DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MARKETING AND ALUMNI RELATIONS
Ernie Soto ‘17 esoto@smprep.org
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS
Kaitlen Murphy kmurphy@smprep.org
SCHOOL BOARD
Msgr. Lloyd Torgerson, Pastor
Mary Flaherty, Chair
Veronica Grazer, Vice-Chair
Daniel O’Brien, Secretary
Darcy Cobb
Alex Chacon
Tammy Clem
Antonio Felix
Erin Howard
Robert “Bob” Klein ‘65
Dee Menzies
Irma Vargas ‘72
Mary Byrnes, Advisor
John Kohut, Advisor
Angelo Mazzone, Advisor
Vincent Torroba, MPA Advisor
We are excited to re-introduce you to Saint Monica Preparatory’s magazine: The Anchor. This magazine remains rooted in our nearly 100 year mission, as captured in the last issue of The Ancient Mariner in 2019. Now back with a new title, we share stories of the timeless anchors that bind us.
In these stories you will hear about people who embody the pillars of community, faith, scholarship and human excellence at the heart of Saint Monica Prep. These are stories of anchors that run deep.
A week ago, on a typical Friday in March, I encountered this Mariner spirit in three palpable ways. Before classes that morning, I was talking with our Computer Science teacher about a remarkable real-life engineering project that he, two students and our Dean of Faith Formation, would soon begin. They were flying to Rome to build an AI-powered tourism app for Castel Gandalfo and Borgo Laudato Si’, gardens where the Pope retreats. This hands-on learning was part of SMPREP’s Wintersession experiential learning week. Their ingenuity and service even earned them reserved first row seats at the Papal Palm Sunday Mass in the Vatican.
Later that day, I met with two parents deeply committed to the parish and school. They shared a memory of the authentic care that anchors them to Saint Monica Prep. While their son was in Kindergarten during COVID, our teachers brought a gift to his home on his birthday. It was a book they read to him on the family’s front porch – keeping social distance while assuring him of their love and support. In a time of fear and loneliness, authentic relationships offered mooring.
At the end of the same day, as I was walking to my car I saw a senior sitting alone on a bench in the Duval Patio. I got off a call to talk with her, soon realizing she was reeling from difficult news. Within moments, we were surrounded by parish staff and Mariner families passing by. In a beautiful expression of grace, a parish colleague hugged her, parents uplifted her (as their second graders ran around joyfully waving candy), and she started smiling. This is the Mariner Way.
This Friday snapshot is much more than a glimpse of one day last week: it illustrates who we are every day. It speaks to the engaged, student-centered, innovative anchors that firmly root Saint Monica Prep in mission. Whether on the Duval Patio, a Kindergartner’s front porch, or the gardens of the Pope’s Laudato Si’ ecological home, our anchors of community, faith, scholarship and human excellence run deep.
It has been a profound gift to join our Mariner community and serve as President. Thank you for the warm welcome to the patios, porches and gardens where transformation occurs.
Erin Luby
When Dr. Erin Luby first stepped onto the campus of Saint Monica Preparatory this summer, she felt it immediately—a sense of warmth, possibility and purpose. In her earliest days, that feeling only deepened. Each conversation, classroom visit and encounter revealed a community grounded in care and connection.
That spirit is what drew her to SMPREP. Following a nation-wide search, the school selected Dr. Luby, a leader whose experience in Catholic education and commitment to mission align naturally with its identity—a moment when Saint Monica stands poised between a proud 95-year history and an exciting future.
Dr. Luby brings a distinguished background in Catholic education, including national service teaching and mentoring school leaders as faculty and executive coach with the University of Notre Dame and serving as a former Vice Chair of the Jesuit Schools Network Board. Whether through presentations at national education conferences, journal articles, or leadership in local and regional organizations, she consistently contributes to conversations shaping the future of mission-driven schools. Her career spans formative years in Phoenix and Santiago, Chile, followed by a range of teaching, coaching and leadership roles at St. Ignatius College Prep in Chicago. Most recently, she served as Principal of Seattle Preparatory School for nearly a decade, where she guided a Jesuit community through growth and renewal.
Since arriving in Santa Monica, her focus has been clear: listen first. She has spent her time meeting with students, faculty, parents, alumni and parishioners — attending classes and campus events and actively engaging in parish life — building relationships and learning what makes this community distinct.
That spirit of connection extends across campus. Newly renovated STEM labs, including the Makerspace, Robotics Lab and the Mariner Ocean Research Institute (MORI), are already sparking curiosity and handson learning. Historic traditions are also finding new expression through the Saint Monica Center for the Arts, set to open in Spring 2026 as a dedicated space for performance and community.
Just as important as these spaces are the moments that fill them—community traditions, mentorship and shared experiences that define daily life. As one alumna shared, “Saint Monica feels like family.”
For Dr. Luby, that sense of family is rooted in faith. Early in her time here, she gathered with school and parish leaders, grounding her leadership in the shared mission that continues to guide Saint Monica forward.
That momentum is unmistakable. With new spaces, strong leadership and a deeply connected community, Saint Monica Preparatory is stepping confidently into what comes next. As Dr. Luby shared with families, “We’re not just turning the page—we’re beginning an exciting new chapter together.”
“
As I look toward the future of Saint Monica Preparatory, I see a community rooted in faith, united in purpose and filled with extraordinary potential. I am grateful to lead alongside such remarkable students, families, faculty and parish partners as we move into our next one hundred years together.”
–President
Luby
Faith, Family and Generosity
THE CARUSO FAMILY
At our 2025 Saint Monica Academic and Spiritual Heritage (SMASH) Gala, we were honored to recognize Tina and Rick Caruso as recipients of the Heart of Monica Award. Their steadfast devotion to Catholic education and their unwavering commitment to communities across Southern California—especially here at Saint Monica—have shaped lives, strengthened families and inspired a deeper sense of purpose within our community. “Rick and Tina Caruso embody a truth we hold close that the strongest leaders are the ones who serve,” said Msgr. Lloyd Torgerson. “They don’t build for the moment, they build for the future. The Carusos have always chosen the latter, and our St. Monica community is stronger because of it.”
