Traditions_Fall2025

TRADITIONS

serra's class of 2025 joins the alumni brotherhood

SENIOR CLASS RECEIVED 1,245 ACCEPTANCES TO 286 FOUR-YEAR UNIVERSITIES ACROSS THE COUNTRY AND ABROAD

A PUBLICATION FOR THE COMMUNITY OF JUNIPERO SERRA HIGH SCHOOL | FALL 2025

Serra High School 451 West 20th Avenue San Mateo, CA 94403 650.573.9935

Michael P. Fadelli '88 President mfadelli@serrahs.com

Charlie McGrath Principal cmcgrath@serrahs.com

Michael Marques '84 Head of Advancement mmarques@serrahs.com

Aimee Strain Director of Marketing and Communications

Feature Writer and Editor astrain@serrahs.com

Logan Wolf '14 Director of Alumni Relations lwolf@serrahs.com

Michelle Wilkinson

Creative Director Traditions Layout/Design mwilkinson@serrahs.com

Contributors

Jennifer Christgau-Aquino

Antonia Ehlers

Logan Wolf '14

Photo Credits

Diane Mazzoni

Rosie Kirk

Advisory Board of Regents

Greg Regan '91 – Chairman

Dr. Jason Coloma – Vice Chairman

Megan Armando

John Cannon

Eric Dooley '02

Ronnie Fields '86

Ralph Ho '89

Roxanne Ivory

Hanna Malak '08

Geoffrey Richardson

Shannon Seeberan

Aida Soto

Msgr. John Talesfore

For questions or comments, please contact: Aimee Strain or Michelle Wilkinson astrain@serrahs.com mwilkinson@serrahs.com

Dear Alumni, Parents and Friends of Serra,

As we reflect on the close of another remarkable school year, I am filled with pride for all that our Padres have accomplished. This May, we celebrated the graduation of an exceptionally talented senior class that received 1,245 acceptances to 286 four-year universities across the country and abroad. In total, 214 Padres graduated, earning more than $36 million in scholarships—an extraordinary achievement that speaks to their dedication, perseverance, and the support of our dedicated faculty and families.

This fall, our campus is alive with enthusiasm as we welcomed an energetic new freshman class. Each day, nearly 900 Padres fill our halls with excitement and purpose, bringing a contagious spirit of camaraderie and determination to succeed. The classrooms are vibrant and engaging, reflecting the best of Serra’s tradition of excellence in both academics and community.

In this edition of Traditions, you’ll see the highlights of our graduation season and read stories that capture both the joy of celebration and the poignancy of transition. We bid a fond farewell to Tom Sullivan ‘81, a beloved faculty member who dedicated 40 years of service to Serra, and we warmly welcomed Stefanie Oudiz, who stepped into his role with passion and enthusiasm. You’ll also find a heartwarming tribute to former principal and president Lars Lund, whose legacy of faith and leadership lives on through the dedication of Mary’s Courtyard in his honor.

Our alumni continue to inspire us with their accomplishments and leadership in the world beyond Serra. Among them are Dr. Christopher Kaelin ’91, whose groundbreaking research explores the genetic mystery of orange cats, and Brendan Sabean ’10, who was recently named General Manager in the NBA G League. Their achievements remind us that the Serra spirit endures long after graduation.

As we approach the holiday season, we look ahead with excitement to the next chapter in Serra’s growth. In January 2026, we will begin a new strategic planning process that will set a bold vision for Serra through the next five years. The plan will build on the tremendous success of our current plan, Transforming Lives We look forward to engaging many of our esteemed alumni in this effort as members of the steering committee, helping us identify the values and priorities that will keep Serra thriving for generations to come.

Thank you for your continued support and faith in our mission. Together, we will ensure that Serra remains a place where young men grow in faith, wisdom, service, community, and leadership.

Siempre adelante,

Michael Fadelli '88 President

THELATEST

“MY TEACHERS AT SERRA HAVE BEEN A POSITIVE INFLUENCE. THEY CHALLENGED ME TO BECOME NOT ONLY A BETTER STUDENT, BUT A BETTER PERSON OVERALL."

–ANAND GEORGE '25

SERRA'S CLASS OF 2025

JOINS THE ALUMNI BROTHERHOOD

Serra's Class of 2025 marched out with resilience, pride and a legacy of character and accomplishment. This year, 214 Padres walked across the altar at St. Mary’s Cathedral on May 31, continuing a cherished tradition that marks not only the culmination of their high school journey, but also the beginning of a lifelong connection to the Serra community.

Valedictorian Jaden Navarro ‘25 lit up the stage when he paralleled the experiences he and his classmates had at Serra to each stanza of the Junípero Serra School Prayer.

“I’d like to speak about a prayer that I feel is very pertinent to us as the Class of 2025, one that we all know every word to by heart—the Serra School Prayer. It perfectly encapsulates what each and every one of us in this class achieved throughout our time in high school, and provides a guideline for what our future holds,” Navarro said.

“It starts, ‘Lord God from you comes all that is good. All our talents and abilities.’ Every single one of us is uniquely different, with our own skills and passions. Whether it’s breaking the school shot put record, or winning an award for the Matilda musical, our class is filled with remarkable individual talent. Many of us discovered talents that we never thought we had until we reached Serra, allowing us to explore more about who we are,” Navarro said.

The Class of 2025 demonstrated the strength of a Serra education and the exceptional character of our graduating Padres. As our seniors step into the next chapter of their lives, they do so with remarkable accomplishments already behind them. This year, the

graduating senior class submitted an impressive 2,612 college applications and received 1,245 acceptances to 286 different four-year universities and four community colleges across the country and abroad.

From the nation’s most selective universities to premier Catholic institutions, the graduates earned places at schools that reflect their hard work and academic proficiency. Notable acceptances include every University of California campus, as well as Stanford, Harvard, University of Pennsylvania, Duke, Boston College, Carnegie Mellon, Cornell, Fordham, George Washington, Notre Dame, Northeastern, Oberlin, Purdue, Tufts, University of Southern California, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. These Padres will also be heading to public powerhouses such as the University of Michigan, University of North Carolina, University of Texas at Austin, and Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

In addition to these impressive acceptances, Serra’s graduating class was awarded more than $36 million in scholarships, a reflection of their academic excellence. The graduation ceremony was filled with joy, pride and reflection. As always, it concluded with a powerful and heartfelt Padre Whisper—an emotional moment that unites generations of Padres.

Congratulations, Class of 2025! You leave Serra prepared, proud and forever part of the brotherhood.

“We may never walk the halls again. We may never sit in the same room like this again. But the love we’ve shared here, the lessons we’ve learned here, the people we’ve become here—that makes up the spirit of Junípero Serra and that will walk with us for the rest of our lives,” Navarro said at the end of his commencement speech.

CLASS OF '25 GRADUATION AWARDS

jaden navarro general scholastic excellence medal

shea sportsmanship award

UCLA

brady callagy activity medal

Boise State University

anand george campus ministry medal mathematics medal service medal

social studies medal

UCLA

mason jang dramatic arts medal

Fordham University

rishan patel english medal

University of Pennsylvania

rowan johnson

innovation, information and technology medal

University of York

ethan liu music arts medal

Gonzaga University

justin hollister science medal

Stanford University

robert ducoté Jr. theology medal

Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo

ayden cruz visual arts medal

UCLA

carson cattano world languages medal

Duke University

2025 Shea Sportsmanship Award Recipient Jaden Navarro

The 2024–25 Shea Outstanding Sportsmanship Award was presented to senior Jaden Navarro, a standout studentathlete recognized for both his athletic achievements and academic excellence.

Navarro was a leader across campus, serving as a Big Brother, Student Ambassador, Encounter leader, Mission and Brotherhood leader and freelance reporter for the Serra Friar. He was also a dedicated two-sport athlete, competing on both the varsity lacrosse and varsity wrestling teams. With a 4.0 unweighted GPA and a 4.75 weighted GPA, Navarro exemplifies Serra’s commitment to balancing academic rigor with co-curricular involvement. Reflecting on his Serra experience, Navarro said, “Serra's welcoming community and rigorous academic courses have helped me to get to where I am today.”

The Shea Outstanding Sportsmanship Award has been given annually since 1947 to an exceptional senior athlete. In 1966, it was renamed in honor of James P. Shea ’58, a Serra alumnus still listed as missing in action in the Vietnam War. Considered the highest honor Serra bestows on a graduating student-athlete, nominees are selected by head coaches of each sport and chosen collectively by the coaching staff.

2024-2025 Blanket Award Winners

Varsity 7 2024 Cross Country

Teddy Chung 2024 Football

Sean Coffin 2024 Water Polo

Mikey Ballout 2025 Basketball

Nate Coughlin 2025 Soccer

Preston Dixon Ryder Doleschal

Sebastian Garcia-Uribe 2025 Wrestling

Ian Josephson 2025 Baseball

Jack Palladino 2025 Crew

Kyler Heath 2025 Golf

Andrew Heneghan

Phinn Kelly-Zuckerman 2025 Lacrosse

Vaughn Taner

Kevin Raghunathan

Milo Switzer 2025 Swim and Dive

Kelvin Gao 2025 Tennis

Luke Lewis 2025 Track & Field

Mateo Soto 2025 Volleyball

MEET SERRA'S CLASS OF 2025 VALEDICTORIANS

Three incredible Padres were elected valedictorians by the Class of 2025. Each represent the epitome of academic achievement, leadership and dedication within their graduating class.

All three Padres demonstrated a commitment to excellence in their studies—achieving top grades in challenging coursework across multiple subjects. Their intellectual

curiosity, critical thinking skills and thirst for knowledge set them apart as academic leaders among their peers.

Congratulations to Clay Hinsdale, who gave a heartwarming speech at the Senior Mother-Son Mass; Jaden Navarro, who addressed the class at the graduation commencement; and Anand George, who gave the address at the Senior Academic Awards Night.

Clay Hinsdale

Clay Hinsdale, a standout senior, closed his high school chapter with an impressive list of achievements, including a valedictorian with a 4.7 GPA and an acceptance to Tufts University.

Hinsdale moved across the country to Boston, where he is playing football and studying economics. He said that he was excited for the opportunity to further both his athletic and academic careers in a city known for its rich history and competitive collegiate sports scene. He has a deep sense of gratitude for Serra, which helped shape him into the man he is today. His interest in economics was sparked at Serra, particularly in AP Calculus AB.

“Serra helped me get interested in business and math, as well as taught me how to play football and helped form me into the man I am today.”

In addition to his academic and athletic commitments, Hinsdale made the most of his time at Serra through a range of extracurricular activities. He played football, baseball, and basketball (freshman year), and was also involved in the Zumba Club, Sports Science Club and Ultimate Frisbee Club.

