The Sentinel Shield Fall 2016

THE SENTINEL SHIELD

MAGAZINE OF SETON CATHOLIC PREPARATORY | FALL 2016

What does it take to be a Sentinel?

FROM THE PRINCIPAL’S DESK

A CHRIST- LIKE COURSE OF ACTION

Dear Friends,

Each year, Seton Catholic Prep highlights one of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s four charisms: Courage, Faith, Love or Determination. The 2016-17 school year focuses on the charism of Determination. The definition for determination is the quality of having a firmness of purpose. An individual who exemplifies determination is witness to a decision on a Christ-like course of action, regardless of the difficulty, distraction, discouragement or resistance.

Determination is the grit that goes into accomplishing something. It is all the practice time needed to learn how to play an instrument, perform a dance, improve your time or make that shot in a sport. Grit is all the study that goes into earning a 36 on an ACT; it is setting a goal and pushing through to accomplishment regardless of the challenges encountered.

This issue of the Sentinel Shield features students and alumni who have exemplified determination through their athletic accomplishments, academic achievements, leadership and loving service to others.

Pat Collins

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4-5

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10-13

14-15

16-17

Seton

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Retired

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THE SHIELD

FALL 2016

ADMINISTRATION

Principal Patricia Collins

Assistant Principal David Sorkin

Dean of Students Julie Grindey

Director of Admissions Brandon Harris

Director of Athletics Matt Mayo ’98

Campus Minister Holly Forseth

Campus Minister Jennifer Kohl

Director of Counseling Jerry Mullin

Director of Finance Bob Esposito

Director of Student Activities Beth Pattock

Chaplain Fr. Chris Axline

Seton Catholic Preparatory 1150 North Dobson Road • Chandler, AZ 85224 • 480.963.1900 • SetonCatholic.org

Jennifer Ellis

Assistant Director

Becky

Joyce Valdez

Alumni Relations Manager

Krista Cunningham ’95

Karen Hill, Lucille Ruchensky

Joyce Valdez

Editor Kim Cecere

President Eddie Cook

Vice President Susan Fugger

Secretary Craig Echeveste

Principal Patricia Collins

Fr. Chris Axline

Nelsonja Bastian

Ray Ciferno

Fred DeLuca

Brandy Martinez

Norman Mendoza

Fidencio Rivera

Fr. Scott Sperry

Tom Walentitsch

Shannon Wilson

Board of Trustees Liaison

Rich Zawtocki

OUR MISSION To provide a college preparatory curriculum within a Catholic faith community focusing on academic excellence, leadership and loving service to others.

2016-17 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Gabe Ortiz ’88, Board President Medtronic Inc., Medical Device Sales

Ryan Corry ’04, The Society of St.

Vincent de Paul, Development Officer

Carol Dobson, Dobson Family Farms, Owner

Tracy Dorsey, CPA, Seton Catholic Prep and Resurrection Parish volunteer

Sal Flores, Flores

A RED (AND GOLD) CARPET WELCOME!

Please join us in welcoming the following outstanding teachers, coaches and staff to the Seton Catholic Prep community:

Zetta Armbruster, MA English

Gerry Cassidy, BA Science

Holly Forseth, MA Campus Ministry

Carlie Jensen, BA Math

Robbie Penate, BA Theology

Ben Wick, MA Wrestling

Rob Perry, MAT Sports Medicine

Jacque Silvas, MA Body Sculpting

IMPRESSIVE MEDAL COUNT

CHRISTIAN SERVICE SOUTH OF THE BORDER BRAVO FOR SUMMER CAMPS

Agua Prieta, Mexico, is an impoverished town near the United States border. Six Seton families traveled there in June to perform service.

During their four-day mission, the 14-member group of students and parents stayed in dorms and worked on several projects, including plastering the walls and pouring a cement floor at a neighborhood soup kitchen that operates out of the annex of a local family’s house. They also set tiles into a mosaic for a community mural; prepared and served a meal for the residents of a migrant shelter; and visited children at a local orphanage.

Those attending were Tracy and Regan Dorsey; Char, Robert and Katherine McCreadie; Theresa and Cooper Moore; Wes and Dillon Shipley; Michelle, Josh and Zach Sladek; and Shane and James Stevenson.

Seton sophomore Regan Dorsey said, “It felt great to show the children at the orphanage love and to make their day a little brighter. The image of all the kids waving goodbye to us through the gate will be forever embedded in my mind.”

The Seton families worked in partnership with Rancho Feliz Charitable Foundation, Inc., a Scottsdalebased organization that has coordinated volunteer missions to Mexico since 1987. For more information about Rancho Feliz, visit ranchofeliz.com.

HATS OFF TO FACULTY AND STAFF

Recent academic and professional accomplishments by Assistant Principal David Sorkin and seven faculty members further Seton Catholic Prep’s reputation as a premier private Catholic school.

In May, Sorkin earned a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University. His doctoral dissertation, “Understanding Transformative Leadership Among High School Students: Creating Conditions to Lead,” suggests service-learning projects can foster leadership in high-school students.

Theology teacher Cynthia Kubasak earned a Master of Education in Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment from the University of Mary. Her thesis, “The Effects of Differentiated Instruction on Student Motivation and Lifelong Learning,” was focused on college preparatory curriculum.

In addition, English teacher Clarisa Foor earned a Master of Arts in Curriculum, Instruction and

Assessment from the University of Mary. Foor’s thesis was titled, “Literature Review on Standardized Testing and Efficacy.”

World Languages Department Chair and French teacher Robin Noudali wrote a scholarly article, “Performance Assessments to Improve Student Proficiency,” that was published in the March/April issue of The Language Educator, the professional journal of The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages.

In May, Bridget O’Neill, English chair and Drama director, received the 2016 Elizabeth Ann Seton Award for her dedication and commitment to Seton Catholic’s mission and ideals.

Teachers Bob Bitler, Tom Darby and Cecilia Sanders received grants from the Robert & Marie Hansen Family Foundation to attend Acton University (AU) in Grand Rapids, Mich. Held annually in June, AU is a unique exploration of the intellectual foundations of a free society.