Rick Caruso is a renowned business innovator, civic leader, philanthropist and devoted husband and father. He is the founder and executive chairman of Caruso, one of the nation’s largest and most admired privately-held real estate companies. After beginning his career as a real estate attorney in the corporate finance department of one of the country’s leading law firms,
At SMASH, our community came together to support the Mariners of tomorrow. In addition to celebrating the Carusos, we honored the beautiful legacy of Doris Carver ‘47. A woman of quiet generosity and steadfast love, Doris’ impact will be felt for generations to come.
Rick followed his lifelong passion for development, founding Caruso Affiliated Holdings in 1987.
Together, Tina and Rick Caruso have long been guided by a deeply held belief in giving back. In 1991, they founded the Caruso Family Foundation, dedicated to supporting organizations that improve the lives of at-risk children through access to healthcare and education. Their compassion and leadership were especially evident in the aftermath of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires in early 2025, when they made a $5 million lead gift to help raise $20 million for critical resources for the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Established in 2012, the Heart of Monica Award honors individuals who embody the ethos of Saint Monica— those who believe in the unshakable goodness of community and who lead with humility, compassion and service. Recipients of this award love without measure and give without counting the cost. Tina and Rick Caruso exemplify this spirit in every sense, making them most deserving of this honor.
SMASH Parent Host Lee Cowan with wife Molly
Student performers at SMASH
“Great leaders create a culture and the culture becomes per vasive and it goes into ever y corner of an organization. That is what has happened here. With ever yone you meet, with ever y teacher, ever ybody is welcoming you and accepting you for who you are.”
–Rick Caruso
Chasing Greatness KYLE WILLIAMS ‘20
From Saint Monica to the NFL Spotlight
Kyle Williams ‘20 made his alma mater proud by taking the Super Bowl LX stage with the New England Patriots this year, highlighting his journey from local standout to professional athlete. On a bye week before the big game, Williams returned to the Saint Monica training facility alongside Mariner Football Coach Thomas Barnes and junior wide receiver Christopher Barnes, the Camino Real League Offensive MVP Williams took a moment between drills to look around and share, “It is great being back…so many memories here.” For Williams, those memories are woven into every yard he’s gained.
Today, the pro wide receiver is living a dream shared by Barnes and countless other young athletes.
Selected by the Patriots in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft (69th overall), Williams quickly carved out a meaningful role on a playoff-bound roster. He added a Super Bowl reception to his resume after playing in all 17 regular-season New England Patriots games his rookie season, recording 10 receptions for 209 yards and three touchdowns. As Upper School Principal James Spellman shared, “This is a bright spot our students can reflect on as one of their own is on TV, playing in the NFL Students are dreaming and thinking ‘what if ’ , and that is what high school and being young are all about. ”
Before Foxborough and packed stadiums, there was Baltimore, Maryland, where Williams was born. His football journey took shape at Saint Monica, where he helped lead the Mariners to a 7-2 record his senior year, racking up 31 receptions for 763 yards and nine touchdowns. Principal Spellman remembers Kyle as a kind, focused and approachable student, always on campus early to meet with counselors or work out on the turf with his brother Mychai He shared, “I hope he knows that there are folks here at Saint Monica that love him and care for him no matter where the road takes him. Kyle is a member of the Mariner family for life!”
Williams played three seasons at University of Nevada, Las Vegas, before transferring to Washington State University for his junior and senior years. In just those two seasons at WSU, he caught 20 touchdown passes, vaulting him into the school’s record books: second in single-season receiving touchdowns and fourth in single-season receiving yards. Now, Williams is proving once again what Saint Monica coaches and fans already know he’s a competitor and a playmaker who is just getting started
SMPREP’s TK-12 students created and signed a commemorative banner for Kyle, wishing him luck at Super Bowl LX. Msgr. Torgerson blessed the banner before it was delivered to Kyle’s family by our Director of Admission, Roxanna Warmington ‘97. Kyle’s inspirational journey beyond Saint Monica was highlighted in recent Los Angeles Times, Santa Monica Daily Press and NBC4 media coverage!
“
Students from his graduating class have reached out to me to say they are happy for him and remember how good a student-athlete he was at Saint Monica. Kyle is a direct connection for them...dreams are dreams, but they can come to fruition through sacrifice, laser focus and hard work.
–James Spellman, Upper School Principal
Msgr. Torgerson blessed the banner at an All School Mass
CAMPUS
UPDATES
CORE PREP Building the Next Generation of Mariners
The Core Prep program at Saint Monica Preparatory, recently featured by Town & Country Magazine, is a comprehensive athletic development elective for students in grades 6-8. Designed to support student-athletes in reaching their full potential physically, mentally and academically, the unique program is only found at two Southern California schools. Core Prep emphasizes strength and conditioning, sport-specific skill development, leadership training and personal accountability, all in a daily class offered during the school day. Saint Monica Prep currently offers Core Prep basketball, baseball, football, soccer, tennis and volleyball programs.
Success stories include Bradley Cassier ‘27, a Core Prep football athlete who became the Mariners’ CIF Championship–winning quarterback. He shared, “I have grown so much from the opportunities Saint Monica Preparatory has given me, and I will continue to push myself to try new things. As I look ahead to college and my future as a starting quarterback, I know these skills— finding my voice, stepping up when called on, and saying ‘Yes, I’m ready’—will stay with me.”
Another success story is Ben Davis, a freshman varsity basketball player recognized by Sports Illustrated as one of its Southern California Freshmen to Watch. He demonstrates the program’s ability to prepare students for elite competition. At its core, Core Prep strengthens the Mariner identity by forming student-athletes in faith, character and discipline, calling them to compete with integrity, serve others and live out the values of Saint Monica Preparatory on and off the field.
FAITH FORMATION Forming Students in Faith and Purpose
At Saint Monica Preparatory, faith formation is lived through moments of reflection, connection and purpose. This fall, members of the Class of 2026 participated in the Senior Kairos Retreat at Serra Retreat Center. Kairos, meaning “the Lord’s time,” invited students to step away from daily routines and enter a sacred space for prayer, vulnerability and community-building. Through shared reflection and honest conversation, students experienced a deepening of their relationships with God and one another, strengthening bonds that will carry them through their senior year and beyond.
Students also live their faith through meaningful service to others. Over Thanksgiving break, Upper School students joined more than 500 volunteers at the St. Monica Catholic Community Thanksgiving Feast, helping serve over 1,000 meals and distribute more than 4,000 donated items to unhoused guests. Across campus, SMPREP students worked together to assemble Thanksgiving snack packs from family donations, offering food, water and a moment of comfort to members of the unhoused community.