Despite his busy schedule, Hinsdale credits his success to Serra’s supportive environment.

“My counselors were there every step of the way, asking questions and exploring possibilities not

only with college but also with life as a whole,” Hinsdale said. “Serra prepared me with the skills necessary to go to college such as hard work, time management and social skills.”

He praised Serra’s faculty for their impact on his growth. “Learning is a whole lot easier when you have teachers that want to form relationships with you,” he said. “And the teachers at Serra were nothing short of amazing.”

Jaden Navarro

With a remarkable 4.75 weighted GPA and a passion for both science and service, Jaden Navarro stood out as one of Serra’s Class of 2025 valedictorians. Currently studying neuroscience at UCLA, Navarro credited Serra’s rigorous academic curriculum and welcoming community for shaping his journey and success.

“Serra’s challenging courses and supportive environment have helped me get to where I am today,” Navarro said.

Navarro's academic interests crystallized during his AP Psychology class at Mercy and his AP Biology course at Serra, which sparked his fascination with how the brain functions and led him to pursue neuroscience.

Beyond the classroom, Navarro remained deeply involved in Serra’s mission-driven culture. He served as a Mission and Brotherhood leader, Encounter leader, and Student Ambassador,

embodying Serra’s values of faith, service and leadership. As a Big Brother and freelance reporter for The Serra Friar , Navarro mentored underclassmen and gave voice to the student experience.

A well-rounded student-athlete, Navarro competed on Serra’s varsity lacrosse and varsity wrestling teams.

Navarro credits Serra’s college-preparatory focus and the guidance of the school’s counselors for helping him navigate the competitive college application process. “The support I received made a huge difference in crafting my best application,” he said.

Anand George

Serra proudly celebrated Anand George as a Class of 2025 valedictorian. George attends UCLA, where he is majoring in neuroscience as part of a premedical track aimed at a future career in medicine.

“UCLA is among the highest ranked of all the UCs for my major of neuroscience and the pre-medical undergraduate pathway,” George said. “It offers world-class research facilities, opportunities for undergraduate research and clinical exposure at UCLA Medical Center.”

George’s time at Serra was marked by excellence. Through a rigorous curriculum filled with honors and AP-level STEM courses in biology, chemistry, physics, math, statistics, and psychology, he built a strong foundation for his future studies. He credits AP Biology with Dr. Tara Mann for inspiring his interest in neuroscience.

“My teachers at Serra have been a positive influence,” George said. “They challenged me to become not only a better student, but a better person overall. The lessons I learned from my classes, my peers, and my teachers, shaped me into the person I am today.”

In addition to his academic achievements, George was a dedicated and active member of the Serra community. His extracurricular involvement included mock trial, PreHealth Club, co-founder of the Speech & Debate Club, and Student Council all four years, serving as executive secretary his senior year. He also was a tutor co-chair of Serra’s National Honor Society chapter, track manager, Encounter and Kairos retreat leader and a freelance reporter for the Serra Friar school newspaper.

Outside Serra, George demonstrated his commitment to service and leadership by completing a three-year scientific research internship with the Aspiring Scholars Directed Research Program, providing altar service at St. Gregory’s parish and participating in martial arts. He also served as a hospital volunteer at the San Mateo Medical Center.

Tom Sullivan ‘81 Retires After 40 Years at Serra

After four decades of dedication, Tom Sullivan ’81 closed an extraordinary chapter at Serra. A proud alumnus, Sullivan spent 40 years serving the Serra community in numerous teaching and leadership roles, where his passion, wisdom and mentorship helped shape generations of Serra Padres. He most recently served as Serra’s Academic Dean of Studies.

According to Serra Principal Charlie McGrath, Sullivan’s legacy extended beyond his classroom contributions.

The son of Richard T. Sullivan ‘52 and father of a fellow Padre, Corey ‘10, Sullivan enriched school life through numerous roles, including more than 25 years as general director, technical director and production manager for Tri-School Productions. His leadership supported and elevated the arts at Serra, fostering creativity and collaboration among students.

As Summer School Director for a decade, Sullivan further demonstrated his ability to shape and enhance educational experiences.

A distinguished educator, Sullivan dedicated nearly three decades to the College Board as an AP Literature and AP Language teacher and faculty consultant reader.

Sullivan’s academic journey began with his bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Nebraska in 1985. He later earned a master’s degree in secondary education from San Francisco State University in 1988 and a master’s degree in English from Notre Dame de Namur University in 1998. His contributions extended beyond Serra as he served on several committees within the Archdiocese of San Francisco, further demonstrating his commitment to Catholic education.

“As he embarks on his well-deserved retirement, we celebrate his remarkable career and countless contributions to Serra,"

McGrath said. "His wisdom and leadership will continue to inspire students, faculty and the Serra community for years to come.”

Mary’s Courtyard Named in honor of

Former Principal and President Lars Lund

On June 7 at 10 a.m., members of the Serra High School community gathered for a special blessing and dedication of The Lars Lund Courtyard of Mary, honoring the longtime educator and leader. The ceremony took place in Mary’s Courtyard, a peaceful and reflective space now newly named in tribute to Lund’s decades of service, leadership and years of commitment to Serra.

Lund served Serra with distinction, first as principal and later as president, shaping the lives of thousands of students and families through his vision, compassion and faith. His leadership

left a legacy that continues to guide the school's mission.

Following the dedication, guests came together in the Alumni Courtyard for a heartfelt reception and brunch—an opportunity to share memories and express gratitude for Lund’s impact on the Serra community.

Lund was undergoing treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia, making the day’s celebration especially meaningful. It was a powerful moment of unity, love and prayer for a man whose life has touched so many.

ANNUAL DAY OF GIVING

NOVEMBER 20

ThanksGIVEday a proud past . . . powering our future eighth annual

At Serra, we build men of faith, virtue, leadership and philanthropy. Teaching our students the rewarding privilege of giving back is fundamental to their overall high school experience.

ThanksGIVEday is an opportunity for the entire Serra community to unite and show its support for the Padre Fund.

On our eighth annual

ThanksGIVEday, we hope to have the support of our alumni to celebrate Serra and offer contributions to better our programs now and in the future.

CAMPUSLIFE

"I AM EXCITED TO WELCOME STEFANIE TO THE ACADEMIC TEAM. HER EXPERTISE IN DATA AND INNOVATION, COMBINED WITH HER EXTENSIVE BACKGROUND IN TEACHING ENGLISH AND EXPERIENCE WORKING WITH EDUCATORS WILL BE AN ASSET TO OUR COMMUNITY."

–RITA LEE, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL, ACADEMICS

Serra Welcomes Stefanie Oudiz as New Dean of Studies

Serra is proud to announce the appointment of Stefanie Oudiz as its new Dean of Studies. With nearly a decade of experience at our sister school, Mercy High School, Oudiz brings a deep passion for single-gender education and a commitment to empowering students through innovative teaching practices.

“Being at an all-girls school, I saw how transformational it is—in curriculum and the strength the students draw from each other, and the way that school leaders and teachers can tailor education to specific needs,” Oudiz said. “I am excited to be at Serra and build off its already strong and successful program.”

During her time at Mercy, Oudiz served in several leadership roles, including as the Technology and Innovation Coordinator for two years. She also taught ninth and 11th-grade English at Mercy for nine years.

Oudiz’s educational philosophy is rooted in inquiry-based and student-centered learning.

Rather than transmitting knowledge, she believes teachers should empower students to confidently explore and construct new understanding for themselves by cultivating intellectual curiosity, scholarly traits and a love of learning.

Oudiz earned her bachelor’s degree in art history from University of California, Los Angeles, and a master's degree in teaching from the University of Southern California. She is married to Serra’s Performing Arts Director, Lawrence Long. Together they have two children.

Assistant Principal for Academics Rita Lee expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I am excited to welcome Stefanie to the academic team. Her expertise in data and innovation, combined with her extensive background in teaching English and experience working with educators will be an asset to our community. I look forward to the valuable contributions she will make to the future of Serra."

We are thrilled to welcome Oudiz to the Serra community and look forward to the academic vision, energy and leadership she brings to this role.

Serra Librarian Patrick Vallez-Kelly Honored for Dedication

The Bay Area Independent School Librarians (BAISL) Association recognized Serra’s Director of Library Services, Patrick VallezKelly, with its annual Founder’s Award.

Since 2015, the honor has highlighted librarians who embody BAISL’s mission to support member growth and advance excellence in independent school libraries across more than 130 campuses throughout the Bay Area.

“Patrick has served BAISL in an astonishing myriad of ways over the past couple of decades in a variety of roles,” said BAISL President Junia Ziblay. “Not only has he been a personal inspiration of mine and the very reason why I chose to run for office, but he has furthered our organization in countless ways, and remained characteristically humble throughout.”

Vallez-Kelly began his journey at University of Notre Dame, where he earned an undergraduate degree in music theory and composition. He then spent some time at St. Patrick’s Seminary, where he originally envisioned a life in pastoral ministry. He pursued further studies at Santa Clara University, focusing on liturgical ministry, and later joined the Office for Worship at the Archdiocese of San Francisco. It was around this time that life shifted direction. Upon adopting his son, Vallez-Kelly realized that pastoral work and parenting could be a challenging combination. That reflection opened the door to another calling: library science. Drawn to the organizational side of ministry and recognizing his love of information, he pursued a master’s degree in library and information science at San Jose State University.

A call from a former seminary colleague, Serra’s then-principal Barry Thorton, brought him to Serra, first in Campus Ministry. When a part-time library spot opened up under long-time librarian and mentor Sue Cordes, he worked part time in both departments until Cordes retired and he applied for the position.

Vallez-Kelly worked in the then-John L. Zoph Library—a space with institutional roots, but limited physical flexibility. When the pandemic began in 2020, so did the construction plans for the Stinson Center, a focal point of Serra’s capital campaign and strategic reimagining. What followed, Vallez-Kelly said, was a thoughtful and ambitious renovation to build a space that reflects the evolving needs of students in the 21st century.

and

Innovation

According to Vallez-Kelly, the redesign meant major weeding of Serra’s print collection—from around 13,000 volumes down to a tightly curated 6,300. Books had to be prioritized based on student projects in world history, art history, and theology. Temporary solutions, such as a "mini-library" on carts during construction, ensured student access throughout the transition. By spring 2023, the new library space reopened as a vibrant academic hub, with a curriculum-focused book collection and digital resources similar to a college library. Beyond the library, Vallez-Kelly stays connected to his love for music as a member of the bluegrass band Runaway Train. His band plays local festivals and senior centers. He also finds joy in puzzles, reading and cheering on the San Francisco Giants with his 23-year-old son, Anthony. His wife, Theresa, is a coordinator for Safe Routes to School in San Mateo County.