The Summer Olympic Games were not the only ones awarding gold, silver and bronze medals.

Seton students earned three gold, 14 silver and 26 bronze medals in the Spanish exam and one bronze in the French exam, a grand total of 44 medals. The American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese and the American Association of Teachers of French sponsor the annual exams, which are administered in the spring.

Nationally, more than 160,000 students in grades 6 through 12 took the Spanish exam, and about 100,000 students from all grade levels participated in the national French competition.

“Our students have a long history of doing well on these exams,” said French teacher Robin Noudali, who chairs Seton’s World Languages Department. “The results reflect both the students’ and their teachers’ dedication to language proficiency.”

MEMORIAL FUND HONORS COURAGEOUS SENTINEL

Established in April 2016, the Joseph Kahler Memorial Fund serves as a lasting tribute to a beloved member of the Seton Catholic Prep family.

Kahler passed away in 2014 after a courageous battle against a rare form of cancer that required multiple surgeries and experimental treatments. Through it all, he remained dedicated to his family, faith, friends and the community.

It was no secret that Kahler had a soft spot in his heart for young people, and one of his desires was to leave a legacy to support deserving Seton students. That wish inspired Sherrie Kahler to honor her late husband by creating the memorial fund, allowing family, friends and members of the community to honor him in perpetuity.

For more information about donating to the Joseph Kahler Memorial Fund, please visit setoncatholic.org/advancement-office/scholarship-funds/.

BIDDING ADIEU

Seton summer camps enrolled 448 students this year, making 2016 one of the most successful summer camp seasons in recent memory. Eleven sports camps for boys and girls were offered, including football, baseball, basketball, volleyball, strength and conditioning, and cheer. There were three music-theater sessions, giving campers plenty of opportunity to shout, “Ta-da!”

FUTURE DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE

Senior Nicole Gehret was selected to participate in the 2016 Summer Health Institute at Arizona State University in July. The program provides selected students who have completed their junior year the opportunity to live on the ASU Downtown campus for a week while exploring careers in health and medicine. Gehret, whose goal is to become a doctor, volunteers at Dignity Health Chandler Regional Hospital and has been a student intern at the Barrow Neurological Institute.

Nicole Gehret q

q Robin Noudali

q Joseph Kahler

p Top photo left to right: Bob Bitler, Cecilia Sanders and Tom Darby

p Bottom photo left to right: David Sorkin, Bridget O’Neill and Pat Collins

Seton Catholic Prep would like to wish a warm farewell to recent retirees Mary Jo Sandomir, Theology chair and teacher (17 years), and Paula Osterday, Advancement Director (11 years). Thank you for your excellence, dedication and loving service to the Seton Catholic community!

GOT GAME?

Seton Catholic Prep is known to cultivate plenty of scholar athletes, but it is an exceptional combination of drive and determination that set certain alumni apart. One of them is Julia Barcello ’14. A storied Seton basketball all-star, Barcello was on the team that won a trio of state championships under head coach Karen Self and served three years as Sentinel team captain— all while maintaining a 3.9 GPA!

Determination

helps Julia Barcello lead by example on and off the court

Her basketball prowess earned Barcello a full ride to Colgate University in Hamilton, N.Y., where she recently began her junior year. Yet her drive to succeed extends well beyond the basketball court. Barcello’s fierce determination plays out across athletics, academics and, most meaningfully of all, helping others.

According to Barcello, “Success is achieved by doing the little things that most people would overlook, disregarding anyone who tells you that you ‘can’t’ or ‘aren’t good enough,’ persevering through the valleys and ultimately trusting that with God in your corner, all things are possible.”

Seton Domination

It was not long after Barcello started playing for Seton that the accolades began to stockpile. Barcello was named Arizona Player of the Year in 2012 and 2014 by the Arizona Basketball Coaches Association (ABCA) and Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA). She was a three-time Arizona All-Star team member, clinching MVP titles in 2012 and 2014 while being named to the AZCentral Sports 2014 All-USA Arizona Team.

After finishing her senior year averaging an impressive14.1 points, 11.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 2.2 blocks and 2.1 steals per game, Barcello was selected as a Gatorade Player of the Year in 2014. The award recognizes the nation’s “best of the best” high school talents for their athletic achievement, academic excellence and exemplary character. Though she no longer graces the Seton basketball court, Barcello still holds two school records for career rebounds and blocked shots.

Despite a rigorous training schedule, Barcello consistently maintained a top grade point average and was a member of Seton’s National Honor Society. She also volunteered her time as a student mentor and math tutor, and was part of Students for Life and Sentinel Ambassadors. Thinking back on many memorable experiences, Barcello credits attending Kairos retreats as both a candidate and leader as a major highlight of her years at Seton and an important influence in strengthening her faith. “Kairos helped solidify my faith so that I stayed determined to keep it strong through college,” reflects Barcello. “I also credit my Seton coaches and teachers with pushing me to do better and reach higher in order to fuel my determination to succeed and help others around me.”

“KAIROS HELPED SOLIDIFY MY FAITH SO THAT I STAYED DETERMINED TO KEEP IT STRONG THROUGH COLLEGE.”

Crushing it at Colgate

Now as a junior Colgate Raider, Barcello continues to lead by example on and off the court. Last season, she captured the team’s Most Improved Player Award and helped spark Colgate’s longest winning streak of the season by achieving career highs in rebounds during pivotal games. Off the court, Barcello is an exemplary student, double majoring in geology and religion while maintaining her status on Colgate’s Raider Academic Honor Roll.

Faith remains at the forefront of Barcello’s priorities. Active on Colgate’s Newman Board, she regularly helps plan activities to promote Catholic life on campus and leads a bible study as part of a campus group called Athletes for Christ. On most Sundays, you can find Barcello playing guitar during Mass.

Beyond the Game…Giving Back

Faith and basketball are the two pillars that led Barcello to one of her most rewarding experiences to date: serving as a camp counselor at Camp Good Days and Special Times, a New York-area camp that provides summer programs for children affected by cancer. After her college coach brought the team to the camp a few summers ago, Barcello knew she was meant to return. She spent this past July helping to create a positive and memorable summer experience for kids who need it the most.