While simple in form, these care packages carried a deeper message—affirming dignity, compassion and the belief that every person is seen and valued. In the spirit of gratitude, our Lower School students also participated by writing heartfelt Gratitude Grams for members of our school community, reminding us all of the power of kindness and appreciation.
That commitment to service continued with our recent blood drives in partnership with the American Red Cross. Thanks to the leadership of our Pre-Med Club and Key Club—and the generosity of our donors—Saint Monica Prep helped save over 150 lives in a single day. As Allison Griffin ’26 shared, “Seeing our school community come together and knowing that our efforts help save hundreds of lives is extremely rewarding. It motivates me to continue organizing these drives and encouraging my peers to participate.”
Through retreats that nurture the spirit and service that meets real human needs, Saint Monica Preparatory continues to form students who live their faith with compassion, courage and purpose.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING How SMPREP Turns the World Into a Classroom
At Saint Monica Preparatory, experiential learning is a defining part of how students grow into curious, confident and globally minded learners. From middle school trips across California and the East Coast to immersive international travel, students in grades 6–12 regularly step beyond the classroom to engage with history and culture. These experiences encourage students to see the world not just as observers, but as active participants shaped by reflection and responsibility.
SMPREP’s signature Upper School experiential learning program, Wintersession, launched in the 2018-2019 school year. Each spring, students in grades 9-12 spend a week immersed in curated experiences across California — designing their own daily schedules from options that range this year from Northern California college tours and cultural landmarks to outdoor exploration and behind-thescenes Disneyland and Universal Studios workshops. With experiences like whale watching, guided hikes
and fishing trips, plus Pantages performances and tours of Intuit Dome, Wintersession is designed to foster independence, cultural awareness and personal growth, culminating in a shared day of service.
Experiential learning at SMPREP begins early. Middle school students build confidence and camaraderie through programs like the three-day adventure retreat in the San Bernardino Mountains known as Pali Camp and an eighth-grade journey through our nation’s history in both Washington, D.C. and New York City. Upper School students expand their global perspective through our student exchange programs in both Japan and South Korea, as well as international travel to Costa Rica and Africa. Whether collaborating with peers abroad, worshiping across languages, or serving alongside global communities, SMPREP students discover that learning is most powerful when it is lived — and that the world itself is their greatest teacher.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Entering the Church this Easter Season
Seven SMPREP students participated in the Rite of Sending as they prepare to be received into the Catholic Church through Baptism, First Eucharist and Confirmation. Please keep Anjola, Mae, Mylia, Finley, Charles, Adrian and Andrea in your prayers.
Women Founders Network
Seven Saint Monica Prep juniors participated in the Women Founders Network’s Practice Pitch/”Shark Tank” event this year. The nonprofit mentors and educates female founders, including high school students, on business fundamentals.
Evans Scholars
Johnnie Garcia ‘25, Macayla Story ‘25 and Nicolas Vallejo ‘25 were featured by the Los Angeles Times and CBS News as Evans Scholars, after receiving four-year tuition and housing scholarships through the competitive Western Golf Association program.
“
We learned a lot about venture capitalists and investors. Overall it was a really immersive experience and I found it fascinating as someone who wants to go into business and investing.”
- Ji Clarke ‘27
Faith in Action
Samania Jannati ‘26 received the 2026 Archdiocesan Christian Service Award. The award recognizes one graduating senior from each of the 50 high schools in the Los Angeles Archdiocese for exceptional commitment to faith, service and leadership
A Mariner Welcome
SMPREP hosted 12 foreign exchange students from South Korea, and later welcomed three Japanese exchange students for an unforgettable two weeks of learning and connection. The new Cultural Exchange Club helped plan the visits.
Playbill Features Saint Monica Play
The creative cover of the program for the SMPREP Fall Play, “12 Angry Jurors” was highlighted in Playbill’s PLAYBILLDER Spotlight Gallery of covers from productions all across the country.
LA Tech Week at SMPREP
Mr Roland Labana, STEM Academy Dean and CTO of Altafid, hosted a LA Tech Week workshop at SMPREP this year with the help of his Engineering students on “AI Tools for Building Apps with Lightning Speed”
QuestBridge Scholar
Senior Maile Ordonez was named a 2025 QuestBridge National College Match Scholar, matching through a rigorous process with Emory University on a full four-year scholarship covering tuition, housing and food, and even travel home
Serving with Heart
Students in the Humanitarian and Beyond Blessed clubs shared the joy of Christmas through a toy drive for the Joy Jewels of Youth Foundation New this year, the Beyond Blessed Club is a faith-based group that aims to give back to the community.
Mariner Ocean Research Institute
The MORI program continues to grow with a nearly finished salt-water mixing station, new aquarium and filtration tanks, and a student-designed camera system leveraging machine learning to monitor coral growth.
Spirit of America Leadership Program
SMPREP will send six juniors to the annual Valley Forge, Pennsylvania civics program this spring, sponsored by the American Legion, for a shark tank and mock legislative session focused around government and leadership.
Ar ts r t
THE MARINER MAIN STAGE
Last year, Saint Monica Preparatory broke ground on a new, intimately scaled, state-of-the-art performance space designed for dance, music, theatre, spoken word and interdisciplinary collaboration. This milestone marks a bold new chapter as we chart a fresh course for the beloved Cantwell Auditorium, a cornerstone of our campus and community for nearly a century.
Originally built in the 1930s, the Cantwell Auditorium has weathered many seasons with grace. Now reimagined, the space will feature an open-concept design and modern technology, offering students hands-on learning opportunities in lighting, sound, costuming, set design and construction, both behind the scenes and center stage, preparing them to confidently take the helm of every production.
More than a performance venue, the new Saint Monica Center for the Arts will also serve as a gathering place for the Mariner community, hosting small receptions, lectures, dinners and outreach events. As the new home of Saint Monica Preparatory’s Media, Visual and Performing Arts Conservatory, it will become a hub where creativity, collaboration and storytelling set sail.
Opening Spring 2026, the Center for the Arts will welcome students, parishioners and neighbors alike. Designed as a shared space for performance and gathering, it will bring the community together to experience and celebrate the arts. Stay tuned for upcoming events and opportunities to engage with this exciting new addition.
