The Sentinel Shield Spring 2022

Magazine of Seton Catholic Preparatory

Let the Games Begin!

Magazine of Seton Catholic Preparatory

ADMINISTRATION

Principal Victor Serna

Assistant Principal Pamela K. Hollerbach

Director of Admissions Guillermo Vidaurri

Interim Director of Advancement Patricia Glasser

Director of Athletics Gregg Buchannon

Director of Plant Operations Mario Hernandez

Director of Finance Linda Surovick

Director of Student Involvement Brittany Ecker

Director of Administrative Services Brandy Martinez

Dean of Students Julie Grindey

Campus Minister Amanda Bell

Chaplain Rev. Gabriel Terrill

ADVANCEMENT

Interim Director Patricia Glasser

Alumni Relations Manager Maggie Brown ‘02

Events Coordinator Karen Hill

2021-2022 ADVISORY BOARD

Bridgette Cosentino, President

Bryan Davey, Vice President

Bob Adlhoch ‘87

Carey Anthony

Julie Albanese

Andrew Clegg

Perry Gordon

Marrisa Ramirez-Ramos

John Schurz

Marjean Steinkamp

Rev. Gabriel Terrill

Rich Zawtocki

Victor Serna, Ex-Officio

Brandy Martinez, Staff Support

2021-2022 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Mr. Sal Flores, Board President, Flores Wealth Management, Retired

Mrs. Carol Dobson, Dobson Family Farms, Owner

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

Mr. Ross Robb, Calfee Robb Advisors, Owner and President

Mr. Joe Wallace, Spotlight Signs and Imaging Solutions, Owner

Mr. Rich Zawtocki, Zawtocki Law Offices, Attorney at Law

Mrs. Rhindi Eubanks Garcia ‘87, Teacher at St. Mary Basha

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

Mr. Victor Serna, Ex-Officio

Mrs. Brandy Martinez, Staff Support

DIOCESE OF PHOENIX

Catholic Schools Leadership

Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted

Auxiliary Bishop Eduardo A. Nevares

Superintendent Domonic Salce

Assistant Superintendent Mary Bartsch

The Sentinel Shield

Managing Editor Maggie Brown ‘02

Contributing Writers Nicki Escudero’02

Graphic Design Bryan Caron

Layout Artist Phoenix Moirai

Printer International Minute Press Chandler

The Sentinel Shield Magazine is published by the Seton Catholic Preparatory Advancement Office THE SENTINEL SHIELD

FROM THE PRINCIPAL’S DESK

SPRING 2022

“Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Dear Sentinels,

As Seton Catholic continues to evolve and improve, there are certain elements that I can proudly say stay the same. Our sense of faith, family, community, and school spirit cross over generations of students and families, and even buildings and campuses.

I reflected on what a busy month of March we experienced with such events like our Fine Arts Night, student social, Ash Wednesday, Fathers’ Mass, Walk-a-thon, and Golden Sentinels 50th Reunion. After each of these events, it reinforced to me how we are all experiencing a special Seton Catholic journey, and no matter where we are on the path, it always brings us back to our roots.

Though some things have changed over the years, at our core Seton remains the same. Our Seton Catholic community is strong and continues to move forward, celebrating past memories and traditions while also creating new experiences for our students and families to treasure. I encourage you to join us on our journey and experience our upcoming events. I look forward to seeing you on the path!

Sincerely,

Victor Serna Principal

PRINCIPAL TRIVIA!

What does Principal Serna have in common with the Queen of England?

See page 23 for Answer

Our Mission

Note: Are you receiving multiple copies of The Shield? If so, please contact Patricia Glasser in the Advancement Office at 480-963-1900 x2006 or PGlasser@SetonCatholic.org

Catholic

others.

St. Elizabeth Ann

Seton Feast Day

Usually we are on our Christmas break for St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s Feast Day on January 4, but this year it was the day we began our Spring semester! To mark the importance of the day we held an all-school Mass celebrated by Fr. Gabriel. The students, faculty and staff all learned more about St. Elizabeth Ann Seton during Fr. Gabriel’s homily, where he encouraged us to become more familiar with her by praying to her, and even calling her “Lizzy”. He shared some of the challenges she faced during her life, and made her more relatable as a regular person for our Seton community.

SENTINEL NEWS

Seton Event Center UPDATE

During September and October 2021, Seton conducted a comprehensive campaign planning study to gauge the interest and feasibility of building a new multi-purpose event center. This facility will add much-needed athletic courts, provide a flexible space for student, parent, alumni, and donor gatherings, and the opportunity to have a sacred space for All School Masses. Additionally, the campaign will include a full renovation of the existing gymnasium, including the installation of a central air conditioning system.

More than 200 respondents, including 37 alumni, participated in the study via interview or survey. A whopping 91% of participants are in favor of the project, with 84% seeing it as a critical need for the school.

Renovations CONTINUE

The renovation of the Library is our next project as we continue to upgrade the Historic Campus. We’re excited to once again have a new space for students to explore and enjoy! Please support the Golf Classic on April 29 and our Gala: An Evening in Cactus Country on September 10th, both of which will benefit the Library renovations!

As a result, we have launched our campaign: Founded in Faith, Building on Excellence. Seton’s leadership team, its Board, the Diocese of Phoenix, and the architecture firm are moving forward with the next steps necessary to achieve our goal. Campaign preparations are underway, including leadership recruitment, preparation of communications materials, and finalizing the project’s goals and policies. Our community, always generous with time and talent, had more than 50 individuals or couples indicate they would be willing to serve as volunteers during the effort. Campaign leadership will begin recruiting and training volunteers in late spring. Volunteers need only supply their love of Setonwe’ll train you for the rest!