“My time at Camp Good Days has taught me that there are few joys greater than making a kid laugh, even if you are making a complete fool of yourself doing so! The camp has also taught me to not take anything for granted and to count my blessings, especially my good health and the health of my family,” said Barcello.

She offers the following for others chasing their dreams and aspirations: “Have faith and trust in God that He has a plan for you, and surround yourself with good people to support you along the way.”

Whether she’s tearing up the court, helping others get through the day, or working hard to reach her goals that include obtaining a master’s degree in education and becoming a teacher, one thing is clear—Barcello’s got game. =

q y On the court at Colgate during its annual Pink Game to raise breast cancer awareness.

Julia Barcello and fellow Lady Sentinels take home the 2014 state championship.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

CONGRATS TO THE GRADUATES OF 2016: CONTINUING A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE

This year, 80 of the 148 graduates received one or more college scholarships totaling $6.3 million. Most are attending top state colleges and universities throughout the country; 23 are enrolled in private institutions; and five are at military academies (see feature, “Mettle Tested” on page 14).

“The Seton class of 2016 is a high-achieving group,” said Principal Pat Collins. “We are very proud of their accomplishments. Our prayers go with them as they encounter new beginnings.”

Class valedictorian Sarah Naldo, salutatorian Kohl Dorsey and Kelvin Taylor are attending the U.S. Naval Academy; Bridger Barker was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy; and Luke Zuluaga was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy Prep School.

Naldo earned numerous academic honors, including the U.S. Marine Corps Distinguished Scholar Award, an AP Scholar with Honor Award, the Cum Honore Maximo Egregio Award for a perfect score on the National Latin Exam and various departmental awards. Naldo was a math and Latin tutor, played varsity tennis and participated in Seton soccer, track and field, and cross country.

Dorsey also received several prestigious awards, including the U.S. Army Reserves Senior Scholar/Athlete Award, AP Scholar with Honor Award and the Woodmen of the World American History Award. He attended Arizona Boys State and volunteered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of the East Valley. For his senior service project, Dorsey traveled to India where he participated in a nutrition project for schoolchildren.

The following graduates are also representative of the accomplished Seton class of 2016:

Andy Vega received a scholarship to Fordham University in New York City, where he is studying communications and digital media. While at Seton, he received an Academic Department Award in Fine Arts-Digital Media and a National Merit Scholarship Program letter of commendation. He performed in various Seton Fine Arts productions, including plays, musicals and Fine Arts Nights. Vega also attended a summer comedy camp at Chicago’s famed Second City and performed regularly with ImprovMANIA, a Chandler improv group.

Kaitlin Amorosi was awarded the New American University President’s Award from Arizona State University, where she is studying finance and accounting at Barrett, the Honors College. While at Seton, she earned letters in varsity softball and basketball all four years. Seton Girls Basketball took home two Division II State Championships during her years on the team. Amorosi also excelled academically and was a member of the National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society and Mentors Club. =

Sarah Naldo

Kohl Dorsey

Kaitlin Amorosi

Andy Vega

What does it take to be A

SENTINEL?

FAST TIMES AT SETON HIGH

“I was just hoping that I had enough time to catch up,” recollects Luke Zuluaga ’16 from the Track and Field Division III state finals in May. “When got the baton, we were a bit behind (fifth place) so I did what I have always done and took off.”

What happened next was described by ESPN as “hitting the turbo button for an unbelievable come-from-behind win.”

According to ESPN, which posted a video that went viral capturing Zuluaga’s feat, his “incredible speed burst captured the 4x100-meter relay crown.”

No doubt, it was a crowning achievement for Zuluaga, a former Seton baseball player who joined the track team his junior year.

7 Sentinels Let these Count the Ways

Whether a student-athlete under the tutelage of an inspiring coach or a student-sports fan cheering on their favorite Sentinel team, there are 21 Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) varsity sports teams to join—and support—at Seton. Student-athletes uphold the graces of sportsmanship and enjoy the thrill of victory on championship-winning teams—earning 46 state titles since 1985.

Here, we pay tribute to Seton’s sports heritage and get to the heart of what it takes to be a Sentinel. Sure, achieving trophies, titles and college sports scholarships are the pinnacle of success, but it begins with determination. These seven Sentinels open up about their drive for determination, sharing their accomplishments as well as their challenges. They serve as an inspiration to all.

True to track-star form, the accolades came in fast. Both years, Zuluaga won the Seton MVP Award and the Division III state championships in the 400 meter and the 4x400 meter with his relay teammates. Add to that the 200 meter and the 100 meter, earning four titles his senior year.

“My favorite awards have been the relays,” emphasized Zuluaga, praising his winning teammates both years in the 4x400 meter: Brandon Garcia, Mason Toyne, Dominic Johnson and CJ Holten.

“Determination is something that everyone needs to one degree or another. It is being able to grind out what you need to get done without giving in. In track, it is super important and has been a huge part of my success.”

Success off the track for Zuluaga was his appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School in Colorado Springs, which he considers “an amazing blessing.” Following a lengthy application process, demanding physical and academic tests and requirements, Zuluaga is ready to take on the demands of the Prep School, academically, physically and militarily.

He is playing football at the Prep School since it does not have a track team. Upon graduation, he plans to enter the Air Force Academy and run Track and Field all four years under distinguished Head Coach Ralph Lindeman.

All the while, Zuluaga has set his sights on breaking his personal best in the 400 and 200 meters, winning the Mountain West Championship, and running in the NCCA Track and Field D1 Championships, held at world-renown Hayward Field at the University of Oregon in Eugene.

On what it takes to be a Sentinel, this soon-to-be Falcon says, “It takes the ability do everything to the best of your ability without a chip on your shoulder—and with focus on the positives that are all around.”

MVP CREDITS PARENTS FOR DETERMINATION

For Taylor Steele ’16, determination and goals go hand in hand. “Determination,” explains Steele, is when a person does everything necessary to achieve a goal. That person does not shy away from a task even when it is especially difficult to complete.”