“Into the Woods”
“The
Saint Monica Center for the Arts Mainstage rendering
Crucible”
Telling Stories That Matter TOMAS OFFICER’S Journey in Film
Saint Monica Preparatory senior Tomas Officer is making waves in the student film world after the debut of his latest short film, “Cigarettes by the Newsstand,” at the All American High School Film Festival in New York City. Officer’s film was selected out of thousands of submissions from across the country to be screened at the largest student film festival in the world. He was recently accepted into New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, the top-ranked film school in the country. He plans to double major in film and economics.
Officer’s film, “Cigarettes by the Newsstand” explores the harrowing journey of an aspiring actress grappling with abuse and addiction as a ruthless director pushes her toward a career-defining performance. Officer wrote, directed and produced the film during his summer in USC’s prestigious Directing Intensive course, working with professional actors and an international crew. “Learning to work in a professional environment with people from around the world was incredible,” Officer shared, noting that collaborating with a cinematographer from Shanghai brought fresh perspectives that elevated the film.
Officer’s success builds on earlier national recognition for his previous film, “Feeling Good,” which he developed at SMPREP in his Independent Filmmaking Honors class. Encouraged by film teacher Mr. Holmes, Officer submitted the film to UCLA’s Open Mind Film Festival, where it won first place out of more than 500 entries focused on teen mental health.
Centered on drug addiction, “Feeling Good,” starred senior Maile Ordonez and featured several SMPREP classmates both on screen and behind the scenes. “The most meaningful part of filmmaking for me is trying to change the world through thematic storytelling,” Officer said, explaining that the film was made in memory of a friend who died of a drug overdose.
Beyond his individual achievements, Officer has played a major role in strengthening SMPREP’s film community. He helped organize the school’s second annual film festival at Laemmle Monica, which screened 45 student films to a sold-out audience and he took home Best Director and Best Picture honors. Reflecting on his journey, he emphasized the importance of collaboration, saying, “The support of my teachers and classmates has meant the world to me. Filmmaking is impossible without a team.” Congratulations, Tomas, on an extraordinary start to a promising career.
Athle
letics
BOYS SOCCER
Captures the 2025 CIF Southern Section
Division 8 Championship
After an undefeated regular season that secured a commanding first-place finish in the Santa Fe League, the Saint Monica Preparatory Boys Soccer team carried that momentum into a historic postseason run. The Mariners showcased exceptional discipline, composure and teamwork throughout the playoffs, defeating a series of strong opponents to earn their place in the CIF Southern Section Division 8 Championship match against Chadwick.
In the title game, the Mariners delivered a masterclass in both strategy and execution. With relentless defensive pressure, decisive passing and confident attacking play, Saint Monica controlled the pace from whistle to whistle. Their efforts culminated in a 2-0 victory, clinching the 2025 CIF Southern Section Division 8 Championship and bringing another marquee title home to SMPREP.
Under the steady leadership of Head Coach Eric Figueroa, the team demonstrated the resilience, focus and unity that define Mariner athletics.
This championship marks a significant milestone for the program—and for the school community— as Boys Soccer joins the ranks of recent CIFwinning teams, including Mariner Football. For alumni, families and current students, this unforgettable season stands as a testament to the strength of SMPREP Athletics and the enduring spirit of the Mariner tradition.
GO, MARINERS!
Racing to the Top Saint Monica Alumna MICAELA PATAJO ’25
Micaela Patajo ’25 delivered a standout performance at the 2025 USA Climbing National Team Trials in Austin, Texas, capturing Gold in the Speed category and securing her place among the nation’s top young climbers. Competing for a coveted spot on the 2025 Speed Nationals Team, Patajo achieved a remarkable personal best of 8.03 seconds, a significant leap forward from her fourth-place finish at last year’s trials. Her victory marks an impressive milestone in her already rising competitive career.
Patajo’s journey in athletics began long before she stepped onto the climbing wall. “Around the beginning of middle school I got involved in sports. My passion for running and climbing started to develop. I had tried other sports like soccer,
basketball and gymnastics. However, they didn’t spark the same kind of love I had started to have for running and climbing,” she shared. “Climbing is an entirely different world of mental and physical work. In climbing you are presented with climbs that you need to solve in order to win competitions. Think of climbing as a physical puzzle. You need to be able to solve the climb while high up on a wall without the pressure of falling getting to you.”
Patajo is already looking ahead to even greater heights. Her sights are firmly set on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where speed climbing will once again be showcased on the world stage. As she continues to break barriers and set new personal records, Patajo stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, passion and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
A BANNER YEAR
Celebrating Mariner athletic achievements, championships and defining moments from the past year.
BASKETBALL
Senior Sydney Ghobrial scores 1,000th point as a Mariner.
FOOTBALL
GIRLS SOCCER GIRLS
BEACH VOLLEYBALL
2025/2026 marks the 4th year of the Beach Volleyball program, with practices at Santa Monica beach courts.
Mariner Football dominates with 41-0 Homecoming win, finishing 2025 season 10-2 with Bradley Cassier Camino Real League MVP and Chris Barnes Offensive MVP.
Girls Soccer wins league championships in 2024, undefeated at 20-0, and 2026. Maile Ordonez wins third League MVP award and Savannah Blum MVP Goalie.
BASEBALL CHEER
Mariner Baseball closes out a strong 2025 postseason run in the CIF quarterfinals.
Mariner Cheer competes at the national level at USA Spirit Nationals and performs on the main stage at Locals’ Night at the Santa Monica Pier, along with our Mini Mariners from grades 3-8.
XC/TRACK GIRLS GOLF
Mariner Girls Golf sets a new team record, finishing the season on top with the Del Rey League title.
Four seniors are selected for First Team All League Cross Country, while Coach Twist comes in 4th in her Nationals division. The Track 4x400 Boys Relay team sets school record at CIF Finals of 3:28:61.
8th Grade Boys Basketball team captures the CYO Open Division Championship in 2026, after repeating as league champions in 2025 and 2026.
8th Grade Girls Basketball team captures second consecutive league title in 2026, after 2025 season ends in playoff semifinals.