We invite you to visit the campaign page at www.setoncatholic.org to find out the latest information on this exciting project.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the study. We could not move forward without your support!

Piper Foundation Grant Awarded

In September 2021, the Virginia G. Piper Foundation made history when they gave away a record breaking $123 million in “surprise” grants in one day! Seton was honored to be one of 71 organizations in Maricopa County to receive a grant…an incredible $1 million which will be applied towards scholarships! The ability for our families to afford a Seton education is always forefront in our minds, and these scholarship monies will help keep Seton accessible to many deserving students.

Walk-a-thon Returns as Community Event

On March 5th, the Alumni Council relaunched the Walk-a-thon as a larger community event, open to all. The event was a treasured student tradition for many decades. Walkers followed the traditional route, a 5K length through the neighborhood ending on Seton’s football field where they enjoyed lunch, games, bounce houses and a raffle. Proceeds benefit the Alumni Scholarship Fund which provides tuition assistance to deserving students.

In Remembrance

Top 100!

The Chandler Chamber of Commerce presented Seton with the Chandler Top 100 award. This award recognizes the top companies in Chandler. According to Jane Poston, Chandler Chamber of Commerce Board Chair, the Top 100 represents “some of the most impactful businesses in Chandler. They contribute to our employment base, give to the community and help create the jobs that make our city an economic powerhouse.”

Diocese Awards Seton $500,000

The Diocese of Phoenix has been working on their Together We Go Forth campaign for the past several years to benefit the entire Diocese. In December, Seton was given $500,000, which was used towards our Historic Campus Renovation projects. With this generous gift, the 2021 summer renovations are completely funded, and we move forward to future renovation projects with no additional debt. What’s next on the renovation list… The Library and then the Front entrance of the school. Follow us on social media for more information.

In early December, we mourned the loss of Ms. Vanessa Lopez Delgado, our Fine Arts Department Chair, dance and art teacher. Ms. Lopez Delgado made a large impact on our Seton family during her time on campus, bringing new ideas and lots of energy. Principal Victor Serna shared, “After a couple of interviews, we could tell that she would not only be a great fine arts instructor for us, but also a future leader on campus.” Ms. Lopez Delgado shared that teaching dance at Seton was her “dream job”, and that was very apparent to her students who were inspired by her in the classroom.

8th Gr

Algebra1

Art I

Freshman Year

Freshman Computing

Honors Biology

Honors Geometry

Intro to Literature and Comp

Inter. Prep. and Speech

Latin I

Physical Education

Revelation of Jesus Christ

Memorable Class: My most memorable class from freshman year was my literature class because I really liked my teacher

KARLAROMERO‘22

JOURNEY OF A SENTINEL

My experience at Seton has been great, filled with helpful teachers who were always there to help me out when I needed them. A lot of my teachers weren’t just concerned about how I was doing as a student but also how I was doing personally. Sophomore year I noticed a big change in how I felt about school. I was struggling with topics I had not found difficult before. It was a tough time for me because I had to advocate for myself. I had always known that something was off. I was always a really bad speller, I don’t do well on standardized tests even if I understand the concepts well, and I have to read really slowly to have a good understanding of something. I had to go get tested. I was diagnosed with dyslexia. I went to speech therapy which was really helpful especially for spelling. I worked with Mrs. Kohl and the ARC program and got extra time on my tests which was great because it helped me process things at a pace where I can actually comprehend it.

Sophomore Year

AP World History

Ceramics/3D - I

Christ’s Mission

Continued

Honors Alg II / Trig

Honors Latin II

Honors Physics

Summer

Chemistry Part A & B

Junior Year

Honors World Literature and Composition

Christ’s Paschal

Mystery

Study Hall - Spring

AP English Language

AP US/AZ History

Art II

Honors Latin III

Honors Pre-Calculus

Sacraments: Privileged Encounters with Jesus Christ

Memorable teacher

Mrs. Price because she was always so kind and understanding especially since a lot of us were Online.

Universities applied to:

Memorable Class: My most memorable class from sophomore year was my honors literature because I loved my teacher and it made me a much better writer. The class was also very hard so it pushed me to be a better student. I also loved AP world history because it made me realize how great history is and I used to hate it.

Study Hall - Fall

Study Hall - Spring

Spreadsheet and Database Projects

US/AZ History

Vocations: Responding to the Call of Jesus Christ

Memorable Class: my most memorable classes this year so far have been my literature class and my calculus class both because of my teachers and because they are hard and push me to my limits but still really rewarding classes.

Senior Year

AP Calculus AB

AP English Literature

Teacher Assistant

Morality Life in Jesus Christ

Honors Latin IV

US/AZ Govt

Online: Anatomy & Physiology

ACADEMICS

Boston University, Brown, Colgate, Dartmouth, Hamilton, Tufts, University of Chicago, University of Notre Dame, University of Pennsylvania, Vanderbilt and more.

ASTRO TRIP

Seton’s Astronomy Club took a field trip down south to the University of Arizona’s Mount Lemmon SkyCenter on Saturday, October 30th, funded by generous sponsorship from a Seton donor. After enjoying a 1.5-hour excursion up the Mount Lemmon Ski Area chairlift to enjoy the view of the Tucson area from the top, the group of 28 participated in a 5-hour program at SkyCenter at 9170 feet elevation amid dark Arizona skies, perfect for astronomical observations. The evening began with a tour of the facility’s many telescopes, and sunset use of binoculars. The club then enjoyed an educational slide show with a very knowledgeable U of A astronomer with a catered dinner. The pinnacle of the evening was nearly 2 hours of observing the heavens through the 32-inch diameter Schulman telescope, the largest optical telescope open to the viewing public in the world! It was a very chilly evening, but the sights were breathtaking and stunning, and the hosts were entertaining and informative.

