Inspired by Blessed Basil Moreau’s belief that “education is the art of helping young people to completeness,” the spring 2026 issue of Progress continues the Marketing and Communications Department’s collaboration with student writers and photographers. This partnership is part of our commitment to campuswide student internship experiences. The articles and images in these pages are student produced by the Journalism class and Poverello yearbook students as an ongoing, unique experience in storytelling and community building.
Saint Francis is a supportive community where educators and students alike guide and advocate for one another. Scan this code to hear about recent experiences they’ve had in supporting one another.
sfhslancers
Saint Francis Lancers
Saint Francis High School
About this photo: Students take a bow at the International Showcase.
After 42 years with Ms. Rose as director, the drama program continues
Dudley Battle and Alice Wang ’06, psychology educators Publisher
Executive
Rohan Gohel ’26
Gauri Govil ’26
Cate Grunewald ’27
Bethany Ma ’27
Lia Payne ’26
Tanushri Rajesh ’26
Noémie Roman ’27
Sharanya Shivashankar ’27
Dominic So ’27
Tommy Sullivan ’28
Sloane Swenson ’27
Progress has a new logo! Learn more about this student-led design on page 13. Progress is published twice a year by the Marketing and Communications Department for the alumni, parents and friends of Saint Francis High School. Email us: progress@sfhs.com
Lancer News
Immersion to Oaxaca
By Gauri Govil ’26 and Sloane Swenson ’27
Perspectives change when the world is viewed through the lens of simplicity. This tenet for the Saint Francis immersion program expanded over Christmas break when 20 juniors and seniors traveled to San Mateo Sindihui in Oaxaca for the school’s first-ever service immersion to Mexico and the first trip during winter. There, students built a basketball court in partnership with the organization Courts for Kids.
Accompanied by immersion coordinator Lisa Butler and Spanish teachers Sean Gross and Hilda Brittain, the students gained meaningful insight into global cultures and issues, deepened their faith and community engagement, and created lasting bonds with people they may not have otherwise met. “The community had a lot less than what we’re used to, so living how they live was really impactful for everybody,” Diego Garcia ’27 said. “We were putting ourselves in their shoes, and when we were building the court, we weren’t doing it for them; we did it with them.”
Through lodging in sleeping bags, showering with buckets of water and sharing each meal with a local family, students learned about culture and customs. “Being together for that long affects how we treat each other and approach each other,” Daniel Bravo ’27 said. “It’s very close-knit afterward.”
The impact of the trip was not just building the court but inspiring future community gatherings, celebrations and meetings that the students helped to make a space for. “Everybody worked together as a team,” Daniel said. “At the celebration, everyone from the community came and passed out sodas to us, which was so fun.”
Students learned many practical skills and formed relationships with a diverse range of new people. “It was something that I’m going to remember for a really long time,” Mariajosé Betancourt ’26 said. “I would absolutely recommend it to other people.”
This year’s Multicultural Week featured a friendly cooking competition hosted by the first four affinity groups established at Saint Francis — Black Student Union, Filipino American Student Union, Latiné Student Union and Tagata Pasifika — and a night market that offered food from different cultural groups.
Photo and caption by Lia Payne ’26
Students in Oaxaca pose with baskets and food at a community member’s home after watching a basket-weaving demonstration.
Backbone of the Team
The Impact of Lancer Athletic Team Managers
Story and photos by Warren Davis ’27
Team managers shape seasons by bringing their passions and personalities to the sidelines. From breaking down game film to building community, their commitment keeps each program running.
Analyst in the Locker Room: Ethan Liu ’27
Ethan Liu ’27 loves the details and behind-the-scenes relationships he’s found on the court. “I decided to become a team manager because of my love for analyzing basketball,” Ethan said. For three years, he’s handled everything from scouting reports to film clips, adding Python, a programming language, this past season to build his own stats program. “The best part is being a part of the true bond and family that we built in the basketball program,” Ethan said.
Finding a Place on the Sidelines: Jackson Ferrari ’27
As football team manager, Jackson Ferrari ’27 stays connected to the sport he loves. Even without a jersey, his role is essential to the Lancer football team’s spirit, daily operations and camaraderie. From the sidelines atmosphere to pre-game team meals before home games, Jackson has created a meaningful place for himself in the Lancer sports environment. “What I enjoy most about being a team manager is the community that it creates,” he said.
Gadgets and Carpools: Kinsley Judge ’29
For Kinsley Judge ’29, being a boys lacrosse team manager is a mix of family time and cool technology. “My brother plays on the lacrosse team, and it makes driving for my mom easier so she doesn’t have to come up and back to get us,” Kinsley said. She also handles the specialized equipment during practice. “I get to use fun little gadgets that sports performance coach Jeff Amaral lets me use.”
Courtside Creativity: Priscilla Gonzalez ’27
Former basketball player Priscilla Gonzalez ’27 combines her love of the game and interest in media to her role as team manager. Creating graphics and game day posts became one of the highlights of the role. She enjoys the connection she’s built with the players, especially when she gets to interview them. Her favorite moments come from the energy of the games. “When they do crazy plays or make a cool shot, everyone gets really excited,” she said.
Mentorship in Motion: Growing Together Through Advisory
By Tanushri Rajesh ’26
During advisory period, freshmen and sophomores build social and emotional skills. Freshmen also meet with upperclassmen to make additional bonds outside of the classroom. Through intentional connections with Lancer mentors, students learn about ways to be successful in high school.
Braxton Chang ‘27 was inspired to become a mentor after his experience in advisory freshman year. To him, being present is important, so he meets with Taran Murthy ‘29 and his other mentees once or twice a month. He is active online to quickly respond to any question Taran has. By having quick communication, they have been able to grow their partnership. Because Taran doesn’t have a phone, Braxton has learned to be more deliberate.
“I [once] emailed him pretty late at night, and he responded back, which was really helpful,” Taran said. Prompt answers to his questions also has made Taran more comfortable as he adjusts to a new school.
“I wasn’t sure about my classes and my teachers, and Braxton really gave me a lot of insight about how the classes are, and what I need to do in order to do well,” he added.
For his three mentees, who also include freshmen Auggie Antovich and Gabriel Maldonado, Braxton keeps them top of mind. “I make it a point to make sure I text and email,” he said. “It really doesn’t take that much time while I’m doing my homework to shoot them a quick text or email.”
Braxton and Taran’s friendship, originating in advisory, has extended forward as Braxton and all of his mentees are competing in track and field this spring. Having a shared interest with his mentees has made Braxton excited as he can get to know the three freshmen better outside the classroom.
“I’ve been doing track since I was a freshman, and the whole year I’ve been pushing them to try track,” he said. “All of them are pretty good.”
Having a good relationship also has made Taran excited to possibly become a mentor in two years. Using the connections he has made with Braxton, he is eager to help out other young underclassmen.
“I had a good experience as a mentee, so I think that I definitely want to be a mentor for someone else,” Taran said.
190 juniors and seniors advising freshmen
2-3 freshmen per group
10+ in-person check-ins with a junior or senior during the year
Taran Murthy ’29 and Braxton Chang ’27
WHAT’S IN MY
Backpack?
By Rohan Gohel ’26
Photos by Jude Boitano ’26
Stress Balls
The Filipino Flag
“I’m really proud of being Filipino. I love the culture, the food and everything else. I remember when the Filipino American Student Union club came to one of our games and performed the tinikling [bamboo dance] during halftime. Seeing the connection through my passion for basketball and my Filipino culture was really cool.”
“The stress balls help calm me down. Junior year is a hard year, so it helps me stay calm even though I am really busy. When I have a big test week, I use them a lot.”
Grace Curley ’27 began her basketball career at age 4, learning leadership and time management skills over the years. Now, as a wing and a guard, she leads the varsity basketball team on and off the court. A top student, Grace is involved in the Filipino American Student Union, Lancer Ambassadors, Injury Prevention Club, National Honor Society and California Scholarship Federation. Beating Fairmont Prep, a school in Southern California, last year was a highlight. “It was a really big win for us,” Grace said. “They wanted to play us again this preseason, and we won again, which gave us a lot of confidence going into the season.”
Hair Ties
Resistance Bands
“I use them throughout the season before or after games to warm up, especially during the first half of WCAL. We’ve had a bunch of away games, which can be really tough physically and mentally. We had three games in a row against Saint Ignatius, Riordan and Mitty. The bands helped me push through those three games, which are usually our hardest games of the season.”