Steele’s determination to succeed in swimming allowed her to achieve her goal of going to an out-of-state Catholic college of her choice on a swimming scholarship—a dream of hers since she was 12 years old, the same year she began to swim competitively. Her dream came true when she earned a Division I Women’s Swimming Scholarship from the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio.

It was four years of hard work, discipline and dedication on the Seton Catholic Prep Girls Swim team that got her there. “I knew this could only become a reality if used my determination to push myself through the tough moments in training and the sleepy moments in school—I never want to get up at 4 a.m. and go to practice at five,” admits Steele.

Despite the early mornings, the awards and accolades did pour in. Specializing in the sprint, mid-distance freestyle and butterfly events, Steele holds 10 of 11 girls swim records at Seton. These include the 50, 100, 200 and 500 Freestyles, the 100 Butterfly and Backstroke, 200 Individual Medley and three relays collectively with her teammates. She earned Seton’s Female MVP for swimming both her junior and senior years. Capping her senior year was the Coach “Ed” Mulvey Award for Outstanding Female Student/Athlete.

Through it all, her parents remained her role models. Steele says she idolizes her dad, who swam for Northern Arizona University and who she describes as, “an incredibly talented swimmer, much better than I am.” She describes her mom as “exceedingly supportive,” adding, “She helps me regain my determination and motivation when I am at a low point in my swimming.”

Steele’s favorite part of competitive swimming is without a doubt, getting a best time. “At the end of each season when am tapered, shaved, well rested, wearing a new tech suit and goggles, know I have the potential to swim well,” says Steele. “It is incredibly rewarding to see the results of my training.”

As Steele sets her sights on improving her times at the University of the Incarnate Word, she offers this to all current Sentinels, “You must support and respect your teammates. You must conduct yourself graciously to represent Seton well. And, you must accept disappointment and celebrate your successes humbly.”

ON CONFIDENCE: NOW A CHANTICLEER, ALWAYS A SENTINEL

“Strive for perfection, but never expect it.” To Mackenzie Budinger ’16 the words of famed baseball coach Aaron Weintraub mean everything to her. “This is what makes me so determined in everything I do,” says the All-State softball Sentinel. “I always know can do better, therefore I always strive to be better.”

Mackenzie joined the Seton varsity softball team as a freshman in 2012 and dominated the field all four years, taking home the All State Second Team and All State First Team Awards and the Arizona PGF High School Team Award. She is proud to have been nominated for the PGF National High School Team, All Division Second Team and the Jim Relph Awards.

Upon earning a softball scholarship to Coastal Carolina University in Conway, S.C., Mackenzie joins the Chanticleers at an exciting time as they step up to a new level of competition in the Sun Belt Conference. As she steps onto the collegiate softball field for the first time, Budinger’s goal is to “remain confident at all times, no matter what.” She explains, “Softball is a game of failure, and it is inevitable. What makes a player great is that they can remain confident in their best and worst times.”

Her words of wisdom resonate among her teammates who she considers her sisters. Budinger, who started playing softball when she was 8, has always loved the team aspect of the game. “The advantage of playing a team sport is you have people to always rely on. We lean on each other during our rough times, and we enjoy our greatest moments together.” She acknowledges she also loves the competitive aspect of the sport.

“There will always be someone better than you, so that makes me strive to be the greatest player on the field,” said Budinger whose determination transcends the field. “The determination I have on the field transfers over to the classroom and helps me do my best. I also am determined to make an impact in my everyday life. It could be something as simple as helping a friend through a tough time or helping a struggling classmate.”

According to Budinger, to be determined is to want something so bad you will stop at nothing. To be a Sentinel, she says, takes pride and courage. “We are all a family and stick together during the good and the bad.”

LUKE ZULUAGA

TAYLOR STEELE

MACKENZIE BUDINGER

(Photo courtesy of David Jolkovski/Tribune)

(Photo courtesy of Daniel Ruiz)

(Photo courtesy of Kate Steele)

ON THE GREEN, MAKING SETON HISTORY

When Kailey Fraher ’16 tried out for the Seton Catholic Prep Girls Golf team in 2012 as a freshman, she had golfed for the first time just a couple days prior. She made the team.

“I fell in love with the sport as soon as became a part of the team at Seton,” remembers Fraher.

Her love of golf never waned as Fraher went on to play through her senior year. Along the way, she received the Coach’s Award her sophomore and senior years, and the Leadership Award in 2015, her junior year. In 2016, Fraher along with teammate Eva Toon, were recognized by the East Valley Tribune as Honorable Mentions for the annual All-Tribune Girls Golf Teams.

On defining determination, Fraher thinks back to her freshman year on the green, saying “I was very discouraged my freshman year. I was definitely the worst player on the team. I made it my goal that year to get a college scholarship to play. I wanted to succeed in the sport loved. I spent the time during my freshman and sophomore seasons doing nothing but golf and school. My goal was to get to the state tournament.”

Despite setbacks, Fraher did improve her scores by more than 30 strokes. By her junior year, she and her teammates were the first girls’ golf team in Seton’s history to go to state. “We did it together because we all worked for it and every one of us was determined to improve. Determination is about never giving up and fighting for what you believe in,” said Fraher.

She owes her determination to her parents, crediting her dad for teaching her how to golf and her mom for always being uplifting. “My parents are role models to me and my sisters,” said Fraher. “They have set the example that you have to work for what you want in life, and things are more rewarding when you know you accomplished them on your own.”

As for accomplishments, Fraher did get that golf scholarship. She begins another freshman year on a women’s golf team—this time at Avila University in Kansas City. She is not as “green,” but she is as determined as ever. She believes a Sentinel is a determined, faith-oriented individual who is ready to take on challenges and knows they can succeed, saying, “With faith and trust in God, you can’t be afraid to try something new and explore who you are as an individual. A Sentinel knows this.”

FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME

“If you love something, set it free. If it comes back, it’s yours. If it doesn’t, it never was.” For Seton junior Luz Zamudio, this popular adage holds a particular meaning—and inspires her every move on the tennis court. She loved the game from the moment she picked up a racquet at age 8, though she didn’t realize it at the time. She only realized it after it was gone.