ACADEMIC RESOURCE CENTER THE EVOLUTION OF THE ARC PROGRAM IN ITS FIRST FEW YEARS

SENIOR MORALITY PROJECTS

PROMOTE SOCIAL JUSTICE & FAITH IN ACTION

Written by Nicki Escudero ‘02

Seton Catholic seniors are about to embark on a transformative journey post-high school. Many prepare for college, some join the military and others begin careers as they enter adulthood. The senior Morality class, required for all first-semester seniors at Seton, teaches students about upholding human dignity, the ten commandments, the virtues, the principles of a well formed conscience and how to live a moral life. Students develop empathy and learn about social justice issues, culminating in a powerful end-of-semester project that has been expanding viewpoints for the past 14 years at Seton.

FAITH

Theology Department Chair and Morality class teacher Cynthia Kubasak created the project so students with all types of learning styles can research important issues and create presentations that fit their learning styles. Seniors must choose a social justice topic to research, and then present on the “two feet of social justice”: charity (immediate need) and justice (root causes). Students can present an art project, a visual speech modeled after TED talks, or a video. They work individually or in small groups, depending on the project.

This past semester saw a variety of impactful presentations, with past projects ranging from a painting on eating disorders, to fashion design conveying poverty, to dance and music artworks. Each project builds upon thorough research and an ethical call to action for what can be done to improve the problem.

“The Morality class’s foundation is helping them understand how to respect inherent dignity,

so when they go to college and debate or encounter people dealing with any of these issues, they have more of an understanding of their complexity and feel called to love our neighbor as ourselves,” says Kubasak. “If we keep ourselves close-minded to what we think, we’re going to miss loving the way God does. When students listen to their peers, seeds are planted.”

Some students choose topics they’re already passionate about. Some cover issues they’ve been personally touched by, such as sexual assault or mental health. Every presentation gives the entire class something valuable to learn, as Kubasak ensures each project covers a different topic to widen the breadth of subject matter.

Senior Christina Joslin says she was vaguely familiar with the term “food desert” before she decided to learn more about it. She researched articles, documentaries and scientific studies for her TED talk-inspired presentation.

“I hoped to raise awareness on this often lesser-known issue and prove that access

Artwork on these pages was created by the following seniors for their Morality class: Abigail Hess, Makoa Kuikahi, Adaora Mobisson, Brianna Stevenson, Andrea Sylvester

to nutritious foods should not be a privilege but a basic human right,” Joslin says. “Perhaps what shocked me the most was that food deserts are not only affecting rural communities, but also metro and suburban areas in our own backyards. Considering that there are 43 food deserts in the city of Phoenix alone, food inequity is a pressing issue faced by hundreds of thousands of Arizonans each day.”

Kami Benvin, also a senior, presented a video on abortion and women in difficult circumstances. She said the project enabled her to learn about and understand a variety of perspectives on the topic and “that we

all have a responsibility to be patient with other people and try to understand another person’s beliefs or ideas.”

“It’s a very controversial topic, but on both sides of the issue, people have valid reasons behind their thought processes. We can never know what another person is suffering or going through,” Benvin says.

“However there are many organizations that teach about options available. There is another life being affected. The mother has free will and inherent dignity, but so does the child in her womb. The most important thing is saving another life, and really two in a way, since many women after having an abortion suffer from anxiety, stress and depression.”

Kubasak says the morality projects give students the opportunity to dive deeper into terms they may have heard, like “systemic racism,” and examine them through a variety of social justice issues. Seniors Kate Rafford and Sasha Daniel gave a TED talk-inspired presentation on wrongful imprisonment, including how racism impacts the criminal justice system.

“I learned about the causes of racism, unreliable evidence, pressure to convict and

pressure to confess,” Rafford says. “Then I used Catholic Social Teaching and the Works of Mercy to discover some potential solutions. I feel a lot more educated on different issues, and that will be important for my life beyond high school.”

Learning about the topics covered in the morality projects could inspire future graduates to take actions like speaking up for human dignity, voting on important issues or becoming involved in social justice organizations. Kubasak says the ultimate outcome is to inspire seniors to “let all that you do be done in love.”

“Charity is about helping people to eat, but it’s also about finding out why they’re hungry in the first place and seeing what we can do about that ,” Kubasak says. “It’s about empowering ourselves to live our faith in action.”

MOTHER’S MASS

On the Feast of the Immaculate Conception we celebrated our Mother’s mass. This year we moved to the football stadium to allow for appropriate spacing for everyone. The weather was beautiful which made it extra special! Following the mass, the mothers and their students shopped at various tables in the Quad, picking up Christmas gifts for their loved ones.

Connor Companik ‘14

Please keep our alumni seminarians in your prayers.

Written by Nicki Escudero ‘02

RETURN TO THE LIVE STAGE

There’s something magical about being a part of a live theater performance, whether you’re on stage in the cast, backstage handling logistics or in the audience watching the show. There’s an energy that permeates the space, one that unites performers, stagehands and audience members as they witness something special taking place.

Last fall, Seton Catholic theater performances returned to an in-theater format, after a challenging year of pausing big drama and musical productions. The year after COVID-19 emerged, drama productions went online, with a holiday music ensemble and some student showcases. But fall 2021 debuted “The Addams Family” modern musical in the Seton Fine Arts Theatre. The goofy, laugh-inducing show is just what the Seton community might have needed after such a challenging school year.