“Every time before a game, my teammates and I always do our hair together. That’s a big part of getting ready for the game and our routine together as a team.”
Headphones
“I use them before games or when I do laundry or homework. They represent me being focused and determined. The music depends on my mood, but if I am trying to lock in before a big game, I listen to hype music.”
Rosary
“A time when I felt God’s presence with me was when I went from freshman to sophomore year. He helped me come out of my shell and be more confident during my sophomore season. He helped me grow significantly.”
The Next Act for Ms. Rose and the Drama Program
By Michele Tjin, Marketing and Communications Editor
Laura Rose knows there’s no place like home. For 42 years, as the Saint Francis drama director, she created community for generations of students through 88 productions. She closed her career with The Wizard of Oz in April.
But Ms. Rose is not leaving Saint Francis. Next year, she’s devoting her time to teaching Religion and serving in Campus Ministry. This new chapter in her life also brings her personal joy, as Ms. Rose will soon become a grandmother for the first time.
To honor her impressive journey and what’s to come, here are 42 scenes from Ms. Rose’s career, the lessons she’s imparted and the impact she’s had.
Act I
1. When Ms. Rose started the drama program and classes in 1984, drama was part of the Physical Education Department.
6. The set for Mamma Mia! was unused for two years because of the pandemic.
7. When Mamma Mia! was given a second life after the pandemic, there was a period when a lot of students were sick. One student played both Sophie’s boyfriend and another supporting character in the same scene.
2. Before the Graham Theater was built, the drama program shared space with the basketball team in Raskob Gym, now Alumni Gym. Players would often stop by and watch rehearsals before heading off to the locker room.
3. Set design was challenging in the Little Theater’s 10’x10’ stage (then part of the 300 Building, now replaced by the Eggers Innovation Center). Actors made their entrances through a ladder from the “dungeon” that led to a 3’x5’ backstage area.
11. The fence posts in this year’s The Wizard of Oz were built for Footloose in 2004. A bridge set piece also has been recycled for Footloose, Chicago and The Phantom of the Opera
4. The show must go on. During How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, cast member Adam Worsham ’00 had a collapsed lung right before intermission. While he recovered in the hospital, Ms. Rose seamlessly shifted roles mid-show, and no one in the audience knew.
5. During The Miracle Worker, Allison Clark ’20, who played Helen Keller, accidentally bumped her head during rehearsal, got a concussion and couldn’t perform for a week. On opening night, Katrina Gonzales ’18, who was the stage manager, stepped in as Helen Keller, and the original Helen gave her instructions on how to move onstage via AirPods.
8. At one of the Mamma Mia! performances sat Yasmine Bari ’21, far left in photo, who was cast in the pre-pandemic production but never got to perform. The next day, Ms. Rose called her and asked if she remembered her lines from two years ago because the current student, who had her original role, was sick. Yasmine came that night, learned the choreography backstage and delivered her lines.
9. Six versatile 4’-wide rolling walls get “reskinned” with brick or siding for various productions.
12. Ms. Rose’s top five musicals: Phantom of the Opera, Cabaret, The Fiddler on the Roof, Godspell and 42nd Street. Her favorite plays are Clue, Rumors, Wait Until Dark and The Diary of Anne Frank
13. Ms. Rose is excited to devote more time to serving in Campus Ministry and teaching Religion.
10. The same rose prop has been used in dozens of shows including The Phantom of the Opera and Footloose.
14.
“I think we need to be connected to something beyond ourselves. There is such a value in helping and seeing students’ spiritual growth.”
— Ms. Rose
15. Ms. Rose cultivated a deep sense of belonging and security for students to try something new.
16. “Doing plays gives them a sense of purpose, that what they’re doing together matters.”
— Ms. Rose
Act II
17. Ms. Rose has taught thousands of actors including Linda Cardellini ’93. All drama students rehearse valuable life skills as well as dramatic techniques.
23. The Sound of Music was the only musical Rory performed at Saint Francis, and she only had one class with Ms. Rose but fondly remembers those experiences.
18. When students step onstage, they learn to collaborate, think analytically and creatively, adapt on the spot, while building persistence and empathy.
20. Extremely shy, Rory wanted to be part of drama but said she was intimidated by the audition process. Ms. Rose’s bright smile encouraged her during the audition for The Sound of Music.
22. “I was so grateful she didn’t replace me with someone who had a stronger voice. Today when I think I’m not a good singer, I remember that she selected me to sing.” — Rory Esber Dominguez ‘87
25. Retired educator Mary Jo Carroll, Ms. Rose’s longtime assistant director, says one of Ms. Rose’s gifts is seeing the potential in students: “When we have auditions, she is able to zero in on what a student has to offer and what they might be able to grow into.”
28. “There were so many opportunities to express my creativity and to pursue what I love, and I think that’s what’s helped me to get to where I am today.” — Noelle Merino ’20, front
19. Rory Esber Dominguez ’87 said that she learned how to be confident and stand in front of people.
21. Cast as a nun, Rory, top left, had a solo, the call to prayer sung in Latin. Ms. Rose kept telling her to sing louder, but Rory was terrified. Ms. Rose added two singers so Rory didn’t have to sing alone.
24. “The way I carry her in my memory and my heart, you would think that I had this long career with her at school. But she left a deep impact.” — Rory Esber Dominguez ’87
26. Ms. Rose took center stage to help Noelle Merino ’20 turn her love of performing into a career.
27. Ms. Rose frequently offered Noelle, right, the opportunity to sing or perform during Open House.
29. Ms. Rose gave lunchtime feedback on Noelle’s monologues and songs for her college application audition videos before she joined the Drama Department at UCLA.
30. “She cared about our learning and about us as humans and what was going on in our lives.”
— Noelle Merino ‘20
31. Noelle credits Ms. Rose for helping her get into her dream school, UCLA, where she majored in theater, with an emphasis on musical theater. She is now part of the NBCUniversal Page Program, exploring various facets of the entertainment industry.
32. Jack Whitlow ’21, the new performing arts director, takes over in July, coordinating all theatrical programming and the collaboration between the drama program and band, choir and dance.
35. While at Emerson, Mr. Whitlow helped Ms. Rose market the Saint Francis drama program and took part in Zoom audition panels for Saint Francis shows.
38. To prepare students for collegelevel programs, Mr. Whitlow intends to provide practical training for resume building and auditioning.
33. Mr. Whitlow’s connection, front, with Ms. Rose began freshman year in Drama 1. When he decided to major in theater education at Emerson College, he sought out Ms. Rose as a mentor.
34. She guided Mr. Whitlow on choosing audition scenes and shared curriculum when he was a student teacher in Lexington, Mass.
36. “I feel grateful to take what she’s created and shift the program into my philosophy of an arts program, which aligns with the program’s roots that she put in place 42 years ago.”
— Jack Whitlow ‘21
Act III
37. Mr. Whitlow is eager to encourage more student participation and to lean into his role as an educator, teaching everything from the nuances of a scene and backstage etiquette to show promotion.
39. Dance teacher Mary Theresa Capriles ’84, choir teacher
Kate Lincoln ’16 and technical director Dale Thompson round out the dramatic arts team.
40. Mr. Whitlow’s plan to reach younger students includes building a network with other local theater educators. He directed a show at Blach Middle School in Los Altos this past school year and is hosting theater camps at Summer at Saint Francis for a second summer. *
42. “Arts education shapes students into full human beings and builds connections. By educating the heart, mind and body, students can use all three to create something meaningful and impactful.”
— Jack Whitlow ’21
41. Arts education is another platform to teach in the Holy Cross tradition.
*There is still time to join. Campers will perform Annie Jr. and Seussical. Visit sfhs.com/summer for more information!
Navigating Life Guidance From One Lancer to Another
From the moment the first bricks were laid on our campus, Saint Francis has been defined by a simple practice: we show each other the way. Whether through a formal mentorship or a quiet encouraging word, we guide, coach, advise, train and counsel each other, the hallmark of our community.
This legacy began with the Brothers of Holy Cross. Their vision wasn’t just to teach in the classroom but to cultivate leaders. By mentoring educators to carry the Holy Cross mission forward, they ensured our school would thrive long after they left. The school that we are today is the result of that foresight that dates to our school’s founding in 1955.