BOYS BASKETBALL GIRLS BASKETBALL BOYS GOLF
FLAG FOOTBALL
The 2025 7th/8th Grade Flag Football team wins the PAC/WAC league title and goes on to capture the CYO Open Division Championship.
Boys Golf’s record-setting 2025 season: league championship title, 14-1 overall record, CIF Team Championship runner-up and first golfer in program history qualifies for CIF State.
TENNIS
Junior Taylor Bryan finishes in third at Del Rey League Preliminaries for Girls Singles. Boys Tennis advances with a Round 1 win at CIF 2025 playoffs.
Senior Garrett Robertson surpasses 1,000 career kills and is named with senior Nicolai Marinho to ACVA Boys All-America Watch List. Junior Maya Wisot is selected for All League First Team, senior Megan Garcia for Second Team.
BOYS BASKETBALL
Mariner Boys Basketball finishes its 2025 season in second place in the Del Rey League, qualifying for Division 1 playoffs.
VOLLEYBALL SOFTBALL
Mariner Softball finishes a competitive 2025 season in second place in Camino Real League play.
WHERE THE COMPASS LEADS
“My time here has been lifechanging. The teachers, my classmates and the entire community have not only prepared me academically, but have shaped me into the person I am today — ready to take on the world with confidence, compassion and a sense of purpose.
– David Dyaz ‘25,
Valedictorian
Mariner March to 9th Grade
2025 Commencement
HONORING EVERY STEP Saint Monica TK-8 Students
Mark Meaningful Milestones
Before Saint Monica Preparatory celebrated the 115 graduates of the Class of 2025 at Commencement, the community turned its attention to the milestones that begin long before high school. Our youngest learners marked a joyful rite of passage at the Transitional Kindergarten (TK ) Bridging Ceremony, crossing a small wooden bridge symbolizing their move from TK to Kindergarten. Led by TK teacher Mrs. Stickley, students received certificates from Lower School Principal Dr. Quinly and were warmly welcomed by Kindergarten teachers, offering a glimpse of the journey ahead.
At the other end of the TK-8 experience, Saint Monica honored its 8th grade students during the third annual
Mariner March. Surrounded by cheering classmates lining the campus turf, students made their final walk through Middle School in a moment filled with pride, reflection and celebration. Following Mass, Middle School teachers recognized students with diplomas and awards, honoring both academic growth and personal character.
Together, these moments reflect how our TK-12 school intentionally marks growth and achievement at every stage From early childhood milestones to the culmination of Middle School, these TK-8 traditions reinforce confidence, leadership and community preparing students for the next chapter ahead.
A student and Dr. Quinly share an embrace during the TK Bridging Ceremony
COMMENCEMENT 2025 A Class Defined by Resilience, Faith and Forward Momentum
On a warm June evening on the Hilton Schoolyard, Saint Monica Preparatory proudly celebrated the graduation of the 115 seniors in the Class of 2025. Surrounded by family, faculty, alumni and friends, Commencement marked both an ending and a beginning for a class shaped by resilience, faith and a deep sense of community.
This year’s ceremony welcomed home alumna Nathalie Rayes ’92, former U.S. Ambassador to Croatia, as the keynote speaker. Speaking as both a distinguished leader and a fellow Mariner, Rayes encouraged graduates to embrace life’s twists and turns, reminding them that growth often comes from allowing dreams to evolve and paths to unfold over time. Drawing from her own journey as an immigrant who found her voice at Saint Monica and later represented the United States abroad, she reminded graduates that the future is rarely linear. As she shared with the Class of 2025, “Your future isn’t a single answer—it’s a lifelong journey of discovering what moves you and having the courage to follow it wherever it leads.”
Valedictorian David Dyaz, who matriculated to University of California Los Angeles, reflected on a high school experience marked by extraordinary challenges and shared perseverance. His remarks captured the spirit of a class that consistently responded to uncertainty with determination, optimism and love for their school community.
As the Class of 2025 steps forward, they do so prepared for the opportunities ahead—academically, spiritually and personally. Their next chapter begins beyond the gates of SMPREP, but their foundation as Mariners will always remain close to home.
THE CLASS OF 2025
Takes the Next Step — and Makes Headlines
The Saint Monica Preparatory Class of 2025 is heading into the next chapter with momentum, purpose and an impressive slate of college matriculations. Graduates from the Class of 2025 are currently studying at top universities across the country, including UC Berkeley, UCLA, USC, University of Michigan, University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon, NYU, Boston College, LMU and more Together, their acceptances reflect not only academic excellence, but a class ready to make its mark well beyond our Santa Monica campus
That impact is already being felt. Three seniors from the Class of 2025 Johnnie Garcia, Macayla Story and Nicolas Vallejo were featured by the Los Angeles Times and CBS News’ “Inside SoCal” as recipients of the prestigious Evans Scholarship, a four-year full tuition and housing award valued at $125,000. Earned through academic achievement, financial need and dedication as student caddies the scholarship is the largest privately funded program of its kind in the country. Garcia and Vallejo now
attend the University of Oregon, while Story is at UCLA. As Saint Monica Upper School Principal James Spellman shared, “These students represent the best of our community: resilience, hard work and real aspirations to excel.”
Other members of the Class of 2025 have already distinguished themselves through initiative and leadership Giancarlo Ambrosino, now at Carnegie Mellon, spent the summer before senior year studying computer science and sociology through Harvard’s highly selective Secondary School Program and brought his passion back to campus by teaching an introductory coding course to Middle School students. Valedictorian David Dyaz, also studying at UCLA, reflected on a class shaped by challenge yet defined by faith and determination, noting that despite extraordinary circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic, East Wing flood and Palisades Fires, the Class of 2025 led Saint Monica with excitement and love. Their journey is just beginning and alumni can be proud of what this remarkable class represents.
Alumni ANCHORED IN TRADITION
On the front lines of the Eaton Fire, Saint Monica alumnus Sam Saldibar ’14 courageously fights to protect lives and communities we are deeply grateful for him and all first responders.
After the Fire
BARBARA GUTIERREZ ’64
Reflects on Loss, Faith and Community
The connection of Barbara Gutierrez ‘64 to Saint Monica began long before most current Mariners were born—starting in kindergarten in 1951, when classrooms met in small bungalow buildings near Lincoln and Washington. Arriving as a Spanishspeaking student, Barbara credits the sisters and teachers she encountered here with helping her find her voice and confidence, eventually inspiring a lifelong career in education. After graduating she spent nearly four decades as a teacher and educational leader for LAUSD, carrying forward the mentorship she first experienced at Saint Monica.