“We really wanted to start off with something that was big and that had a fun energy to it, that was funny and colorful and definitely something a little more accessible to people,” says Stanci Snow, Seton’s Drama Club Director and Fine Arts and Social Studies faculty. “We really wanted something that was a big welcome back to our Seton community and started off strong.”

Typically, the Seton school year features a fall play, a winter musical and a spring play or other type of showcase. But this year, Snow and crew made up for lost time, scheduling two large-scale musicals in addition to the spring play.

“Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella” hit the stage in February and was another engaging, family-friendly production that showed off student talent. Seton theater gives lots of students the opportunity to get involved, with about 40 performers and crew for “The Addams Family” and about 60 student performers and crew for “Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella.”

Next up is “Little Women,” a serious play based on classic literature, whose takeaways still apply today. It’s scheduled to debut in April.

“Something that’s really touching to me about the story is this celebration of who the daughters are and their different strengths and weaknesses and how they love each other,” Snow says. “Especially as a Catholic community, trying to recognize our own gifts and talents, I feel like this story really does represent that. It shows how these women rely on one another, I think in the same way we’re supposed to as the mystical body of Christ.”

Snow says with the amazing talent she has to work with, she, the students and their parents are thrilled to move back into the theater environment for the productions. For any type of student, not necessarily one who wants the spotlight, theater offers opportunities to prepare teens for college and beyond.

“Every club and sports team has a level of camaraderie and teamwork,” Snow says. “I think what’s different is a lot of drama stuff is almost like career development. It gives you the opportunity to learn new skills that are really very applicable, whether it’s building something or public speaking or how to use different computer software. There are so many different areas you can get involved in, whether it’s an artistic interest or a marketable skill set for the future.”

Plus, with a theater that can seat up to around 400 people, getting involved with live theater at Seton gives students something really special to be a part of and remember for the rest of their lives.

FINE ARTS STAGE

artists: Juan Alarcon,

DIVERSITY WALL

This fall, the Ceramics 2 class created a new feature wall to decorate our Fine Arts building. This wall serves a few purposes, to bring beauty to our campus, to showcase the talents of our students, and to bring awareness to the diversity of our students and community. Each student was tasked with creating four different freeform plates that were to be different shapes, sizes, and colors to represent the diversity on campus. The individual plates were combined into one stunning and cohesive piece of art along the north hall of the second floor of the Fine Arts Building.

Contributing

Joseph Baker, Briceida Castillo, Christopher Guerrero, Luis Mancilla, Taylor McKeever, David Ossanna, Isabella Rodriguez-Galvez, Alicia Sanders, Mrs. P. E. Martin

RED ZONE RE-IGNITED

For a year, the gym was quiet and people were separated. While families were grateful to watch the games, it was not the best atmosphere for sporting events. But the student section, known as the Red Zone, has come back to life!

This year there are theme nights, student hang outs, the roller coaster chant and of course, the pink flamingo. The biggest events have included a Fall Festival complete with costumes and face painting, a Christmas Night “sleepover” at the soccer games with pajamas and blankets, and

Silent Night at a basketball game including milk and cookies!

The Spirit of Seton, which is difficult to put into words, is felt throughout the Red Zone and the athletes appreciate the support of their fellow students, oftentimes athletes from different sports. “It’s like a Red Bull,” Jackson Adlhoch, one of the leaders of the student section said. “You hit a shot. You look at the student section, and everyone’s going nuts. I believe momentum’s a real thing. It just builds.”

Katie LaLicata, the female leader of the student section, works to help filter down the excitement throughout all the grade levels. Katie and Jackson work with Assistant Athletic Director Terry Licht to go beyond simple theme nights and really have fun.

Fall Academic Recognitions

The Seton Catholic Preparatory athletic department is excited to announce that 103 fall athletes from nine sports teams were honored on the Sports360AZ AllAcademic Teams.

The award honors all athletes who participated at the varsity level during the year and earns a 3.5 weighted GPA or better OR a 3.0 unweighted GPA or better. This continued another successful season for Seton athletics both in the classroom and on the fields & courts!

Why the Pink Flamingo?

In 2013, at a pink-out football game, one of the students brought a pink flamingo head to enhance the theme. It ended up in the hands of thensenior Jack Lawless, one of the mostspirited students who was always at the front of the stands leading his friends in chants and cheers. He banged it against the bleacher railing all night to drum up the crowd’s energy, and the flamingo has been a staple of the Red Zone ever since.

Special themed nights are advertised on our social media accounts including the Athletics Instagram page @scpathletics and all are invited to participate!

Region Recognitions

FOOTBALL

All Region 1st Team

Mikey WIlliamson, Receivers/Tight Ends

All Region 2nd Team

Cheveyo Nieto, Defensive Lineman

Quinn Sullivan, Linebacker

Chris Guerrero, Offensive Lineman

Mikey Castro, Running Backs

Honorable Mention

Sebastian Acuna

Ethan Ashihundu

Gio Barone

Mattias Benally

Nick DiPuccio

Charles Heil

Patrick McNally

Sergio Miranda

Jake Morris

Tommy Steinkamp

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

All Region 1st Team

Katherine LaLicata, Hitter/Middle Blocker

Emilee Horky, Hitter/Middle Blocker

Rachael Martinez, Libero

All Region 2nd Team

Kyleigh Ganz, Hitter/Middle Blocker

Gracie Shearan, Setter

Region Defensive Player of the Year

Rachael Martinez

Region Coach of the Year

James Johnson

Honorable Mention

Alexandra Van Devender

ATHLETICS

A FOUR-YEAR CULMINATION LEADING TO A CORONATION

Written By: Terry Licht, Assistant Athletic Director

Under the bright lights of Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix, the gold that hung around the neck of Seton Catholic senior wrestler Lucas Eviston on Saturday night shown the brightest. That night, he brought home an AIA Division IV 132-pound title for the Sentinels to cap an amazing career.