In this issue of Progress, we explore how that tradition of mentorship has evolved into a vibrant, student-led culture. Our students aren’t just learners; they are experts and advocates for one another. Looking ahead, our goal is to deepen these roots. We envision a future where we are even more profoundly invested in one another’s lives, becoming a community where we are attuned to each other’s professional and personal goals and can offer sustained mentorship. We aim to see our alumni and parent networks blossom into even richer resources, creating a bridge between our classrooms and industry experts.
As you read these stories, we hope you feel the warmth of a community that wants to see others succeed and, as a result, grow together.
Journalism students produced many of the articles and photographs you see here, part of our commitment to give meaningful hands-on learning experiences. Across many roles, from the Business Office to Hospitality to the Marketing and Communications Department, we invite students into our work to help them see how they can apply their skills and interests in a professional setting.
Progress, Reimagined: Students Refresh the Magazine Logo
By Isabella Assirati ’26
After our first student Branding Workshop last May on the Saint Francis brand, the student Branding Committee took on our first major challenge: redesigning the Progress magazine logo to align with the current visual brand. Equipped with the understanding of how design choices connect to the broader Saint Francis identity and guided by mentors on the school’s Marketing and Communications team (MarCom), the student Branding Committee mastheads and examined how iconic brands evolve over time.
PREOGRE.ES a
completely replacing it and gained a deeper appreciation for the process of creating a meaningful logo, from the symbolism to typography. Working with MarCom was a master class in design and communication to empower us to take ownership and trust our instincts. We are excited to continue shaping a brand that reflects both the tradition and
Typography
We chose the Rayyan font because it resembled what was used in the former logo and aligns with our brand fonts.
Color
The leaf’s cedar accent color connects to the school’s new color palette.
New Bay Leaf
The leaf on the second “R” represents our school community and the broader tradition of academic achievement. Historically, laurel wreaths made from bay leaves were awarded in Ancient Greece and Rome to poets, scholars, athletes and heroes as symbols of victory and intellectual accomplishment, an academic tradition that continues today. Even the phrase “don’t rest on your laurels” reminds us to strive for growth.
The leaf reflects our campus Bay tree and is a nod to the school’s 2025 California Green Ribbon distinction recognizing schools that integrate environmental stewardship into their values and culture. Together, these elements make the leaf a powerful symbol of education, tradition and our school’s commitment to continued progress.
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Members of the student Branding Committee, from left: Stella Gabrys ’26; Isabella Assirati ’26; Alec Grantz ’27. Not pictured: Nikola Mitevski ’26 and Jeronimo Uribe Brandi ’28
You’re a Good Director, Charlie Brown
By Gauri Govil ’26 and Sloane Swenson ’27
Each year, a group of student directors mentor their peers in the annual student-run Saint Francis musical. They oversee everything from casting to rehearsals. This year’s production of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown was a trip back to a classic childhood comic, complete with a cartoon-themed set and some of the iconic Peanuts characters’ most memorable temper tantrums.
This year’s student directing team — co-directors Mikaela Jeffries ’26 and Willehm Duncan-Horning ’26, vocal director Bella Sandoval ’26, choreography director Bella Nazareno ’27, tech director Kambri McNeel ’27 and assistant tech director Tessa Soucie ’27 — helped their peers focus on specific talents and acting backgrounds.
Leaders were chosen based on their experience and areas of expertise in the theater program. “I’m really passionate about theater tech, and I think they chose me because of my leadership capabilities,” Kambri said. “I am really good at organizing a group of people and making sure everything is done on time in an efficient manner.”
A special aspect of the student-run show is the peer-to-peer mentorship that takes place. Senior Willehm Duncan-Horning experienced a full-circle moment this year, feeling as though he was passing on the lessons he had gained from the theater program over the past four years.
“For me, someone who’s been super influential to me is Mr. Whitlow ’21, drama production coordinator,” Willehm said. (See page 11 for more on Mr. Whitlow and the drama program.) “He relates to my position because he was a drama student here. Now as a drama student, I’m directing other students. It feels like I’m continuing a tradition, and I’m bringing more people into this family.”
Like Willehm, the leadership team was comprised of performers and technical theater crew members who had all participated in multiple shows over the years. Many of them found coaching their peers to be a unique experience. “I always have to be careful to draw the line between ‘I’m your friend’ and ‘I’m your leader,’” Bella said. “I think when both parties approach this with a sense of professionalism, it has a good outcome.”
Some student directors took on completely new roles. Co-director Mikaela Jeffries had primarily played onstage acting roles in her previous time in theater, often looking up to the directing teams who shaped her experience. “As I got older, I wanted to [have] a leadership position and put on the shows that I love doing so much,” Mikaela said. She has found working alongside her team to be rewarding and conducive of stronger relationships within the program community.
Clockwise, from left: Alex Pena ’28 as Snoopy; Shane Silapasvang ’29 as Charlie Brown with the ensemble; Jasmine Ronquillo ’28 and Dean Legaspi ’28 as Lucy Van Pelt and Schroeder; Katie Brock ’28 as Sally Brown
Speak and You Will Be Heard
Story and photos by Dominic So ’27
Since 2018, 75 students and one teacher have spoken about their passions, opinions, criticisms and curiosities through the school’s TEDx program. Yet for each 8- to 13-minute speech, there are weeks of brainstorming, outlining, memorizing and refining, a process that cannot be done solely by the speaker.
Although they don’t stand in the spotlight in front of parents, teachers and alumni, speaker mentors, many of whom were past TEDx speakers, work very closely with current speakers across multiple months leading up to the event. We talked with mentor Aanya Remi ‘27 and the speaker she advised, Akhil Ranjeet ‘28.
“Aanya’s been helpful with my speech from getting new ideas to writing it. When I first started, I wasn’t really sure what to say, but she really helped me think about what I wanted to do,” Akhil said.
In his freshman year, Akhil proposed a TEDx talk about Indian accents and the beauty of language but was not selected as a speaker. Using
How to Listen
feedback from TEDx advisor and history teacher Lesley Shortal ‘98, this year Akhil proposed a talk with the same idea and was accepted. However, his organic ideas still needed to be fleshed out into a properly organized speech, which is where Aanya came in.
“When Akhil was first writing his speech, he had good ideas and good themes that he wanted to focus on, but he didn’t know how to put them together in a way that would be engaging and personal,” Aanya said.
Together, the pair resculpted Akhil’s speech, cutting out dry statistics and replacing them with an emphasis on the speech’s message. With Aanya’s help, Akhil’s speech was “much more powerful.” Additionally, Aanya was impacted by Akhil’s passionate ideas.
“Akhil’s speech is quite interesting for me to hear,” Aanya said. “I never thought about what an accent meant, so I think the way he thought about it really changed my perspective.”
Mei Yang, Lancers LEAP mentor and Saint Francis librarian
Story by Rishabh Anand ’26
In a world full of voices, sometimes the best thing to do is take a step back and listen. In Mei Yang’s “Telling our Stories” Lancers LEAP oral history project, students share the stories of alumni and past educators. [LEAP stands for Learning by Doing, Empowering Students, Anchoring Mentorships, Partnering for Impact.]
“I really wanted to encourage a sense of curiosity, so I would like students to learn how to listen carefully and delve deeper into building connections with other people,” Ms. Yang said.
This skill applies to more than capturing stories. “The intention is to stay curious throughout your whole life. Whatever you encounter, think deeply about something, ask questions and engage,” she said. “There are a lot of things happening in the world; by engaging, asking questions and being curious, it will make you a more productive citizen, actually.”
Lauren Williams ’27
Erick Fernandez ’26
Avani Thakur ’27
Turning Vision Into Impact
Story by MollyAnn Caulfield ’27 Photo by Warren Davis ’27
Even though it has been only three years since Rishabh Anand ’26 founded it, Youth Philanthropy Club (YPC) has raised more than $180,000 for Saint Francis, and today has around 400 student members. With the help and insight of Helen Solinski, who works in institutional advancement as a major gifts officer, Rishabh used his vision as inspiration to form and grow YPC.
“If you could take every single person’s individual efforts and combine them into one nonprofit-based club on campus, I knew we could have more potential and our initiatives could be much bigger,” Rishabh said. “During my freshman year, I saw how Saint Francis was really big on service. I felt like there was not only room for, but also a need for a group that embodied that.”