Reflecting on his role, he said, “I appreciate the collaboration with our teachers— especially in theology, social studies, and English. Any time I can connect them with resources or think creatively about projects, I feel like I’m doing something that matters.”

EXTRA! EXTRA!

Serra’s Newsies Delivers a Broadway-Worthy Blowout

Seize the day?

Serra Padres and their tri-school counterparts did just that. Over two action-packed weekends this spring, Tri-School Productions brought the roaring energy of Newsies to life, earning standing ovations and raucous applause from sold-out crowds. With incredible choreography, rousing ensemble numbers, and a heart-pounding score, the production was a bold celebration of student talent, grit and showmanship.

Leading the charge was Serra senior Andrew Marheineke '26, who lit up the stage as Jack Kelly—the charismatic newsboy turned strike leader. With commanding stage presence, vocal prowess, and undeniable charm, Marheineke anchored the show with confidence and heart. His performance captured the spirit of rebellion and promise of hope that defines Newsies, drawing praise from audience members and faculty alike.

The cast and crew— comprising students from Serra and its sister schools Notre Dame,

“Newsies was truly full circle for me, from my first Tri-School Production of the Wizard of Oz when I was 6 years old to now. In Newsies I shared the stage with some of the same alumni and a new generation of younger kids. I feel so lucky to have been a part of it."

–andrew marheineke '26

Belmont and Mercy, Burlingame—worked tirelessly to recreate the bustling streets of New York City in 1899. In a unique twist, Tri-School Productions made a casting call to alumni and members of the local elementary schools to fill characters of various age ranges.

According to Lawrence Long, artistic director and theater manager for Tri-School Productions, “Newsies was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase the amazing community that Tri-School Productions has cultivated over the years.”

Long added, “The fact that so many alumni were eager to come and be a part of the show, work alongside the students, and talk to them about their theatrical experiences during and after high school was a blessing. Having so many younger students from our local schools audition to be a part of Newsies was incredible, and gave our TriSchool students a wonderful opportunity to act as mentors and role models.”

Under the direction of Serra’s performing arts team, every detail was crafted with care—from the intricate set pieces to the crisp costumes and tightly choreographed dance numbers, including fan-favorite “King of New York” and the rousing anthem “The World Will Know.”

The musical’s message of courage, unity and standing up for what’s right resonated strongly with audiences, and with the students themselves.

Long said, “All of this reaffirms what Gennine Harrington has been telling me since I started nearly 10 years ago, ‘Tri-School is a family.’"

Long added that with Serra’s Advancement Department working to grow the annual alumni night, and the program growing in so many ways, the wonderful venture that is Tri-School Productions has a bright, shining future.

Honoring Excellence in Teaching

Each year, Serra students help shine a spotlight on the teachers who have made the greatest impact in their lives. That recognition came in the form of the Mark and Liz Vorsatz Teacher Award of Excellence, presented to four teachers who embody what it means to inspire and lead in a Serra classroom.

The 2025 honorees are: Dr. Tara Mann, Perry Carter '84, Joel Fernando '90 and Nathan Cho.

Each year, the award process begins with Serra’s student leaders. Class officers from every grade nominate teachers they feel exemplify excellence in the classroom and in their care for students. From there, a collaborative committee—including the president, principal, assistant principals of academics and student life, the dean of studies, and student council representatives from all four grade levels—meets in April to select the final four honorees.

The Award of Excellence is unique in its design. Each winner receives both a cash award and a matching amount dedicated to professional development. Teachers may use these funds for continued education, credential programs, workshops, new course design, or other resources that strengthen curriculum and enrich student learning.

Thanks to the generosity of Mark and Liz Vorsatz, this award not only recognizes the exceptional efforts of Serra teachers, but also invests in their continued growth.

Congratulations to this year’s recipients for their remarkable commitment to teaching and their lasting impact on Serra students.

Freshmen and Mothers Gather for First Mother-Son Mass

Serra’ Morton Family Gymnasium was filled with freshmen and their mothers for the Class of 2029’s first Mother-Son Mass held on October 7. This annual tradition brings each class together for a morning of prayer and reflection. The event offers a meaningful opportunity for mothers and sons to share in faith and community, especially for freshmen who have only been on campus since August.

For freshman mom, Becca Kizer, the Mass was a particularly special experience. “I sincerely appreciated the focus on the bond between mothers and sons,” she said. “Father Mees reminded us how this bond spans throughout time.”

Stephanie Davis, another freshman mom, echoed that sentiment. “It was such a special experience to be able to celebrate our faith and acknowledge the unique and fun motherson bond we are all so fortunate to have with other Padres and Madres at Serra.”

The morning was a heartfelt reminder of the strong community that defines Serra. As mothers and sons prayed, reflected and enjoyed breakfast together, they set the tone for a meaningful four years ahead— grounded in faith, family and the enduring Serra brotherhood.

MEN OFCOMPASSION

"MY FOCUS IS BEING PRESENT FOR THE KIDS; THEY ARE OUR FUTURE. I THINK AS WE GIVE THEM A GOOD FOUNDATION AND A GOOD EDUCATION, THEY’LL TAKE CARE OF US TOMORROW.”

Michael Peterson Receives Distinguished Citizen Award

Michael Peterson distinguished himself long ago to the community at Junípero Serra High School, where he served for more than 30 years, 25 of them as principal. The San Mateo school community’s esteem for the now-retired educator is shared by Scouting America’s Pacific Skyline Council, which recently named him as one of two recipients of its 2025 Distinguished Citizen Award.

Scouting America is the largest and most well-known youth development organization in the country, offering the Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Sea Scouts and other scouting programs. Its Distinguished Citizen Award is an annual recognition of local community members across the country who freely give their time and talent in service to youth. Both Peterson and San Mateo Mayor Rob Newsom Jr. were recognized this year for their “exceptional dedication to public service and community impact.” Peterson belongs to Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Belmont; Newsom, to St. Bartholomew Parish in San Mateo.

The Pacific Skyline Council serves youth in San Mateo County and the northern part of Santa Clara County as far south as Mountain View. It noted that Peterson, a lifelong Eagle Scout, has “worked tirelessly to support youth through education, mentorship and outreach programs.” He continues to be very involved at Serra and Notre Dame high schools while serving on the boards of the San Mateo Police Activities League, St. John's Cemetery and the Rotary Club of San Mateo.

A March 12 Instagram post by the council announcing the award called Peterson’s impact on youth “immeasurable.”

“Mike has dedicated more than 45 years to Catholic education, serving as a teacher, coach, mentor and administrator, profoundly influencing generations of students and supporting initiatives like the Fund-a-Dream campaign, which has raised millions for student scholarships.”

“My focus is being present for the kids,” Peterson told Catholic San Francisco about his award. “They are our future, there’s no doubt about that. I think as we give them a good foundation, a good education, they’ll take care of us tomorrow.”

Original article featured in Catholic San Francisco by lead writer Christina Gray

Peterson is highly involved with the San Mateo Police Activities League, a collaborative nonprofit of the San Mateo Police Department and the San Mateo Recreation Department. Its purpose is to keep young people engaged in positive activities, stay in school and avoid harmful influences such as drugs, gangs and other risky behaviors. As a Rotary Club board member, he helps raise money for scholarships for youth who want to continue their education at a community or four-year college.

Peterson joined Junípero Serra High School in 1978. He was not only Serra’s first lay principal, but the first lay principal of a Catholic school within the Archdiocese of San Francisco, according to a story in “Traditions,” Serra’s school publication. Peterson left the principal’s office after 25 years to join the school’s capital campaign and fundraising efforts as the director of institutional advancement.

“I believe in Catholic schools, and what they stand for,” he said in the story. “I thought I could bring something to the family and community of Serra and help it to become an even better school than it already was.”

That’s exactly what happened. Peterson's natural authenticity and lifelong relationships with former Serra students and families helped exponentially boost the school’s fundraising capabilities—and its ability to offer scholarships to students from lower-income homes.

Known as a guy with a heart of gold and a commitment to doing all he can to make a Serra education possible, Peterson has been very influential in attracting benefactors and prominent alumni speakers to Serra’s annual “Fund-a-Dream” gala that raises money for student scholarships. An early gala raised $40,000. When Serra alumnus Tom Brady was a featured speaker, the gala raised $800,000. On its 20th anniversary, more than $1 million was raised. Peterson’s alliances with alumni families also facilitated a robust planned giving program at Serra.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Mike at Serra and collaborate now with him on various endeavors with the San Mateo Rotary Club,” said Rod Linhares, the Archdiocese’s director of mission advancement.

“His commitment to young people and to education, whether Catholic or otherwise, is virtually unparalleled. He's had a tremendous impact on countless lives and is a true inspiration."

Meet your financial and philanthropic goals with a planned gift to the Father Serra Heritage Society.

A legacy gift will enable you to support Junípero Serra High School, secure the financial needs of your loved ones, and provide you with tax benefits. Legacy gifts of all sizes fuel Serra's current success and future vision.

By including Junípero Serra High School in your will or trust, naming Serra High School as a beneficiary of all or part of a life insurance policy, or taking advantage of other giving opportunities, you can preserve your assets now and provide support for years to come. Your gift will have a real, lasting impact.

To explore your options, visit: myserralegacy.org or contact: Planned Giving and Major Gifts Officer John Langridge '97 email jlangridge@serrahs.com

“When students finally put their phones away and step into that space of quiet and brotherhood, they realize how much they need it. Every single time, they come back saying, ‘It was exactly what I needed.’”

–Billy Byrnes Campus Ministry Director

Exploring Purpose and Identity in the Image of God

Serra juniors recently retreated into the quiet redwoods of Loma Mar for Imago Dei #9, a transformative experience designed to help students explore who they are and whose image they reflect. Meaning “the image of God” in Latin, Imago Dei offers students a chance to step away from the everyday, pause, and reflect on the God-given dignity and purpose that shape their lives.

Serra’s Campus Ministry Retreat Coordinator Steven Olujic '13 said that each night of Serra’s junior retreat begins with Compline, an evening prayer and reflection that grounds the group in faith before transitioning into the night’s activity. This year, the retreat’s movie

night featured Spider-Man 2, a film where Peter Parker loses his spidey powers and, in doing so, his sense of self. The story mirrors the retreat’s central theme of understanding who we are beyond what we do, and realizing that our deepest identity, and self-worth comes from being made in the image and likeness of God.

From September 24–26, Serra held Imago Dei #9, the ninth installment of this post-COVID junior retreat. When Olujic was hired in 2021, one of his first experiences on the job was attending a Kairos retreat with rising seniors. At the time, Serra had not yet developed a dedicated retreat for juniors.