“It was sweet because losing it last year made winning it this year that much more of an accomplishment and getting it done finally,” Eviston said.

The road to the state title for Eviston has been four years in the making. Even as he was cementing himself as one of the top wrestlers in the state his first three years at Seton, racking up win after dominating win, the final match victory always eluded him, as finished runner-up at the State Meet as a freshman, sophomore and junior.

This season, he was on a mission.

“Every day I’d tell myself I’m the best,” he said. “Too sharp, too fast, too focused is what I kept telling myself.”

Along the road to State, Eviston laid waste to all competition, remaining unbeaten throughout the regular season, including a pair of invitational wins at the

Moon Valley Invitational in December and the Ironwood Eagle Invite at the end of January.

He quickly secured a Sectional Championship at Mogollon HS in early February to earn the top seed in the AIA State Meet.

In a situation where things should be more difficult, the man on a mission excelled, giving up just five points in four matches at State to secure his crown.

“Once I was comfortable in my positions I was able to ball out on some people and that’s where my celebration came from,” Eviston said.

In addition to securing his state championship, Eviston surpassed the 100 career wins milestone, a significant

Fellowship of Christian Athletes

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is an organization for student athletes to grow and learn with God. Seniors Rachel Martinez and Nicole Engelbert began the chapter this year at Seton, with the assistance of club moderator and Athletic Director Gregg Buchanan. There are currently 30 members from the fall sports teams, and that number is expected to grow. Monthly meetings include 30 minutes of scripture study and then daily Mass. Members talk about how God impacts their gifts and talents, and how they can use the strength given to them by God to be better athletes, better teammates, and better people on and off the court or field.

Rachel Martinez says,” It’s been a huge part of my life because I’ve been connecting with other athletes talking about sports psychology and incorporating faith into it. Being able to participate in my faith at Seton has expanded my friendships at Seton and made them a deeper level. We can talk about how God impacts our lives as athletes and how it strengthens our gifts and talents.”

achievement in an already decorated career.

A wrestler. A winner. A State Champion. And a lot of fond memories to look back on for the senior Eviston.

“It meant everything to me, coming down to it,” he said. “Really finishing the job and finally getting there and winning it and just hearing the fans and the parents counting down those last seconds of the match was incredible.”

Congratulations to the 2022 Athletes signing to play at the Collegiate level

Rachael Martinez Colgate University Girls Volleyball

Not Pictured: Mikey Castro - Northern Arizona University, Football

Kyleigh Ganz Keuka College Girls Volleyball

Gracie Shearan Durham University Girls Volleyball

Bri Nunley Arizona State University Girls Soccer

Claire Armstrong University of St. Thomas Swimming

ADDING IN THE FUN

Students, staff and parents know that having fun activities in high school is important for the student experience and helps build a sense of community in our students. These funfilled days have happened all year long, with staff, students, and parents helping to provide the activities. House is working hard to bring students together, through service projects and projects like creating bracelets, decorating Christmas trees, and decorating the campus sidewalks with chalk.

Seton Parent Association (SPA) has been revamping the student socials held once a quarter as well. The socials now take place during House instead of during the lunch break and have featured exciting things like snow, photo booths with fun props, silly games, and some friendly pups!

DIVERSITY CLUB CLUBS

SOLIDARITY CLUB

The Seton Catholic Solidarity Club works to educate ourselves and others about the injustice and suffering facing humanity overseas and close to home. We know that prayer changes us and we change things.

Our club aims to respond to the realities going on in real time. We run two blood drives a year and present at House meetings throughout the school year. In the past we have raised money for a Catholic Relief Services wells program, Hurricane relief, and the Phoenix Dream Center which aids survivors of human trafficking.

Solidarity is action on behalf of the one human family, calling us to help overcome the divisions in our world. We are the Body of Christ; we are called to show Christ’s love to the world. United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Last year, we led a House meeting on human trafficking, and also hung posters around the school in response to the many shootings. The posters were adapted from the original artist by Kaitlyn Lichtenwalter ’23, and include the Scripture “Love one Another” John 13:34, and the quote “May Peace Prevail on Earth”. (This quote is featured on Seton’s Peace Pole in many languages, including Chinese, Spanish, French, Native languages, Hebrew, and Arabic.)

The Diversity Club was started by Adaora Mobisson ’22. The events of the summer of 2020 moved her to do more to fight bias, prejudice and racism. She envisioned a club that celebrates our differences and a group that helps people stand up for themselves and each other when bias, prejudice or racism occurs.

The overall goal of the club is to “Provide a safe and inclusive space for all members of the school community regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion or ability”. Additional goals of the Diversity Club include:

Then the righteous will answer him and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’

And the king will say to them in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:37-40

STUDENT LIFE

HOMECOMING

• ●Spreading awareness for various cultures found throughout our campus and community.

• Ensuring that all students feel accepted and listened to.

• ●Becoming a place where students can express their concerns about specific issues in and outside of Seton.

• Learning about different cultures and communities to increase knowledge and avoid saying things that potentially harm others.

