the Village Voice | Fall/Winter 2022

For years, the Village Voice was a hallmark of the VCS community.

Each issue of Village Christian School’s magazine is decades in the making and builds on a rich history of passionate and talented people pooling their gifts to celebrate the way God is working in and through our community.

“From the beginning, the Village Voice was always about community,” said former Village Voice Editor Maria Cowell. “From the early days when it was a one-sheeter, typed out by a couple of people – I believe it was Dave Wilson and Judie Hanna – and then photocopied, to the last professionally printed edition in 2010, the heart of the magazine was to keep people connected. No matter what the story was about, the point was to share and celebrate what was happening in students' lives, the life of the campus, and what our alumni were doing post-Village.”

Our community is overflowing with powerful stories of God’s grace and guidance. Through these stories, we get a snapshot of the profound impact students (past and present) have on and off campus and the profound impact this campus has had on them – and you’re about to see how.

If you have an idea for a story or person to be featured in the Village Voice, please email connect@villagechristian.org.

Upcoming Events

IGNITE | MARCH 9, 2023

A combination of Concentrations ® and 1:5 ® Circles of Care, Ignite is a foundational—and special—evening for VCS freshmen. At this annual event, students not only declare their Concentration, they are surrounded by caring adult mentors, who are committed to supporting them through their educational journey.

WASHINGTON, D.C. TRIP | MARCH 28 –APRIL 3, 2023

Fifth grade returns to Washington, D.C. again this year with visits to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, Gettysburg, the incredible monuments and museums in our nation’s capital, and an unforgettable visit to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

EASTER BREAK | APRIL 7-16, 2023

This year, Easter Break follows Good Friday and Easter Sunday. The school will be closed Friday, April 7 and reopens for classes on Monday, April 17.

SPARK SYMPOSIUM | APRIL 20, 2023

Experience all six VCS Concentrations as students showcase their career-building projects in an open house-style event that is a hallmark of our signature high school academic program.

THE MARCH | APRIL 19-23, 2023

“The March: Journey from Civil War to Civil Rights” is scheduled for April 19-23 with a recouperation day on Monday, April 24. Eighth grade students will travel to Memphis, Tennessee; Birmingham, Alabama; Montgomery, Alabama; and Atlanta, Georgia, enjoying a riverboat ride on the Mississippi River, walk the Shiloh battlefield, and see a host of sites that weave them through the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement.

2023 ANNUAL AUCTION AND GALA | MAY 6, 2023

Coming off a record-breaking 2022 event, preparations have already begun for the 2023 Annual Auction and Gala. This year, we can’t wait to gather for this unique community fundraising event at Castaway in Burbank. You will enjoy a 1980s-themed prom with a breathtaking overlook of the city below. It’s going to be a blast! Tickets go on sale soon.

GRADUATIONS | MAY 25-27, 2023

We are looking forward to celebrating this year’s graduates right here on campus on the Field of Dreams. Elementary Culmination is May 25, Middle School Graduation is slated for May 26, and High School Graduation will be held on May 27.

A NOTE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

When I reflect on our school’s mission "to provide a CAREing, Christ-centered education producing students who thrive" I often wonder,“How can we find the longitudinal proof that we are achieving it?” I believe you will find concrete evidence of “mission accomplished” as you read the stories of our students and alumni in this edition of the Village Voice.

It is so gratifying to know that the hard work and prayers of our faculty and staff are bearing fruit in the lives of our students young and old. Daily, our employees show their commitment to our CARE values: Christ-centered, Accessible/Affordable, Real Relationships, and Educational Excellence. They go the extra mile, striving to make a difference in each student’s life, most of the time not knowing for sure if it really made a difference or not. But in faith, they continue.

When we learn in the moment or even many years later that students are following God’s call on their lives and making an impact in the world, we feel an enormous amount of satisfaction. The long-term success of our students, particularly when they pursue their faith to create positive change in our world, is why we do what we do.

We hope you enjoy reading their stories as much as we did.

Go

Crusaders! Tom Konjoyan | Head of School

It is so gratifying to know that the hard work and prayers of our faculty and staff are bearing fruit in the lives of our students young and old.

FosteringLocal Church Connections

THROUGH RECENT EFFORTS, VCS IS WORKING HARDER TO BUILD STRONGER INTENTIONAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH LOCAL CHURCHES

By Paul Pitts III, Spiritual Life Director

The primary goal of connecting with local churches has been to ensure the nature of the para-church ministry of Village Christian School is faithful to its calling from God. As a para-church ministry providing distinctly Christian education to our community, we must exist alongside of the church—never in place of the church or stiff-arming the church. Moreover, Village Christian School can never be content with being the sole spiritual influence in the life of any student, and thus, we must partner with healthy local churches to ensure every soul is shepherded and cared for as God has commanded in Scripture within the context of the local church.

The church is the body and bride of Jesus Christ, who is Himself the Head of the church along with Lord and Savior (Eph. 5:25-33, Col. 1:18).

The church is the pillar and support for the truth, entrusted with the gospel to preach God’s message of reconciliation (1 Tim. 3:15, 2 Cor. 5:18-21).

It is the church that rightly carries out ordinances given to us by the Lord Jesus, such as baptism and the Lord’s Table (Matt. 28:18-19, 1 Cor. 11:23-26).

The church fulfills the Great Commission to the nations (Matt. 28:18-20, Acts 1:8). Jesus said about the church and the church alone, “I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it” (Matt. 16:18).

In 100,000 years unto eternity, the church made up of all nations, tribes, and tongues will still be a God-glorifying reality, while Christian schools will have served their purpose.

Nonetheless, at this point in redemptive history, Christian schools are blessings, beneficial, and necessary—serving God’s people best when they serve alongside healthy local churches.

Healthy local churches also provide biblical and theological accountability to the school, trustworthy places for us to send kids for holistic soul-care as the Lord has commanded, qualified servants to further our discipleship/ evangelistic needs, and provide a demographic of flourishing believers to fill the staff roles at the school. So, VCS exists rightly before God when we serve alongside of the local church, never replacing or distancing ourselves from the local church.