The club organizes and participates in annual events such as Martha’s Kitchen Food Fight, which involves students from different schools in a friendly competition to provide cans to a food pantry, and the March to Safeway, where students walk to the store to buy canned goods. YPC also supports the annual Saint Francis Giving Tuesday campaign in November to raise money through outreach to alumni and Lancer families.
The key to YPC’s success has been the thoughtful way its board members have shaped the club. Especially notable is the subcommittee system, in which younger students can try out leadership roles, and from which new board members can be chosen. “We’ve created a comprehensive process for assuming leadership and for ensuring our
club’s longevity,” said Dahlia Oliveri ’27, the current president of YPC. “That’s what I’m really, really proud of.”
Dahlia has been involved since her freshman year. Originally head of outreach, then vice president as a sophomore before taking over as president her junior year, she has benefited from Rishabh’s guidance.
“Dahlia really wants to do everything herself because that’s how motivated she is,” Rishabh added. “Now that she’s stepping into the role as president, there’s more of a managing aspect to the role. As president, you’re not the one doing all the tasks on the ship. You’re the one that’s steering the ship.”
As her senior year approaches, Dahlia has begun to think about the future of YPC, including choosing her own vice president to continue the club’s legacy.
“Finding a VP was a hard thing for me, but I was channeling Rishabh,” Dahlia said. “Like he said, you just need to let go and let other people lead also.”
How to Choose a Path Zeeshan Khan ’17, Lancers LEAP mentor
Story by Rishabh Anand ’26
In a world of constant innovation, the best advice isn’t to specialize too early. Zeeshan Khan ’17, who led the Lancers LEAP project on entrepreneurship, encourages students to stay flexible.
“Keep yourself open to things. Don’t tie yourself down to thinking software engineering is the only career,” said Zeeshan, who is CEO and founder of Zoetic Motion.
A part of flexibility is to try different pathways. “Take a risk, take a chance and try something,” he added. “If it breaks, it’s a good thing because you have something to learn from.”
Shawn Hickam ’27 buys several cans of food during the March to Safeway to support YPC and Martha’s Kitchen.
Where Strength Meets Sisterhood
By Noémie Roman ’27
The girls wrestling team is a welcoming community where everyone supports each other. A big part of the team is the mentorship from upperclassmen players to underclassmen girls who haven’t wrestled before or are less experienced.
“I really love seeing new faces and freshmen coming into this sport because I feel like there’s a lot to learn from this sport,” said Gabrielle Celaya ‘26. “I really enjoy getting to pass down information that I struggled with during my years and then seeing them grow and find themselves in the sport like I did.”
“I started wrestling this year because I had another coach who convinced me to join the team here, which has been a really cool experience,” new wrestler Liv Madhani ’28 said. “I think Saint Francis has a really good wrestling culture, and we have a big team,”
Welcome, Future Lancers!
Story and photos by Rohan Gohel ’26 and Jude Boitano ’26
The Future Lancer program, formerly called the shadow program, is a vital part of the admissions process. It gives eighth graders who are considering applying to Saint Francis an opportunity to spend a day at school with a current student. While offering potential students a glance at the Lancer lifestyle, Rodne Joseph Jr. ’29 and Moorea Smith ’28 embody the true leadership and mentorship skills developed by this program.
Rodne starts his day out by getting to know his Future Lancer. If his Future Lancer for the day has any special interests, he appeals to those interests. “I try to email Saint Francis students who are in the Future Lancer’s preferred class or activity and take them to that class,” Rodne says.
Being a host takes a lot of time and dedication. “It’s different every day, but usually I have them from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.,” Rodne says. When it comes to lunch, Rodne has taken all 10 of his Future Lancers to the cafeteria where he introduces them to Winston Wint, the hospitality manager. “I usually let [Winston] do the talking, since he answers questions pretty well,” Rodne says.
Moorea started hosting eighth graders in her freshman year and has really enjoyed the process of meeting new potential students and showing them through her daily life at school. She introduces her guest to her friends and teachers to make sure they feel comfortable and included in the Lancer family.
“I’ve had five Future Lancer students this year,” Moorea said. “I have a lot of younger siblings and get asked by their friends and my family friends.”
The program has helped her develop good social skills through meeting a lot of new people: “I really like doing it because it helps me know the people coming into the community, and I like to be nice to them as it makes me feel good.”
she said. “I know that everyone said that it is one of the hardest sports you could do, but it’s less about not getting exhausted and more about learning to deal with exhaustion.”
Before student leaders could take that role, they all had to start somewhere.
“Although wrestling came naturally to me, I actually lost my first-ever match, and then I felt pretty defeated,” said team captain April Gao ’26. “But I think I’ve always been the type of person to know that if I put my head toward anything I could accomplish anything that I want. I really wanted to become good
the summer before sophomore year, so I just worked toward it.”
Everyone who joins has something that surprises them about wrestling. Brismar Flores ’28 said for her it is “building up stamina. You can’t stop in a match because you’re tired. You have to push through it. Mentally and physically you become really tougher.”
And it isn’t just the matches either. “They say that the first week of practice is so hard, so you need to make sure you’re actually ready for the sport,” Brismar recalled.
Engineering the Next Generation of Lancer Robotics
By Pia Agrawal ’26
An important part of robotics leadership is choosing a board role to fulfill throughout the year. Luckily for Saint Simon middle school students, Srikar Andra ’27 was elected to be the outreach lead for the team and guide the Lancer mentorship program with Saint Simon, where experienced robotics members help the middle schoolers design and build their robots.
“This year we hosted a workshop where we taught them more about robotics in general, and we made them do a fun activity where they built a robotic hand,” Srikar said of the annual events planned by Lancer robotics for Saint Simon.
Srikar goes to Saint Simon every Friday for two hours to work with the younger students. Having done robotics since his freshman year, he checks in with the teams and gives them advice on how to improve their robots.
“The first time I did it, I realized I was actually pretty bad at teaching children,” he recalled. “It’s different working with them than working in high school. Over time after volunteering a lot, I started learning how to work with them and help teach them better.”
The main goals with the mentorship program are to get younger students interested in STEM and robotics in general and develop their science, technology, engineering and math skills. Srikar said, “I think the fun part about robotics is that it’s very hands-on compared to other science classes. In those classes, you’re just learning stuff in class, but in robotics, you’re applying what you learned to hands-on stuff.”
The close relationship between Srikar and the younger students did not happen immediately.
“At first, they were all really noisy and rambunctious,” he recalled. “But then once we got to know them and they got to know us, they started becoming more welcoming to us and open to help. And they started asking for some more information on how robotics works and people started becoming interested in Saint Francis robotics.”
One moment that stands out was during the middle school’s robotics season where one team needed help designing their robot. “We were honestly stumped because they were trying to do something, and we didn’t know how to help them exactly with that design,” Srikar said. “We had to work together and think of something.” Although the robot looked different from other robots, it was still successful.
Not only does this mentorship program help the middle schoolers develop their STEM skills, it also helps Srikar and the high school students improve their own knowledge of building robots, explore different design methods of building robots and learn management skills. “I think I’ve learned a lot more about managing any program because I have to work with my other team members here at Saint Francis to help coordinate those volunteering shifts,” Srikar said.
Ultimately, Srikar’s mentorship of the middle schoolers has helped both groups learn from each other. “I would definitely continue mentoring young kids. It’s really fun to work with other people and think of new ways and original ways to solve problems.”
How to Create a Solution Shana Patadia ’06, Lancers LEAP mentor
Story by Rishabh Anand ’26
Entrepreneurship and innovation go hand-in-hand, but Shana Patadia ’06, alumna mentor of the autonomous vehicle Lancers LEAP project, teaches her students to be intentional when creating something. “Rather than waking up one day and saying, ‘Let me start a company,’ wake up one day and say, ‘Let me solve a problem,’ which is what creates a successful company,” Shana said.
She also urges them to be intentional with the solution. “Put yourself in the shoes of the scenario you’re describing,” added Shana, who works as head of business development at Synop. “It’s easy from the 1,000- or 10,000-foot-level to recommend something or to make an observation, but you really need to put yourselves in the shoes of that person.”
Srikar Andra ’27 helps a Saint Simon student build his robot.
Holy Cross Interns: Alumni Teachers With a Mission
Story and photos by Lia Payne ‘26
Holy Cross interns, graduates of Saint Francis and burgeoning educators, step in when there is a need in the classroom and work in other areas around campus to get valuable experience.
