The Sentinel Shield Spring 2023

ADMINISTRATION

Principal: Victor Serna

Assistant Principal: Pamela K. Hollerbach

Dean of Students: Julie Grindey

Director of Administrative Services:

Brandy Martinez

Director of Admissions: Mini Olivas ’94

Director of Advancement: Tony Rodriguez

Director of Athletics: Gregg Buchanan

Director of Finance: Linda Surovick

Director of Plant Operations: Mario Hernandez

Director of Student Involvement & Activities: Robbie Peñate

Chaplain: Rev. Gabriel Terrill

ADVANCEMENT

Director: Tony Rodriguez

Assistant Director: Patricia Glasser

Alumni Relations Manager: Maggie Brown ’02

Advancement Associate: Karen Hill

2022-2023 ADVISORY BOARD

President: Bridgette Cosentino

Vice President: Bryan Davey

Julie Albanese

Carey Anthony

Jacque Kochis Chapman ’98

Perry Gordon

Norm Mendoza

Jason Pastore

John Schurz

Marjean Steinkamp

Rev. Gabriel Terrill

Board of Trustees Liaison: Rich Zawtocki

Ex-Officio: Victor Serna

Staff Support: Brandy Martinez

2022-2023 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

President: Sal Flores, Flores Wealth Management

Vice President: Rich Zawtocki, Zawtocki Law Offices, Attorney at Law

Secretary: Joe Wallace, Spotlight Signs and Imaging Solutions, Owner

Carol Dobson, Dobson Family Farms, Owner

Rhindi Eubanks Garcia ’87, St. Mary Basha Elementary School, Vice Principal

Very Rev. Dan McBride, V.F., St. Mary’s Parish, Pastor

Gabe Ortiz, ’88, Artoss, Inc., Area Vice President of Sales-West

Ross Robb, RLR Ventures, LLC, Owner and President

Ex-Officio: Victor Serna, School Prinicpal

Ex-Officio: Rev. Gabriel Terrill, School Chaplain

Ex-Officio: Tony Rodriguez, School Director of Advancement

Staff Support: Brandy Martinez

DIOCESE OF PHOENIX CATHOLIC SCHOOLS LEADERSHIP

Bishop: Most Rev. John P. Dolan

Auxiliary Bishop: Most Rev. Eduardo A. Nevares

Bishop Emeritus: Most Rev. Thomas J. Olmsted

Superintendent: Domonic Salce

Assistant Superintendent: Mary Bartsch

FROM THE PRINCIPAL’S DESK

Dear Sentinels,

Seton Catholic’s vision is about continuous growth and fulfillment of our mission. We are proud of our recent successes in programmatic offerings and facility improvements. Our program expansion includes additions like the Academic Resource Center, Sentinel Success and new Fine Arts and Honors courses. Our facility improvements include:

• field lights added to our baseball and softball fields in 2020, • renovation of our Historic Campus in 2021 and

• most recently, the library renovation of 2022.

A big THANK YOU to everyone who has supported our recent efforts and who has played a role in our successes. Although we have plenty to be proud of, there remains lots for us to do in support of our vision for Seton Catholic. I invite you to learn more about our Founded In Faith − Building on Excellence campaign in this issue and how it will transform our Campus and serve future generations.

Sincerely,

Victor Serna Principal

MISSION STATEMENT REVISED

Our most recent accreditation self-study recognized the need to revisit our mission statement and other guiding documents to see if they were in need of updating to meet our school’s reality. The process to review and revise our mission statement has been in the works for almost two years and included representatives from a variety of groups including faculty, staff, students, parents and alumni.

Our updated mission statement is: The Seton Catholic Preparatory’s mission is to provide a Catholic FAITH community of COURAGEOUS leaders, LOVING servants and DETERMINED learners who strive for academic excellence.

While we remain proud of and committed to our college preparatory curriculum, we choose to lead with our Catholic identity. We have also intentionally incorporated the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton charisms of faith, courage, love and determination. I want to thank everyone who worked on the revision and who provided feedback.

SENTINEL NEWS

Pep Band plays at Diamondbacks Game

In preparation for a trip to California for a performance this spring, our band performed the “Star Spangled Banner” with bands from across Arizona at the Arizona Diamondbacks game Sept. 15. This was one of several fundraisers they held to help

Seton invites therapy dogs to campus

Sentinel students got a little stress relief during Finals Week Dec. 13-16 when some four-legged friends visited campus. Volunteers from the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Sandy Kochis and Amy Williams, brought their therapy dogs in between exams. Sentinels were able to pet and nuzzle with Labradors Chief, Sugar and puppy-intraining Dozer, along with Great Dane Tilly. These therapy dogs do work in hospitals and schools, and we are grateful for the emotional support they bring to our students and others.

Astronomy Club launches weather balloon

Seton’s Astronomy Club launched a high-altitude balloon — similar to a weather balloon — Nov. 6. As the balloon ascends, it expands as the atmospheric pressure decreases with increasing elevation. Eventually, the balloon expands beyond its elasticity and bursts, which causes the payload to fall to the earth, its rate of descent slowed by a parachute.

The balloon gathered weather information and carried equipment such as:

• GoPro cameras,

• a flight computer to record time, temperature, altitude and location data for the flight, and

• a GPS unit to track the location of the balloon which enables the students to locate and retrieve the balloon and its payload.

The balloon’s flight lasted about three-and-a-half hours and traveled 110 miles, landing in the Superstition Mountains wilderness. The Sanders family hiked about four miles on trail and half a mile off trail to retrieve it. After some serious trekking through brush, up a wash and then up a hillside, they eventually

found the balloon, parachute and payload exactly where the GPS information indicated it would be.

One of the GoPro cameras had popped off upon impact and landed in the heart of a sisal bush; Mr. Sanders carefully pulled it back out. The data from the flight showed their balloon ascended to a height of 98,005 feet and experienced temperatures down to -37 degrees Celsius (- 34.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Last year’s balloon traveled 120 miles and was retrieved from the branches of a tree in a town resident’s front yard.

Seton students Freshmen James Boyle, Phia Fisher and Nic Zadel, Junior Alicia Sanders and alumnus Emily Sanders helped launch the balloon. Emily also wrote the detailed procedure manual that was followed.

Parents Bob Zadel, Erik Fisher, Brad and Cecilia Sanders and Celeste Sycamore were also present.

This project was funded in part by generous donors to the club. The Astronomy Club plans to launch again next school year.

Upgrades to quad popular with students

Students came back in the fall to find a new space with a fresh look. The large area surrounded by the B and C buildings and football trailer has new artificial turf, large round picnic tables, solar powered umbrellas and benches, plus brick walls surrounding the trees.

This shady area is popular with the students during the warmer days, and Seton even provides picnic blankets for the students to spread out on. This space had previously been real grass, which was difficult to maintain and often became more of a dirt patch as the grass struggled to grow.