“After Kairos became a seniors-only experience, we wanted to give juniors something equally meaningful,” Olujic said. “I went into the junior theology classes and asked students what they wanted most from a retreat. What I heard again and again was the need for a chance to de-stress—a moment to breathe and reset.”

That conversation became the foundation for Imago Dei. While each Serra retreat centers on a specific theme—freshmen begin their faith journey with Camino de Padres, and sophomores focus on leadership— Imago Dei invites juniors to explore purpose, identity, and inherent self-worth, even in moments when they might not feel it.

“Every chaplain we’ve worked with has said the same thing,” Olujic said.

“High school boys often struggle with believing they’re good enough or deserving of love. Imago Dei challenges that by helping them see that being made in God’s image gives them inherent worth and value.”

The Spider-Man 2 theme threads through several activities on the retreat, from icebreakers that end in a symbolic web to small-group reflections that parallel Peter Parker’s journey—struggling with identity, facing failure, and ultimately realizing that purpose comes from serving something greater than oneself.

According to Encounter Leader John Paul Clifford '26, the most impactful activity that he and the retreatants got to experience were the group reflections.

“Through the reflections, we got to hear what other people were going through, or what they wanted to do with their lives such as college, work and athletics. That’s the whole point of the retreat, finding your true image,” Clifford said.

“Being made in the Image of God, can truly relate to me as a Serra Padre. Going to a Catholic School helps me find my true identity. When we go to Mass together, I get to reflect on what my image is as a Serra Padre,” Clifford added.

This fall’s retreat brought together 26 juniors, three firsttime chaperones, faculty members—Marianne Biron, Sheila Briggs and Sam Williams—and a team of Encounter Leaders who played a crucial role in guiding discussions.

“The student leaders are at the core of what makes Imago Dei powerful,” Olujic said. “They run the small

groups, share their own stories, and create a space where everyone feels safe to open up. The energy and respect throughout the retreat were exactly where they needed to be.”

Now in its fifth year, Imago Dei continues to grow in popularity, with recent retreats filling up completely and even developing waitlists. Kairos has also expanded, with 44 retreatants on the summer retreat and the upcoming sessions nearly full. The Encounter Program, which develops student leaders for retreats, continues to thrive as well.

As a subtle nod to its message, Imago Dei also plays on the concept of “ID”—our identity. “That’s really what it’s all about,” Olujic said. “Knowing that our true ID—our identity—is that we are made in the image of God.”

For Serra’s Campus Ministry, the goal of every retreat remains the same—to give students space to rest, pray, and reconnect with themselves and each other, according to Campus Ministry Director Billy Byrnes.

“When students finally put their phones away and step into that space of quiet and brotherhood, they realize how much they need it. Every single time, they come back saying, ‘It was exactly what I needed.’”

PADRESATHLETICS

" I AM EXTREMELY PROUD OF THIS GROUP. WE STARTED WITH A COMPLETELY NEW TEAM, ONLY RETURNING A HANDFUL OF PLAYERS WITH VARSITY EXPERIENCE AND GELLED INTO TIGHT-KNIT, COMPETITIVE TEAM. "

–HEAD VARSITY BASEBALL COACH MAT KEPLINGER

Serra baseball concludes remarkable run with CCS Championship

by Serra Senior Tamer Muhawieh '26

After graduating 18 seniors and losing seven of nine starters, Serra wasn’t expected to contend entering 2025. Yet after starting 10-0 and winning the “Battle for Atherton” tournament, the Padres forced everyone to take notice. Their first loss came to St. Francis when Landon Kim shut them out 4-0. Serra responded with a 5-3 road win to split the series. Their only other league loss came to Valley Christian, falling 10-4 after beating the Warriors 5-4 earlier in the season.

Let’s dive into the two primetime games that led to Serra’s first CCS title since 2009.

Semifinals: Serra 7, St. Francis 4

Under the Excite Park lights, Serra and St. Francis met for a third time. The Lancers went back to ace Landon Kim, who had shut out Serra earlier in the year.

St. Francis struck first. Tanner Wall’s triple to center drove in Landon King, giving the Lancers a 1-0 lead. They added two more in the third on a fielding error to go up 3-0.

Then came Serra’s turning point.

In the bottom of the third, a misplayed throw allowed Jack Wessell to score Serra’s first run. Jack Armstrong worked an eightpitch walk, and Tyler Harrison’s grounder up the middle brought in another. After a balk

and a walk loaded the bases, Aaron Maier ripped a two-run single to left, putting Serra ahead 4-3. A double steal and throwing error tacked on another, and Nate Hui’s triple capped a six-run inning.

The Lancers closed the gap to 6-4 in the fifth, but Serra answered immediately when Maier’s RBI single restored a three-run lead. Hui entered in the sixth for the two-inning save, escaping a seventh-inning jam with the tying run on third. The Padres punched their ticket to the championship—their first appearance since 2017.

Championship: Serra 3, Valley Christian 2

Saturday’s final felt like a Hollywood sequel. Stanford commit Brock Ketelsen took the mound for Valley Christian, while Serra handed the ball to Riley Lim '26.

Valley Christian opened strong. Ketelsen and Navarez singled, and Jordan Ortiz’s squeeze bunt plated the first run. Stanford commit Quinten Marsh added an RBI single in the third to make it 2-0.

But Serra didn’t panic.

In the fourth, Armstrong legged out an infield single and Harrison walked. After a throwing error moved both into scoring position, Aaron Minton '27 ripped a two-run double to tie the game. Hui later walked,

and with two outs, Evan Bradshaw bounced a grounder to third that was bobbled—allowing the go-ahead run to score. Serra now led 3-2.

Lim kept rolling through four innings before turning it over to Hui, who entered in the sixth looking for another two-inning save. Hui retired two straight, then relied on a diving catch from Maier to end the threat.

Valley Christian mounted one last push in the seventh. A leadoff walk and a sacrifice bunt put the tying run on second. A passed ball moved him to third. On a squeeze attempt, Hui fielded and flipped to Armstrong, cutting down the runner at the plate. With two outs and runners at second and third, Stanford commit Quinten Marsh battled through a seven-pitch at-bat before Hui froze him with a breaking ball on the outside corner.

Ballgame.

As teammates swarmed the field, Serra baseball had completed its storybook run—its first CCS Division I title in 16 years and seventh in program history. Hui earned saves in both the semifinal and championship, breaking the program record with seven on the season.

A Season to Remember

The championship capped a remarkable stretch for second-year head coach Mat Keplinger and assistants Mickey McDonald and Tyler Villaroman. In two seasons, they’ve guided Serra to back-to-back WCAL titles and now a CCS crown.

With 18 seniors gone from last year’s roster, few expected such a deep postseason run. But the Padres reloaded behind emerging underclassmen and resilient leadership. Earlier in the year, senior Davis Minton (Chapman University) threw a no-hitter to clinch the WCAL title outright, setting the tone for their playoff surge.

They avenged last year’s heartbreaking 2-1 loss to St. Ignatius in Round 1 of CCS by beating Palma, St. Francis, and Valley Christian—teams led by two of the league’s best pitchers, Kim and Ketelsen. Serra toppled them both when it mattered most.

For Keplinger, this season represented far more than trophies.

“Last season was incredible for our program on many levels,” Keplinger said. “There was so much excitement at the start of the year around the new field, and to cap it off with WCAL and CCS championships is something we’ll remember for a long time.”

He praised the group’s chemistry and selflessness. “This team embodied the true essence of brotherhood,” Keplinger said. “I’ve never seen a group so connected and supportive. In today’s climate of athletics, it’s rare to have a selfless team come together that way—and that’s what I’m most proud of.”

Throughout the spring, Keplinger said, key moments built belief.

“Winning the Battle for Atherton was the first sign we had some championship ingredients,” he said. “Sweeping St. Ignatius and winning at Valley Christian prepared us for our CCS run.”

The championship day itself—graduation morning followed by a title dogpile under the lights—was unforgettable.

“The CCS championship game was a surreal experience,” Keplinger said. “The student section was packed! I don’t think it can get any more special for that group of seniors. They left the program better than they found it—and that’s what it’s all about.”

WRAP 2025 BASEBALL

HEAD COACH MAT KEPLINGER

VARSITY

WCAL: 12-2

OVERALL: 24-6

MVP: IAN JOSEPHSON

JR. VARSITY

WCAL: 10-3-1

OVERALL: 12-4-1

MVP: COOPER HIPPS

FRESHMAN

WCAL: 9-2-1

OVERALL: 18-6-1

MVP: TYE PEAVEY

1ST TEAM WCAL:

IAN JOSEPHSON, DAVIS MINTON, EVAN BRADSHAW, TYLER HARRISON, AARON MINTON

2ND TEAM WCAL:

RILEY LIM, NATE HUI, AIDEN WATERS

HONORABLE MENTION WCAL:

JACK ARMSTRONG, RICHIE CALDERON

COLLEGE COMMITMENTS:

Ian Josephson - St. Mary's College

Evan Bradshaw - University of the Pacific

Davis Minton - Chapman

Ryan Wilson - Menlo

Tyler Harrison - College of San Mateo

Jack Armstrong - Collge of San Mateo

Clay Hinsdale - Tufts (Football)

HEAD COACH

JIM MARHEINEKE

VARSITY

WCAL: 5-2

2ND PLACE WCAL DUAL MEET

4TH PLACE WCAL CHAMPIONS 3RD PLACE CCS

BLANKET AWARD: LUKE LEWIS

MOST VALUABLE TRACK ATHLETE: NATE COUGHLIN

MOST VALUABLE FIELD ATHLETES: MICHAEL MCGEE AND JAYDEN APARICIO

KEVIN RAGAN MEMORIAL COACHES' AWARD:

JAY LEDER, TYLER YOUNG, NATE MCAULIFFE

FROSH/SOPH

WCAL: 6-1

2ND PLACE WCAL DUAL MEET 2ND PLACE WCAL CHAMPIONS

MOST VALUABLE FROSH/SOPH ATHLETE: JEOVANNI HENLEY

MOST VALUABLE FROSH/SOPH TRACK ATHLETE: BODHI HSU

MOST VALUABLE FROSH/SOPH FIELD ATHLETES: CHASE MORRIS, JADEN HALAI

COACHES' AWARD: DIEGO ALTAMIRANO MAKISI UNGA

2025 TRACK AND FIELD

WRAP

1ST PLACE WCAL:

LUKE LEWIS - SHOT PUT (61-3.5)

2ND PLACE WCAL:

400M RELAY (41.94)

AIDAN LABRADOR

NATE COUGHLIN

JUSIAH VINSON

JEOVANNI HENLEY

JEOVANNI HENLEY - 400M (47.82)