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” -Galatians 3:28

Homecoming was a blast to the past this year for students. The theme Through the Decades saw students getting into the spirit of the times. As the week progressed, more and more students participated in the daily themes which included the decades of 70s, 80s, and 90s/2000s. The first day was a throwback to earlier school days and had the students carrying their books in any way except with a backpack. The week culminated in the traditional Homecoming Game on Friday and dance on Saturday.

Homecoming King and Queen Michael Kossler and Sasha Daniel

PRODUCTIVE SCREEN TIME:

ESPORTS TAKES 2ND PLACE IN AZ COMPETITION

Written by Nicki Escudero ‘02

Visit the Seton Catholic gym, and you’ll see the school’s athletics achievements abound. Dozens of banners display Seton’s excellence in sports like softball, basketball and volleyball.

This past fall, a new sport put its stamp on Seton’s athletic legacy. The inaugural Seton eSports league won second place in the state finals of the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA)-sanctioned Fall eSports Championships

for Super Smash Bros. The other Seton eSports team for Rocket League made it to the Sweet 16. Both programs ranked in the top six out of all Arizona schools for the regular season, an impressive debut for the program that attracted dozens to tryouts.

“The league was the most successful you can imagine it being,” says Terry Licht, Seton’s Assistant Athletic Director. “It’s shown me how much this program can mean to a campus

and maybe a kid who isn’t into necessarily into ‘traditional’ sports but is able to do these kinds of things.”

Last year, the school sent out a survey to gain student interest in an eSports league, which resulted in more than 50 Seton students expressing their desire to get involved. Both the Rocket League and Super Smash Bros. teams have a roster of three starting competitors and three alternates, who practice and compete weekly in Online matches.

It’s not unusual to see student supporters cheering on their friends in the school’s new gaming lab, located in the fine arts building. The teams even made some trips away from school to battle it out live with the competition.

This spring’s league mirrors last semester’s teams and competition, but things could be even bigger this season. Licht envisions competitions with an audience in the fine arts theater, with the action projected live on a screen.

Students can get involved in the league beyond playing, showing off skills like announcing the events live, designing graphics for the teams and streaming the matches for the @Setonesports Twitch channel. Considering the global eSports market was valued at more than $1 billion in 2021, the program’s popularity can also grow with new game additions and more student teams for each game.

“As our partner PlayVS continues to expand its game offerings, this will allow more students to participate in the games that interest them,” says Brian Bolitho, Director of Business Development at AIA, which has more than 65 Arizona schools participating in eSports. “I believe the future for eSports in the AIA is bright, and more and more schools will continue to join as the years progress.”

The action extends past AIA-sanctioned competitions. Licht hopes to expand the program to offer community events and tournaments that invite participants from other schools, including middle school students. As more students express interest in other games, like League of Legends or Overwatch, Seton can add those to the official program, as well.

The Seton eSports league is open to all students of any grade level. It attracts tryouts from “traditional” Seton athletes, who might play football in the fall and then Rocket League in spring.

“It doesn’t matter who it is. If you can play video games, you can be there,” Licht says. “You can have some very interesting dynamics. That’s one of the beauties of eSports, is you have kids from all different walks of life.”

Jacob Rocha, a junior golfer who’s logged more than 5,000 hours of playing time in Rocket League, compares the teamwork you see in traditional team sports like soccer to eSports play.

“You have to communicate with your teammates and facilitate where everyone’s trying to go, if your teammates are out of

position,” Rocha says. He says he might pursue eSports in college, too. “It seems like there’s a lot of opportunity. You can get scholarships for it. It’s a good experience. Everyone on the team is super-nice. If you don’t have a lot of friends, it’s a great way to make friends.”

Plus, Seton players get to play with some of the best eSports athletes in the state, like Super Smash Bros. player Jacob Damon, who’s ranked in the top 10 players in Arizona. State (or national) rankings don’t matter at tryouts, though. Every player trying out is on an even

playing field, which means the teams can change every semester.

Michael Ahearne, Seton’s eSports Director, says he’s excited to see where the future of Seton eSports heads after such an outstanding debut.

“We’re one semester in, and we’re two of the best teams in the state,” Ahearne says. “It’s incredible to think we have such a talent at our school we can show off to the community. We’re definitely excited to see where the future goes.”

CATHOLIC EDUCATION ARIZONA PARTNERS WITH THE SETON SENTINELS

Written by Elizabeth English, CEA Marketing and Development Specialist

As the largest Catholic STO, Catholic Education Arizona is proud to exclusively support our Diocese of Phoenix Catholic Schools. Since its inception in 1998, individual and corporate tax credit contributors have enabled Catholic Education Arizona to continually increase scholarship funding, providing support to nearly 50% of Catholic School students. To date, over $288 million in tuition support has been awarded through over 143,000 scholarships.

Catholic Education Arizona recognizes the challenge to educate and engage households and qualifying corporations that pay AZ taxes. Taking advantage of the Individual and Corporate private education tax credits reduces tax liability for all Arizonans, and helps provide quality, Catholic education for the mind, body and spirit. We are changing lives and strengthening communities by:

• ●Arizona Catholic Schools have a 99.4% graduation rate

• ●97% of graduates matriculate to higher ed or enter military service

• ●1000s of community service hours are performed each year

In addition to serving 37 Catholic schools, our organization provides support beyond scholarships including sponsorship of the Night of Hope and through the purchase of over 400 electronic devices for our schools that transitioned to distance learning as a result of the pandemic.