In January, Barbara became one of many alumni affected by the Palisades Fire. When evacuation alerts arrived, her instincts as an educator took over. She packed essentials, urged neighbors to leave and drove out through growing smoke expecting to return soon. Instead, she joined thousands displaced, navigating temporary housing, insurance claims and the long uncertainty of rebuilding—an emotional and logistical process that may take years to complete.
Through the upheaval, Barbara says three things carried her forward: faith, family and friends. Support from neighbors, strangers and members of the Saint Monica community helped sustain her through reminding survivors they were not alone. The experience reshaped her sense of what truly matters, stripping life back to essentials while revealing how deeply community ties endure even when homes are lost. Barbara also shares this journey with lifelong friend and fellow alum Catherine “Trina” Wagner Pate ’64, whom she first met as a child at Corpus Christi before both attended Saint Monica. Both women lost their homes in the fire, and photos spanning decades—from First Holy Communion to reunions and a recent emotional reunion after the fire—capture a friendship and faith that continue to sustain them.
In the weeks following the fires, Mariners across generations stepped in to help. SMPREP opened campus as a donation and distribution center, providing clothing, toiletries, school supplies, uniforms and meals for families displaced by the fires. Alumni also found ways to support recovery efforts, including Paul Mendonca ’76, who created a special T-shirt benefiting the American Red Cross through his company, T-Shirts, Inc. Alumni affected by the Altadena or Palisades fires are encouraged to reach out to the Alumni Office for resources and support as our Mariner community continues to rebuild together.
Full Circle at HOMECOMING
Homecoming Week at Saint Monica Preparatory is always a celebration of school spirit but this year, it was also a powerful reminder of where a Mariner education can lead. Alumni spanning four decades returned to campus for an alumni panel They shared their professional journeys and lessons learned with our Upper School students From the cockpit of a Delta Air Lines jet to the creative halls of Disney, from local law enforcement to entrepreneurship, the stories reflected the depth and diversity of the Mariner network
The first panel, emceed by Anthony Angel ’96 of the Santa Monica Police Department who serves as our school’s Resource Officer, featured SMPREP 9th & 10th Grade Academic Counselor Carlos Fuller ’17, Medical Assistant at Raincross Medical Group Matiana Hebert ’17 and Delta Air Lines First Officer Jonathan Gobrial ’09. A second dynamic conversation, led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Verge ’85, included Clarissa Karunaratne ’14, Head of Marketing at Hot 8 Yoga and Nike Trainer, SMPREP Theology Teacher Michael Francis ’04 and Nia Allen ’17, Creative Project Manager at Disney. While career paths varied, a common theme emerged growth rarely follows a straight line. Panelists spoke candidly about uncertainty, risk-taking, faith and resilience offering students honest reflections on their road from high school to adulthood
For many alumni, the experience was just as meaningful as it was for students. Francis ’04 shared, “I was on the panel speaking to 11th and 12th grade students. The majority of their questions were about preparing for college and career… Since I teach all of them, it was a unique opportunity for me to be able to speak to them in a non-classroom setting.” He noted that students asked about everything from getting in trouble in school to choosing a major. “After it was over there were several students that came up to me saying, ‘I didn’t know that about you,’ so overall for me, it was a good experience and it was a blessing to be able to share that with my students.” Fuller ’17 echoed that sentiment, “Taking part in this experience allowed the students to hear a bit more about my life prior to the version of me that they were coming to know.” In the end, the panels weren’t just about careers They were about connection The panels proved that our greatest resource isn’t a program or a building it’s our people
From Mariners to MENTORS
Alumni Who Returned to Saint Monica
Preparatory to Teach and Lead
There is something uniquely powerful about alumni who return to the place where their own journeys began. At Saint Monica Preparatory, a growing number of graduates have come back to campus—not as students, but as educators, counselors and leaders—bringing with them a deep understanding of the school’s mission, culture and community. Their decision to return speaks to the lasting impact of an SMPREP education and a shared desire to give future Mariners the same sense of belonging, opportunity and care they once received.
For many, coming back feels both natural and deeply meaningful. As Finance Officer Tina Angel ’78 shares, “For the past 30 years it has been a privilege to work at a place I can truly call home. It has been a blessing to be able to give back to my alma mater and community that I truly love. Working alongside many great people, it has been a rewarding experience for me.”
That perspective—rooted in gratitude and purpose—guides alumni faculty and staff as they shape students academically, spiritually and personally each day.
These alumni bring more than professional expertise to their roles; they bring lived experience. They once sat in these classrooms, participated in these traditions and were formed by the same values they now help uphold. Their presence reinforces one of Saint Monica Preparatory’s greatest strengths: a community built on continuity and connection, where the impact of a Saint Monica education extends far beyond graduation and, in many cases, leads graduates back home.
& Staff
Alumni Faculty
Tina Angel ’78
Roxanna Vega-Warmington ’97
Cindy Torroba ’00
Michael Francis ’04
Jessica Rowland ’06
Carlo Forteza ’12
Brenna Canelli ’12
Jiorden (Pursell) Vencill ’15
Ernie Soto ’17
Carlos Fuller ’17
Michelle Lopez ’18
Tina Angel ’78 takes center stage as the 2017 champion of Dancing with Our Stars, helping raise funds for financial aid and supporting future Mariners.
Finance Officer
Director of Admission
Assistant Principal for Student Life
Upper School Theology Teacher
Middle School English Language Arts Teacher
Upper School Student Activities Coordinator; Edgenuity Coordinator
Lower School First Grade Teacher
11th and 12th Grade Academic and College Counselor
Director of Digital Marketing and Alumni Relations
9th and 10th Grade Academic Counselor
Lower School Second Grade Instructional Aide
MARINER MILESTONES
Celebrating life updates, achievements and meaningful moments from our Mariner alumni community.
Christelle Penalosa ’03 married Daniel Virochsiri on February 4, 2024, in Fallbrook, California. The couple now resides in El Segundo with their corgi, Herbie, and are enjoying their first year of married life together.