During breaks and lunch, the area is crowded with Sentinels, and the outdoor space available for use has almost doubled.

MLK Breakfast honors Mandarin teacher

Mandarin teacher Ms. Wen Chiu was selected as one of four recipients of the 2023 Arizona Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Living the Dream Award. The Living the Dream Award honors individuals who embody the ideas of Dr. King through a personal commitment to human relations and social justice. The 37th Annual Awards Breakfast “Believe in the Dream,” was held Jan. 1, at the Phoenix Convention Center, and Ms. Chiu spoke of what an inspiration her parents were to her in her work toward social justice.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Students learn lifelong practical maintenance skills

Through the new Home Repair and Maintenance, students are exposed to basic skills that can help them become more self-sufficient and save money in the future whether they are living in a dorm room, homeowners in the future

Mr. Michael Mead began teaching the new course in Fall

Students do hands-on activities such as repairing drywall, caulking and painting, soldering copper pipe, gluing PVC pipe, mixing concrete, repairing a punctured tire and, even, basic

stitches and button-sewing.

“This class teaches life skills that are important in everyday life,” said Senior Caliegh Krumbach. “You learn how to fix things that will save you money and that are not hard to do. I would recommend the class.”

Students learn about preventive maintenance on common appliances such as water heaters and garbage disposals.

“We learned how to fix things that could happen to you, like how to fix a hole in the wall or a flat tire, as well as learn what materials are used,” said Senior RJ Rubio. “I would take this class, 100 percent.”

Mr. Mead also shows students how to shut off typical home water and gas supply lines in the event of a leak, or to make necessary repairs.

“I like to take the class because we get actual hands-on practice that can help in everyday life,” said Senior Nicole Kupferer.

The class applied some working knowledge to repainting and rebuilding a set of mini bleachers used at the Seton track/football field, including adding support brackets to make the structure more stable.

Mr. Michael Mead holds a copper pipe with his Home Repair and Maintenance students.

Social Studies Department Chair Mr. Steve Hart

New course explores genocide

In the new semester-long Genocide Studies class taught by Mr. Steve Hart, seniors examine and analyze various examples of genocide, including the Holocaust, the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia, the disintegration of Yugoslavia and The Rwandan Genocide.

In this class — offered as general elective course — the term “genocide” is defined in accordance with United Nations.

Beyond the perpetrators and victims, students also study the bystanders who witnessed or enabled the atrocities as they were unfolding.

Students explore political, social and cultural factors within areas where genocide occurred and identify common elements that all genocides share, as well as elements that make each example of genocide truly unique.

The class also examines works of art such as books, movies, television shows and monuments that captivate and create a collective memory of the past.

Lastly, students investigate what must be done individually and collectively to best ensure a future in which genocidal behavior is obsolete.

AcDec: Its Own Kind of Team

By Noah Loungarikis AcDec Adviser

When hearing the word “decathlon,” a track and field course might come to mind, with athletes running, jumping and throwing while competing in 10 varied contests. Yet the Sentinels who make up our Academic Decathlon (AcDec) Team are involved in an entirely different type of competition.

These students prepare all year to match their intellects with students from other schools in 10 categories: Art, Economics, Essay, Interview, Language and Literature, Mathematics, Music, Science, Social Science, and Speech.

AcDec is an interdisciplinary, themed course. This means that a main theme is selected each year (at the National level) and all 10 events (except for math) tie into that theme — this year’s being “The American Revolution and The New Nation.” This approach allows the teacher/coach to connect curriculums together so the students learn that art, music, science, literature and history all happen concurrently, and knowledge can be applied from one subject to another.

“I was surprised at how much we can learn about history by looking at art from the time. It was cool seeing how historical events happened from a different perspective,” said Junior Noah Singson.

The AcDec team does not split out varsity and junior varsity teams, but is constructed so that

students from all levels are encouraged to participate in the program.

Teams consist of nine students:

• Three “A” or Honor students (3.80 — 4.00 GPA),

• Three “B” or Scholastic students (3.20 — 3.79)

• Three “C” or Varsity students (3.19 and under).

Often renewing or finding their passion for learning in this course, AcDec allows students at all levels to thrive and show their abilities.

“My greatest sense of accomplishment this year is my improvement in speech and interviewing,” shared Senior Jack Rodriguez. “When I was younger, I had struggles with speaking to other people, especially adults. Because of AcDec, I am able to confidently speak in front of others.”

Being able to read vast amounts of information is the main requirement for participation in Academic Decathlon. The material is written at a high level and is covered in a short period of time (approximately three to four weeks per subject area). All students study and compete in all 10 events — students cannot simply ignore subject areas with which they are less comfortable. This exposes students to the fact that knowledge does not come in discrete subject units and that all subjects are related by context — in this case, the American Revolution.

Students will learn how to communicate their gained knowledge effectively, and what they learn in the program will help carry them through the rest of their lives.

teaches the new Genocide Studies class

This year’s AcDec team members include, from left to right: Senior Jasmine Evans, Junior Layla Massoud, Junior Sydney Hunter, Junior Karilyn Debelo, Senior Jack Rodriguez, Junior Noah Singson and Freshman Gabe Acosta.

Rosary for our Country Community honors veterans, active duty

The Seton Catholic community honored those who served our country in the Armed Forces during our Veterans’ Day Assembly Nov. 11, 2022.

Honored guests included current and past parents and grandparents, staff, alumni and members of the community. Members of the Woodsmen of America also attended and presented Seton Catholic with two new flags for our campus. Veterans enjoyed a small breakfast reception before the assembly outside the gym.

Laura Flores-Burdick, parent to Quinn Burdick ’18 and Olivia Burdick ’15 and aunt to Sam Flores ’17 and Jake Flores ’12, delivered the keynote address.

Laura served in the Army Reserve Unit, 403rd Combat Support Hospital from 1989 to 1997 and ended her service with the rank of E-4, Specialist. She served in Kuwait during Desert Shield and Desert Storm as a General Supply Specialist and

one of the armorers. She drove five-ton trucks and maintained weapons.

After Lauras inspirational talk, all in attendance prayed the Rosary for our Country.

Grandparents Mass returns to caMpus

Liturgy honors Our Lady, Seton moms

More than 300 students and their grandparents packed the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Chapel Feb. 15 for Grandparents Mass. Fr. Gabriel Terrill spoke about the importance of traditions within families and within our own Seton community. Traditions like Grandparents Mass serve to strengthen our community through our families. A reception in the courtyard followed Mass, and featured a performance by the cast of “Bye Bye Birdie,” the spring musical.

As the Seton community honored the mother of our Lord on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception Dec. 8, students also recognized their mothers and offered thanks to God for the gift of motherhood. The annual Mothers’ Mass has become a cherished tradition that coincides with the feast of Our Lady. After the Mass,

students and their mothers celebrated at a reception in the quad with a boutique available, as well.