This is why we have intentionally connected ourselves with the local churches connected to us for rich gospel partnership.

The gospel partnerships we have formed with local churches have proved successful and fruitful for VCS. We have hosted two Pastor Luncheons, where we have invited over 20 local churches from our area for fellowship discussing biblical ways to partner together for the gospel. Both of these luncheons have seen dozens of pastors join us.

The fruit from these luncheons have been local pastors teaching or serving as counselors at our grade-level retreats, local churches joining our lunch time Bible studies, staff-devotionals, leading/attending our chapels, embracing their unique access to our campus, supporting the Bible Department, and a renewed desire for equipping their students to be ambassadors for Jesus here at VCS.

We will continue to foster these relationships through our Pastor Luncheons every semester along with frequently reaching out to local church leaders with the service opportunities our ministry provides along with individual meetingswith pastors for prayer.

We envision these gospel partnerships with local churches and VCS becoming central to the ministry of VCS, wherein the local churches are integral in every aspect of ministry here at the school by engaging, equipping, and embracing our students.

Ultimately, the hope is that students would indeed be Christ-centered for life and the only way that will be a reality is through vital membership in a healthy local church preaching Christ and shepherding His people.

Photo: Carrie Post

Letters To THE LAW

HOW VCS ALUM SGT. AARON KENDRICK ('96) CHANGED AN ADDICT’S LIFE—AND COUNTLESS OTHERS—BY FOLLOWING THE LORD’S LEADING, AND THE ANNUAL REMINDER HE RECEIVES IN THE MAIL

It was one in 167 million.

That’s the average amount of mail the United States Postal Services processes every day— more than 167 million pieces.

There are important documents, monthly bills, and heaps of junk mail.

However, one letter addressed to Burbank Police Department Sergeant Aaron Kendrick every year harkens back to a simple but life-changing conversation in a patrol car and a radical story of redemption.

Inside the envelope is a card and a sobriety chip.

A former addict has sent them to Kendrick annually for more than 15 years.

“You just don’t know the impact you are going to make in someone’s life,” Kendrick says. “One word, one short conversation can make all the difference and change someone’s life.”

One night, Kendrick, a Village Christian alum from the Class of 1996, arrested a man for narcotics.

He was a repeat offender. He was a father. And his life was careening out of control.

“I felt convicted that I needed to say something to him because this could be the last time I

ALUMNI FEATURE

Photo: Fontaina Funk

talked to him,” Kendrick recalls. “On that last arrest, we were discussing in the car on the way to jail that he needs to get his life straight and raise the child that he had. I felt compelled to tell him, ‘You need to get your life together and you need to go to church. Church is the answer.’”

Kendrick grew up in the church and comes from a long line of VCS Crusaders.

His father, David, graduated from VCS in 1971 and married fellow alum Cherie Tait, who was the school’s first-ever homecoming queen. David was a former teacher, coach, and staff member at Village for years and remains one of the school’s early luminaries.

But that only scratches the surface of the family’s ties to VCS.

“My grandmother [Diane Tait] brags that she was the one who started the drill team,” Aaron says with a laugh as he reminisces on the school’s history.

Kendrick is married to current VCS teacher Dr. Megan (McLeod) Kendrick from the Class of 1997. The two have three children currently enrolled at VCS—Braddock (16), Cora (16), and Colette (14).

He began his 21 years with BPD by spending nine years in patrol. He then transitioned to investigations and undercover narcotics, where he worked with fellow VCS graduate Neil Gunn. Kendrick currently serves in personnel and training.

“If you’re a believer, it’s like anything else,” he says. “Am I where God wants me to be? Am I doing what he’s asked me to do? If I am, am I doing what I need to do to further His kingdom? That’s why we’re here. To further His kingdom. So what does that look like for me in law enforcement?”

On that day in the patrol car, it looked like a simple conversation.

Afterward, Kendrick booked the man and a year passed without a word.

Then, a letter showed up; sobriety coin enclosed.

“He proceeds to tell me that he has been going to church, he’s become a Christian and is saved, his wife is saved, his kids are saved, and how thankful he was for me at that time,” Kendrick says.

Sometimes the man even includes pictures of his family. Now his kids have kids, and they are all saved.

He even has a prison ministry witnessing to inmates.

THE KENDRICK FAMILY CELEBRATES ON THE FIELD AFTER VCS FOOTBALL BEAT BIG BEAR 6-0 ON OCTOBER 8 IN BIG BEAR.

And it all comes back to a simple conversation— an act of obedience with a ripple effect and limitless potential.

“I just received my clearance from LASD to carry the message of recovery into the jail system,” read the card from 2017. “Life still has ups and downs, but it’s completely different from the one you pulled me out of.”

For Kendrick, the gift came in knowing the man’s life has changed.

However, that’s not always the case, which makes the power of every decision and interaction so profound.

“You may never know until one day you’re standing up in heaven, and there’s that person and they let you know how impactful you were to them,” Kendrick says.

Either way, there is no substitute for caring for others, and as Kendrick proves, God’s power has no bounds.

Even through the postal service.

Said one card from 2011: “You, doing the job you’ve chosen has changed not only mine, but my family’s life completely.”

You just don't know the impact you are going to make in someone's life.

(TOP) SERGEANT AARON KENDRICK (BOTTOM) MORE THAN A DECADE AFTER THEIR LIFE-CHANGING CONVERSATION, KENDRICK AND THE MAN WHOSE LIFE HE IMPACTED MET FOR BREAKFAST AND REFLECTED ON THEIR JOURNEY TOGETHER.

FINE ARTS FEATURE

Early into her artistic pursuits, now-senior Esther Shin wasn’t sure she wanted to continue.

It’s a good thing she didn’t give up.

Shin not only received the top score of a “5” on her AP Studio Art exam, she’s one of only 342 out of 19,210 students worldwide to receive a perfect score.

“I was expecting a 4, but I definitely wasn’t expecting a perfect 5,” she says. “For my first piece, it just came out well. I didn’t expect it. I didn’t think it was going to be good. It was surprising.”

Shin first took up art in seventh grade, but after a while, she was feeling uninspired and considered shifting her attention elsewhere.