Zamudio remembers her elementary school years in Los Mochis, a town in Sinaloa, Mexico, looking up to her uncle who was a father figure to her and a busy tennis coach. “I remember being upset when my uncle would leave with his team to play in big tournaments away from home.” She became quite good when she decided to give tennis a try, but her lessons were short lived.

When she was 9, she moved to Chandler for her mom’s new marriage. “Besides the fact we were starting a new family and a new life in Arizona, playing tennis is very expensive if you do it competitively,” said Zamudio, whose uncle had previously covered her tennis expenses while living in Mexico.

“Financial issues caused me to fall away from a sport I learned to love more and more as time passed,” recalls Zamudio.

Fortunately, three years later, Zamudio’s uncle figured out a way to come to the U.S. and coach her as he had in Mexico. She hasn’t stopped playing since. She joined the girls’ tennis team as a sophomore transfer student last year, playing No. 1 singles and doubles. As a team, they were undefeated in their section, qualifying for team state and losing in the second round 5 to 4. As for individual state, Zamudio lost in the semifinals, but won the playoff match to finish in third place.

Her determination to win is grounded in her hard work ethic and setting high expectations for herself, which she attributes to her family. “I owe it to them to always try my hardest. I feel like I need to step it up each and every time as I gain experience and become involved in higher stakes activities,” said Zamudio, who is inspired by the individual aspect of her sport. “You’re held accountable for your own accomplishments and failures inside the court, which makes it a lot less emotionally charged.”

On determination, Zamudio advises to “Keep on fighting for the things you love despite the circumstances or what other people may say about you. Determination is perseverance with a goal.”

It is no surprise that to Zamudio, being a Sentinel means to never give up. “To be a Sentinel, you must be fearless, yet loving, remaining firm in your beliefs and being proud of the teachings we take away from God and one another.”

4 6 7 5 love follow through inspiration character

SOAKING UP INSPIRATION FROM OTHERS

This summer, when Archie Spindler attended the U.S. Olympic Team Trials in Omaha, Neb., it served as inspiration to “push myself more and reach further in my swimming.”

One might say the Seton junior has already propelled himself in the pool. He holds four school records on the Seton Catholic Prep Boys Swim team for the 500 Freestyle, 200 Freestyle and, along with his teammates, the 200 IM Relay and 400 Freestyle Relay. In addition, he holds two First Place Division II State titles for the 500 and 200 Freestyles.

“Watching my teammates at the Olympic Trials proved to me my goals are achievable with hard work and drive. I know that by working now I am paving the way for my future and preparing myself for the struggles ahead of me.”

With others as inspiration, it is no wonder Spindler enjoys the team aspect of competitive swimming. “As a team you push, support and encourage one another through thousands of hours of practice and the hardest meets,” said Spindler.

Spindler was just a toddler when he began swim lessons. By age 8, he was swimming competitively and by 10, he experienced a turning point when his coach moved him into a lane with kids who were two to three years older. Spindler began making their intervals and catching them in races. Then, he fought his way to third place in the 500 Freestyle at the Arizona State Age Group Championships—he was within five-tenths of a second from first place. According to Spindler, “That’s when I realized I loved swimming because I loved the thrill of the race and the rewards of all my hard work paying off.”

A LINEMAN WITH STRENGTH OF CHARACTER

There is a wise soul within senior Davidson Manygoats that harkens back to the words of late Coach Paul William “Bear” Bryant. Best known as the longtime head coach of the University of Alabama football team, Bryant often spoke on the importance of character, saying, “Show class, have pride and display character. If you do, winning takes care of itself.”

For Manygoats, 5-foot-8, 299-pound offensive lineman on the Seton football team and former wrestler, steely determination comes from setting goals, staying true to your word and having strength of character.

“To me, determination means that you’re focused on the goal and if there’s obstacles, you get it done to the best of your ability— you see it through to the end,” said Manygoats. “Your character depends on it.”

He credits wrestling during his freshman and sophomore years for speed, muscle mass and energy. More importantly, according to Manygoats, wrestling taught him about commitment and overcoming adversity. “I learned how to deal with problems on the mat and off. Wrestling gave me strength of understanding, a lot more than what could’ve asked for,” Manygoats said, adding his focus is now football.

“I felt football was a better fit because it’s a team effort that builds bonds. consider teammates my family,” said Manygoats, who graduated from the St. Peter Indian Mission School on the Gila River Community in Bapchule, Ariz.

For Spindler, determination is about trying your hardest all the time in everything you do. “No matter what happened that day or if you’re not feeling well, when you step up to those blocks you have a choice to either give up or to push through the pain and do your very best.”

Spindler’s immediate and long-term goals: To qualify for the U.S. Junior Championships and to swim in college, earning times to compete in the U.S. National Championships—and perhaps the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials.

For now, to be a Sentinel on the swim team takes commitment, trust and courage, according to Spindler. “I have witnessed several fellow students who didn’t swim competitively sign up for swim team, come in ready to work, and push themselves constantly— bettering themselves and the team because of it.”

Today, as he gears up for an exciting season of Sentinel football, he is looking forward to the team camaraderie as well as the style of coaching Gary Galante provides. “Coach Galante is very real,” said Manygoats. “He’s helped me emotionally, physically and mentally on and off the field, and makes sure we make the right choices. He sees what can achieve, a warrior in me that I can bring out on the field.”

It is this quiet strength that drives Manygoats to set daily goals and see them through to ultimately help others. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be at Seton. I can use all I’m learning here to improve myself, my family, my people and my community.