Kairos: ‘God’s Time’

By Jennifer Kohl ’98 Kairos 60 Director Learning Resource Coordinator

It was the fall of 1997. I was sitting in my Spanish class, and the Kairos 2 students had just returned. They were talking about the wonderful retreat they attended, and I was intrigued. My friend, Jeff Hall ’97 (father of sophomore, Louise Hall) encouraged me to give the mysteriously named retreat a try!

Since it was so new to our campus, no one really knew about Kairos. Jeff explained that Kairos, meaning “God‘s Time,” is a four-day, student-led retreat that

A group of Hispanic Seton parents and the Admissions Office prepared an altar — or ofrenda — in front of the Our Lady of Guadalupe statue in the quad to celebrate Día de los Muertos. We invited our Sentinel family to bring a picture of their loved ones who have passed away to place on the altar. The parents also prepared quesadillas and tortillas to hand out to all of our students for the celebration.

Dia de los Muertos

Hispanic Heritage Brought to Campus

helps us to grow in our relationship with God. I decided to attend Kairos 3 as a candidate and later went on to student-lead Kairos 4. Kairos presented the opportunity for this shy and quiet teen to begin her path in ministry. Little did I know that the Kairos retreat would remain a constant practice of faith throughout my life as I moved from student leader, to alumni leader, to teacher leader, to director.

Since the beginning, Kairos has remained constant. I reminisce about all the students who have filled the seats over the years, the hearts that were changed, the friendships mended, and the vocations inspired. This year brings a wave of second-generation students attending Kairos including my own daughter, Ava Kohl ’24, who attended Kairos 59. What a joy to witness the spirit of Kairos move in her.

Adding to our Kairos family are two other Kairos alumni students: Maddi Schweinberg ’23 (K59), daughter of Mike Schweinberg ’96 (K1) and Rachel Nowicki Schweinberg ’96 (K1), and Madalyn Kochis ’24 (K60), daughter of Matt Kochis ’97 (K1). What a testament to our school and

this ministry.

The Kairos 1 cross of our founding director, Sister Jeanne Bartholomeaux, and my own Kairos 4 leadership cross still hang in my classroom today. The privilege of directing this year‘s Kairos 60 is not lost on me. As we embark on our next 60 Kairoses, join me in lifting in prayer the countless students who have come before and the students who will soon fill our seats.

Live the 4th.

‘Peter Pan’ prequel takes flight

By Nicki Escudero ’02

If you think you knew the story of Peter Pan from the Disney movie, Seton Catholic Preparatory’s fall production of the play “Peter and the Starcatcher” introduced a whole new world. There was a flying pineapple, an island where inhabitants only spoke words that represented Italian food and a mermaid surrounded by dancing boys wearing very festive fish hats.

“The show itself was just absolutely chaotic. Just a very, very weird show overall, but really funny and really cool,” said drama program director Stanci Smith ’13.

The Tony Award-winning play, a Peter Pan prequel, is based on a 2004 novel by Barry and Ridley Pearson that tells the background stories of beloved characters like the Lost Boys, Captain Hook, Smee and the titular character. Smith chose it because it had such a different energy compared to other productions she’s directed at Seton Catholic. More than 45 students

Join the Seton Fine Arts Association (SFAA) at SetonCatholic.org under the “Fine Arts” tab to get priority tickets to all performances or visit the “Theatre” section of the website to purchase tickets for upcoming shows.

joined as cast and crew to produce three live performances this past October.

“It has a rhythmic manner to it and is almost poetic in nature,” Smith, Department Chair for Fine Arts, says. “It’s very goofy and very silly. It’s such a strange show, that you could really go wild with anything. There was so much room for creativity and fun. Everything is very much about the timing and pace. All of these things really come to play in the show in a really unique way.”

Adding to the magic on stage were carefully crafted costumes, lots of makeup effects and what Smith calls “a sizable amount of wigs.” Plus, some of the props were 3D-printed by the crew, including a comically large key.

Much of the action alternated between two ships on stage before moving into an island setting in the second act. Many of the actors spoke in English accents during the show. It was

a “go-big-or-go-home” type of production.

“Our students did phenomenally,” Smith says. “Their comedic timing was perfect. Their quirkiness and willingness to really lean into all of the tomfoolery of the show was impressive, as well as brave, because sometimes it’s hard to commit. They really embraced it and ran with it.”

Following “Peter and the Starcatcher” was the production of the February musical, “Bye Bye Birdie.” This spring, students can work on a clinical workshop, where they can participate in an audition seminar that includes mock auditions for acting and singing, as well as a dance call.

Students receive individual assignments, either in solo or small group work. They rehearse for about a month-and-a-half with personalized instruction from Smith, then have a one-night performance to showcase their work.

“I love to look at and think, ‘What can I see them doing? What would be out of the box for them? What would challenge them?’” Smith says. “It’s really cool, because you get to see the improvement in the kids in real time.”

Fine Arts Festival returns

After a COVID-induced hiatus, the Fine Arts Festival returned Dec. 7-8 to feature the work of the Fine Arts students. The first night featured a Variety Show for students to showcase their talents and performances from Dance. The second night highlighted Seton’s music program with performances from the Band, Guitar classes and Choir. Artwork including drawings, graphic designs, photography and ceramics were displayed both nights for guests to peruse.

FINE ARTS

PARENTS EXPERIENCE ‘HORSE HAIR FIRING’

On a chilly February evening, a group of Seton parents and friends were introduced to the art of Horse Hair Firing by ceramics teacher Ray Medhus. The technique includes firing the pot multiple times and adding horse hair and other materials like feathers to create the design. Mr. Medhus offered this experience to anyone who wanted to learn and used the event as a fundraiser for a new piece of ceramic equipment.

NEW AUDIO PRODUCTION CLASS DEBUTS

By Nicki Escudero ’02

To produce a Grammy Award-winning album, all you need is a good computer recording program. Just ask Finneas, who produced his sister Billie Eilish’s debut fulllength album “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” using Apple’s Logic Pro.

That’s the exact recording and audio production tool Seton Catholic Preparatory students are learning this semester, in the debut, capacity-filled Audio Recording class taught by music teacher Doug Slater. Students learn how to use Logic Pro and all its musical effects, plug-ins and sounds. They’re also learning how to record live musical instruments right in class.

Another part of the Audio Production class teaches how to use the Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) communications protocol to turn sounds from one instrument, like a keyboard, into notes played by another instrument such as strings. By the end of the semester, students should feel comfortable recording their own songs, whether they consist of beats from Logic Pro, feature live instruments played in the classroom recording booth or include live vocals from fellow students.