“I nearly gave up on it,” she says. “Didn’t have a lot of great ideas, which was discouraging.”

In fact, what her high school art teacher, Gared Luquet, sees is anything but uninspired.

“In AP Art Studio 2D, Esther surprised me daily with her introspective themes, mastery of a variety of techniques, and diverse use of media,” Luquet said. “Esther illustrated how the five senses serve as a link to the world around us, depicting how humans rely on their senses for pleasure and survival.

“Her series of graphite pencil portraits with colorful mixed media additions were used as a focal point, highlighting the progression from positive to negative depictions of the senses,” he continued. “Esther was able to give a deeply insightful look into the physical human condition by capturing the subconscious understanding of each sense. Esther worked with precision, capturing every detail with care and concern. She consistently worked outside of class and met each of the rigorous portfolio deadlines.”

Photo: Matt Farias

The AP Art and Drawing portfolio has two sections – Sustained Investigation and Selected Work – that are submitted in May. Results are received in July.

The Sustained Investigation is 60 percent of the score and consists of 15 images that highlight the prolonged investigation of one theme.

The Selected Work section is 40 percent of the score, which requires students to select their five best pieces and mail the physical works of art to be reviewed by College Board readers.

Finally, students submit written responses to a variety of prompts about their pieces and process.

Shin, who says she wants to stay in California for college next year, passed all with flying colors.

“I don’t like rushing, but after I finish, I feel accomplished,” she says. “That’s what makes me want to do another piece.”

Hopefully, there will be many more in the future.

“Many students, teachers, administrators know of Esther's amazing talent, but now she has achieved on a national level for her incredible artwork,” said High School Principal Doug Berry. “Village Christian School could not be more proud of her and the amazing work she has done, but more importantly, we are so proud of Esther and how she shares her God-given talent with others here at Village.”

VCS ART TEACHER GARED LUQUET AND SENIOR ESTHER SHIN STAND WITH HER ART PORTFOLIO.

CHAOTIC SPRING, 2022 Graphite pencil on paper

Making the Right Calls

ALUM LOGAN SOFORENKO ('20) IS FOLLOWING HIS PLAY-BY-PLAY DREAMS FROM VCS TO THE CAPE COD BASEBALL LEAGUE TO THE ONTARIO REIGN

When it comes to Americana, the Cape Cod Baseball League has a special level of nostalgic tradition.

The amateur summer baseball league, which has been immortalized across popular culture, is a special destination for tourists and prospective big leaguers alike.

Logan Soforenko not only had a front row seat for this special corner of America’s pastime, he was the voice of it.

Soforenko spent the 2022 summer announcing games for the Falmouth Commodores, spending the summer entrenched in history, hard work, and an exhilarating array of opportunities that have taken the 2020 VCS graduate’s career to new heights.

"I miss Cape Cod every day,” Soforenko says. “Not a day goes by that I don't think about it.”

Hard to blame him.

When he wasn’t calling games, which wasn’t often, he was at Fenway Park, Martha’s Vineyard, or Worcester.

When he was calling games, however, it was in front of a passionate fan base with a front-row seat to MLB’s future.

“The fans are fantastic,” he says. “The Falmouth Commodores, this year, are celebrating 100 years. The fans are so passionate. They are seeing the future of Major League Baseball for free.”

VCS

ALUMNI FEATURE

According to the CCBL’s website, “One in every six Major League Baseball players has played in the Cape Cod Baseball League. There are annually 300 active Cape Cod Baseball League alumni playing in the major leagues and more than 1,250 all-time.”

Notable alumni currently on Major League Baseball rosters include Aaron Judge, Chris Sale, Kris Bryant, George Springer, and former Dodgers outfielder A.J. Pollock, who played for Falmouth in 2008.

Soforenko was one of three broadcasting team members, rotating through play-by-play, color, and sideline reporting duties across a 44-game regular season. The demands were high, and before long, he was ingrained in the culture.

“You just become part of it,” Soforenko says of his role with the team. “My free time was either walking down to the beach or making highlights from the day before.”

For Falmouth, the season ended with a 6-1 loss to the Cotuit Kettleers on August 2, but not before Soforenko and his crew got the chance to broadcast a game on NESN, broadcast partner of such teams as the Patriots, Red Sox, Bruins, and Celtics.

For the long-time Boston fan, it was a dream come true.

“It was insane,” Soforenko says. “It was surreal.”

It was a long way from his starting point as a sophomore at VCS, when he began practicing in front of a mirror and calling volleyball games.

That experience grew into basketball and football games, all while balancing high-profile roles in the Theatre Arts Department.

In reality, Soforenko found announcing and acting to be extremely complimentary.

“They

Upon graduation, Soforenko attended California Lutheran University, where, after emailing with basketball coach Russell White in 2020, he got his shot announcing at the next level.

That’s when the budding career took off.

Opportunities continued to pop up, and when he saw an opening with the Ontario Reign hockey team, he jumped at it. After an arduous application process, Soforenko was hired as the back-up public address announcer for the Los Angeles Kings' AHL affiliate.

are both performances,” he says. “They both have mediums where you are supposed to tell a story."

(ABOVE) LOGAN SOFORENKO WORKS AS AN IN-GAME HOST FOR THE ONTARIO REIGN. (RIGHT) SOFORENKO INTERVIEWS BEN HESS OF THE FALMOUTH COMMODORES.

After a summer on the Cape, he’s back in Southern California once again working for the Reign, but now with an expanded role as the backup in-game host.

The current CLU junior says he plans to focus more on his studies and theatre this year, en route to his bachelor’s degree in theatre and sports communication.

And a future in broadcasting.

“I went into the COVID shutdown thinking I was going to do theatre for a living,” he says. “During COVID, I thought, ‘You know what, I have the skills to do broadcasting.’ And honestly, broadcasting was going to resume quicker than theatre. You need to be versatile in what you do in high school. Do art. Do theatre. Do sports. Being a versatile human being is so important. Do everything in high school. Do it all. Be knowledgeable at a lot of stuff.”