Seton continues to excel academically and athletically, and CEA is proud to partner with the Seton Community! To learn more and join our loyal taxpayers who are changing lives and transforming culture, please visit www.ceaz.org or contact Deb Preach, Chief Development Officer at 602-218-6542.

FEATURESTORIES

JOIN THE SFAA!

In February, Seton held an inaugural Sentinel Giving Day and raised over $34,000. This year, we decided to step away from the national giving day, and fully celebrate Seton at a time that means so much to us, and all Catholic schools, Catholic Schools Week.

In doing this, we were able to take time to celebrate how much our community impacts our school, in so many ways, and also feature some of our students in various programs. These students will move on to impact our community, state, and the world and the lessons that they learn at Seton begin preparing them for this future.

We received gifts from Alumni, Parents, Past Parents, Grandparents, Friends, and Businesses!

To hear some of the student, alumni, and staff stories highlighted on Sentinel Giving Day, visit www.setoncatholic.org

TOTAL RAISED # OF DONORS PARTICIPATING HOUSES

You don’t need to have ANY talent, the students have plenty of that! We provide the support!

The Seton Fine Arts Association (SFAA) is a parent organization that works to provide volunteer manpower and funds for the students and faculty of the Seton Fine Arts Department. SFAA has been part of the Seton community for over 10 years. We proudly support the Seton Fine Arts Department through family memberships that assist with productions and various needs of the Fine Arts department. We also organize and provide volunteers for school fine arts events such as fine arts nights, plays, musicals, and recitals.

Our current board is composed of parents from all parts of the Seton community. We have parents of past and current fine arts performers, as well as parents whose students are taking classes to complete their fine arts credit. So, everyone is welcome!

DID YOU KNOW? All Seton students are required to take fine arts classes to graduate. Fine Arts classes are so popular students frequently enroll in more than the required amount to graduate. The numbers say it all: SETON STUDENTS LOVE THE ARTS!

Currently, we are in dire need for board members for the coming 2022-2023 school year. We have no board members returning. SFAA has been extremely successful over the years and we would hate to see this parent organization crumble. Now is a great time to consider what you can do to contribute. Our board members are available to help you train for positions now, so new officers will be comfortable

taking over next year. Please consider joining our parents group to help students showcase their amazing talents. You would be amazed at what these students can do but they need our support! Give a few hours of your time to help them shine! The time commitment is only a few hours a month, including monthly meetings. Contact SFAA@setoncatholic.org for more information.

ALL IN THE FAMILY: THE FRAHERS CONTINUE SETON CATHOLIC LEGACY

Written by Nicki Escudero ‘02

You could say the Fraher family was born at Seton Catholic. Larry Fraher taught theology at Seton from 1991 to 1996, as well as directed retreats and campus ministry, coached girls volleyball, track, and boys basketball. At Seton, he met his future wife, Heather, a religious studies college graduate and campus ministry intern. The two got married before she became a teacher at another local Catholic high school.

Soon, the couple welcomed their first daughter Elise (class of 2014), followed by daughters Kailey (class of 2016) and Leah (class of 2020). Elise has coached the Seton spiritline program since 2018, currently teaches Dance 1 and 2, and is the Academic Resource Center (ARC) Math specialist. Kailey (whose last name is Gahan) is a Seton counselor.

Larry tears up when he reflects on how Seton has influenced his daughters.

Education, and she as the preschool director. Meanwhile, Leah is studying to become a nurse at the College of Saint Benedict in Minnesota.

Larry also serves in adjunct faculty positions at the University of Mary College at Arizona State University and at Benedictine University in Mesa. His career includes more than 30 years of experience with various agencies with the Diocese of Phoenix.

Elise says teaching at Seton is her dream job. She also moderates Bible Study Club and the Red Zone Spirit Club, as well as assists with retreats.

“Through the servant leadership mindset backed by the charisms of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the Seton community is unwavering in its commitment to education and betterment for each person and community at large,” Elise, who received the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Charism award for Determination as a student, says.

“That whole sense of feeling like they could give back to a place that gave so much to them, from the school that really gave birth to our family in many ways, that’s what I’m most proud of,” says Larry.

Larry, who has bachelor’s, master’s and PhD degrees in theology-related subjects, says his time at Seton helped shape him as an educator. Today, he and Heather work at Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Parish in Scottsdale, he as Director of Faith Formation and

While faith has always united the Fraher family, they say Seton’s sense of community has brought them back. Kailey says after falling in love with psychology as an AP student her senior year, she relishes the opportunity to help others.

“I think Seton is special because it truly feels like everyone is looking out for your best interests,” Kailey says. “Everyone genuinely cares about the students and their well-being and outcome as individuals, not just academically.”

Elise says it’s amazing to coach cheerleading, since she started the inaugural competitive pom team at Seton, earned 2nd place in pom at the Arizona Interscholastic Association state championship, and was part of the first cheer team in Seton’s history to attend USA Spirit Nationals. Kailey, who golfed at Seton and was a college athlete, says she enjoys aiding and encouraging students, including other athletes, as a counselor.

Seeing how Seton shaped the Frahers, it’s exciting for the family to impact Seton in significant ways, as well.

“Being able to support kids and help them and encourage them, whatever hardships they’re going through, or working with them to help them pursue their dreams and what they want out of life, that is really rewarding for me to know I’m a part of that,” Kailey says.

Our future Sentinel tshirts are making their way to lots of families! These future Sentinels are the kids of our Alumni Relations Manager, Maggie Brown ‘02. These shirts are new this year and available in the Spirit store for $10!