Samantha Heydari ’20 likes supporting the innovation program Lancers LEAP and students in Algebra 1A/1B. “Inside the classroom, I check in with students to see how their day is going and how the problem they’re working on is going,” she explained. “I try to be myself in the classroom and see how I can help.”
Experiencing both sides of Saint Francis as a student and a teacher has been interesting. “Some teachers, I don’t think I can bring myself to call them by their first name, but it’s great to be welcomed back by my former teachers and to work with them,” she added. “I love seeing all the things that were talked about when I was a student actually in action now, like the clubs and affinity groups.”
This year, Jack Whitlow ’21 has taught Mindfulness and five periods of English 2 and 3. Soon, he will transition to the full-time performing arts director. He directed the very first fall musical in the new Innovation Theater, Godspell, which was performed in the round with lots of audience participation. “It’s been really fun to work with my old teachers and bring my love for theater back to the students.”
Mr. Whitlow is excited to work with choir teacher Kate Lincoln ’16, dance teacher Mary Theresa Capriles ’84, and Dale Thompson, technical director, to pave the way for the Performing Arts Department. “The position that I’m stepping into hasn’t existed before, so I’m excited to get my hands dirty and see what happens,” Mr. Whitlow explained. “I’m excited to bring all of the arts together to build our program and get as many students involved as possible.”
Filling in for a teacher on maternity leave, Jason Tobin ’20 teaches Physics and AP Physics. He admits that working with his former teachers has required a shift in mindset. “I used to see them as above me, but now we’re equal, and they treat me with respect,” he said.
“When I grew up, there was no AI,” he reflected. “For students, everything that they experience, it’s for the first time, so life can be a lot harder because they don’t have the experience to deal with a lot of it. I have empathy for the students who have three tests on the same day.”
Alexandra Attard ’19 has fostered a space in the resource lab and the testing center where students feel comfortable with her both in the classroom and on the softball field. “It’s been nice to come back to a place that started my whole journey and helping the kids because I was in their shoes,” said Ms. Attard, who coaches softball. “Relating to them as a mentor or guide speaks volumes to me. No matter the situation, students know they can talk to me without judgment.”
She lauds Mike Oakland, Matt Maguire, James Duncan and countless other teachers for paving the way for her future in teaching. “I don’t see myself going anywhere after my internship,” she said. “I want to stay at Saint Francis, but I’ll just see where life takes me. I’m open to a lot of options, but I want to do it here.”
How to Grow Through Failure Katie Teekell ’00, principal of Saint Francis
Story by Rishabh Anand ’26
Growth requires ownership and the courage to improve. As the principal of Saint Francis High School, Katie Teekell ’00 believes that giving students control of their work is the best way for them to reflect and learn.
“As adults and students, we have this perfectionist mentality where we want to put on a really good event or activity or experience,” Mrs. Teekell said. “But what our students have learned the most from is when little failures happen.”
This isn’t just a skill used for schoolwork, though. “There’s a fear of failure that is a part of our society, but the reality is you have to fail in order to know how to perfect whatever is next,” Mrs. Teekell added.
Passing on the Spirit of Holy Cross
By Cate Grunewald ’27
Saint Francis has been a Holy Cross school since its founding in 1955, but what does that really mean?
Seven decades ago, this meant that the Brothers of the Congregation of Holy Cross oversaw every aspect of the school. They lived on campus, taught, managed facilities and worked in administrative roles. As time went on, Saint Francis employed more lay teachers who were not part of any religious order. By 2015, the Brothers no longer lived on campus, but Saint Francis remained dedicated to our Holy Cross mission.
A large part of this mission lies in the spiritual development of our school’s educators. The Holy Cross formation program was started eight years ago and is led by Campus Minister and AP Language teacher Daniel Quinn ’87. While the program has evolved since its founding, it aims to instill the Holy Cross values into new educators and administrators through group work, self-study and service.
The lessons are centered on the congregation’s charism, its spiritual mission to bring hope by forming hearts and minds. Currently the program spans over the first four years of an educator’s time at Saint Francis. Each year focuses on a different aspect of Holy Cross: the congregation’s history; self-reflection; Scripture study; and service.
“We’re not converting anybody, and Holy Cross never did,” Mr. Quinn explained. “We try to inspire in people that spirit of the charism.”
Brian Eagleson, who joined Saint Francis this year as a freshman English teacher and associate athletic director, is in his first year in the program. “It has so many applications to our jobs as educators in athletics and the classroom,” he said. “For example, we’re called to build experiences and care about the kids before we’re supposed to worry about a test score.”
These lessons come directly from the teachings of Blessed Basil Moreau, the founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross, who emphasized that “the mind will not be cultivated at the expense of the heart.”
The program’s first year is especially important as it offers a comprehensive overview of the congregation’s history as well as the legacy of the Brothers and Sisters who lived on campus. Campus Minister Chris Mardesich ’07 said that the Holy Cross formation program has taught him things he did not know as a student: “This has been helpful to bring depth to why the Brothers and Sisters were here and what they did.”
While the program teaches about the history of the Holy Cross charism, it instills a greater sense of purpose in educators.
“The Brothers and Sisters still have a living presence, even though we might not see them walking by,” said Mr. Eagleson. “Their imprint is everywhere. For me, that’s been really impactful. It’s not a tribute on the wall, not just a statue in the middle of campus. Their presence is felt. And that’s been the best part for me.”
Mr. Quinn, center, speaks to a cohort of educators.
Put Me In, Coach!
Story and photo by Sharanya Shivashankar ’27 and Bethany Ma ’27
Teachers are central to the high quality of education found at Saint Francis. They are people students can trust and go to for help. As part of the support they need to reach students with their lessons and projects, teachers need coaching, too. At Saint Francis, two instructional coaches serve as mentor figures who set goals and provide their peers with feedback.
“A sports team has a coach who helps to organize people, can provide direction or support and then also gives people feedback,” said Rachel Sabol, the instructional coach for STEM teachers. “And that’s basically what my job is, but just for teachers.”
Extending the sports analogy, the faculty team has off-season practices, too. As a part of the teacher on-boarding process, new teachers meet with instructional coaches in the summer before starting their classroom duties.
“We connect with them to give them books and resources. We arrange a meeting and give them tours of the school. And then they come for on-campus new educator training before the rest of the teachers come back,” said Lesley Shortal ‘98, the humanities instructional coach.
More experienced teachers also are supported by instructional coaches in a variety of ways. The degree of their involvement in an educator’s goals for the year depends on a variety of factors.
“Educators who are in their first to third year at Saint Francis work with an instructional coach,” Ms. Sabol said. “The rest of our teachers go through a cycle. Every few years, I’ll work with them again.”
Weekly one-on-one meetings with the educator or a more informal teaching observation are a few of the many ways these coaches provide guidance and reflection for the teachers they mentor.
“Ms. Shortal has been very helpful in helping me take a look at my lesson plans and say ‘OK, where can we get some opportunity for
How to Be a Mentor
students to explore on their own?’ or ‘Where can we add in different multimedia and different projects so that it’s not just reading a book and then listening to a lecture?’” said Grant Lucas ’16, World History teacher.
Instructional coaches also handle what is known as the clearing process for teachers’ credentials. Credentials are a certification to officially qualify teachers. Through a program at the University of California San Diego, Saint Francis educators take classes to fulfill the requirements to earn their credentials. “We meet with them every single week for an hour to do the work for those courses and any other support they need,” Ms. Shortal said.
Instructional coaches and educators shape the faculty at Saint Francis and increase the students’ trust in their teachers. Above all, these instructional coaches are also educators and a vital part of the faculty community.
“I take time to talk to other teachers whenever I have the chance to ask them how they’re doing outside of our coaching that’s going on,” Ms. Sabol added. “We’re all part of the educator community here, and I think it’s important to make deep connections.”
Jason Curtis, president of Saint Francis
Story by Rishabh Anand ’26
Mentorship isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about asking the right questions. As the president of Saint Francis High School, Jason Curtis leads with this mantra when working to improve every aspect of the school.
He discusses how being a great mentor requires emphasizing being personal, not transactional. “A mentor is somebody who takes a personal interest in your growth,” Mr. Curtis said. “A really good mentor will usually ask you a question back.”