It's a journey, and Soforenko is focusing on who God has made him to be.

It's always the right call.

And the sky’s the limit.

You need to be versatile in what you do in high school. Do art. Do theatre. Do sports. Being a versatile human being is so important.

FULL CIRCLE

ON

James Edwards last donned a Village Christian football helmet in 1984.

However, the game never left him.

Not during the day-to-day.

Not during harrowing gang shootouts.

Not during return visits to VCS.

Now his game is impacting the next generation of Village football players, all without Edwards even knowing it.

JAMES EDWARDS SET MULTIPLE SACK RECORDS FROM 1982-1984.

More specifically, his records for sacks in a season and in a career.

“It motivated all of us and made us better,” says junior defensive lineman Drew Huezo. “We were all pushing for that same goal.”

As for Edwards?

“That’s what records are for. They are meant to be broken. I didn’t realize it stood for 37 years,” he says with a laugh.

Edwards (Class of 1985) is back on campus more these days than ever before. His daughter, McKenna, is a junior on the volleyball team after transferring to VCS over the summer.

“Just walking back on the campus, you can feel that electricity. Every time we go back, I’m having a ball. We walk on the campus and it takes me back 40 years,” he says. “[McKenna] is getting to experience what my brothers and sisters and cousins all did when we were here. To me, that’s fun.”

That’s when worlds collided.

This fall, the 2005 VCS Hall of Fame inductee was attending Nonfire, which he remembers as a bonfire back in the 1980s started by Judie Hanna and his mother Jackie, he says, when four football players asked to meet him: Huezo, and fellow defensive standouts Oz Funk, Matthew Keller, and Colin Fahrberger.

They initially saw his stats as Middle School players, and he had become a folk hero of sorts.

“We were actually really nervous to shake his hand,” Funk says. “This is the guy we were chasing for years. We were like a bunch of shy first graders.”

Edwards was stunned—and was rooting for them.

“When we met him at Nonfire, he told us

records were meant to be broken,” Fahrberger says.

He followed the team and made it a point to connect with them after games.

And he liked what he saw.

“I was impressed with their personalities and the fact they were humble and respectful off the field and violent and turbulent on the field—as it should be,” he says.

On October 14, in a 39-34 win over Ontario Christian, his first record fell. Huezo notched 1.5 sacks in the game, pushing his total to a record-breaking 19.5.

Edwards was there to see it.

“He said, ‘Now you have to wear my number. Congrats on breaking my record. Now I want you to pile it on,’” Huezo recalls of their postgame conversation.

He finished the season with 9.5 sacks and a new career mark of 21 total.

The defense as a whole gave up a mere 11 points

EDWARDS CONGRATULATES JUNIOR DREW HUEZO AFTER BREAKING HIS CAREER SACK RECORD.

per game and logged four shutouts, but now, they have their eyes firmly set on next season.

“We have one last chance to prove ourselves and bring back a ring, to go the distance,” says Keller, who broke the tackles for loss record this season with 23. Huezo holds the career mark with 37.5.

For Edwards, it’s been a full-circle experience.

He was on the team when the program transitioned from 8-man to 11-man football, for the first matchups with Los Angeles Baptist (now Heritage Christian), and when they played on the patchy grass of the lower field.

Police Department veteran is taken back to 1997, when that lesson saved his life, his partner’s life, and helped him earn the Medal of Valor.

He was called to investigate gang-related activity, when the situation turned violent.

One of his partners was shot, and risking his own safety, Edwards picked him up and carried him out of the line of fire.

“’If you give up here, you’re going to give up in life,’” he recalls. “That’s the big thing about sports that I love. All that stuff comes back to you, and it’s all relevant in life. Thank God my parents sent us there for that amount of time, because everything came back to what I learned at Village.”

Now Edwards is in the position to pour into new generations of Crusaders.

And the mark he’s leaving extends far beyond the record books.

Most importantly, he remains anchored to the life-lessons he learned on the gridiron.

“Everything came back to Mike Plaisance and football,” Edwards says. “You don’t give up, and you don’t stop fighting until you've won the battle. Everything comes back to those days in football.”

Perhaps most notably, the 33-year Los Angeles

“I’m so glad God led us back this way,” Edwards says.

You don’t give up, and you don’t stop fighting until you've won the battle. Everything comes back to those days in football.

CRUSADERS ON THE RISE

By Diana Putignano, Athletic Director

VCS ATHLETICS STARTS THE SCHOOL YEAR WITH SUCCESSFUL SEASONS AND THE RETURN OF THE GIRLS TENNIS PROGRAM

Last year, we were focused on getting back to normal, but this year, we are working to create the best experience possible with a dramatically increased number of Village Christian student-athletes.

We are adding teams, we’ve brought back a program, and we are exploring club sports and camps in order to provide opportunities to expose students to new sports and develop their current skills and passions.

Photo: Paul Putignano

If the fall season’s playoff runs and league title are any indication, we are moving in the right direction.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Led by first-year head coach Hannah Ayala, VCS girls volleyball secured up its fifth straight Olympic League title and 15th in program history. The young Crusaders only dropped a single set in league play and finished with an overall record of 26-8.

FOOTBALL

For the second consecutive season, VCS football provided thrills, wins, and a trip to the postseason. Moving up from Division 11 to Division 8, the 8-3 Crusaders locked up back-to-back Bible Bowls and enjoyed a new home at Glendale Community College. Led by a stout defense that registered four shutouts, VCS was edged in a tough first-round playoff matchup with Redondo Union after finishing second in the newly formed Ironwood League.

CROSS COUNTRY

In cross country, our athletes continued their improvement, and with both our boys and girls teams still very young, we are excited for the program’s future.

CHEER

Though busy on the football sidelines, our cheer program is now beginning to dive into the competition season. Because of the increased student participation, we were excited to add two new assistant coaches—alumnae Christina Haddadin (2018) and Carly Garner (2022).

GIRLS TENNIS

This year, we were proud to welcome girls tennis back into the fold for the first time since 2012. The Crusaders finished 5-5 overall and made the postseason. In singles, Mia Martinez and Karen Shin made runs at league titles, finishing second and third, respectively.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

This fall, we fielded football, two volleyball teams, cross country, and girls tennis in Middle School in addition to a full cheer squad. Sixth-grader Logan Fox qualified for the USA Track and Field Junior National Cross Country Championships.