JEOVANNI HENLEY - 200M (21.92)

1600M RELAY - (3:19.26)

AIDAN BURET

AIDAN LABRADOR

JUSIAH VINSON

JEOVANNI HENLEY

3RD PLACE WCAL:

WCAL FS CHAMPION:

CHASE MORRIS - SHOT PUT (47-7.5)

CORNELL JAMES - LONG JUMP (20-8)

CCS INDIVIDUAL/RELAY EVENT CHAMPIONS:

LUKE LEWIS - SHOT PUT (61-10)

400M RELAY (41.44)

AIDAN LABRADOR

NATE COUGHLIN

JUSIAH VINSON

JEOVANNI HENLEY

1600M RELAY - (3:18.64)

AIDAN BURET

AIDAN LABRADOR

NATE COUGHLIN

MICHAEL MCGEE - TRIPLE JUMP (45-2.5)

JEOVANNI HENLEY

COLLEGE COMMITMENTS:

CIF STATE MEET PLACER:

LUKE LEWIS - SHOT PUT

3RD PLACE (58-6.75)

SCHOOL RECORDS:

LUKE LEWIS

SHOT PUT (61-10)

JEOVANNI HENLEY

FROSH SOPH 400M (47.82)

JEOVANNI HENLEY

FROSH SOPH 200M (21.92),

400M RELAY (41.44)

AIDAN LABRADOR

NATE COUGHLIN

JUSIAH VINSON

JEOVANNI HENLEY

LUKE LEWIS (STANFORD), JUSIAH VINSON (LAVERNE COLLEGE), JACK MCGUIRE (ST. MARY'S)

WRAP 2025 LACROSSE

HEAD COACH

RYAN BOLANOS

VARSITY

WCAL: 5-4

OVERALL: 15-7

MVPS:

ANDREW HENEGHAN AND PHINN KELLY-ZUCKERMAN

JR. VARSITY

WCAL: 4-3

OVERALL: 13-4

JV MVP: PAYTON LANGRIDGE

1ST TEAM WCAL: ANDREW HENEGHAN

PHINN KELLY-ZUCKERMAN

2ND TEAM WCAL: PHOENIX KELLY-ZUCKERMAN

HONORABLE MENTION WCAL: JUSTIN HOLLISTER AND WILL RICHARDSON

COLLEGE COMMITMENTS:

Andrew Heneghan - St. Lawrence University

Phinn Kelly-Zuckerman -Haverford College

Mack Langridge -Hanover College

Phoenix Kelly-Zuckerman - Bowdoin College

serra booster club

The Serra Booster Club is looking for new members to support Padres athletics.

The Serra Booster Club—made up of parents, faculty, staff members, alumni and friends—takes great pride in the fact that it supports all 14 of Serra's sports teams.

The funds raised from membership dues are used to purchase supplies, equipment, uniforms, and to support capital projects beyond what the school budget provides.

For more information on how to become a booster, including member levels and benefits, visit serrahs.com/booster.

HEAD COACH

MIKE LANGRIDGE '91 VARSITY

WCAL: 4-9-1

OVERALL: 4-9-1

MVP: KYLER HEATH

1ST PLACE SEQUOIA INVITATIONAL

4TH PLACE CENTRAL VALLEY SHOOTOUT

2ND PLACE AT THE WCAL TOURNAMENT

3RD PLACE CCS PLAYOFF TOURNAMENT

5TH PLACE CCS CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT

2025 GOLF

1ST TEAM WCAL: KYLER HEATH

HONORABLE MENTION WCAL: JACOB VIERNEZA

JR. VARSITY

WCAL: 7-5

OVERALL: 9-5

FRESHMAN

WCAL: 8-2

“Every team has different strengths. This year's team was better in 18-hole tournaments than they were in nine-hole matches. Seniors Collin Firestone and Chris Philpott showed great leadership and had some great individual rounds throughout the year. It was a blast coaching these guys this year— the are just a great group of young men."

- Head Coach Mike Langridge '91

2025 TENNIS

WRAP

HEAD COACH BEEYONG SISON

VARSITY

WCAL: 5-9

OVERALL: 7-9

MVP: KELVIN GAO

1ST TEAM WCAL

KELVIN GAO

HONORABLE MENTION WCAL

CARSON CATTANO

REGAN

JR. VARSITY

WCAL: 0-6

OVERALL: 2-6

MVP: SHAUN LIN

FIRST-PLACE FINISH FIRST-YEAR TEAM

The Serra sailing team is making waves, securing a stunning first-place finish in the Silver Fleet at the first Pacific Coast Interscholastic Sailing Association (PCISA) regatta of the season!

In a major achievement for the program, which is in its inaugural year and competing at the Pacific Coast level, the Padres bested 32 schools and 128 total sailors at the event hosted by the Monterey Peninsula Yacht Club

The winning team, consisting of Leon Blaine '29, Francisco Dias '28 (skippers), Joshua Hsu '28, and Luca Mejia-Young '28 (crews), delivered a dominant performance over the two-day event. They logged an impressive nine wins across 20 races to secure the victory with a total of 120 points.

HEAD COACH

DENNY FALLS

VARSITY

WCAL:3-10

OVERALL: 20-16

MVP: MATEO SOTO

1ST TEAM WCAL: MATEO SOTO

2ND TEAM WCAL: CAEDEN JONES

JR. VARSITY

WCAL: 4-8 OVERALL: 5-12

JV MVP: BRAEDEN LOCK

FRESHMAN MVP: CAYDEN CARLOS

2025 VOLLEYBALL

WRAP

This season was about growth and resilience—showing our ability to battle through challenges and improve throughout the year. — Denny Falls, Head Volleyball Coach " "

2025 CREW

WRAP

HEAD COACH

MIKE VERDONE '06

MVP: JACK PALLADINO

NOVICE MVP: DEVIN RAO

COLLEGE COMMITMENTS:

Lyon McLaughlin Santa Clara University

Owen Dasho

St. Joseph's University

padres Athletics sponsorships

Did you know that you can advertise your business and support Serra at the same time?

With a Padres athletics sponsorship, you can display your company logo, tagline, or more, on a custom-fitted security barricade cover. These barricades are placed around the Brady Family Stadium and Freitas Field during the current athletics season.

Learn more about our premium, deluxe and standard partner benefits at serrahs.com/advertise.

Serra Names Nick Carrara '09 Head Varsity Soccer Coach

When Nick Carrara ‘09 walked back onto the Serra soccer field, it felt like home. A proud member of the Class of 2009, Carrara’s journey has come full circle as he takes the helm as Serra’s new head varsity soccer coach.

Soccer has been a lifelong passion for Carrara. While at Serra, he earned a scholarship to play at San José State University, where he excelled as a center back, and went on to compete professionally with the United Soccer League’s Kitsap Pumas for two years and the Burlingame Dragons for three. His playing career was fueled by the same values he discovered at Serra: brotherhood, teamwork and the joy of competing alongside classmates.

“Serra soccer was one of the best times of my life,” he said. “Playing with my schoolmates, feeling that brotherhood on the field—it was incredible. Now, as a coach, I get to see it all over again.”

Carrara has been coaching for 15 years, including the last decade at Serra where he has guided teams at every level—freshman, JV, and varsity. Along the way, he has developed a reputation as a strong playermanager who values not just skill on the field, but the character and leadership developed when off of it.

“My philosophy is simple,” he said. “I expect players to give their best effort—mentally, physically and emotionally. That’s where real growth happens. If you fail, you learn from it. If you succeed, you build confidence. Either way, giving your best is the foundation.”

That mindset shapes how Carrara hopes to elevate Serra’s soccer program. His goal is to build a powerhouse that can compete at the highest levels of the WCAL and CCS while also nurturing a supportive environment for players.

“Each kid is more than a soccer player—they’re sons, students, and friends,” Carrara said. “We’re not just making soccer players; we’re helping to shape men of faith, leadership, and character. I want my players to feel comfortable, respected and challenged. That’s where the most growth happens.”

Carrara’s own Serra experience continues to influence his approach. As a student, he admits he wasn’t on the best path in eighth grade, but the structure, support and discipline at Serra helped transform him.

“Serra shaped me into the man I am today,” he said. “The brotherhood, the faculty who truly cared, the community that wanted to see me succeed—it all made a huge impact on my life. Now, I want to give that back.”

Looking ahead, Carrara has a clear vision—to build a program rooted in brotherhood and excellence through his competitiveness, “Soccer IQ,” and Padre spirit.

“Soccer at Serra needs to be a powerhouse, just like our other sports,” he said. “I want to take us to that next level—not just to win, but to grow stronger as a community. I’m excited to be here, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Away from the field, Carrara lives in Redwood City with his wife, Jennifer, and their young son, Nico. He stays active with friends, family and a round of golf whenever possible.

From Belmont to the NFL

Honorary Padre Kyle Strongin’s

Journey to Become

Brock Purdy’s Agent

For Kyle Strongin, the road from Belmont to representing NFL quarterback Brock Purdy was anything but conventional—but it’s a story marked by grit, perseverance and an unshakable belief in the power of relationships. Although Strongin attended Serra High School for only two years before relocating with his family to Florida, his connection to the Padre brotherhood remains strong. In fact, Strongin credits much of his personal and professional development to those formative Serra years.

“I always say I stopped learning at 16,” Kyle joked during a recent Zoom interview. “But honestly, it was the culture, the coaches, the brotherhood— it left a lasting imprint on me.”

Strongin's time at Serra was short but impactful. He played quarterback his freshman year and basketball, and remembers legendary JV basketball coach Chuck Rapp '86 vividly, not just for the grueling practices, but for the lasting life lessons.

“Rapp made you dig deeper than you thought you could. His pregame speeches? Still etched into my brain,” Strongin said. “We only played man-to-man defense. Zone? That was for sissies,” he laughed, recalling epic rivalries and unforgettable locker room moments. “It was gritty. It was real.”

After Serra, Strongin's family moved to West Palm Beach, Florida, where he finished high school. But the culture shock was intense.

“It just wasn’t the same. The academic rigor, the accountability—Serra was in a class of its own.”

That Serra foundation fueled Strongin’s path. From coaching high school and college football (including a stint under Ed Orgeron at Ole Miss), to working in scouting for the 49ers, Strongin eventually found himself in sports representation—a field he never imagined he’d enter.

“After bouncing around coaching and personnel, I landed at a golf agency in Nashville. I bugged the guy until he hired me,” Strongin said. “From there, I just started building—no clients, no mentor, no playbook.”

Today, Strongin is one of the top agents in football, having represented No. 1 overall pick Trevor Lawrence and 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, whose story of being the last pick in the 2022 NFL Draft has become one of the most celebrated in recent memory.