Slater’s inspiration to create the class came after he began doing more recording work during the pandemic. Slater has produced music since the early 2000s and has used Logic Pro for around the past decade. He produces at least a few songs each month as a Christian worship and country music recording artist. He also has experience

in professional recording studios, both as an engineer and as a musician.

“I wanted to do something more with technology that’s current, and audio production is right up my alley,” says Slater, who also teaches band, piano, guitar, music theory and music appreciation classes. “I’m really excited that so many kids are excited about it, to learn to record and make beats. I know kids love technology nowadays, so I think that’s a big reason why the class is full.”

Audio Production teaches students about audio interfaces, musical effects and sampling, mixing, mastering and microphone, studio building and soundproofing techniques. In addition to music production, DJs can use Logic Pro to add effects on top of live songs.

Students learn on the classroom’s recently acquired Mac computers, using a “Modern Recording Techniques” textbook and have online tutorials to guide them in class and when they want to create at home.

“I like to tailor the class to who’s in there,” Slater says, adding that students have the freedom to explore their musical creativity and get personalized instruction as they work. “Hopefully they can continue once they’re outside of school.”

Spiritline, Pomline win state championships

By Gina Wood Cheerleading Coach

Congratulations to the All Girls Stunt Cheerleading and Pom Teams for winning the state championship titles.

These are two separate teams: Stunt is cheerleading, while Pom Team is more dance-based. Our Varsity Show Cheer Team placed third.

Members of the Stunt Cheerleading Team are Senior Eliana Rutka, Juniors Libby Fogerty and Rachel Howe, Sophomore Reagan Heil and Freshman Magda Mead. Members of the Pom Team are Seniors Sofia Cavazos, Aleah Garcia and Ashlyn Minnis, Junior Libby Fogerty and Sophomores Isa Cavazos, Brynn Nicholson and Ava Sweet.

SPORTS360AZ ALLACADEMIC TEAMS

Football

Chase Dickson

DeClan Hermes

Aiden Mendoza

Jake Morris

Nico Pastore

Honorable Mention

Luc Aguilar

Gio Barone

Parker Chapman

Ryan Creech

Nickolas Pongratz

Quinn Sullivan

Alan Valenzuela

Cameron Welp

Ryan Welp

Swim and Dive

First Team

Bella Gump

Morgan Linnen

Maura O’Malley

Evangeline Walker

SETON ALUMNI COACHES ATHLETICS

Seton alumni have a tradition of coming back to coach

With all the demands of work and family, coaches still find the time to share the knowledge and wisdom they have gained. They are positive role models not just in the sport they coach but off the field/court, nurturing stronger player-coach relationships.

For many coaches it is a unique opportunity to relate directly to the Seton athletes they serve because they were once in their shoes. Here are our current alumni coaches:

Baseball

Mason Larusso ’18

Girls Basketball

Katie Mitchell ’00

Football

Matt Kochis ’97

Jack Terrill ’17

Sean Rodriguez ’18

FALL ATHLETIC RECOGNITIONS

Honorable Mention

Nico Banning

Dylan Butkiewicz

Daniela Fimbres

Faith Fletcher

Ron Krawjeski

Karla Miranda

Izabella Nieto

Patrick Rafford

Sophia Strok

Girls Volleyball

First Team

Madalyn Kochis

Caleigh Krumbach

Kylie Monks

Analeese Salazar

Sofia Shahlapour

Katherine Thiele

Ellen Tyrrell

Honorable Mention

Louise Hall

Addison Morris

Emile Yehle

Cross Country

First Team

Ethan Kralik

Emilio Llanas

Honorable Mention

Zach Albanese

Samuel Bartoszek

Ryan Kralik

Spiritline

First Team

Isabella Cavazos

Sofia Cavazos

Ashlyn Minnis

Eliana Rutka

Sydney Schurz

Honorable Mention

Daniela Fimbres

Aleah Garcia

Regan Heil

Rachel Howe

Ava Loew

Karla Miranda

Girls Golf

Kailey Fraher Gahan ’16

Girls Volleyball

James Johnson ’87

Riley Johnson ’19

Abby Hess ’22

Boys Volleyball

John Engelbert ’16

Golf

Noah Forseth

Daniel Gonzales

Jamie Gryskiewicz

Lauren Jarvise

Abby McCormick

Ryan Oppen

Luke Padilla

Max Paterson

Jack Rodriguez

Kailey Schein

Joey Steinkamp

Honorable Mention

Elisa Jones

4A DESERT SKY RECOGNITION

Football

All-Region First Team

Quinn Sullivan, Linebacker

All-Region Second Team

Jake Morris, Punter

Luc Aguilar, Offensive

Utility/Flex Player

Mika Aisake, Offensive Lineman

Honorable Mentions

Luis Mancilla

Aiden Mendoza

Patrick Mendoza

Jake Morris

Josue Perezchica

Cameron Welp

Seton Alumni Coaches

Rex Bowser — 2012 STATE Football Champions

Dennis Novy — 1977 STATE Boys Basketball Champions

CORRECTION

Sarah Krick was selected for First-Team All-Region and Second-Team All-Conference for Girls Soccer. She was incorrectly listed in the last issue.

Girls Golf Team finishes season undefeated

By Nicki Escudero ’02

In contrast to some larger SCP sports teams, the girls golf squad is a small, tight-knit group of nine players who span all grade levels. Small, yes, but mighty — the team went undefeated in their 12-0 season, won the Copper Classic invitational tournament, finished second at the Mountain Ridge Girls Golf Open invitational and came in second overall in the region.

Coach Toni Stevenson, who’s

coached the team for four years, including three years as head coach, says the team’s outlook seems extremely bright. Freshman Cynthia Lang competes in golf tournaments across the country, and Coach Stevenson expects her to lead the team going forward. By the time she’s a senior, it’s possible Lang may be the No. 1 golfer in the state for Division II, the division Seton Catholic competes in.

In the state tournament in Tucson this past October, the girls golf

team placed seventh out of 12 teams, but achieved significantly improved scores day-over-day in the pressure-filled tournament.

Senior Lauren Jarvise, who played in the state tournament all four years, had an outstanding last day, Coach Stevenson said, achieving all-time high scores for her Seton Catholic state tournament experience.

This year, assistant coach and Seton Catholic counselor Kailey Gahan ’16, who played golf at the collegiate level, introduced the players to drills from her college playing time.

Stevenson says players range from golf-focused athletes, to multi-sport golfers, to students who have never picked up a club before joining the team. She says it’s always rewarding to watch the golfers progress.

“I really want the girls who come out to learn to play golf so they can continue on and, later in life, be comfortable and confident

Senior breaks swim record

When the Sentinels’ Swim and Dive team competed in the Saturday Night Fever Meet at Chandler High School Oct. 22, they posted some of their best times of the year, including Senior Izabella “Izzy” Nieto breaking a school record for the 100 Breast Stroke.

