campus for a variety of student activities and dances, alumnae and Marie Rose Guild functions, as well as faculty and school meetings. (A particularly memorable event held there was the Winter Formal in 1976!

Who knows why?)

The devastating jolt that thundered through the area at 7:42 A.M. on October 1, 1987 sealed the fate of Ramona’s historic building. Severe aftershocks added to the destruction; the damage was irreparable. The venerable old building withstood numerous quakes, including those in 1933 and 1971, but this was too much. A permit was issued by the city for demolition, but not before precious records, furnishings, and artifacts were removed. Contractors began work in December. As the huge jaws of a wrecking machine dug into the crumbling brick walls and the disintegrating mortar fell away like sand, it was evident that the ravages of the years had been great. The time had come for renewal.

FUN FACT: The fountain in the courtyard was built with bricks from the old building.

Follow us for more fun facts!

Facebook.com/ramonaconvent Instagram @ramonaconvent & @ramonaconventalumnae

In the early days of Ramona, students were driven to school by horse and buggy and were dropped off by the stairs opposite the current library (which was an open field until the library was built in 1967). A few feet to the west of those stairs you can still see a hitching post – a remnant of those days.

UPCOMING EVENTS November 3, 2024 Open House November 7,8, & 9, 2025 Fall Play—Metamorphoses December 1-31, 2024 Christmas Calendar Daily Drawing January 8, 2025 Young Alumnae Reunion January 29, 2025 Celebration of Ramona’s Founding & Liturgy with Bishop Brian Nunes February 28, 2025 Alumnae Weekend Happy Hour March 1, 2025 Alumnae Weekend Homecoming Luncheon April 5, 2025 La Fête

May 10, 2025 Strawberry Day Be on the lookout for more information about these activities and more!

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