ELEMENTARY

In Elementary competition, cross country wrapped up a great season with two more of our youngest runners – Mikaela Shum (grade 2) and Aurora Fox (grade 3) – joining Logan Fox in qualifying for the USATAF Junior National Cross Country Championships.

Between High School and Middle School, winter sports are off and running with nine basketball teams, five soccer teams, two wrestling teams, and cheer continuing their competition season.

And the icing on the cake—we got to induct CIF State and Southern Section boys basketball champions Bryan Alberts and Marsalis Johnson from the Class of 2014 into the Hall of Fame.

Participation in all athletic programs is up K-12, and we are looking forward to great seasons and further playoff runs from our winter and spring sports.

FINE ARTS FULL SWING FINE ARTS INFULL SWING

FINE ARTS UPDATE

WITH PROGRAMS BOOMING CAMPUS-WIDE, THE FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT HAS OPENED THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR WITH A BUSY SLATE OF PERFORMANCES AND OPPORTUNITIES

By Natalie Taylor, Director of Fine Arts

Now that we are out from under the cloud of COVID, we are free to express and use our gifts in so many ways. We are exploding in every department, every area, every program. Students are getting excellent instruction, numerous performing opportunities, and it’s very exciting.

We just finished an amazing Candlelight Christmas Celebration, where students from Middle and High School got to perform, as did our Elementary Choirs. It was a beautiful night of collaboration and teamwork showcasing our students’ talents and the hard work of our teachers.

But that’s just part of the amazing things happening in VCS Fine Arts.

Photo: Paul Putignano

THEATRE ARTS

We started the fall with the Middle School Black Box show called Adventure is Out There

It was mostly solo performances or in groups of two, so they all had their own moment to shine either singing a song by themselves or doing a scene with another partner. It was more of an intimate setting showcasing our students individually, and it was a great way to prepare them for Oliver , which has now begun. Rehearsals are going well, and it opens at the end of January. The cast is fantastic, and all of the lead roles are double cast.

Just this past November, our High School Theatre Arts Department did The Crucible , and it was probably the most difficult content we have ever given our High School Theatre Arts Department apart from the Black Box shows. The students handled it very well—amazing acting, some of which was, in my opinion, the best acting we have seen on our stage.

In Elementary, The Wizard of Oz has started, and we have 70 students participating in grades 2-5. It’s going to be amazing. Meanwhile, our little ones – JK through first grade – are doing a Wizard of Oz workshop beginning in February, and we have close to 30 students participating in that.

Next semester, we have three musicals going on at the same time – Oliver Jr. ; The Wizard of Oz , and Singing in the Rain – between the months of January and March. It will be busy and exciting!

DANCE COMPANY

Dance Company has been doing really well, and they have had an amazing experience this semester with outside choreographers, including Sabrina Phillip and Greg Poland. Their performances have been outstanding, and the program continues to expand.

VOCAL ARTS

Vocal Arts was showcased beautifully at Candlelight this year. We have about 40

students in Middle School, so it is really exploding at that level, which will continue to pour into High School in the coming years. They sound wonderful, their arrangements are great, and David and Sara Das are doing a wonderful job exposing them to all different genres of music.

VCappella and CruCappella are doing an amazing job, especially given the fact that they only meet before school. They put together all of their arrangements and rehearsals without being part of the school day. It’s incredible what they are able to accomplish, and they sounded fantastic at Candlelight.

In Elementary, we have two choirs, Crusader Choir and Village Voices, with about 70 students involved between both. They also meet before school. They will be joining Elementary Band and Strings in the Spring going to Knott’s Berry Farm for a festival.

INSTRUMENTAL ARTS

We have a new Elementary Strings teacher – Thomas Lovasz. He has been with us since September, and he has been phenomenal. Thomas is working alongside MS/HS Strings teacher Michelina Wright so that our Elementary program feeds into Middle and High School.

Band and Drumline have been busy since August playing at football games and at Nonfire. Drumline now has three classes –three groups – because the program has grown so much. They are always a crowd pleaser!

Last, but not least, our newest class, Worship Arts, has been leading our MS and HS students in worship at our weekly chapels and yearly retreats. They have become such an important part of our school’s culture, and we are blessed to be able to develop worship leaders, who will impact the world in the future.

It’s a great time to be in Fine Arts at Village Christian.

MADELEINE BARRERA PERFORMS IN FALL VCS THEATRE ARTS PRODUCTION OF THE CRUCIBLE.

Photo: Asher Hansow

Child Care Room Receives Valuable Remodel

The Elementary Child Care Room has always been heavily used, but not just for child care.

It is the hub of Day Camp and a regular meeting room for PTF and groups of teachers.

And it is used daily for teachers and aides to work with small groups of students.

This summer, the room received a much-needed overhaul.

“The remodel not only gave the room a fresh look, but it also made it a more useful and flexible pace for these various groups,” said Elementary Assistant Principal Judy Mandl. “We are so grateful to our PTF for the funds that made all of this possible.”

Funding for this project was primarily driven by Elementary PTF through such fundraisers as the 2021 Read-A-Thon and 2022 Race for Education.

Both the 760 square-foot main room and connected office received upgrades.

“The PTF has done it again,” said Elementary Principal Margie Chespak. “Both rooms have been newly painted, furnished and decorated to meet the needs of today's students. There are designated areas with plenty of electrical

outlets for students to work on their Chromebooks, read a book in a cozy nook, play at the LEGO table, work on an activity table, or find seating to chat with their friends. During the day, these rooms are used for tutoring, as additional classrooms and as meeting rooms for a variety of activities. We are very thankful for the hard work of the PTF and the incredible generosity of our families.”

The remodel began in June and was completed in late July. Additional aesthetic enhancements, such as a VCS-designed “fruit of the Spirit tree” wall mural, were added in the fall.