Izzy swam the 100 Breast Stroke at 1:09:26 — breaking the school record by over three seconds. She also holds the State record for the 200 Medley Relay at 1:52:64 from last year with former students Claire Armstrong, Brea Zandt and Catalina Merrill.

“Swimming has always been a big part of my life, helping me set and attain specific goals, and helping me become the best version of myself in and out of the water,” Izzy said.

Izzy started swimming at age 7 and said she’s been improving her technique and strength consistently each year.

“I believe I will reach more goals I set for myself while cheering on my teammates towards their goals,” she said. “Being able to compete in a sport that is both individually based and team-oriented is amazing.”

Coach Todd Merrill, head coach for Seton’s Varsity Swimming team, described Izzy as a dedicated swimmer who leads by example and gives credit to her coaches and teammates.

“Izzy is a true leader and one of the hardest workers I've ever come across,” he said. “She'll give maximum effort on a set but will still compliment a teammate for

playing, either with their family or their friends or coworkers on a business golf outing,” said Stevenson. “It’s a nice way to learn a sport that’s going to be a lifelong sport.”

In addition to practicing the mechanics of the sport, the athletes learn techniques to maintain a calm mental state when they’re psychologically challenged. Stevenson recommends using a distraction — like chewing bubblegum or sour candy — to loosen up and relax before starting a drive.

“It’s helpful to have a routine you do if you have a bad shot,” Stevenson said. “Maybe take three deep breaths, or say a phrase to yourself, or think of something that made you happy, … so you can do better on the next one.

“It’s a great way to make some good friends because you spend a lot of time together. We’re a very cohesive team,” she added.

the job they did.”

“I can't say enough great things about Izzy,” Coach Merrill added. “She's a true credit to the school, herself and her family.”

Izzy advises her fellow athletes to stay focused on their goals.

“Stay focused on the ultimate goal,” says Izzy. “Don't blow the opportunities given to you. Never look back.”

STUDENT LIFE

CAMPUS COMMUNITY CELEBRATES HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

By Robbie Peñate Director of Student Involvement & Activities

Some members of our community may not be aware that Seton was founded with the intention of serving a large Hispanic population. More than 40 percent of our current student body has Hispanic heritage. Because of this, we wanted to honor our history and celebrate our current community during National Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15-Oct. 15, 2022.

One of our main goals was to help our community learn more about different Hispanic cultures. Our Solidarity and Diversity club members, led by Mrs. Cynthia Robles Kubasak, created flyers that had information about Hispanic men and women who had a significant cultural impact and placed them around the campus for all to see. Our Spanish teachers generously donated banners that had flags from all 21 Spanish-speaking countries, and our Spanish National Honor Society, led by Mrs. Ainhoa Madariaga, paired these with fun facts about each country. We encouraged our students to learn more about these people and countries by hosting a trivia contest featuring information that could be gleaned

from the posters.

We didn’t stop with just knowledge; we also wanted our students to experience a little taste of the different Hispanic cultures. Our Amigos Club, led by Mr. Tony Gutiérrez, put together a playlist of music from different Hispanic artists, and we were able to share that music with students each morning during announcements. Our Dance class taught us a basic salsa dance step during break.

To cap it all off we hosted two salsa-making contests, one for students and one for staff, which were won by Freshman Luke Hess and our Principal Mr. Victor Serna. All in all, we had a great month celebrating the cultural roots that are such a big part of our community, and we look forward to continuing to celebrate our Hispanic Heritage for years to come.

Solidarity Club promotes human dignity with blood drive

By Cynthia Robles Kubasak Theology Faculty

The Solidarity club held the first of its two annual Seton blood drives Nov. 3, coinciding with the “Dia de los Muertos.” Forty-one volunteers showed up to donate, and from that there were 33 successful donations. One donation can save up to three lives. Artists donated their time to paint faces as a way to tell the donors “thank you.”

The Solidarity club runs two blood drives every year. The club is a social justice club which aims to inform its members and our school community about injustice as well as identify ways to stand up for human dignity and make a loving difference.

Special thanks to the following students for making the blood drive a success:

Seniors Madeline Arnold, Briceida Castillo, Toni-Ann Gardner, Ashley Mendivil, Cosette Milyard, Scarlett Parra, Sofia Sanchez Chavez and Sophia Strok; Juniors Saane Fatai, Joseph McAuliff and Ava Merrill; and Sophomore Wendy Garvey.

SETON SOCIETY OF GENTLEMEN INSTILLS AUTHENTIC MASCULINITY

By Diego Mota De Alcantara, Senior Society President

The purpose of The Seton Society of Gentlemen is to create a fraternity of young men to learn and grow into the men the world needs today.

Our goal is to stir up the deep desire for true masculinity in each one of us, so that throughout high school and afterward we may pursue our callings.

The club meetings start with a

prayer asking for God’s guidance and assistance in our journey to becoming the men the world needs today. We discuss topics each week that are presented by the leaders that range from practical things — like starting a fire —, to moral issues like sacrifice.

I am so glad that this opportunity presented itself because high school is a major formation period where vice takes root or virtue grows fruit. The Society establishes a steady beat of moral consistency with other brothers.

Today’s society is constantly pushing a lifestyle contrary

to Christ’s, and finding likeminded young men in pursuit of goodness, truth and beauty has been such a blessing.

Sentinels celebrate a ‘Hollywood’ Homecoming

Hollywood came to Seton in October during Homecoming week. Daily dress-up themes included:

• “Minion Monday” — Seniors dressed as Gru and other students dressed as Minions.

• “Teen Beach Tuesday” — Everybody had to pick a side from “Teen Beach Movie,” surfers in Hawaiian shirts or bikers in biker gear.

• “Disneyland Dad” — How touristy can you look?

• “No Paparazzi” — Hide from those pesky photographers behind big hats, sunglasses and baggy clothes.

• “Color Wars” — Each grade represented their colors: Seniors in red, Juniors in blue, Sophomores in yellow and Freshmen in green. New this year was a “Best Dressed” contest each day, where students received prizes for their efforts. The week ended with the traditional Homecoming game on Friday night, where Seniors Ashley Gyhra and Joseph Baker were crowned Queen and King.

Event Center impact to go beyond campus

By Nicki Escudero ’02

Imagine a Seton Catholic Preparatory campus with its own sprawling event center. A place where students can gather for Mass. Where alumni can attend galas and Hall of Fame honoree events. Where community members can book space for corporate gatherings and other revenuegenerating meetings.

The new Seton Catholic Event Center will become a reality, alongside the renovation of the McMahon Gymnasium. The initial phase of both projects will result in air conditioning in the current gym and the expansion of the central plant to expand capacity for the new building. Additional phases include renovated locker rooms, new rooms for wrestling, cheer and storage and an additional 8,630 square feet of space in the current gym alone.