To Mr. Curtis, mentorship often begins with curiosity rather than instruction.
“If I know somebody who I might work for someday, that’s my manager, but somebody who says, ‘How is it going?’, ‘What are you doing to work on that?’, ‘What is something that you are excited about?’, those are all questions a mentor asks,” Mr. Curtis said.
Lesley Shortal ‘98, right, works with English teacher and Associate Activities Director Grace Savinovich.
Finding Faith Through Altar Serving
Story by Rishabh Anand ’26 and Tommy Sullivan ’28
Photo by MollyAnn Caulfield ’27
Walking down the aisle during a liturgy with the entire school watching can be intimidating at first, but it quickly becomes a path of comfort, growth and connection for students who serve as altar servers. From the quiet moments before the music starts playing to the responsibility shared during the liturgy, altar serving has created a space for students to learn and pass on the rituals of the community.
The altar server ministry at Saint Francis is supported by students who assist the priest by carrying the cross and candles and preparing the altar for supporting sacred rituals during the liturgy. It’s an opportunity for any student to further connect with their Catholic faith.
Even with prior experience as an altar server, students find the responsibility pressure-inducing. “I was a bit nervous. I’m relatively new at Saint Francis, but it felt familiar because I’ve been altar serving for about three years at my local church,” Summer Peguda ’28 said.
As students settle into the rhythm of the service, mentorship plays a key role in helping them grow more confident and grounded. Guidance from Father Tony Mancuso creates an environment where learning feels supportive rather than overwhelming.
“Father Tony is super understanding,” Shawn Hickam ’27 said. “If you make a little error, he’s always there. He’s super calm, always saying ‘Hi’ to us in the halls. It’s nice to have someone there who can take away some of the stress.”
Father Tony’s advice brings comfort aside from relaxing nerves. “He gives us some advice about life, telling us to take it one step at a time and find our own way,” Shawn said.
“My faith grew, and I began realizing that this [service] is meaningful to many people and really meaningful to me, where I’m helping to serve God and the purpose he gave me.”
— Joseph Santos ‘26
Father Tony’s advice also helps students navigate through their spirituality. “He knows how to motivate us and how to bring out the best when it comes to our faith,” Joseph Santos ‘26 said. “He’s definitely the reason why I came and why I kept returning to Masses. He shows that living the faith can be more than just being holy or a tradition. It’s a life, and he’s committed to getting others to take part in that type of life, where you align with service and holiness.”
With each step down the aisle, students like Joseph deepen their connection with faith. “My faith grew, and I began realizing that this [service] is meaningful to many people and really meaningful to me, where I’m helping to serve God and the purpose he gave me,” Joseph said.
These values aren’t just drawn from Father Tony but from student mentors as well. Noah McIntosh ‘26 recalled older student altar servers.
“Carlos Jison ’24, a sophomore in college now, was a great role model who taught us how to express our intersectionality of spirituality and character through altar serving and our time with Campus Ministry,” said Noah, who also forged bonds with people like associate Campus Minister Mary Ann Ruebusch and Religion teacher Narciso Bernardo.
Mentorship doesn’t stop with being guided; it inspires Noah to lead. “With new students taking part in the service, being the mentor that Carlos was to me is huge,” Noah said.
In the final steps down the path of mentorship, students feel more rooted in tradition and connected to their community. “I think it’s a really cool way to leave a legacy and impact on the school,” Noah said.
Byron Gonzalez Diaz ’26 leads the procession at a Saint Francis liturgy.
Brotherly Love
By Tanushri Rajesh ’26
Father Tony Mancuso, our chaplain for the past 20 years, and Father Ukeme Bassey, a part-time associate pastor at St. Joseph of Cupertino, have built a close mentor-mentee relationship through celebrating Mass together at school this year. They connected through Bishop Oscar Cantú and their shared background in education, psychology and Campus Ministry.
“It’s wonderful when there are two priests: one can preside, another one can preach instead of one having to do it all,” Father Tony said. “For most of my 20 years, I’ve been here by myself.”
As Father Tony will be retiring at the end of the school year, his partnership with Father Ukeme will ease the transition in Campus Ministry when a new priest takes over. During his time here, Father Tony has had many favorite moments working with the students and a few favorite Masses.
“I like the Mass of the Holy Spirit that opens the year, and I like the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi,” he said. His accomplishments at the school ease his bittersweet feelings about retirement. “I’m leaving the school with a real sense of joy and have lots of fond memories,” he added. “The key is, I leave places, but I don’t leave people.”
Father Ukeme’s experience working in previous schools combined with his friendship with Father Tony has helped him acclimate quickly. Connecting with students around campus, he has already had memorable moments. “I had the opportunity to play violin with student violinists, a violist and a cellist,” he said. “It was so beautiful that I couldn’t resist. I had to pick up a violin, and they happily gave one to me, and we played ‘Canon in D Major’ by [German composer] Johann Pachelbel.”
Building memories like these has helped him connect more with the school campus.
“I see very noble and smart students who are very forward-looking,” said Father Ukeme, who has external parochial duties and stays on campus from Wednesday to Friday while Father Tony stays five days a week. “I knew Father Tony before I started working with him, and I looked forward to working with him because there is so much to learn from him.”
As they continue to grow their mentoring relationship, both are excited to grow and learn more together. “Father Ukeme gives me hope for how the faith will continue here,” added Father Tony. “It’s really a wonderful opportunity.”
Father Ukeme and Father Tony celebrate at the Ash Wednesday liturgy.
Father Ukeme Bassey, left, and Father Tony Mancuso
Helping New Lancer Families Feel at Home
By Michele Tjin, Marketing and Communications Editor
Entering high school is a milestone for students and families. At Saint Francis, one of the ways we support that transition is through the Lancer Family Connection, a network of volunteer parent mentors who serve as a friendly resource to help new families make connections and feel at home.
“It’s the idea that you’re taking a currently established family and extending a warm welcome and walking alongside a new family that’s entering our community,” says Becca Partridge, one of the program’s co-leads and mother of Lily ’27 and Logan ’27.
With incoming students coming from more than 200 middle schools, that sense of welcome can make the difference.
Parent mentors are paired with small groups of incoming freshman families and serve as welcoming guides and points of contact. Mentors organize optional summer gatherings, often by neighborhood. From San Mateo to Gilroy and to the East Bay, these gatherings help families meet one another before the new school year.
Sometimes, groups from different cities meet up to create more connections. “It’s about making unfamiliar faces familiar,” Becca says.
Throughout the year, mentors also pass along information about campus events and opportunities for involvement, helping families feel informed and included.
The motivation to serve comes from gratitude and a deep sense of belonging. Jian He, another program co-lead, continues to serve as a parent mentor even after her sons Nicholas Verstak ’23 and Dmitri Verstak ’25 have graduated. “Saint Francis is my family,” she explains. “I will be grateful forever to those who helped my boys during their teenage years.”
For her, mentoring is an act of service and ministry and a way to stay connected to friends, faith and the community. She is excited to bring new families along, because by sharing about her experiences in parenting, she hopes to ease some of the stresses families may face.
That sense of connection is especially meaningful for families who arrive without built-in networks. Karen Gordon recalled how her daughter, Anna ’26, was the only one from her middle school to come to Saint Francis. The neighborhood mentor group helped her family, which also includes Mia ’28, feel at home right away.
Now, as a mentor herself, Karen sees her role as creating space for families to connect with each other. Watching new families build relationships, whether across shared languages or experiences, has been deeply rewarding for her.
Parent mentors appreciate that volunteering in this capacity is a reflection of Holy Cross values, especially hospitality and welcome. Several volunteers speak about how the program expands their own circles, introducing them to families they might never otherwise meet. They talk of friends they’ve met who are not in their children’s grade or activities. In that way, the program models exactly what Saint Francis encourages students to do.
The parent mentor program helps make a large campus feel smaller. It turns events like back-to-school nights, Christmas With Saint Francis and Glitter & Gold into opportunities to reconnect with familiar faces.
“Being happy in life is finding people that you connect to. That’s why I’m super passionate about parent mentors,” Becca says. “Connections help make high school less intimidating.”