In all, the room and adjoining office received new flooring, LED lighting, sitting counter, cabinetry and chairs, new ceiling, and a host of electrical upgrades.

“We are extremely pleased with the Child Care Room remodel,” said Facilities Director Mike Custer. “Rarely has a room’s transformation been so dramatic. We took a worn out area with dated features, and changed it into a modern space, which will bless students for many generations.”

Photo: Matt Farias

Elementary Rallies for Fifth Annual Read-A-Thon

THIS FALL, ELEMENTARY WRAPPED UP ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL READY, SET, READ! READ-A-THON AT VILLAGE CHRISTIAN

From the kick-off rally to the final silly stringing of Mrs. Chespak and Mrs. Mandl, the event was a tremendous success and a total blast for VCS students.

Here’s what Mrs. Chespak and Elementary PTF President Karina Culbertson had to say about this year’s event:

Margie Chespak Elementary Principal

The 2022 fifth annual read-a-thon was an extraordinary success. The generosity of our families, coupled with the excitement our students experienced as they read, resulted in a wildly rewarding effort. I am truly humbled by the unselfish giving of so many parents, grandparents, relatives, and friends. The teachers are very excited to get new projectors with LED lights that will provide sharp, clear images. The addition of sound bars will ensure students can hear well wherever they are seated in the room. Extra monies will be added to the Legacy Campaign to help fund the new South Athletic Field. Our students are incredibly blessed to have families that care so much to make sure they are getting the best education possible here at VCS.

Karina Culbertson (Class of 2002) Elementary PTF President

MORE FALL EVENTS

WATCH MORE: Grandparents Day Recap Video

The Elementary PTF is overwhelmed by the generosity of our families during this year’s fall fundraiser. The annual read-a-thon was overwhelmingly successful and has allowed us to fund the replacement of the projectors and the sound bars in the elementary classrooms, which we are confident will make such a difference for our teachers and students. It was also wonderful to hear students talk about the reading that they were doing, and we are so excited that this is a fundraiser that inspires such a love for learning in the students. This could not be accomplished, however, without the support of our amazing elementary families and their heart for VCS.

Celebrating Season the

For the second consecutive year, the Village Christian community gathered for an evening of celebration, fellowship, and the proud proclamation of the birth of Jesus.

VCS held the Candlelight Christmas Celebration on the VCS Admin Field and Shield on December 9, 2022, with attendance estimates ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 people gathered for an evening of Christmas performances by our Fine Arts Department, scripture readings, treats, and even a little snow.

“It was inspiring to see our village come out in droves to celebrate Christmas and enjoy the performances of our students,” said Head of School Tom Konjoyan. “As the Christmas Carol O Holy Night reminds us, it was a ‘night divine.’”

Students from all grade levels performed vocals, instrumentals, or dances during the seasonally theme show, with scripture readings and analysis written by Spiritual Life Director Paul Pitts III anchoring the program.

Photo: Paul Putignano

These passages can be found below:

“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” Galatians 4:4-5

At the perfect time and in the perfect way, God the Father in His great love and wisdom, sent forth His eternal Son, Jesus. But if we go back to the beginning, God created this world in goodness, and God made us that we would glorify and enjoy Him forever. But sin entered this story, which shows us the world we live in is actually a redemption story. From heavenly glory, Jesus, the Son of God, was sent into the world and He came to accomplish our redemption. He was born of a woman with no sin nature but was truly human like us as well as God in flesh. In this redemption story, Jesus is the redeemer and He sets us free not only by living the most perfect and beautiful life but by lovingly dying in our place as the substitute. Jesus rose again and all those who receive Him also receive adoption from God, entering into Jesus’ Sonship. Jesus came so that by faith in Him, we could be restored. Jesus came so that we would be redeemed from sin and death unto eternal life and love. This is good news of great joy. This is the reason for the season. This is why we celebrate.

“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him.” 1 John 4:9

We live in the story of God’s glory, and Christmas is a celebration of the love of God in Jesus Christ. It would be just and fair for all humanity to perish due to our falling short of God’s glory. But the redeeming grace and love of God is greater than our sin. That is why the gift of Jesus Christ is the greatest of all gifts. The Holy love of God has been sacrificially shown and made clear in the sending of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Because Jesus came and lived among us–we can have true life. Because Jesus

came and died for us–we have freedom from death. Because Jesus came and not only died, but rose again–we know that we will rise unto eternal life. Jesus died on the cross not to make the Father love us, but because the Father loved us and willed that we would have eternal life through Christ alone. This is amazing grace, this is the greatest gift, this is why Jesus came.

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45

In the redemption story of God’s glory, there’s no more important time than the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. For three years, Jesus spent time discipling the 12 apostles. Though they were a special group, they were so much like us. They aspired for personal greatness through achievement and authority. But Jesus reminded them in Mark 10:45 why He came and how He displays His incomparable greatness. King Jesus, the Son of Man, came not to be served but to give Himself to service. King Jesus gave Himself to service through coming to live in our place and give His life in our place. Jesus gave His life as a ransom, to set us free from sin and self—all those who would trust in Him. When we celebrate Christmas–we celebrate God’s gift of His Son, the Servant-King. Why did Jesus come? Not to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many. What a Redeemer, what a friend, what a gift!

Photo: Matt Farias

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10

Jesus, the Savior-King and Good Shepherd, came to seek His lost sheep–but not only to seek us, but to save us. He came on a rescue mission with the gift of redeeming love, forgiveness, and eternal life. Jesus came bringing us the greatest gift, namely Himself–-the Son of Man, who came to seek and save the lost.

“The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15

In the redemption story of God’s glory, Jesus Christ is both willing and able to save people like us. Like you and like me. This is the trustworthy gift, not earned or achieved but received by trusting and resting in Christ Jesus the Savior. He came to rescue and deliver us from separation from God, He came to rescue and deliver us to life more abundantly. Jesus came because He is the Savior, trustworthy and true. He loved us then, and He loves us now. There is no greater gift. This is why He came. This is why we celebrate.