“Brock is the same guy I met in Ames, Iowa,” Strongin said. “Grounded, hardworking, humble. People don’t see his superpower—the way he processes the game. It’s special.”

Representing Brock during his recent contract negotiations

with the 49ers was a career highlight—and a marathon. “Five months of strategy, data, and back-and-forth with the team. It’s not what people think—it’s not Jerry Maguire,” Strongin said. “It’s pressure. It's travel. It's long nights and it's being present for all your clients, not just the highprofile ones.”

When the deal finally closed, Brock was golfing at the Olympic Club, and Strongin was in his office surrounded by colleagues. “It was surreal. Seeing all the ups and downs culminate in that moment—that was a proud day.”

Still, Strongin’s proudest moments don’t center

around contracts or

headlines. “It's the look on my kids' faces when they see something I've worked hard on come to life. My wife stood by me when I was making nothing. That’s what I’m proud of.”

Strongin now recruits players as early as high school, navigating

the complex and evolving world of NIL deals and college collectives. “The NIL space is like the Wild West. Nobody knows what anyone is actually getting paid. But if you're a legit agent, you can bring real value to a family.”

Despite the demands of the industry, Strongin hasn’t forgotten his roots. He’s remained in touch with coaches like Head Football Coach Patrick Walsh and Rapp, and still feels that deep Padre pride. “Even though I only went to Serra for two years, it’s always been where I hang my hat.”

His advice to young alumni hoping to follow a similar path? Be relentless. Be patient. Don’t skip steps.

“You’ll get told no—a lot. But if you believe in yourself, and you’re willing to grind, you can make it.”

Strongin’s story is a testament to the enduring power of Serra’s values—brotherhood, grit, and purpose. Though he may be known nationally as the man behind Brock Purdy’s blockbuster deal, to us, he’ll always be a honorary Padre.

Kyle Strongin's sophomore class photo from Serra's 1998 yearbook

Kyle Strongin (pictured front row far right) Junior varsity basketball team photo from Serra's 1998 yearbook

Strengthening Bonds Across Generations at Serra’s Legacy Mass

A Celebration of Tradition, Family and Faith

The Serra tradition is one that thrives across generations, uniting families through shared experiences and values. Nowhere is this legacy more visible than at the annual Father-Son Legacy Mass.

This year, more than 40 alumni fathers returned to Serra with their current Padre sons, creating a moving testament to both family bonds and the enduring impact of a Serra education.

For the fathers, it’s a chance to witness their sons walk the same halls they did, and share the same traditions that shaped them. For the sons, it’s a unique opportunity to follow in their fathers’ footsteps while creating their own paths as Padres.

Pictured (l-r): Connor '27, Jack '29 and Jeffrey '93 Perry

Pictured (l-r): Gregory '91, Brody '26 and Paul '54 Regan

Pictured (l-r): Joseph '26, Gian '92 and Luca '29 Bronzini

Pictured (l-r): Colin '27, Matthew '87 and Miles '29 Daley

Named after Serra's patron, Father Serra Heritage Society's generous donors have designated gifts through their estate plans to Serra High School. Below is a list of our current Father Serra Heritage Society members. Thank you for your valued contribution.

Janet and Frank Abbott, Jr.

Jack Allain '53 

Daphne and James B. Araujo '61

Mrs. James N. Ayoob

Kerry Bach 

Claudia Bach

Barbara and Walter Joseph Bankovitch

Laverne Barrett

Anne H. Barrows

Nada Barulich 

Linda and Russell Bertetta '67

Marilyn and Col. Lawrence E. Bielstein, USAF '54

Midge and Joseph W. Bracco '58

Dennis M. Byrne '55 

Rev. Leonard J. Calegari '52 

Ling Ling Gu Chang and Walter Chang

Capt. Michael R. Condon '65

John Costa '62

Matilde and Richard DeLuna

Nancy C. DeSmedt

Ted DeSmedt 

Steve A. Difu '60

Gerald J. Driscoll '49 

Thomas O. Duffy 

Ellen Einarsson

Jennifer  and Michael P. Fadelli '88

Sally and Richard J. Fambrini '59

Mariann Ferretti

Eleanor Figoni 

Pam Frisella

Gail and James (Pat) Geary '64

Nancy and James R. Gogan

Robert J. Grassilli '66

Fred L. Guibara '58 

Guidici Family Trust

Rev. Stephen H. Howell '63

Joseph D. Hurley, Jr. '79 

Rushton and Tabitha Hurley

Gary Isoardi '70

Cameron and James Jackson '55

June and James Jordan

Most Rev. William J. Justice '60

Rev. John P. Kavanaugh 

Addie Keller 

George Keller 

Edward E. Keller, Jr. '47 

William B. Killilea '56 

Jessica L. Langridge and John Langridge '97

Kathy O. Lavezzo

Libby and Ronald S. Longinotti '72

Pamela and Dennis M. Lucey '58

Mary and Lars J. Lund

Rev. J. Thomas Madden 

Hanna Malak '08

Lynne and Tevis P. Martin III '74

Barbara and Michael McGinley

Steven McLaughlin, Sr. 

Robert E. McLaughlin '55 

Lizah McLaughlin, Psy.D., LMFT

Peter Meghinasso '48 

Sally Mellinger

Thomas J. Mellott III '60 

Maryann and Joseph F. Millett '59

Carl J. Moroney '60

Thomas P. Murray '53

Leo Nicolini 

A. James Oakes, Jr. '58

Edward G. Ottoboni '59 

Joey and Michael Peterson

Kevin Ragan 

Richard L. Reich, DDS '61

Bernard L. Reichmuth '53 

Theresa and Stephen Rutledge

Daniel Schott '81

James J. Sherry 

Madeline Sherry 

Ferencz Sipos 

Juliane and Robert J. Sullivan

Ed Taylor

Simona and Michael G. Verdone '72

Rosalie and John W. Walsh, MD '56

Lori and David R. Whitney

Clare C. Willard 

For more information about how you can make a gift to Serra through your estate, please visit our planned giving website pages or contact Major Gifts Officer

John Langridge '97 at jlangridge@serrahs.com, or by phone at 650.573.9935.

Meet Brendan Sabean '10, Serra Basketball Player Turned NBA G League General Manager

by Padre alumnus Arden Cravalho '15

Long before Brendan Sabean '10 became the head honcho of the Phoenix Suns' G League affiliate, entering his second season as the general manager of the Valley Suns, he was just a normal student at Serra High School who loved basketball. Sabean has moved up the ladder since his time in San Mateo, California.

After high school, he became a Gonzaga basketball student manager under respected coach Mark Few from 2010-14. Right after college ended, Sabean joined Western Texas at the junior college level as an assistant coach for the 2014-15 season before eventually making his way to Grand Canyon from 2015-18 (from graduate assistant, to special assistant, to the head coach, to director of basketball operations). Then moving into the professional ranks, he was hired by the Austin Spurs and worked with the San Antonio Spurs’ G League affiliate from 20182024 (player development/programs and basketball operations to assistant general manager).

As a Serra '15 and Gonzaga '19 alum myself, I was able to use my resources and chat with Brendan about his time growing up in the Bay Area, the move to Spokane to be involved with the legendary college basketball program, and how it all helped him get to this point in his career.

Arden Cravalho: What does it mean to you to be a Serra Padre?

Brendan Sabean : Serra was and still is a huge part of my life. My two older brothers went there, then my younger brother went there. I grew up going to a lot of sporting events before I even became a Padre myself. I met lifelong friends at Serra, guys that I still talk to daily. Serra taught me so many life skills. The importance of brotherhood and loyalty. The

meaning of hard work. The value of being a part of a community and supporting each other. The power of faith. My time at Serra impacts me positively every day. I have a lot of pride in saying I’m a Serra Padre.

AC: Who was there during that part of your life that influenced you in becoming the person you are today?

BS: I have to give a lot of credit to Coach (Chuck) Rapp '86. Playing for him, I learned the meaning of putting the team first, being coachable, being a good teammate, always giving it your all, and never giving up. He’s one of the best coaches and most inspirational people I’ve ever been around.

AC: What drew you over to Gonzaga for your college education and to learn from coach Mark Few every day?

BS: I would say for whatever reason, as a Bay Area guy, Gonzaga was always my dream school. I was one of those Zag fans who would stay up till 9 p.m. to watch games against San Francisco, St. Mary’s, or Santa Clara growing up. I was finding a way to get my mom to take me to the games.

Being a manager for Coach Few was an amazing experience. To work for one of the best coaches in the game for four years was a blessing. I learned so much from him and the staff by just being a fly on the wall every day for one of college basketball’s premier programs. My Gonzaga experience really helped me grow my love for the game and my passion to work in basketball.

AC: Your father, Brian Sabean, was the ‘roster conductor’ for the San Francisco Giants’ teams that won the World Series in 2010, 2012, and 2014. What have you learned specifically from your father on how to become a successful general manager in the professional ranks?

BS: I wouldn’t say there was any specific conversation of how to do this, do that. I know I was fortunate to grow up behind the scenes of a pro sports team and see the inner workings of relationships, lines of communication, roster building, scouting departments, and the head coach to general manager relationship. I think organically, whether it was sitting in the car, my dad making work calls, sitting in my dad’s office, or being in the clubhouse . . . I think I just was naturally exposed to team building and culture, winning and goal setting, and all those types of things that go into the everyday inner workings of a team. The run that the Giants had heightened everything even more. And then kind of tying that into going to a place like Gonzaga, where team and culture and tradition, a lot of those things align. I’ve been

fortunate to be exposed to and work around highlevel coaches, front office executives, and just see what championship culture means or what goes into it.

AC: For the upcoming season in Phoenix, what kind of playing styles are you specifically looking for, or any roles that you, alongside the big club (the Phoenix Suns), are looking to fill?

BS: It’s an organizational view. The Phoenix Suns and Valley Suns have to be in lockstep. We’re going to naturally mimic a lot of the things that they want to do. We’re building a new identity here, a kind of toughness throughout all four quarters, finishing possessions on both ends. We want team-first guys who are about winning. We want high-level competitors and players who love the game. We always want to be in sync with how the big club plays. We’ll do a lot of the same stuff in terms of style of play, play calls. Another big thing when running a G League team is fostering an environment of development for our coaches, for our staff, but obviously, most importantly, for our players.

AC: Going along with development, what’s the most important expertise that is needed for a G League player to make that next step and to fulfill their dreams of playing in the NBA?