Get involved! Volunteering as a parent is a great way to participate in our community, and there are opportunities throughout the year. To get more involved or to serve as a parent mentor, visit sfhs.com/lancer-family-connection or contact Family Engagement Director Kevin Holman at kevinholman@sfhs.com
Real-World Wisdom
By Pia Agrawal ’26
As part of the innovation program at Saint Francis, Lancers LEAP, alumni give back to current students by mentoring them in their fields. Last semester, Innovation Director Bill Beasley ’82 invited Rahul Mamtora ’20 to hold a workshop on life in a startup.
Rahul is a UI/UX specialist at Truu.ai, an AI cybersecurity startup. As part of the workshop experience, he spoke about what it’s like to work in a startup. He also brought in experts within cybersecurity to talk to the students and share their own experiences.
“We were all once in [these students’] shoes, so I think it’s easy for us to relate to [them] and vice versa,” Rahul said. “It’s super helpful to talk to the students and show them what I’m going through, because I would have loved to have somebody do that when I was in high school.”
Rahul introduced students to AI and other tools that he uses in his company. “By the time you’re in college and beyond, it’ll be a huge advantage to have already been using those for years,” he said.
Rahul’s mentorship and role in Lancers LEAP benefits students and himself because he can meet with those with less experience. “It’s always interesting hearing everybody’s questions,” he said. “When you talk to somebody who’s not in [cybersecurity], you realize that most questions that might seem obvious to me at this point aren’t to other people. From a company sense, that helps me just think about how we should actually build our products so that a user can understand it, but also it sparks new ideas for me.”
Through mutually exchanging ideas and questions, Rahul and the students learned from each other and deepened their interest in the field. Rahul emphasized that students did not need to be interested in cybersecurity specifically to take the workshop, because he himself did not know he was interested in cybersecurity when he was in high school either.
“When I was at Saint Francis, I was very interested in sports and business. [With this workshop], my goal was to show the students
How to Lead with Ethics
that no matter what field you’re in, there’s a lot that can be applied from whatever you’re already in previously,” he said. “Take whatever you’re learning in high school and use that. Don’t be afraid of the fact that you might not be a technical person or might not know much about cybersecurity; you don’t need to jump into it.”
The success of this workshop made Rahul want to keep giving back to Saint Francis. “I don’t know just yet whether it’s doing the same workshop again or evolving that to different topics, but I stay in touch with Mr. Beasley, and I’m definitely looking forward to figuring out how we can continue being involved,” he added.
Daniel Li, parent Lancers LEAP mentor
Story by Rishabh Anand ’26
Success doesn’t come from making money, but rather understanding purpose. Daniel Li, a Lancers LEAP mentor who led several projects on financial investment, emphasizes to his students the responsibility that comes with money.
“It’s important to recognize why we’re making money,” said Daniel, who is founder and managing principal of Verajoy Capital. “Money is very powerful. It can be good, and it can be bad, too.”
In the real world, there’s a greater importance on ethics than numbers.
“A company may simply buy another company for cheap, then lay off 10,000 employees to make 10 times the money,” Daniel explained.
“Then it’s philosophical. How is that good? We want to present finance and investments in their truest light so students understand the nature of work and make truly informed choices.”
Rahul Mamtora ’20, standing in white, speaks with students during a session of the Lancers LEAP workshop he led.
What’s important when starting a nonprofit?
Define the problem, brainstorm, weigh pros and cons. Prototype the design, then iterate. Focus on the impact, not what you’re creating.
Pocket Coach
Explore what Lancers are passionate about with our interactive folding game and find curated tips from our student experts. Build it, play it and pass it on!
1. Fold the corners to meet in the middle so that the colored squares are facing up.
2. Turn the paper over and fold in all four corners to meet in the middle.
3. Fold it in half so that the colored squares are on the outside.
4. Push your fingers into the corners.
Function vs. appearance: which matters more in robotics?
Prioritize function over aesthetics so you can solve your task.
How do you keep young students engaged in STEM?
Make STEM fun. Don’t let boring classes ruin an entire field.
How can you be a good teammate?
Show up for teammates on and off the field. Start small. Practice with a friend.
How can you be a better public speaker? How do you design something unique?
How can you improve your singing?
Be yourself and be kind. Do planks while singing.
How can you be a good host?
Alumni Updates
Save the Date: Grand Reunion Weekend 2026
It’s not too early to plan for the fall. This year, we are honoring all graduating classes ending in “6.” Help us make this the best reunion yet.
• When: Friday, August 28, through Sunday, August 30
• Where: Saint Francis campus
• What:
• Football Kickoff: Friday, August 28
• Grand Reunion: Saturday, August 29
• Golden Grads: Sunday, August 30
• Who:
• Friday: All alumni are invited to the Football Kickoff.
REUNION
• Saturday: The milestone classes (’66, ’76, ’86, ’96, ’06, ’16) will be the featured classes on Saturday, August 29.
• Sunday: All graduating classes (Saint Francis and Holy Cross) from 1959 through 1976 are invited back on campus for liturgy and brunch.
How you can help:
• Attend: Purchase your ticket at sfhs.com/reunion-weekend to celebrate and reconnect.
• Lead: Become a Class Captain and rally your classmates.
• Contact: Email gregcalcagno@sfhs.com to volunteer to be a Class Captain or to help at the reunion.
Lancers Near and Far
We have recently launched regional meetups to help alumni stay connected to each other and to Saint Francis, no matter where they live. A huge shoutout to Olivia Vinckier ’24 (pictured far right) and Ava Goumas ’22 (not pictured) for organizing our recent mixer in New York.
Want to host something in your area? We’ll provide the support, you bring the Lancer spirit. Email gregcalcagno@sfhs.com if you’re interested.
Mentoring with Alumni
Our alumni network is valuable because our members love paying it forward for current students. Whether it’s career advice or professional connections, Lancers thrive when they hear from those who
Recent successes:
• Marshall Mort ’01 returned to campus to speak to our Mock Trial Club about his career in the legal field.
• Rahul Mamtora ’20 led a Lancers LEAP project about working at a startup (see page 25 for story).
• Chris Schumacher ’15 and Michael Molony ’83 spoke to students in our President’s Circle about the medical and biotech industries, respectively.
Ways to give back:
• Partner with Innovation Director Bill Beasley ’82 to lead or judge a project with the Lancers LEAP program.
Ready to inspire a student? Email gregcalcagno@sfhs.com to share your area of expertise.
Grand
Saint Francis & Holy Cross High Schools
Little Lancers
Alumni, if you are the proud parent of a Little Lancer, please email littlelancer@sfhs.com to receive a Lancer gift for your baby. Please include your address and the names of all family members.
Charlotte (middle), Elizabeth (left) and Joseph, children of Christina Ginger Bedolla ’07 and Michael Bedolla
Forester, son of Katie and Tim Fleshman ’02. His godfamily includes Jennifer McAteer Johnston ’94, Sarah Johnston ‘20, Scarlett Johnston ‘22 and Mary Johnston ‘24.
of
and
Dino Joseph, left, and Mack Taylor, sons of Romell ’10 and Megan Miller Hanks ‘10
Vincent Luca (“Vincie”), son of Alyssa McPadden ’10 and Vince Passanisi. Additional family includes uncle Arthur McPadden IV ’07 and grandparents Arthur McPadden III and Andrea Esquillo McPadden ’77.
Xander, son of Kriszten Kocmond Moore ’11 and Derek Moore
Charlotte Elizabeth, daughter of Chelsea and Joey Oliveira ’93
Cai Lou, son of Stephanie Descalso Chang ’08 and Chris Chang ’11. His grandmother is Joan Escover ‘82.
Theo, son of Ben ’08 and Suzanne Nicolopulos Plattner ‘08
Reed, son
Ashley
Robert Calcagno ’10. Grandparents are Ann Calcagno ’84 and Greg Calcagno ’83.
Donatello, son of Gabriella Remil Aguilar ’14 and Rafael Aguilar
In Memory
Lynn Horiye, a beloved presence at Saint Francis for nearly four decades, passed away in December 2025. A longtime coach and friend, he left a mark on generations of Lancers.
Born in 1942, Coach Lynn was raised on a farm in Utah. He later moved to San Mateo, attending San Mateo High School where he competed in gymnastics and wrestling. He continued competing in gymnastics at College of San Mateo and San Jose State University and in 1968 he enlisted in the Army Reserves.