Daniela Girbal-Shilvarjo ’09
Saint Monica Preparatory remains a cherished part of Daniela’s life, grounding her in values of faith, family and community. She and her husband Aren are proud parents to two daughters, Camila and their youngest, Lucia, whom they joyfully welcomed in November 2025.
Rosalinda Galdamez ’11 and Thomas Maher ’11 recently welcomed their first daughter, Rosalinda Kalima Galdamez Maher, into their growing family. The two reconnected years after graduation and have been inseparable since. Rosalinda is a screenwriter working with director Alexander Payne and attended the premiere of the first major movie produced in El Salvador. She served as a screenwriting judge at ESCINE’s 2025 film festival. Thomas works in the jewelry industry and composes his own music. Together, they hope to collaborate on a film.
D’Arcy Gray ‘13 and Jack Matsunaga ‘13 are high school sweethearts who married in July 2024. Their wedding day was filled with joy, family and friends. It was an opportunity to celebrate their journey with all of the people who helped get them to that point. Darcy is a licensed marriage and family therapist, working as a clinical supervisor with a community mental health agency supporting children and families. Jack is an apparatus operator for Quint 98 for Riverside County Fire Department.
Daisy Gonzalez ‘13 and Kurtis Childs ‘13 began their love story when they met at Saint Monica. Their family grew 14 years later in the most beautiful way when they welcomed their first baby, Madison Grace, into the world in September. Expanding their little family has filled their days with so much love and joy.
Clarissa Karunaratne ’14 earned her bachelor’s degree in International Relations: Global Business from University of Southern California. She now leads marketing efforts at Hot 8 Yoga and is a signed Nike Trainer. Clarissa is engaged to Ryan Shah, and the couple will be married at Saint Monica Catholic Church this October.
Liam O’Rourke ‘15 is living nearby in Santa Monica with his wife, Lauren. They were married in 2024 at Saint Monica. In fall 2025, they welcomed their baby boy, Phil, and they have a very fun golden retriever named Fitz. After graduating from ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, Liam went on to build an exciting career in the design and art world.
Teresa Weiss ’15 and Kameron celebrated their marriage in December of 2025. They reside in Culver City and attend St. Monica Catholic Community where Teresa continues to cantor at the 9:30 Mass.
Jiorden Pursell ’15 and Kyle Vencill ‘15 celebrated their marriage on November 21, 2025, after more than a decade together. The two first met as Mariners in 2014, building a relationship grounded in friendship and service. Today, both remain active members of the Saint Monica Preparatory community, with Jiorden serving as a school counselor and Kyle coaching volleyball. The couple exchanged vows at Saint Monica Catholic Church surrounded by family and friends.
Have a milestone to share?
We’d love to hear from you. Whether it’s a wedding, new addition to your family, career achievement or life update, your story helps keep the Mariner community connected across generations.
We strive to ensure the accuracy of all submissions and appreciate your help in keeping our records up to date. To submit a Class Note or share an update, please contact Ernie Soto ’17, Director of Alumni Engagement, at alumni@smprep.org.
Alumni Spotlight
Irma Vargas ‘72
was honored this year with the David Hines Award for her leadership, wisdom and lifetime of service to the Saint Monica community. Vargas, a member of our Mariner Athletic Hall of Fame, is the founder of Tierra Properties and a leader in Los Angeles real estate. She returned to Saint Monica last year as a member of our School Board serving as Finance Committee Chair.
Nathalie Rayes ’92
Blake Van Putten ’12
is the founder and CEO of CISE, a fintech company focused on expanding access to digital financial tools and credit-building opportunities for underserved communities. Through his work in financial technology, Van Putten has championed innovation that empowers individuals to build financial stability and long-term economic opportunity.
served as the United States Ambassador to Croatia, appointed by President Joe Biden and confirmed by the U.S. Senate. A leader in international relations and public affairs, she has built a career advancing diplomacy, global engagement and public service. Rayes returned to Saint Monica Preparatory as the 2025 Commencement speaker, sharing her journey from Mariner student to international diplomat.
Marcellus Wiley ’92
is a former NFL defensive end who played for the Buffalo Bills, San Diego Chargers, Dallas Cowboys and Jacksonville Jaguars. After his football career, Wiley became a nationally recognized sports media personality and commentator. He is also a partner in California SMASH, a premier indoor pickleball and social club in El Segundo, helping build a dynamic community centered around sport, connection and lifestyle.
Mollie McLean ’17
is the founder and clinical director of Music Therapy by McLean LLC, a Los Angeles–based private practice providing neurologic and developmental music therapy services to children and adults. Her team partners with families, schools and community organizations to support therapeutic goals such as communication, regulation and cognition.
Keaton Rodgers ’18
works at Ernst & Young, where he focuses on business consulting and advisory services. In his role, he supports organizations with strategic planning, financial analysis and operational improvement while helping clients navigate complex business challenges.
In Memoriam
April Saez ’13
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Mariner alumna April Saez ‘13.
April was a vibrant presence on campus where she was a student from 2009-2013. She was a varsity volleyball and soccer player, a member of the cheer team and Homecoming Queen After graduation, she pursued a career in nursing, serving veterans in the emergency department at the VA Hospital. April lived a life defined by service, strength and kindness and she is deeply missed by all who knew and loved her
John Acker ‘55
Camille Alcantara ’18
Marion Allen ’43
Judy Cantin (Charles) ‘60
Vince Caruso ’71
Robert D. Cordova
Anais Delgado ’04
Maria Detteti ’78
Loretta Dinardo ’51
Judy Douglas ‘54
Robert Galente ‘53
Sandra Gogain ‘65
John Green ’65
Leatrice Chiquette Green ’68
Lola Hammons (Carpenter) ’43
John Hile ’50
Jeane Honsowetz ’48
Cecelia Hozman ‘65
David Kruzek ‘71
Jeanette Larson ‘50
Nancy Lessner (Lipton) ‘46
Yolanda Martinez ’65
John Matkovich ’61
Mike Mayer ’73
Terence McNally ‘67
Greg Morris ‘75
Herb Mortz ‘55
Hilary Namnath (Spaulding) ‘74
Lawrence O’Brien ’65
Tarin O’Brien ’62
Roseanna Obrite ’43
Paul Oliveras ‘48
Roger Olson ’56
Carol Ann Paladines (Fenton) ‘55
Bud Pascale ’49
Frank Pascale ’48
Margaret Pryker ’49
Richard Reese ‘61
Mark Rodney ’84
Sylvia Rousseve ’54
Burt Ruttman ‘47
Paul Rydelek ‘61
Grace Sabine (Lanza) ’62
April Saez ’13
John Savage ‘59
Rose C. Schmitz (McEntee) ’51
Mark Stong ’64
Harriet Swirczynski (McEntee) ’46
Don Teeter ‘55
Dorothy Veix (Blessing) ’47
Barbara Wenzel (Knoll) ‘49
We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this list. We extend our heartfelt condolences to all families. If you have any updates, please contact Ernie Soto ‘17, Director of Alumni Engagement at alumni@smprep.org.