For Manygoats, being a Sentinel takes fortitude when things hit you hard and the understanding to solve problems and know what is right. “I believe anybody can be a Sentinel. You have to trust and believe in yourself to be the person you want to be. You never know if you don’t try. Life doesn’t wait for you—you’ve got to go for it.” =

LUZ ZAMUDIO

KAILEY FRAHER ARCHIE SPINDLER

DAVIDSON MANYGOATS

(Photo courtesy of Char Carson, LPGA)

(Photo courtesy of Luz Zamudio) (Photo courtesy of Darlene K. Voight)

(Photo courtesy of Lamar Studios)

MILITARY ACADEMIES PUSH ‘SENTINEL 5’ TO THEIR LIMITS

Five Seton Catholic graduates overcame big odds to gain acceptance this year into U.S. service academies. To say these hallowed institutions accept only “the best and the brightest” is no exaggeration: Of an estimated 40,000 applications annually, fewer than 10 percent receive appointments.

To become part of such an elite club, Sarah Naldo, Kohl Dorsey, Kelvin Taylor, Bridger Barker and Luke Zuluaga maintained high GPAs, excelled in sports, and demonstrated leadership and good character throughout their Seton years. They were nominated by a U.S. senator or congressional representative, passed a rigorous physical exam, and sat through a heart-pounding interview with an academy liaison.

Did we mention that was the easy part?

As of press time, Naldo, Dorsey and Taylor were completing Plebe Summer at the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, MD; Barker and Zuluaga were going through Cadet Basic Training

“The discipline is real here. I went to church and started calling God ‘Sir’ in my prayers.”

— Bridger Barker

at the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) and USAFA Prep School, respectively, in Colorado Springs. During the intense six-week orientation, they faced physical, mental and emotional challenges that will help determine their success at the academies and beyond.

“I am uplifted by memories from Seton, remembering activities, teachers and close friends.”

— Sarah Naldo

The USAFA makes no bones about what Cadets will face during basic training, posting on its website, “Few of your high school friends will ever face such tests. Your commitment to yourself, to those close to you, and ultimately, your nation, will be tested daily.”

The USNA’s description of Plebe Summer is equally daunting: “There is a love/hate relationship with USNA that develops. Some days students are jubilant and some days they fall into despair… Plebe summer is about survival.”

Plebes and Cadets alike endure physical and mental conditioning that includes daily calisthenics, running, pull-ups, sit-ups, competitive sports and infantry drill. They also become proficient

“The food is fine but doesn’t hold a candle to mom’s. I love you all!”

— Bridger Barker

with military weapons and develop skills specific to their branch of the military. The rigorous training, which may seem excessive at times, is designed to mold fresh-faced adolescents into steely military officers.

“Fifty people have already dropped out,” Bridger Barker wrote in a letter to his parents mid-way through basic training. “I know I would never even fathom that. You didn’t raise a quitter.”

Hiking three miles in full gear is not as tough as being unable to talk about it with Mom or Dad. Personal cell phones are put in storage during the academy training period; communication

is mostly limited to “snail mail,” forcing parents and children to re-discover the lost art of letter writing.

The USNA website reminds parents, “When your Plebe swore their oath at induction, they ceased to be legally yours. Plebes belong to the U.S. Navy.” The Air Force Academy echoes that sentiment on its website, albeit a little more gently.

“I draw strength from prayer during challenging activities.” — Sarah Naldo

In return for their hard work and sacrifice, academy graduates receive a world-class education and the pride that comes from walking the same halls as Rhodes Scholars, astronauts, senators and U.S. presidents.

More importantly, the Sentinel 5 would agree, is knowing they have the honor of serving their country. = t

“Your letters are always the highlight of my day. I read them to my roommate to keep us motivated.”

— Bridger Barker

tp U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman Sarah Naldo holds a weapon during a training exercise as part of Plebe summer at the Academy. Above, Naldo, center in the blue life vest, and fellow Plebes set out to sea during a hands-on sailing class.

Bridger Barker

ATHLETICS

SENSATIONAL SENTINEL BOYS VOLLEYBALL HEAD COACH

Nick Price’s sophomore season as head coach can be summed up in one word: sensational! With Price at the helm, the Sentinels racked up a 41-4 record and defeated Glendale Ironwood to capture the Divison II Boys Volleyball State Championship —Seton’s first.

The sports staff at The Arizona Republic took notice, and in May, named Price azcentral Sports Boys Volleyball Coach of the Year.

According to azcentral Sports: “With his team making the jump to Division II for the first season, Nick Price took the opportunity and ran with it.” Price said the honor took him by surprise, adding there were other schools and coaches who had great seasons.

“Every year, I come up with a theme and write it on a whiteboard.

Last year it was, ‘State championship!’

This year it’s, ‘Repeat!’”

tough. If you keep that in mind, you can always fight your way back to win.

Price shared credit with his 2016 squad and former Seton coach Andrew Guthrie, who started the Seton Boys Volleyball program from scratch in 2009.

SS: How do you get your team ready for competition?

NP: remind them that volleyball is a mental sport. You don’t have to be the most physical player or the tallest, it’s just as important to be mentally

SS: 2017 sounds like it will be a re-building year for the Sentinels…

NP: It will be. We graduated 10 guys, but we’re bringing back a strong group: Five have varsity experience. have full faith that with their experience, they can carry the team. These boys come to practice ready to work and they want to play.

SS: How do you motivate your players?

NP: Every year, I come up with a theme and write it on a whiteboard. Last year it was, “State Championship!” This year it’s,“Repeat!”

SS: In addition to coaching, you have a full-time job. Why do you coach?

NP: I work nights at QuickTrip, which can be a little stressful. Coaching boys volleyball is a huge stress-reliever for me. love what I do and the kids are great. =

COLLEGIATE SENTINELS

Congratulations to these 2016 student-athlete graduates who are now competing at the college level:

Bridger Barker – wrestling U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs)

Drew Betlach – volleyball

Mount St. Joseph University (Cincinnati)

‘GRIT’ DEFINED SETON

ATHLETICS’ BANNER YEAR

THE BANNER YEAR: 2015 -16 BY THE NUMBERS

HNumber of varsity sports teams: 21 Varsity record: 303-162-2 (65.16%)

Team state championships: 3

Girls Varsity Basketball

Boys Varsity Volleyball

Varsity Spiritline

Section titles: 5

State runners-up: 1

Individual state champs: 9 Archie Spindler swim (2)

Vincent Dolce wrestling (1)

Brandon Konecny wrestling (1)

Quentin Hovis wrestling (1)

Luke Zuluaga track (3)

Luke Zuluaga

Brandon Garcia

CJ Holton Mason Toyne 4x100 relay (1 each)

Mackenzie Budinger – softball Coastal Carolina University (Myrtle Beach, S.C.)