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulders and his name shall be called Wonderful! Counselor! The Mighty God! The Everlasting Father! The Prince of Peace!” Isaiah 9:6

We have heard tonight of the greatest gift the world has ever known—the birth and coming of Christ Jesus, the Son of God. Jesus was not created, but He who is before all things was born. Jesus was sent into the world by God the Father on a rescue mission, humbling himself to this world He created, stepping into this fallen/sinful world bringing redemption. It would have been infinitely humble for the Son of God to be born in a palace, but he was born in a manger. So much more than a baby as the God in flesh, yet truly a baby, needy of His mother, crying, flesh and bone just like you. As was said

by some Christian artists, the “infinite became infant, the maker became man." With great anticipation, God’s people waited for Jesus. God hadn’t spoken through the prophets for 400 years, but God had already promised His Final Word, the Christ was coming who would be virgin born without sin; the second/better Adam who never fails; the final prophet; the perfect priest; and everlasting King; the Savior through whom all nations would be blessed. As you ponder Christmas, remember the coming and gift of the good shepherd, Immanuel (God with us), Jesus, who would grow up in a small town, obscure/sinless life until 30, no riches, no home ownership, no prestigious education, nothing like this world would expect. A hero who suffered like you do and even more, a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief, but worshiped on the first day on earth. The wonder of Christmas is this—the Creator and creation are no longer separated; the Savior has come. And the good news of great joy is this—He came for you (Gal. 4:4-5, Luke 19:10, John 18:37, 1 Tim. 1:15, Mark 10:45). The Son of God became a man, so that people who embrace Him can become children of God. His birth was a declaration and announcement that God will save those who receive the gift of His Son. Jesus came to us that you might come to Him (John 6:37).

WATCH MORE: Candlelight Christmas Recap Video

Photo: Matt Farias

Concentrations® is a special avenue for our High School students to immerse themselves in potential career paths and connect with accomplished industry professionals.

During Super Seminar, a special extended seminar period, on November 30, those opportunities were center stage with fantastic guest speakers and engaging learning activities.

“We schedule Super Seminars a few times a year to provide extended time for career speakers, hands-on projects, and opportunities to explore topics more deeply,” said Concentrations® Provost Ray Endacott. “At this past Super Seminar, our Concentration Deans did an awesome job designing amazing learning experiences.”

Among the speakers was acclaimed actor Tony Hale, who connected with our VFAME and PFAME students.

“He is an amazing actor, who is also a believer,” said PFAME Concentration Dean and Director of Fine Arts Natalie Taylor. “We spent about an hour and a half with him, and he gave our students amazing advice, wisdom, and shared great stories. For about an hour, our students asked him questions on the fly. The questions were really well thought out, and his answers were spot on. He fell right in line with what we teach here.”

In EGL, students heard from VCS alum and Tallyrand co-owner Karen Ross (1982), who discussed keeping the restaurant running during COVID.

“Karen has been a friend of EGL for a decade, so we were pleased when she agreed to train our students on the moves she made to keep her business profitable during the economic shock of the pandemic: flexibility, innovation, austerity, maximizing resources, and engaging employees and customers in new ways,” said EGL Concentration Dean John Khouri.

Additionally, the VCS community is blessed with a wealth of impactful industry experts, two of whom also spoke at Super Seminar breakouts.

Kelly Chang Rickert, a certified family law specialist and founder of “Purpose Driven Lawyers,” spoke to MSJ regarding becoming a lawyer and the intersection of faith and law; and Derek Wedel presented on using phototherapy to treat Grover’s Disease and helped HE students start lab work on the topic.

Meanwhile, STEM learned about electric vehicles and technology and started building solar-powered electric vehicles, and graphic designers in VFAME previewed an innovative, new career exploration program.

“Our goal in Concentrations® is to give students meaningful experiences that help them rule in or rule out future careers and college majors,” Endacott said. “We also provide students opportunities to apply what they are learning in their core classes in practical ways. Through this process, students will have a clearer idea of what to major in while in college and will develop the habits that will help them get the most out of their college experience.”

(LEFT) ACTOR TONY HALE SPEAKS WITH VFAME AND PFAME STUDENTS DURING SUPER SEMINAR. (ABOVE) VCS ALUM KAREN ROSS ('82) SPEAKS WITH EGL STUDENTS.

Photo: Matt Farias

Photo: Paul Putignano

Crusaders Come Home to VCS

Homecoming was another incredible week of events at Village Christian with fun dress-up days and a hilarious Nonfire featuring the theme, “Who dunnit?” Seniors Angie Mendoza and Terry Ross were crowned queen and king, respectively, and the Crusaders beat Pomona 49-0 (one of four VCS shutouts on the season) in the Homecoming football game.

Before the game and before the following week’s football game, Class of 2014 graduates Marsalis Johnson and Bryan Alberts, mainstays on VCS Boys Basketball’s landmark 2012 CIF State Championship team, were inducted into the VCS Athletics Hall of Fame.

Thank you to the following alumni for stopping by the alumni table at Homecoming:

James Edwards, 1985

Travis Woodward, 1985 Earl Everett, 1986 Michael Cabrera, 1988 Kevin Ebenhoch, 1989 Craig Hudspeth, 1989 Joe Everett, 1989 Kim (Oddone) Everett, 1991 Chad Everett, 1992

Vanessa (Leonard) Mitchell, 1994 Fontaina (Damwijk) Funk, 1994 Jake Funk, 1995 Bret McLeod, 1995

Clanci (Lehman) Gordon, 1995 Tina (Rust) Aust, 1996 Aaron Kendrick, 1997 Shelly (Anderson) Raub, 1997

Lesli (Gunn) Cates, 1997 Casey Clark, 1998

Megan (McLeod) Kendrick, 1998 Cristina (Alvarado) Peraza, 1998 Neil Gunn, 2001

Toi (Williams) Rogers, 2002 Hayley (Young) Norton, 2002 Merly (Barco) Long, 2003 Patrick Long, 2003 Daniel Delgado, 2016 Samm Diaz, 2018 Miah Diaz, 2019 Jordan Lee, 2022

WATCH MORE: 2022 Nonfire Recap Video

WATCH MORE: 2022 Homecoming Recap Video

Photo: Paul Putignano

SENIORS ANGIE MENDOZA AND TERRY ROSS WERE CROWNED QUEEN AND KING, RESPECTIVELY, AS PART OF THIS YEAR' HOMECOMING FESTIVITIES.