Anchors Up A New Journey Begins
A Steady Hand, A Lasting Legacy
Kevin McCardle
At the close of the 2024–2025 school year, the Saint Monica Preparatory community honored Deacon Kevin McCardle, Ph.D., for seven years of visionary and faithful leadership. As president, he guided the historic merger of St. Monica Catholic Elementary and St. Monica Catholic High School into the unified TK-12 model that defines SMPREP today — a bold step that strengthened our Catholic identity while positioning the school for another successful 100 years. His steady presence throughout the pandemic, East Wing flood and Palisades Fires positioned the school for its next chapter under new President Dr. Erin Luby. His vocation continues close to home as deacon at St. Monica Catholic Community.
Fittingly, the farewell unfolded at Mass, where TK12 students surprised Deacon Kevin with heartfelt gratitude. They thanked him for championing the Visual & Performing Arts — first as a Saint Monica parent
to Keenan ‘02, Tanner ‘04 and Gavin ‘08, then as school board member and chair from 2009-2017, and ultimately as president, leaving a vibrant Center for the Arts set to debut this spring. Students spoke of his daily driveway greetings, his visible joy in their successes and his constant reminder that every Mariner belongs. In turn, he assured graduating seniors and departing families that they will always remain part of the Saint Monica story.
Deacon Kevin’s tenure leaves tangible and enduring marks: the campus play structure, the launch of the transformative Core Prep program, a parish-school food initiative serving families in need, strengthened fundraising and the restoration of the East Wing after the flood. Through challenge and growth alike, his leadership blended faith, resolve and optimism. As we look ahead, we do so standing firmly on the foundation he helped build.
Faculty & Staff Retirements From 2020-2025
With Gratitude for Their Service
Larry Rodriguez | Upper School Social Studies Teacher | 33 Years
Larry Rodriguez dedicated more than 30 years to Saint Monica as a history teacher and softball coach, shaping generations of Mariners—including students whose parents once sat in his classroom. His impact extends far beyond the lessons he taught, leaving a lasting legacy of mentorship, commitment and community.
Lynda Auer | Lower School Receptionist | 30 Years
Lynda always enjoyed working at the school because as she says, “It’s a ministry, not a job.” She loves being here at Saint Monica where she can share her faith and love of Jesus Christ to those she serves on a daily basis. Our Literacy Center was made possible by a generous gift from the Auer family, and Lynda was honored with the Hands of Monica Award for her faithful service to our community.
Karen McNally | Upper School English Teacher | 24 Years
“My memories of Saint Monica are filled with music. Each morning when I unlocked the door to room 30 in the West Wing, the voices of the Rainbow Riders rehearsing across the hall greeted me like a heavenly choir. After school a group of students who had formed a garage band begged me to unlock the door to the music room so they could jam for an hour or two. In between, my students and I would end each class prayer with a gentle call and response, ‘Saint Monica Pray for us ’ –drawing out the final note like a hymn What a blessing to share 24 years of good vibes like these!”
Diane
Mayer ‘73 | Director of Advancement Operations, Assistant to the President | 19 Years
“Working at Saint Monica for over 19 years was a very gratifying job. Alumni would often share the many experiences they had: some experiences as members of an athletic team or club, while other memories were of a special teacher or the friendships they made. Listening to the stories of our alumni confirmed to me that Saint Monica has been a wonderful place for generations of Mariners to learn about themselves and grow into valued alumni. As a member of the Class of ‘73 myself, it was always interesting to see the similarities of our experiences over the many decades!”
Yvonne McNeal | Upper School Vice Principal | 10 Years
“My 10 years at Saint Monica Prep as teacher, Director of Counseling and Vice Principal provided me with the best experiences of my life as an educator. I enjoyed new and enriching experiences with students (especially as my first co-educational high school) and parents I also formed enriching experiences with faculty and staff that have culminated in a life-long relationship ”
Giampiero “JP” Sciutto | Upper School Physics Teacher | 4 Years
“I am happy because it has been a true privilege to work alongside such a dedicated and high-caliber group of educators and staff. I am forever grateful for the support, camaraderie and professionalism that have made my time here so rewarding Being part of SMPREP has not only enriched my teaching experience, but also my life ”
Elaine Lillie | 9th and 10th Grade Academic Counselor | 3 Years
“I feel incredibly blessed to have been a part of Saint Monica Preparatory I love and adore the students, families and co-workers I had the privilege of working with every day and I do miss them all. Each one will always have a special place in my heart. Go Mariners!”
Remembering Madame Tatiana Semnani
Saint Monica Preparatory remembers with deep gratitude the life and legacy of Tatiana Semnani, beloved French teacher and former World Language Department Chair. Mme Semnani began teaching at Saint Monica in 1998 and faithfully served the Upper School for over 20 years. Throughout her tenure, she shaped the academic and personal journeys of countless students, holding them to high standards while always leading with warmth, grace and genuine care. Her classroom was a place where rigor met encouragement, and where students felt both challenged and supported.
Madame Semnani believed that learning a language was about far more than vocabulary and grammar — it was an invitation to see the world through a broader lens. She instilled in her students a sense of curiosity and wonder, encouraging them to embrace different cultures and perspectives with openness and respect. Even after retiring in 2019, her passion for education never faded. She devoted time to her grandchildren and volunteered at her granddaughter’s school, continuing to share her love of French and lifelong learning.
Vous
Mme Semnani passed away peacefully on September 11, 2022, surrounded by her loved ones. While she is deeply missed, her impact lives on in the generations of Mariners who carry forward the confidence, curiosity and global awareness she nurtured in them.