Kirsten Companik – volleyball Western State College (Gunnison, Colo.)

ow do you define grit? Well, you can go with the dictionary meaning of “courage and resolve,” or witness the Lady Sentinels’ come-frombehind rally during the championship game to win the state title last year. Or, watch the boys’ volleyball team destroy the “underdog” label set during its quest to become state champions. You can always behold a Sentinel cheerleader defy gravity with an astonishing aerial stunt.

Call it grit, determination or digging deep. Whatever “it” is, Seton Catholic Prep athletes displayed it in spades last year.

In the spring, Brandon Garcia was selected to the “first team”—one of 11 high school students in Arizona—for the 201516 National Football Foundation (NFF) Valley of the Sun “Top 60” Scholar Athlete Class. The prestigious honor placed Garcia among the best of the best from more than 258,000 students in 186 Arizona high schools. The NFF rankings are based on 40 percent academic performance, 40 percent football accomplishments, and 20 percent school and community citizenship and participation.

Garcia’s recognition stemmed from a nomination from Seton Varsity Football Coach Gary Galante, who considers his former senior running back a “game changer” on many levels. “I’ve never seen a kid who has done so much for his school than Brandon has for Seton,” said Galante. “He’s an exceptional talent with a lot of heart and desire, both gifted and hardworking.”

The year ended on a high note with azcentral’s Arizona Sports Awards, which honored outstanding student athletes, coaches and fans during a ceremony at the Orpheum Theatre.

Kailey Fraher – golf Avila University (Kansas City, Mo.)

Jake Rueter – basketball Arizona Christian University (Phoenix)

Craig Scheer – baseball Cornell College (Iowa)

Seton took home three of the coveted awards: Seton Varsity Girls Basketball Team, Outstanding Team; Sarah Barcello, Girls’ Basketball Player of the Year, big school; and Seton volunteer Jon Harrison, Unsung Hero Award. =

Luke Zuluaga – track U.S. Air Force Academy Prep School (Colorado Springs)

Taylor Steele – swimming University of the Incarnate Word (San Antonio)

Seton Girls Basketball wins the 2016 Division II State Championship, the 8th state title for the Lady Sentinels under Coach Karen Self.

q Coach Nick Price proudly holds the Division II Boys Volleyball State trophy, a first for Seton.

p Members of the boys’ volleyball team celebrate their Division II State Championship, a first for Seton. (Photo courtesy of David Jolkovski/Tribune)

Spot Light

“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.”

— Albert Einstein

PASSING THE PENCIL:

“They (the arts) serve as a window into the core of the human experience.”

— Assistant Principal David Sorkin

RETIRED TEACHER INSPIRES PROTÉGÉ

When Christine (Remmel) Lezcano ’08 was a student, her favorite teacher, Cyd Totten, would gesture toward her well-worn desk and declare, “Someday you’ll take my place.”

Lezcano shrugged off the prediction, thinking it was good-natured teasing. Little did she know, Totten was very serious. When Totten decided to retire, she called her former protégé to notify her of the anticipated opening in the Fine Arts Department.

Lezcano was highly qualified for Totten’s position: She earned a B.A. in arts education from ASU, was passionate about teaching and was an established visual artist in her own right. In August, she began her second year as a member of the Seton Catholic Prep Fine Arts Department, and yes, she inherited Totten’s desk.

“She was really lovely,” Lezcano said of her mentor, who retired in Prescott and remains active in northern Arizona’s art scene. “She was all about the kids. She really believed anyone could be an artist.”

Totten spent most of her teaching career at Seton in a cramped room on the historic campus, where Lezcano spent many hours as a young Sentinel.

Lezcano recalled, “We were in A6. don’t know how Cyd did it! We are in the Fine Arts Building now, living the life.”

The 59,000-square-foot Fine Arts and Academic Classrooms Building opened in fall 2011, three years after Lezcano graduated.

“I feel a little spoiled,” she admitted. Inspired by her travels, Lezcano enjoys painting landscapes and sketching portraits in pencil. Some of her works can be viewed at christineremmel.com. Her favorite subject was her late grandfather, Charles Remmel, a Pennsylvania school bus driver from whom she inherited her talent. He enjoyed painting the Keystone State’s lakes and woods, but her favorite piece of her grandfather’s depicts children ice skating on a frozen pond.

“When he passed away, I said, ‘I have to have that!’”

Lezcano is a proponent of a strong fine arts education, noting that it can positively impact test scores and student behavior. But as Seton Assistant Principal David Sorkin noted a few years ago in an Op-Ed piece, the arts can do so much more.

“They serve as a window into the core of the human experience,” Sorkin wrote in The Arizona Republic. “They shed light on the most exciting and troubling of human emotions. They capture moments in order that they may be preserved for eternity. In short, the arts are a universal language in today’s increasingly complex and technologically driven world.” =

1975

Thomas M. Ryan received the 2016 Arizona State Bar President’s Award. In presenting the prestigious award, the Bar noted Ryan was “dedicated to exposing corruption and defending the wrongly accused.” Past recipients of the award include former U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, Sen. Jon Kyle and Brig. Gen. Richard Gregg Maxon. For more information about the award, visit azbar.org.

1998

Marco Velasquez earned his Master of Education from the University of Mary in December 2015, and he and his wife, Mandy, welcomed their fifth child, Gabriel Elías on July 26, 2016.

2001

Nathan Tholl graduated from Ross University Medical School in Miami in April and is currently a medical resident at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix.

2002

Major Daniel Beauchamp is a doctor with the U.S. Army Medical Corps at Fort Bliss in El Paso, where he works in the concussion and physical medicine clinic. He and his wife, Julia, had their first child, Sophie Amalie, in April.