ALUMNI UPDATES

Matt Radman ‘01

Matt Radman, Class of 2001, had a dream and a goal to take over his parents’ business and studied to be a master at everything associated with it. Coachworks Auto Body focuses on the customer, not the insurance company for repairs. Matt’s passion has led his business to be an Arizona collision repair industry leader. Matt has one daughter, Georgia, at Christ the King Catholic school in Mesa, and recently had a son with wife Jessica.

Colleen Sikora ‘12

Colleen Sikora Gurrola, Class of 2012, was recently awarded the 2021 Rocky Mountain Emmy Award for Daytime/Evening Newscast - Larger Markets for 12 News at 10. Colleen has been a Reporter/Multi-Skilled Journalist with 12 News in Phoenix for about 2.5 years nowshooting, writing and editing stories impacting people in the Valley. Previous to Channel 12, Colleen was working in Colorado Springs. She’s happy to be in Arizona and is most proud of being a wife and mother.

Mary Grace Blaser ‘17

Mary Grace began working for the Phoenix Suns the summer of 2021 and has been promoted to a host for the Annexus Social Club, suites and the club. Perks of the job include blocking entrances to the tunnel while the teams and coaches come out and getting to know the players and coaches and high five them as they come through and high five them as they run out the tunnel!

This winter, Tatum danced in Creighton University’s performance of “The Nutcracker.” We love seeing what our alumni are doing after graduating!

Camille Adams Carson ‘12

Camille married Michael Carson at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church on March 19, 2021. Her bridesmaids included several Seton alumni- Mariesa Ingstrum Keinbaum ‘12 matron of honor; Sarah Hollow ‘12 ; and Markelle Gately. They celebrated the day amongst family & friends including Seton Counselor Nan Hillebrand & several other Seton guests. Camille is a Recruiting Coordinator at Planful and Michael is Physical Education teacher at Mesa Public Schools.

Sarah Naldo ‘16

Sarah graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2020 where she studied Operations Research and was commissioned as an ensign in the US Navy. In the summer of 2021, she received her Master’s Degree in Operations Research from the Naval Postgraduate School. Now she is diving deep into her training to become a submarine officer at Naval Nuclear Power Training Command.

Tatum Linnen ‘21

ADVANCEMENT

for the Seton library and front façade, as well as a new gym/events center that will be capable of hosting up to 1,000 people.

Last year’s gala co-chair Amy LaLicata plans on attending this year, even though her youngest child Katie graduates Seton this spring. She says the gala’s a great event for anyone connected to Seton now or from the past, or who might be considering Seton as a future high school for their children.

“There are always parents who come back year after year, even when their children have long graduated college,” LaLicata says. “You make friendships that will last way longer than the four years of school. It almost feels like you’re missing out if you’re not there.”

for Campus Renovations

A booze burro, a giant conga line, Cuban marketplace-inspired tropical décor and an exciting, competitive live auction were some of the highlights at Seton Catholic’s first in-person gala celebration since 2015. More than 425 guests attended the sold-out “Havana Nights” event this past August 2021 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Tempe. Mojito cocktails, a cigar bar, a plated dinner, DJ and dancing kept guests entertained throughout the night.

The event raised a record amount of gala funds, more than $365,000 that helped pay for classroom upgrades, new science lab equipment, and other campus improvements. Beyond the impact the fundraising has on current and future students, the event was an enjoyable way to build camaraderie among parents, teachers, administration, alumni and the greater Seton community.

“Our tagline was, ‘We’re Havana good time,’ and it totally happened,” says gala co-chair Alexandra Boyle, whose daughter Áine is a Seton senior. “The ballroom was nuts. People were there until the last minute, on the dance floor, bidding on auction items.

Seton galas originated in 1989 and have been held intermittently at various local venues and on campus. Gala fundraising supports projects to improve Seton’s campus and the student experience, as well as provides tuition assistance. Upcoming projects include renovations

“They were kicking people out at midnight and it ended at 11,” Karen Hill, Library Assistant and Special Events Coordinator says. “It’s amazing how people come forward and support Seton like this. It’s just such a great social event, as well.”

For people who care about Seton and its students, the gala gives alumni, parents and community members the opportunity to attend one of the best parties of the year while supporting future generations of Seton students.

Donor Co-chairs Alex Boyle and Amy LaLicata

2021 Havana Nights Gala Raises

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.

Eddie Soto

Alumni Class of 1974

October 2021

Ken Bricher

Current Parent

November 2021

Alvaro Amador

Current Grandparent

January 2022

Gregory Gesicki

Past Seton Parent

January 2022

Vanessa Lopez Delgado

Current Teacher

December 2021

Bob Murray

Current Grandparent

January 2022

April 29

Seton Catholic Golf Classic

April 29 - May 1

Little Women Beginning May 21

Summer Camps

April 29

Cash & Tuition Raffle Drawing

May 17

Graduation

September 10

An Evening In Cactus Country Gala 2022

September 13

Seton Catholic Preparatory Day

Jesus Lopez

Past Seton Grandparent

December 2021

Alissa Serignese

Past Parent

January 2022

Summer Camps

If you are aware of a member of the Seton community or alumni who recently passed away, please notify the Seton Advancement Office so we may remember them in this column. Please send an email to setonalumni@setoncatholic.org.

TRIVIA ANSWER

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SetonCatholic.org

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Parents, if your child has finished college and you are receiving his/ her Seton Catholic Preparatory mailings at your home, please notify the Advancement Office of his/her new address so the Shield and other mailings can be sent directly to him/her. Call 480-963-1900 ext. 2031 or email pglasser@setoncatholic.org

Academic excellence, A world of opportunity.