BS: I don’t think it’s one specific thing. I would say developing the basketball IQ piece of things is crucial. It’s hard to change athleticism or size, but if you can develop a strong sense of basketball IQ, understanding the game, and owning your role, whatever that is . . . the better chance you give yourself. Don’t overcomplicate things. If you’re a shooter, take the right shots. If you’re a defender,

approach every possession with purpose and know coverages or positioning. If you’re a playmaker, make the game easier for your teammates and take care of the ball. Do all the little things that help a team win, along with being a great teammate, being coachable, and having a will to get better. All these things matter to NBA teams when they evaluate G League players.

AC: What kind of traits or skill set are you looking for in players coming out of college?

BS: In today’s NBA, size, speed, and skill are so important. Shooting is still a premium trait that we’ll look for. Being able to defend multiple positions is important. Again, own your role. Having a strong ability to think and process the game on both offense and defense. Impacting your team and the locker room in a positive way. We will evaluate how competitive a player is and how they handle adversity. Do you make your teammates better when you’re on the floor? Do you put the work in and have room to develop? Do you have winning habits? There’s a lot that goes into evaluating players from both a size, speed, and skill perspective, along with the intangibles you can bring.

This article was written by Padre alumnus Arden Cravalho '15. Cravalho is the editor and site/ social media manager for SB Nation's The Slipper Still Fits (a Gonzaga University basketball website), multimedia journalist for the Oregon Ducks on Sports Illustrated, and account executive, ticket sales and service for the University of California, Berkeley athletics department.

Teeing up Tradition Serra Golf Classic Scores Big

The 37th Annual Serra Golf Classic, held at Harding Park in San Francisco, brought together alumni, friends, and supporters for a memorable day on the course. Blessed with sunny skies and an enthusiastic turnout, the event combined the best of spirited competition, community and Padre camaraderie.

We are proud to report a net contribution of more than $50,000 will go directly to the Alumni Association Scholarship Fund, with a portion also supporting the Bill Ahern Alumni Board Scholarship Award. These funds directly benefit Serra students, helping to ensure that deserving young men can continue to experience the brotherhood and opportunities that define the Serra tradition.

More than just a round of golf, the day served as a celebration of the Serra community. Alumni spanning multiple generations came together to reconnect, share stories and compete in the friendly spirit that has defined this event for nearly four decades.

The Serra Alumni Association extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers who made the day such a success. The Golf Classic continues to be a cherished tradition—one that not only honors Serra’s rich history but also invests in the future of its students.

Mark Gedymin '90, Eric Rucker '64, Barry Rucker '61 and Jim Remedios '75

Class of 2014 alumni Jackson Rapaich, Nolan Dempsey, Eric Lau and Jordan Doherty

Gene -ius at Work: Serra Alumnus Solves Genetic Mystery Surrounding Orange Cats

Serra alumnus

Dr. Christopher Kaelin ’91 is making headlines in the world of science, recently co-authoring a groundbreaking study that finally solves a genetic mystery surrounding orange cats.

As a geneticist at Stanford University’s School of Medicine, Kaelin led a research team that identified the gene responsible for the distinctive orange coat in cats, a discovery that has intrigued scientists for more than a century.

Kaelin’s curiosity and passion for science were sparked during his time at Serra, where he excelled both in the classroom and on the soccer field. He credits teachers like Sister McCabe, Tom DeWitt, and Keith Stapleton for inspiring a love of critical thinking and literature, while his involvement with the school newspaper and athletics helped him develop discipline and a sense of balance.

After Serra, Kaelin went on to earn his bachelor's of science and Ph.D. in genetics at Universithy of California at Davis and Stanford University. He even returned to Serra from 1999–2002 to coach JV and varsity soccer, adding another WCAL championship to his list of accomplishments.

In his professional work, Kaelin focuses on the biology of pigmentation in mammals, particularly in companion animals like cats and dogs. His recent research zeroed in on a DNA deletion near the gene Arhgap36, which controls pigment production in cells. The team discovered that increased expression of this gene in orange cats’ pigment cells leads to the reddish-yellow hue

we associate with their fur. This research not only demystifies the genetic origin of orange cats, but also provides broader insights into mammalian genetics, including potential human applications. Kaelin’s work highlights how scientific inquiry often begins with curiosity about the everyday world.

"The orange gene was a long-standing mystery for scientists," Kaelin said, reflecting on the joy of helping to solve it. While the research focused on color, Kaelin hinted that personality traits often associated with orange cats, like their playfulness and appetite, might be ripe for future study through citizen science.

Kaelin now lives in Redwood City with his wife Jennifer, their 11-year-old son, Ryan, and their loyal dachshund, Frankie. He remains a proud Padre and an incredible example of how Serra’s core values, intellectual curiosity, perseverance, and service continue to shape the world beyond our halls.

Serra Keeping the spirit alive

homecoming

Serra's Reunion and Homecoming Weekend was a perfect reminder of why the brotherhood endures through generations, a celebration of connection, tradition, and Padre pride. The weekend kicked off Friday evening with a special milestone—the 50th Reunion for the Class of 1975. More than five decades since they walked across the graduation stage, members of this remarkable class returned to campus to reminisce about their Serra journey.

President Mike Fadelli ’88 welcomed the class home and shared heartfelt words about the lasting impact of the Serra experience. Each member of the Class of ’75 was presented with a Golden Diploma, a highlight of every 50th reunion and a symbol of their lifelong connection to Serra.

“From the Class of 1960 to recent graduates from the 2020s, this year’s homecoming weekend was more than just a football game; it was a homecoming in the truest sense, a celebration of the relationships, memories and shared values that continue to bind the Serra family together.”

–Logan Wolf '14 Director of Alumni Relations

Class of '75 Padres Joe Moureaux and Brian Ponty share a selfie

Old friendships were rekindled, new memories were made, and a deep sense of pride filled the room as alumni reflected on how much Serra has grown while still maintaining the same spirit that shaped their lives decades ago.

The celebration continued with a special Reunion Brunch for milestone classes. Alumni from the classes of '65, '75, '85, '95, '00, '05, and '15 gathered on campus for a joyful morning.

The brunch offered alumni a chance to catch up with classmates, meet Padres from different generations, and hear updates about the incredible things happening at Serra. From conversations about favorite teachers and championship seasons to reflections on how much the campus has evolved, the event captured what makes the Serra community so unique—its enduring sense of brotherhood.

Saturday’s homecoming game carried that same sense of connection, energy, and tradition that makes Serra one of a kind. The campus buzzed with excitement as alumni, families, and friends gathered to celebrate the big day.

The Gridiron Grad Zone was once again a hit, providing a lively space for alumni and their families to enjoy a front-row view of the action. Reunion attendees from Friday night joined the broader alumni community to cheer on the Padres, creating a visible bridge between generations of Serra men.

As the weekend came to a close, gratitude was at the heart of it all. Gratitude for the friendships formed, for the teachers and coaches who shaped generations, and for the community that continues to carry the Serra mission forward.

Class of 1975

Class of 2005

Adding a delicious touch to the day, Neal DeNardi ’05, owner of Long Bridge Pizza in San Francisco, served up fresh pizzas for everyone at the alumni tent. Neal’s pizzas were a huge hit, enjoyed by hundreds of alumni who stopped by to grab a slice and soak in the game-day energy.

“It was the perfect example of an alumnus giving back in his own way, sharing his craft and embodying the Serra spirit of community and generosity,” said Alumni Director Logan Wolf ‘14.

Jeff LaMont '75, Bill Katen '75, Dan Donati '75

Kenneth Perscheid, John Cruden, Donald Thornhill

Robert Bartoli, Diego Nevado, Kareem Barghouti, Alex Tartaglia

1959

WILLIAM GILSDORF married JoAnne Wuelfing on November 30, 2024.

1962

RAYMOND VIGIL is retired. He said he is enjoying his family and life.

1965

ROBERT VER is enjoying retirement and reconnecting with Serra alumni.

1967

DAVID STARKOVICH and his wife of 55 years, Grace, celebrated their anniversary in South Dakota and Wyoming, visiting state and national parks. They later traveled to Washington state for their grandson's college graduation. Next year, their granddaughter will graduate from Boise State University. David said that he and Grace are always looking forward to the next adventure.

1968

DAVID FINIGAN was elected and currently serving as the chair of the Humboldt Area Foundation and Wild Rivers Community Foundation Board of Directors.

TOM TALLON has been retired for four years. He recently celebrated his 75th birthday with his grandchildren—Vivian, Charlie, Juliet and Cecily.

1970

The Class of 1970 held its annual dinner at Lucetti's in San Mateo on the Friday after Easter.

GREG ELY and the Valiant Effort Foundation have spent the last seven years restoring a 1942 WW II Vultee BT-13 trainer back to flying condition after a small crash at Livermore Airport. Greg hopes to have it flying soon, following a major rebuild that included a new engine and propeller. As the crew chief, Greg is responsible

for the mechanical safety of the plane and the crew. He has been working on old airplanes for more than 35 years. The goal of the foundation is to honor all the vets who flew in harm's way during the war.

1972

RICHARD MARRS is suffering from Polycystic Kidney Disease and has reached out to let us know that he is in need of a living donor. He is currently on a kidney transplant waitlist. Richard lives in Gardnerille, Nevada with his wife, Karen, and has five young grandchildren. Richard volunteers with Douglas County Sheriff’s Citizens Patrol after retiring as a regional fleet maintenance manager for Hertz.

1974

RANDY COZAD retired in 2023 after 42 years in the beer industry. Now, he and his wife, Susan, have been traveling to Europe and Hawaii. They are blessed to have three beautiful grandchildren. Randy still plays a lot of golf and helps out with the local high school basketball programs. He said he had a great time going back to Serra for his 50th reunion.

1981

1982

GREG GUTFELD and his wife, Elena Moussa, welcomed their first child, a daughter named Mira, in December 2024. Greg is best known as the late night host of the No. 1 hit show, “Gutfeld,”where he parodies current events and issues with his trademark humor. He also is co-host of the No. 1 daily hit show “The Five.” While at Serra, Greg was editor of the Serra Friar. He graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a bachelor of arts degree in English.

KENNETH PIZZI and Chala Pizzi celebrated their eighth wedding anniversary on June 17, 2025. They are also celebrating the 18th anniversary of their restaurant, Thai Tamarind in Belmont. The Pizzis are particularly grateful to their loyal customers, their hardworking and dedicated employees, and the Belmont community for their continued success.

GREG ROLAN was recently named general counsel of the Orange County Department of Education. He previously served as the general counsel for an East Bay school district and was a partner at a statewide California law firm. Greg is a noted author and speaker on education law and policy-related issues. He and his wife, Marisol, live in Huntington Harbor and maintain regular contact with Serra alumni.