When the state-of-the-art Event Center debuts, it will include two floors of space spanning more than 50,000 feet, featuring a spacious lobby, two concession areas and new rooms for weightlifting, film review and spin class. The Event Center will also include a sound booth, a warming kitchen for catering prep and storage areas for tables, chairs and equipment for facility rentals.

As Rodriguez says, it will be a space that benefits current, past and future Seton Catholic

students, as well as the community at large.

“This is no ordinary building,” says Director of Advancement Tony Rodriguez. “Everybody is going to be able to use this in one way or another. This is something that’s going to be here for a long, long time. That’s why we want to get the whole community involved.”

The total cost for the project is $21 million. Already, more than $9 million has been pledged through donations from Seton Catholic-connected families and community members, including a $7 million commitment from the Shea Homes Foundation. The school also plans to apply for $3.5 million in grants to help fund the projects.

Fundraising for the Founded in Faith –Building on Excellence Capital Campaign for the new Event Center and McMahon Gym

renovations began last year, with a public kick-off in November 2022 that saw more than 80 attendees. An encouraging aspect of the campaign is that 100 percent of Seton Catholic’s faculty and staff have pledged to contribute.

The Capital Campaign includes an Alumni Decades Challenge, where the decade of graduates that donates the most will win a special designation. They’ll also get to attend an alumni event once the challenge goal of $195,400 (in honor of Seton’s debut year of 1954) is met.

Exciting Possibilities on Campus

Once the Event Center is built, there’s no limit to how it can be used by those at school and by the community. In addition to hosting Seton Catholic events like school liturgies, the annual

O ur Spring Goal is $3 MILLION BY JUNE 1

If we hit our goal, we will begin work to put air conditioning in the gym for the beginning of the 2023-24 school year!

Renovation is expected to include these items:

• Installation of air-conditioning system throughout the gym

• Running new construction and utility lines

• Purchase and installation of a new chiller for gym and Event Center

• Demolition and construction of the nor th side to include the new classroom, locker rooms, dedicated cheer room and wrestling room

• Eventual removal and re-integration of the current lobby

gala and alumni reunions, it can be a space for public gatherings such as awards ceremonies, as well as private events.

The Event Center will bolster the Chandler community by offering a space other schools can use as well as a place local businesses and community members can book.

Its community impact motivates people like Sal Flores to work on the Capital Campaign, even after his son Sam graduated in 2017.

“Introducing the community to what we’re doing, and getting involved in the municipal level is so important to the success of Seton and the overall greater success of our tri-city area of Chandler, Tempe and Mesa,” says Flores, who serves as the Capital Campaign chair. “We have a large tech base, and people are hired from all over the country and are always looking for their children to have a great opportunity for education, Seton being one of them. The Event Center gives us a way to showcase the kind of school we have.”

SCAN TO SUPPORT THE CAMPAIGN

Capital Campaign Cabinet member Rindi Eubanks-Garcia ’87 says she continues to be involved in Seton Catholic because of its enduring impact on the community and her family. Eubanks-Garcia previously coached cheerleading at the school for around a decade, and her kids Rhetta Eubanks ’17 and Shea Eubanks ’19 also attended Seton Catholic.

“If you feel like Seton had an impact on you, then this is a real way to give back to your community.”

— Rindi EubanksGarcia ’87

Eubanks-Garcia says the Event Center is the missing piece from the physical side of campus. Its creation will immediately benefit current students and also provide a place for other students from East Valley schools to use. It provides needed space for athletics and much more.

As the Capital Campaign leaders work on gathering support in the form of financial donations and pledges, volunteerism and prayer for the campaign, Eubanks-Garcia explains why someone connected to Seton Catholic might consider donating.

“If you feel like Seton had an impact on you, then this is a real way to give back to your community,” Eubanks-Garcia says. “Seton has impacted our family for years, not just the school, but the community of Seton. It quickly becomes part of who a family is, and I think that’s really important.”

There are various naming rights opportunities for donors. For more information or to donate to the Capital Campaign, scan the QR code.

“I want to thank everybody who has been participating and who has gifted us with their generosity,” Rodriguez says. “It’s always heartwarming to know we have people like that in our community.”

SHOUT OUT TO ALL AL UMNI !

We challenge each decade of graduates to bring in more than their fellow alumni!

• 1958 - 1969

• 1970 - 1979

• 1980 - 1989

• 1990 - 1999

• 2000- 2009

• 2010-2022

The goal for the decade challenge is $195,400 in honor of 1954, the year that Seton star ted.

• That’s roughly 110 people per decade pledging $50/month

• A personal pledge of $1,954 comes out to just over $54 a month for three years.

Show your Sentinel spirit by being an alum who pledges a monthly gift!

The decade of graduates that donates the most will have a special event hosted for them when the Event Center opens.

FEATURES

One student’s journey

From severe burn injury to exceptional recovery

By Nicki Escudero ’02

One night in March 2022, then Seton Catholic Preparatory Sophomore Matthew Monsegur and three of his friends were driving in Chandler to another friend’s house. Matthew was seated in the front passenger seat, when a spark lit a fuse that set off fireworks that were in the car. The firework explosion led to an offroad collision with a pole.

Matthew, now a junior, saw an open door, got out and ran. His quick actions, fueled by adrenaline, helped protect his life.

Minutes later, he was transported to the Arizona Burn Center — Valleywise Health. On arrival to the emergency room, Matthew told the paramedic, “I am a fighter.” He was put into a medically induced coma, had emergency surgery that night and didn’t wake up for more than six weeks.

During his coma, Matthew underwent more than eight skin graft surgeries. His burn percentage was 40 percent, which meant the fire during the car accident caused a severe burn injury. While Matthew was asleep, skin was removed from his back, run through a

machine, then stapled to his leg. His right knee is completely “grafted.”

The coma enabled doctors to perform the surgeries and minimize the pain Matthew would have experienced from these serious procedures. Meanwhile, he lost 25 pounds in the hospital since he wasn’t moving and was fed by a tube.

When Matthew awoke, he recovered remarkably swiftly. He rose to consciousness on Easter, left the hospital around a week later and moved into a rehabilitation center for 10 days. Then, he went home and continued physical therapy work all summer.

He was able to drive by late May, around the same time he underwent another surgery, to have his appendix taken out. When he returned to school just a few months after his accident, he competed on Seton Catholic’s boys golf team.

“My recovery process is why I’m standing here today,” says Matthew. “I’ve done a lot of things most people with similar burn percentages haven’t done. I was able to go up to my cabin. I was able to spend time with my family. I was

able to run.”

Not that everything’s been easy. When he first arrived home, simple actions like picking something off the ground were challenging. Skin grafts make the skin very tight, to the point where the contraction makes it difficult to move.