Gymnastics was the foundation of his life’s work. He coached youth gymnastics for many years before coming to Saint Francis in November 1986 to be the head varsity gymnastics coach. In his first season at Saint Francis, the Lancer gymnastics team won the Central Coast Section (CCS) championship. The Lancers went on to win 20 gymnastics titles, many of them consecutively from 2000-2015. Coach Lynn remains in the record books as the winningest coach in CCS history.
Coach Lynn also served the Saint Francis community in other ways. He was the JV and varsity girls tennis coach, the director of intramurals, assisted in the bookstore, served as a prefect, substituted classes and served as statistician for basketball and football teams. He devoted his time to Saint Francis because he loved the students and educators as if they were his own family. Coach Lynn will be remembered for the countless lives he impacted as a coach and colleague.
Eugene Acronico, father of Hilary Weaver ’80
Bernie Bayer, husband of longtime Saint Francis employee Dolores Bayer, father to Bernadette Bayer Supan ’71 HC, Kenneth Bayer ’73 and John Bayer ’76
John Beam, husband of Cindi Rivera Beam ’78
Anita Fantozzi Bellatorre ’61 HC, mother of Gina Bellatorre Furrer ’86 and Jennifer Bellatorre Munsey ’89
Sister Virginia Boos, O.S.F., former Saint Francis registrar
Margaret Brown, mother of Tim Brown ’80
Dan Brunello, father of Kristina Brunello Dittmann ’02, Jeffrey Brunello ’03 and Ashley Brunello Finkelstein ’09, uncle of Scott Brunello ‘82, Christopher Brunello ‘83 RIP, Kathryn Brunello Montalvo ‘87 (Ray Montalvo ’87), Jamie Ceccato Perkins ‘97 and Joseph Ceccato ‘02, great-uncle of Cecelia Montalvo ‘15 and Sophia Montalvo ‘17
Bill Carter ’66, brother of Mike ’65
Greg Del Fierro, father of Ed Del Fierro ’82, grandfather to Evan Del Fierro ’12 and Dominic Del Fierro ’16
Virgil Deppmeier, father of Tim Deppmeier ’86, Christine Pelosi Deppmeier ’86, Tom Deppmeier ‘86
Tim Fullerton ’85, son of longtime Saint Francis educator Sue Fullerton, brother of Julia Fullerton Perrier ’86, Ian Fullerton ’90, Peter Fullerton ’91 and Andrew Fullerton ’94
Marie Lena Gallo, mother of Robert Gallo ’86, Kathy Gallo Picchi ’88 (Alan ’83) and Rick Gallo ’91
Sharon Geerts, mother of Scott Geerts ’81, Todd Geerts ’82, Eric Geerts ’83, mother-in-law of Trisha McCarthy Geerts ’82
Judith Gordon, mother of Elizabeth Gordon ’97
Dorothy Guarino, mother of Joann Guarino Casey ’82
Mike Kenney, father of Allison Kenney Jones ’98 and Jason Kenney ’99
Patrick Mack ’62
Bernie Marren, former chair of Board of Directors, father of John (Lynda Grillo ’81) Marren ’81, Robert Marren ’82 and Patricia Marren Colver ’85 RIP
Mark Marquess, husband of longtime Saint Francis educator Susan Marquess, father of Bridget Marquess Dunnington ’92, Annie Marquess ’95 and Maureen Marquess Sullivan ’00
Leticia Montalvo, mother to Robert Montalvo Jr ’78, Steve Montalvo ’79, Greg Montalvo ’81, Maria Montalvo Lozano ’83, Clara Montalvo Payne ’84, Ray Montalvo ’87 (Kathryn Brunello ’87), Teresa Montalvo ’92 RIP, Juan Montalvo ’97, aunt of Joe Montalvo ’80 and Mike Montalvo ’82, grandmother of Robert Montalvo III ’06, Brandon Montalvo ’08, Steven A. Montalvo ’08, Bryant Montalvo ’10, Brittany R. Montalvo ’14, Gregory “Ozzie” Montalvo ’15, Jay Aragon ’08, Lawrence Aragon ’09, Cecelia Montalvo ’15, Sophia Montalvo ’17, Juan “JJ” Montalvo Jr. ’26 and Isabella “Bella” Montalvo ’30
Barbara Moss, mother of Robert Moss ‘86 and Catherine Moss ‘88, aunt of William Vlach ‘81 and Traci Vlach Terluin ‘86, sister of former Saint Francis educator Susan Vlach
Mike O’Brien Sr., father of Mike O’Brien ’81, Kevin O’Brien ’82 and Mark O’Brien ’88, grandfather of Brooklyn O’Brien ’25
Robert Owiesny, father of Kristine Owiesny Malmsheimer ‘86, Cheryl Owiesny Schwamberger ‘87 and Eric Owiesny ‘89
Michael Reedy, former Saint Francis Board of Directors Chair, father of Gannon Reedy ’07, Kiely Reedy ’09 and Raymond Reedy ’14
Richard and Carla Scudellari, parents of Loretta Scudellari Hicks ’04, Richard Scudellari Jr. ’06, Samuel Scudellari ’08 and Nicholas Scudellari ’08
Dustin J. Smith ’98, son of Marieileen Ferrara Malley ’69 HC, brother of Samantha Smith Hill ’00, nephew of Gerri Ferrara ’61 HC and William Beasley, cousin of Bill ’82 & Mary Sonja ’83, Sam ’12, Josh ’14 and Cameron ’16 Beasley; Betsy Beasley ’83, Megan ’06, Eric ’08 and Ryan ’14 MacIntosh; Bart Beasley ’86 and Bryan Beasley ’89
Todd Sullivan, father of Luke Sullivan ’21
Pamila Cindy Traver ’91
Peter Vesanovic, father to Liz C. VesanovicRodriguez ‘89, Nichole M. Vesanovic ’98 and Monica M. Vesanovic ‘00, grandfather of Booker Rodriguez ‘20, Wade Rodriguez ’26, Sadie Wycoff ‘28, Cruz Rodriguez ‘29
Lee Volta, father of longtime Saint Francis educator Chris Volta, grandfather of Alexandra Dahl ’05 and Casey Volta ’12
Richard Wiedel ’59, brother of Tom Wiedel ’65
#lancerlife
The Poverello yearbook staff is in the spotlight! The 2025 volume was recently recognized in Anthology, a compilation of the best-of-the-best yearbooks across the country in scholastic journalism, innovative design and compelling storytelling.
Poverello photographers show us their take on student life.
Sofia Randazzo ’27 and Chloe Davis ’26 find their balance at a competitive cheer match.
By Tanushri Rajesh ’26
Lancelot finds Kaimani Keanaaina ’26 before a big game.
By Lia Payne ’26
Students cheer on their Lancers at a basketball game.
By Lia Payne ’26
Band director Sadie Queally-Sammut expresses her thanks at a concert.
By Rishabh Anand ’26
Lancer rugby player Jordaan Choudry ’26 huddles with members of the opposing team after a game. It is a rugby tradition to get together in a circle and share compliments about the opponents.
By Pia Agrawal ‘26
Holy Cross Educators and Teacher Mentors:
Dudley Battle and Alice Wang ’06, Psychology Educators
Story and photo by Bethany Ma ’27 and Sharanya Shivashankar ’27
Teacher mentors at Saint Francis reflect a community of support and encouragement, where educators actively support one another to grow. This spirit is exemplified in the Social Studies Department where psychology teacher Dudley Battle serves as the mentor to Alice Wang ’06.
How does being mentored by Mr. Battle help you?
Ms. Wang: I got [AP Psychology] materials and tips on how to work with teenagers from him. What was very valuable was going into his classroom and watching how he taught. Anytime I have a question, I could watch him and watch how he delivered the lesson.
What is the best part of having a mentor?
Ms. Wang: The best part of having a mentor, especially in the first year, was knowing there was someone I could turn to with all the questions I had. Having a mentor meant I didn’t need to feel embarrassed about asking for help.
What do you enjoy most about being a mentor?
Mr. Battle: Seeing [your mentee] thrive. It’s almost like watching a bird fly or a baby walk. They don’t need me anymore. That feels really good.
What are some specific challenges you helped
Ms. Wang with?
Mr. Battle: I don’t think teaching the content was hard, but just being in a classroom and showing ways to collect papers, think about time management and organize lessons for students.
How has having Ms. Wang as a colleague been valuable?
Mr. Battle: It’s healthy to have new energy. She brings a fresh perspective on the latest technology and trends, and she knows how to relate to students.