RICHARD WOONACOTT and his family are wrapping up their first year of an exciting threeyear adventure posted to the U.S. Embassy in Vilnius, Lithuania. Richard is a management and administrative rover. He likens himself to the Embassy’s Swiss Army Knife™, always ready to jump in wherever he's needed most. You might find him working "The Line" in the Consular Section, stepping in as part of the Community Liaison Office, orchestrating events, supporting families, or representing the United States as a Cultural Ambassador at school and library events across Lithuania. Most days are never the same. Richard said, “It’s like having an all-access, behind-the-scenes pass to the world of international diplomacy, where crosscultural communication, strategic problem-solving and adapting to fast-changing global landscapes are all in a day’s work.”

1989

CHRIS PEDERSON recently joined the development team for Avison & Young Commercial Real Estate Data Center in Nashville. Chris works with hyperscalers and data center developers across the globe to develop gigawatts of new AI/GPU data centers. Any past or future Padres who are interested in learning more about the data center field can reach out to Chris directly via Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chpedersen.

1994

BYRON WERNER served as the director of photography for Juliet and Romeo, a period 1301 original pop musical that was shot in Italy and premiered in theaters in May. It is now available for rental and purchase on all major platforms.

1998

OMAR GONZALEZ and his wife, Nina, are thrilled to share that their son, Adrian Gonzalez, was recently accepted to De La Salle High School in Concord. Adrian has attended St. Mary School in Walnut Creek since kindergarten. As a proud Serra alumnus, Omar said he is grateful for the solid foundation Serra provided. He looks forward to seeing Adrian continue his journey at a similar all-boys Catholic high school.

2001

JOEY OLIVA recently co-produced the six-time Tony Awards' nominated Bobby Darin Musical, Just In Time, on Broadway. Joey said his work with the musical has been a passion of his since his

days on the Tri-School stage. In attendance on Opening Night were fellow Padres Dan Nolan '01, Dan Murphy '01, Bobby Marshall '09, Johnny Marshall '10, and English teacher Meg Flynn. The show is running on Broadway and has received rave reviews for the production and its star, Tony Awards® winner Jonathan Groff. Joey is a local Peninsula real estate broker at OMarshall, Inc.

2003

STEPHEN CAPPA will celebrate 10 years with the San Francisco Fire Department in November. He and his wife, Laura, have been married for five years and are expecting their first child in December.

2006

ANTHONY ROBERTS is a project estimator for Boyett Door and Hardware in Hayward. He and his wife, Christina, welcomed a baby girl in August, who joined her big sisters and big brother.

2011

SUMEET DOGRA and his wife, Ashley, are thrilled to welcome to the Padre community their daughter, Meera, born on February 10, 2025. Sumeet wrote that she has brought more joy and wonder into their lives than they ever imagined and are grateful and excited for all the memories to come.

2012

CARLO MIGUEL ESPINOSA married Suzie Win Carrigan on June 15, 2025 in Burlingame.

JOSEPH HOYT was recently hired as the newest Dallas Cowboys beat reporter for The Dallas Morning News For the past six years, Joseph interned at the paper before leaving to cover the Cowboys for two other outlets. He is happy that he has returned to the place where his career began. Joseph’s brother is Serra English teacher Anthony Hoyt ‘14.

MATTHEW PASTORE married Shannon Thayer (NDB ‘11) in October 2024. The newlyweds recently bought a house in San Mateo.

NICHOLAS TOTAGRANDE and Aimee Steen were married on April 6, 2025 in Fallbrook, California, surrounded by family and friends. Nicholas’ attendants included his brother, Michael Totagrande ’09, and Bobby Vernazza ’12. Additional ’09 Serra grads, Jonathan Rutledge and Alex Kwok, joined the festivities. (Photo below l-r: Padres Bobby Vernazza ‘12, Michael Totagrande ‘09, Nick Totagrande ‘09)

2013

ANDRE LE ROSA is celebrating a recent promotion to superintendent with Clark Construction Group.

2015

ARDEN CRAVALHO is the editor and site/social media manager for SB Nation's The Slipper Still Fits (a Gonzaga University basketball website), multimedia journalist for the Oregon Ducks on Sports Illustrated, and account executive, ticket sales and service for the University of California, Berkeley athletics department.

2017

PATRICK CALLAGY graduated from the Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine in June 2025. He will soon be working at a local veterinary emergency room.

DOMINIC MARQUES married Clarissa Younkle on May 17 in Milwaukee. The newlyweds met during Welcome Weekend of their freshman year at the University of Notre Dame. Padres in attendance are pictured below (l-r): Thomas Mellott '83 (Dominic's uncle), Mike Marques '84 (Dominic's father and Serra Head of Advancement), John Barretto '91 and Robert Rush '86.

2018

ATONIO MAFI signed with the Raiders 2025 practice squad after a 2024 season with the Indianapolis Colts. The 6-foot, 3-inch, 330-pound guard out of UCLA has played in 20 career games (five starts) with the New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts since entering the NFL as a fifth-round pick.

CHRIS GALLEVO graduated from St. Mary’s College of California for the second time, earning his master’s of science degree in business analytics (with honors) in May.

2020

FRANCO (FRANKIE) PAVONE graduated cum laude from Loyola Marymount University in December 2024. He moved to Chicago to start a fulltime job as a syndicated finance analyst at JP Morgan Chase.

SERRA ALUMNI MERCH SHOP IS

Padres, you asked and we delivered! The new Serra Alumni Merch Shop is your one-stop destination for exclusive alumni gear, limitededition drops, and eventthemed apparel year-round.

Rep your Serra pride with gear that's uniquely yours. Personalize your apparel with your graduation year, pick your styles, and get it delivered right to your door. (Campus pickup is also available.)

New drops, special deals, and limited releases are coming soon!

Ready to show your Padre Pride? Scan the code to shop now!

Questions? email Alumni Director Logan Wolf ‘14 lwolf@serrahs.com

for annual tradition makers luncheon serra retirees reunite

Each summer, former Serra educators and administrators gather at the home of longtime faculty member and administrator Russ Bertetta for the annual Tradition Makers Luncheon. This cherished event celebrates the lifelong bonds forged through decades of service to Serra High School.

On July 16, roughly 30 members of this elite group came together to honor the teachers, staff, and leaders whose dedication helped shape generations of Padres. The day was a perfect reunion to reconnect and reflect on the enduring Serra spirit that continues to unite them all.

“Today we had 736 years of service at Serra,” Bertetta said in his home’s backyard. Bertetta owns 30 of those years, which he spent at Serra in various capacities, including the director of summer school, director of student activities, basketball and golf coach, alumni director and finally, the director of development and alumni relations.

Guests were treated to a warm afternoon of camaraderie, as they enjoyed delicious tacos made

by Enrique Aparicio, a former Serra Spanish teacher and golf and soccer coach. Cookies were provided by history teacher Sean Dugoni ’89, who recently launched his new venture, Dugoni Desserts.

What started in 2014 has grown into an annual event that reunion members look forward to year-round. It began as a small group of about 10 that came together for lunch at a restaurant. In 2018, Bertetta said he wished to make it easier for people to move around and talk with one another, so he began hosting it at his San Carlos home.

Tri-School Productions presents The Wedding Singer March 29 and 30 7:30pm March 31 2:00pm April 5 and 6 7:30pm

AUDITORIUM 451 W. 29th Avenue, San Mateo TICKETS

From teachers who sparked a love of learning to coaches who instilled discipline and teamwork, the luncheon highlighted the pivotal role these “tradition makers” continue to play in Serra’s story.

“It’s inspiring to see so many of our former faculty come together, reconnect and celebrate the legacy they’ve built. Serra wouldn’t be what it is today without their dedication, guidance, and love for our students,” Bertetta said.

Memoriam

December

July

July

February

ROBERT BARBANICA '54

30, 2024

ALBERT CHANTELOUP '50

June 30, 2025

JAMES FONCESA '73

June 25, 2025

CHARLIE BETZ '64 Unknown

JAMES GRAZIANI '50

17, 2025

MARTIN MERLE '66

March 30, 2023

RICHARD FIGONI '56

23, 2025

THOMAS GOODING '54

June 1, 2025

DAVID BINDI '70

6, 2025

DONALD FIGONE '63

April 22, 2025

DAVID COPPOM '66

March 27, 2025

DANIEL ECKERT '74 Unknown

ROBERT MAFFEI '65 Unknown

DONALD DOUGHERTY, SR. '48

March 14, 2025

JAMES HILL '50

February 27, 2025

LARRY SOLETTI '58

June 29, 2025

ANITA BELLATORRE

SEPTEMBER 19, 2025

JULIO DELUCCHI MAY 22, 2025

DUDLEY ALAN "DUD" DESLER

SEPTEMBER 15, 2025

PATRICIA DUGONI MAY 11, 2025

JOHN FOLONIS APRIL 6, 2025

ROBERT GREENE, SR. MAY 27, 2025

WILL HAMILTON-FRISZ APRIL 30, 2025

ANNETTE HOFFMAN MARCH 1, 2025

CHRIS MANUEL JUNE 3, 2025

DIANE MASETTI MAY 20, 2025

FATHER. ANTHONY MCGUIRE MAY 12, 2025

GLORIA OSWALD APRIL 3, 2025

MARTIN J. SNELUS MAY 27, 2025

Please accept our apologies for any errors and omissions. If you believe there is an error in this issue, or would like to notify us of an alumnus who you wish to be memorialized in our next issue of Traditions, please email Alumni Director Logan Wolf '14 at: lwolf@serrahs.com.

THOMAS ZUCCHELLI '63 August 7, 2025

SHOGO SAISU '15 August 22, 2025

RICHARD MILLER '84 December 21, 2024

COURTLAND SAUNDERS '65 June 13, 2025

ALFREDO ROMERO '82 June 1, 2025

RONALD SEVIER '58 April 1, 2021

EVENTS

NOVEMBER 2025

FRI. 7 FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS FOOTBALL

THUR. 20 THANKS GIVE DAY (ANNUAL DAY OF GIVING)

WED. 26 WRESTLING POKER TOURNAMENT BASKETBALL ALUMNI GAME

THUR. 27 WATER POLO ALUMNI GAME

FRI. 28 SOCCER ALUMNI GAME

DECEMBER 2025

DEC. 8 CHRISTMAS CONCERT

DEC. 10 PRESIDENT'S CIRCLE RECEPTION

MARCH 2026

MAR. 14 FUND A DREAM SCHOLARSHIP BENEFIT

MAR. 20 OPENING NIGHT OF TRI-SCHOOL PRODUCTIONS SPRING MUSICAL FOOTLOOSE

APRIL 2026

APRIL 17 50-YEAR CLUB LUNCHEON

JUNE 2026

JUNE 30 CLASS OF 2026 COMMENCEMENT

JUNE-AUG: SUMMER AT SERRA