That didn’t stop Matthew. Every day, he made progress by moving as much as he could. He attended physical therapy sessions at Move Performance Center & Physical Therapy in Chandler three days a week during the summer, while making up some the class time he missed.

“Matthew’s positive attitude and acceptance of his circumstances have been key to his successful recovery,” says Trish WickhamMonsegur, Matthew’s mom. “He has handled every difficulty with strength, courage and hard work. Those are things we need to remember when facing life’s challenges. His resilience is amazing.”

Matthew also walked around on golf courses, playing the sport he loves and that his grandparents and father introduced him to. Today, he continues physical therapy weekly to continue to loosen up the scar tissue and improve his mobility.

While it may take several years for the appearance of his legs to look like they did before the accident, Matthew’s mostly recovered today. He lifts weights. He’s thinking about playing football in the fall. He gained back the 25 pounds he lost, plus a few more as he’s regained his strength.

He attributes his inspiring progress to his motivation and the support of his family. He enjoys sharing his story with people he meets at physical therapy and anyone who needs to be uplifted in life.

“I say pick your head up,” Matthew says. “If you don’t look at something bigger than what you are right now, you aren’t going to get there. It’s all about mentality.

“I look at where I was to where I am now and the opportunities I have in front of me to do amazing things,” Matthew continues. “It doesn’t stop there. I just want to keep going.”

Matthew Monsegur (third from left) smiles with his physical therapy training team.

SCAN TO WATCH AUDREY’S FILM

By Audrey Wood ’22

Whenever I experience self-doubt, I take it as a sign to run in the opposite direction. Last year in Mrs. Cynthia Kubasak’s senior Morality class, I created a short film exploring impostor syndrome.

Called “the ELEPHANT and ME,” my film brings light to the issue of negative self-image and the impacts of imposter syndrome through a spoken-word poem and accompanying handdrawn visuals.

Imposter syndrome — the voice in your head that says you are not good enough — is something I struggle with. I sometimes let the

Alumna reflects on student Emmy

elephant, the voice of doubt, win: I shy away from sharing my gifts with others.

During my time at Seton, I realized that this is something many people constantly battle but rarely share. I address this “elephant in the room” through my film in the hopes that it will encourage those who watch it to hear their doubting voices and then run in the opposite direction.

When God calls us to use our gifts, the devil will stall us in every way possible. He gets in our heads. If everyone hides their gifts, their passions and themselves, it will be much harder for God’s goodness to thrive in this world. Living God’s call to holiness begins with fighting the elephant in our heads.

I originally doubted this topic — I am so glad I ignored those doubts. This film is special to me and has continued to impact my life and the lives of those around me, over a year after it was first shown in class.

Seton nominees for 2022 National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (Student Emmys)

Audrey Wood

“The Elephant and Me”

• Director

• Writer

“SCTV News”

• Anchor/Host

Talent Reel

Luisa Casillas

• Anchor/Reporter

This past year, “the ELEPHANT and ME” won two Rocky Mountain Southwest Student Production Awards and a National Student Production Award in Writing from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences — the Emmys.

Running away from the doubts has brought so much good. Next time you doubt yourself, run away from the elephant and towards God. He has something incredible in store.

Library renovations revitalize student space

By Nicki Escudero ’02

Seton Catholic Preparatory students, faculty and staff have seen a major transformation on campus this year. The historic campus library and adjacent Sister Joan Marie Madden courtyard have been completely renovated, creating new spaces for students to study, learn and connect.

Over the past year, the previous library was completely gutted to create a brand-new, technology-focused space. Walking in, guests are greeted by a beautiful circulation desk and a welcoming open layout. New carpet gives the library a modern aesthetic.

This new space offers communal tablets available for students to log on and access classwork so they can collaborate with other students or work and study in a peaceful and quiet space. There’s also a new conference room, which is available for clubs, student groups and parent/community groups.

The renovations were funded in part by the 2022 “An Evening in Cactus Country” gala, which raised more than $110,000 to go toward the renovations. The Gila River Indian Community State Shared Revenue Grant also awarded the school $500,000 that helped fund the improvements.

Renovations included a new HVAC system, renovated ceilings and new offices for the Advancement team and the Spirit Store/ SCRIP office. The multipurpose conference room will feature Native American artifacts and educational resources.

Two new entry ways allow you to walk outside the library to the courtyard, where students and faculty can also enjoy an improved space. The courtyard features tables, benches and umbrellas, so students can enjoy lunch there or use the outdoor space in conjunction with the library when they’re working on projects. The centerpiece of the courtyard is a new pedestal for the statue of Mary, which is from the original

Seton Catholic campus. This space will be a gathering spot for prayer and worship.

“I think the combination of the library renovation and the new courtyard is something that will really be enjoyed, because it’s connected,” says Tony Rodriguez, Director of Advancement. “When you get campus improvements like these, you can see the positive differences in the attitudes and health of the students and faculty.”

Michael Cohen ’61

Michael recently moved his part-time residence from Kentucky to Nebraska. His latest books — “And Other Essays” (Glass House Books, 2020) and “A Place to Read” (IP Press, 2014) — are available online from Amazon and Barnes & Noble and in audiobook form from Audible.com.

Patty Kirby married Brian Matlock in 2018. They now live in Central Oregon, where she works as Ecclesial Notary and Coordinator for the Matrimonial Tribunal of the Diocese of Baker.

Kerri is a site-reliability engineering manager at Insight Enterprises in Chandler. Kerri was chosen as a winner for Insight’s Values Awards Winners (recognition program) out of 11,000 employees! She worked on a major, company-wide software migration that helped move approximately 500 employees to a unified platform. Kerri and her husband Bill were rewarded with an all-expensespaid trip to the Bahamas to celebrate her accomplishments!

Florinda Vega ’94

Florinda owns a promotional product design marketing print shop and also works as a project manager for Sign Design Lab. She has a bachelor’s degree in marketing advertising from San Diego State University.

Annette has been married for 11 years and has three beautiful kids. Currently, she’s the Chief Medical Officer for Community Bridges, and practices Family and Addiction Medicine.

Susan White Foss ’04

Susan and her husband just celebrated the birth of their fourth child, Luke Michael, in August 2021.

Daniel Corcoran ’11

After graduating, Daniel moved to the Washington, D.C., area and earned a bachelor’s degree in systems engineering from George Mason University. He now works as a satellite flight controller for Iridium, LLC, in one of its Northern Virginia operations centers. Interestingly enough, the company is based out of Chandler.

Daniel Cortez ’12 and Kayla Everhart ’14

Daniel and his fianceé Kayla are both teachers at Eduprize School in Queen Creek and met through a mutual teacher friend. Daniel teaches eighth grade science, and Kayla teaches first grade. They will be getting married at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Scottsdale this December!

Claire (Evans) Rauguth ’14

Claire and her husband welcomed their first child, little Mr. Bennett James, in April 2022. Bennett’s grandparents — Kathleen and Mike Evans, both Seton employees — and the rest of the family on both sides are over the moon and in love with him!