2003

Jim Conner was married last year. He and his wife, Jess, both teach at Benjamin Franklin International School in Barcelona, Spain. He is the Social Studies Department Chair and has led the school’s Habitat for Humanity group to Ethiopia, Nepal and Thailand. Conner says he continues to treasure the academic preparation he received at Seton and keeps in touch with Seton friends.

Christine (Remmel) Lezcano

p Christine created this portrait of her grandfather, Charles Remmel.

Major Daniel Beauchamp ’02 discusses concussion management during a medical conference.

Thomas M. Ryan ’75

Jim Conner ‘03 and his wife Jess in Greece, one of the many countries they have visited while working as educators in Europe.

Nathan Tholl ‘01 is a medical resident at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix.

p Precious portrait…Susan (White) Foss ‘04, and family after the birth of little Samuel.

u The newlyweds met and fell in love at Seton, where they were active in theater and sports.

2004

Susan (White) Foss and her husband Michael celebrated the birth of their second child, Samuel Rafael, on June 27. Firstborn Sofia turned three in April and loves being a big sister. The couple celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary in June and feel so blessed they are now part of a family of four.

2012

John Carosello graduated in May from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) with a B.S. in global security and intelligence studies. Carosello, a member of the ERAU golf team, was the 2015-16 Scholar Athlete of the Year in the California Pacific Conference. Not only was he an outstanding athlete, he made the Dean’s List all four years he attended ERAU.

Eric Pfaffenberger and Megan Molloy rang in the New Year together, tying the knot on Jan. 2, 2016. The Sentinel newlyweds say they have many favorite memories of Seton. Congratulations!

2015

Saint Leo University featured Reggie Van Devender and her father, Barrie, in a donor story on the university’s website. Barrie graduated in 1980 from Saint Leo, a Catholic liberal arts university in Florida. Reggie, a star volleyball player at Seton, decided to follow in her dad’s footsteps despite offers from Division I schools. Visit your.saintleo.edu to read their story.

IN MEMORIAM

John Grunkemeyer III

Parent of Timothy Grunkemeyer ’08

May 2016

Have alumni news to share?

We want to hear from you! Email SetonAlumni@SetonCatholic.org. Alumni Notes may be edited for length and clarity. Photos must be high resolution, so please adjust camera settings accordingly.

t

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

If you are aware of a member of the Seton Catholic Prep community or alumni who recently passed away, please notify the Seton Advancement Office so we may remember them in this column. Send an email to SetonAlumni@SetonCatholic.org or call 480-963-1900, extension 3011.

Colleen Sikora is a television reporter for KRDO News, which serves Colorado Springs and southern Colorado. It was a busy summer for Sikora, who reported on Colorado wildfires, the Pokémon Go craze, summer safety and illegal fireworks. Visit krdo.com to see some of her live reports.

John Carosello ’12 excelled in academics and athletics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

t Barrie Van Devender and his daughter, Reggie ‘15, were drawn to Saint Leo University by a ‘culture of kindness.’

(Photo courtesy of Ben Watters, Saint Leo University)

t Colleen Sikora ’12 is making a name for herself as a TV reporter in southern Colorado.

REUNION WEEKEND:

GET READY FOR GOOD COMPANY AND GREAT TIMES!

Seton alumni are invited back to campus Oct. 28-30 for a fun-filled Homecoming weekend. Here is the schedule:

Friday,Oct.28

5p.m. Pregametailgateparty (Setoncafeteria)

6:15p.m. Alumnireporttoendzoneto form tunnel for the team

7p.m. Homecominggame Setonvs.Higley Halftime Tailgateresumes (Setoncafeteria)

9p.m. ReversehappyhouratThird Base (southeastcornerof DobsonandRayroads)

Saturday, Oct. 29 – Reunions

Class of 1976: For information on this class reunion, please contact Sylvia (Contreras) Luna, Sylvia.Luna809@gmail.com; Julie (Langston) Ingalls, TallNSassy01@hotmail. com; or Kathi Barone, KJBarone@msn.com.

Classes of 1986, 1991 and 1996: The plans are posted for these reunions. For information, visit setoncatholic.org/alumni/reunions or email setonalumni@setoncatholic.org.

Mark Your Calendar

OCTOBER 6

TAKE A BOW

Fall Play: “My Cousin Lino”

7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6 through Saturday, Oct. 8

3 p.m. matinee

Sunday, Oct. 9

Fine Arts Theatre

9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5 for grade schools

Sunday,Oct.30

11 a.m. Alumni Mass (St.Elizabeth Ann Seton Chapel)

Hall of Fame Luncheon and Induction Ceremony Fine Arts Building; honorees are Nicole Hank ’96 Deb (Eubanks) Defreyn ’85; Chris Gummel ’86 Sr. Marie Theresa

NOVEMBER 11

HONORING HEROES

4th Annual Seton Veterans Appreciation Day & All School Rosary

8:15 to 9:45 a.m.

Friday Nov. 11

OCTOBER 28

LET’S GO, SENTINELS!

Sentinel Homecoming Football Game

7 p.m. kickoff

Friday, Oct. 28

Michael Eubanks Stadium

OCTOBER 30

WELCOME BACK

13th Annual Alumni Mass & Hall of Fame Induction

11 a.m.

Sunday, Oct. 30

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Chapel

NOVEMBER 15 & 16

MEANINGFUL DIALOGUE

Educational Speaker Series

Judge Tim Ryan ’80

Director Stephanie Siete

Community Bridges

Commander Dale Walters Chandler Police Department

7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15 & Wednesday, Nov. 16

St. Andrew the Apostle

NOVEMBER 5 & 9

A WARM WELCOME

Open House

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 5

6 to 8 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 9

DECEMBER 3

FORE!

23rd Annual Seton Classic Golf Tournament

Saturday, Dec. 3

Ocotillo Golf Resort

DECEMBER 8

MASS FOR MOM

Feast of the Immaculate Conception: Annual Mothers’ Mass

1 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 8

Msgr. McMahon

Gymnasium

Pictured: “Fair Exchange” cast photo by Ivan Rojas q