Kaelan Hayes ’15

Since graduating Seton, Kaelan has graduated with a nursing degree from the University of Arizona and has been commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. Currently, he is stationed at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base as a nurse in the Eighth medical group. Most recently, he was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal during his COVID relief deployment where he helped civilian hospitals that were overwhelmed during the pandemic.

Abigail “Abby” Stoll ’21

After graduating, Abby started her education in Speech and Hearing science and Communication Disorders at Maricopa Community college and will be transferring to Arizona State University in the Fall of 2023. While working on her studies, she returned to Seton to work in the Admissions department, helping incoming families to see all that Seton has to offer. “I want to be able to share my Seton experience with new prospective families and provide guidance as they look into our school,” she said.

Audrey Wood ’22

Audrey is a Film Production Student at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles and was awarded a “student Emmy” in the fall of 2022. See her story on P. 19.

Annette (Altamirano) Lusko ’00

Kerri O’Connor-Canonica ’99

Patricia (Kirby) Matlock ’91

ALUMNI

Alumni return for Homecoming tailgate

Sentinel alumni returned to campus for Homecoming Oct. 28, reconnecting during the Alumni Tailgate and celebrating the State Championship Football teams during halftime of the game. The Tailgate is offered at no charge to all alumni and their families.

Four championship teams celebrated

This year marked the anniversary of several State Championship teams from Sentinel history. At the Homecoming Game Oct. 28, the championship football teams from 1972, 1997 and 2012 were honored at halftime for the 50th, 25th and 10th anniversaries of their championships! In January, the 1977 Boys Basketball State Championship team was honored at halftime of the boys basketball game on their 45th anniversary.

Hall of Fame inductees recognized

Congratulation to the 2022 inductees, recognized Nov. 12:

• Pete Vlastelica ’95, Distinguished Alumnus Hall of Fame

• Karen Hill, Distinguished Service Hall of Fame

• Haley Lawless Hessenauer ’12, Distinguished Athletics Hall of Fame

Hall of Fame inductees are recognized for demonstrated commitment to and application of the standards of excellence for which Seton Catholic is known. Please nominate anyone you feel should be considered for future Hall of Fame Inductions using the QR code to the right.

Correction

Class of 1972 graduate Stephen M. Haler’s name was incorrectly spelled in the caption with his class featured in the “Golden Sentinels” story in the last issue. We apologize for the inaccuracy.

Gila River Indian Community Grant Awards $500K

ADVANCEMENT

to SCP

By Nicki Escudero ’02

Seton Catholic has long had a connection with the Gila River Indian Community. For decades, the school has made available to the reservation transportation for students from St. Peter Indian Mission School to attend the school.

In November, the school was awarded the Gila River Indian Community State Shared Revenue Grant of $500,000, which went toward library renovations. SCP is grateful for organizations like GRIC that provide substantial financial resources for campus improvement projects.

Deepening the connection between the Gila River Indian Community and the school will be a new display about Native American communities in the library’s conference room. Visitors can learn about Native American ancestry and heritage, plus see artifacts on display there.

Gala Nets $110K for Renovations

More than 350 people gathered in their country chic attire for a memorable “Evening in Cactus Country” Sept. 10. The annual gala netted more than $110,000 toward renovations for the library.

Parents Alex Boyle and Carey Anthony co-chaired the event held at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass in Chandler. Guests attended Mass before being welcomed into the cocktail hour and silent auction, where music teacher Doug Slater serenaded guests with live guitar music.

A cuddly “therapy cow,” standing around three feet tall and eliciting smiles from guests, joined the “booze burro” that distributed drinks. Dinner, a live auction

THANK YOU!

With your support we raised over: $21,000 on Sentinel Giving Day Feb. 1!

Your gifts directly affect our students' daily experience here at Seton Catholic. We are grateful for our supporters!

and dancing rounded out the evening.

Library Assistant and Special Events Coordinator Karen Hill shared that the authentic Southwestern venue and desert-themed décor added to the gala’s festive spirit. “The crowd was pretty amazing,” said Hill. “Everybody just enjoyed being with each other. It’s so good to see our community come together and celebrate Seton Catholic. It’s heart-warming to see that.”

To volunteer for the 2023 Gala, contact the Advancement Office at Gala@SetonCatholic.org.

Winners of the Gala item “Sentinel Sofa” enjoy their sideline seats at the first football game of the season.

CALENDAR IN MEMORIAM

The Seton Catholic Preparatory community extends its deepest sympathy to friends and family members of the deceased. May they rest in peace in the arms of the Lord.

ALUMNI

John Elias Aranda ’79

September 2022

Katherine (Trina) Acedo Perreault ’02 October 2022

Fr. Scott Sperry ’04

December 2022

PARENTS/ GRANDPARENTS

Benito Acuña

Current Grandparent

August 2022

Richard Adlhoch

Past Parent & Past Grandparent

December 2022

Edythe Bowers

Past Parent

October 2022

David Jimenez

Past Grandparent

January 2023

Sara Lawrence

Past Grandparent August 2022

Kay Ryan

Current Parent

January 2023

FACULTY/STAFF

Robert (Bob) Noel

Former Coach

October 2022

If you are aware of a member of the Seton community who recently passed away, please notify the Seton Advancement Office at setonalumni@setoncatholic.org.

Seton community mourns alumnus, former chaplain

By Patricia Collins

Former Principal

Rev. Scott Sperry ‘04 was a faith-filled person who, from the time he entered Seton, recognized the importance of prayer as a way of calling us back to Christ after we would wander off, be it in student life or academics. Father Scott demonstrated during his life that to be a disciple of Christ takes faith, sacrifice and courage.

Fr. Scott was a determined student who challenged himself with Advanced Placement courses. He was an athlete who played for the Seton Catholic golf team and practiced leadership through Kairos.

A few years after graduation, Fr. Scott returned to Seton Catholic as Kairos alumni leader, and Seton was blessed to have him appointed assistant Chaplain in the fall of 2016.

Fr. Scott never stopped loving the friends he

made at Seton, with two of his classmates remaining his best friends throughout his life. Fr. Scott reminded all of us that Christ is as always there to take us into his open arms.

“God is at work in strengthening us, even in times He permits us to suffer,” he once shared. “He prepares us for the hardships we face and continues to support and lead us with His grace. It is hard to see when we are facing our trials, but we can have courage to fight, trusting that God is there.”

April 21

Spring Fine Arts Showcase

April 30

Senior Brunch

May 16 Graduation

April 28

Seton Catholic Golf Classic

May 15

Baccalaureate Mass

Beginning May 30

Summer Camps

June 5

Summer School Begins

Seton Catholic Preparatory Day September 13

September 16

Annual Gala