Crusaders for Life

TAMI (HALLAK) KAYE

CLASS OF 1977

Tami Kaye is happily retired and living in Reno, Nevada. Her husband David passed away in 2017 (they were married for 35 years). She now spends her time with her Reno family, her son Jeff, daughter-in-law Bailey, and grandkids Jude (5) and Ellie (2). They live very near each other in South Reno. She also gets out to MD as often as possible to visit her daughter Ashlee, son-in-law Michael, and grandkids Maloree (6) and Carson (3). They try to take a family vacation together each year, and she loves having all the grandkids together. Tami lives in an “over 55” community, and there are lots of activities and events to keep her busy. She hopes all her old friends and classmates are doing well, too.

DEBBIE (MOREMAN) HENDRICK

CLASS OF 1979

Debbie Hendricks moved to the beautiful Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. They live in a log cabin with a spectacular view. "God is so good."

JILL (PENDLETON) ALVARADO CLASS OF 1984

Jill Alvarado will be celebrating 36 years of marriage to her Village Christian High School sweetheart, Fred (Freddy) Alvarado on February 14. They have three kids—one son, who lives in Los Angeles area and works IT; and two daughters that are leaving on a mission trip out of the country for three months with YWAM. One daughter is staff, while this is the first mission trip for other daughter. Fred has been with Rydell Chevy for over 20 years as the Finance Director, but his passion is serving in their home church as the Men’s Ministry Leader. Currently, Jill is a Pastor overseeing children’s ministry and has joined Child Evangelism Fellowship reaching out to public schools in their area. Their nephew and niece are enrolled at Village Christian, and they have enjoyed going to their activities on campus or games. They love to reminisce about their time at VC.

JAMES EDWARDS

CLASS OF 1985

James Edwards spent more than 32 years with LAPD and 21 years with USCG. He is married to Stacey Edwards, and the two have three children— Claire (26), Jackson (23), and McKenna (16), who is a junior at Village on the varsity volleyball team. Edwards plans to retire from the LAPD in 2023.

RUTH (LEE) KIM CLASS OF 1989

Ruth Kim is the proud mother of two daughters (one is a teacher and one is a nurse). She currently works as a school principal in Sun Valley.

GLORI (BROOKS) DELORIO CLASS OF 1991

Although Glori left Village before graduating to attend another school, she says she had some of my best formative years there. Thirty years later, she is still in contact with many of my friends who did graduate from Village. Now, she is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a BA in Sociology from Cal State Bakersfield and a dual Masters from National University in Education and the science of Applied Behavior Analysis. She runs her own company providing in-home behavioral science techniques for children with autism in the greater Los Angeles area.

ANGELA (LINDSEY) BEDELL CLASS OF 1993

Angela Bedell and her husband of 25 years, Brian, have been living in Santa Clarita since 1999. They have three boys…Brian (25), Niklas (22), and Logan (15). Their oldest married his high school sweetheart, Tatiana, on July 2, 2022.

MICHELE (ARNOLD) SERNA CLASS OF 1996

Michele Serna is currently part owner with her husband, Joseph, of a food truck and catering business called Poppa Joe’s Kitchen. They have three wonderful daughters and live in La Crescenta. She is overjoyed to be back in the area and part of the VCS family again.

SHELLY (ANDERSON) RAUB CLASS OF 1997

Shelly Raub has been married to her husband, Chris Raub, for 18 years, and they have five beautiful children, who keep them busy. Their four oldest children attend Village and are in grades 10, 8, and 7 (twins). Their youngest daughter has special needs and attends a local elementary school. Shelly works at Village as the Curriculum Coordinator and loves seeing how God has been faithful in continuing to bless the Village community.

NEIL GUNN CLASS OF 2001

Neil Gunn is married to Lindsay Gunn, and they have three beautiful children that attend VCS. Neil works as a Sergeant for the Burbank Police Department.

GEOFFREY PETERSON CLASS OF 2003

Geoffrey Peterson is currently working as a market representative for Cambria USA living in Glenwood Springs, CO.

DJ MASTON CLASS OF 2003

This past year, DJ Maston joined the Talent Casting, Booking, and Contracts team for Disney Live Entertainment. He also started his own business doing multi-cam live-streaming for weddings and events….AND his wife is expecting their third baby. “Wishing you all the best. Go Crusaders!”

DANIELLE (COOPER) DELGADO

CLASS OF 2007

Danielle Delgado is married to Matthew Delgado (Class of 2002) and living in Shadow Hills. Their son, Jaxson, is currently in second grade at Village in Mrs. Donnelly’s class, and their daughter, Olivia, should be starting junior kindy next fall.

BRIANNA SHANNON CLASS OF 2011

Brianna Shannon moved back to California after earning her Master’s degree in Sports Administration from University of Washington. She’s a Program Coordinator at an eating disorder treatment facility and exploring movement and recreational therapy with clients. She is recently engaged and planning a wedding with her maid of honor and bridesmaid, two best friends she met in middle school—a close friendship of 16 years thanks to 7th grade math class at Village.

SAMM DIAZ

CLASS OF 2018

Samm Diaz just came back from West Africa, where she taught English for three years. She is currently a youth pastor.

MIAH DIAZ

CLASS OF 2019

Miah Diaz is currently in her senior year at Biola University studying Worship Arts and working at a church as a ministry associate leading worship.

MARY BASILIOUS CLASS OF 2019

Mary Basilious is currently a senior at Dartmouth College and will graduate this spring with a Biology (Ecology) major and Middle Eastern Studies minor. A large part of her time outside of class involves her work in the Biology Department within the Laidre Lab. After completing a three-month stint in Costa Rica conducting original field research projects focused on animal behavior, she spent this past summer working at the Shoals Marine Lab (Appledore Island, Gulf of Maine) to continue her research. Her field research and lab focuses on animal behavior and animal architecture in the face of changing environmental conditions through marine hermit crabs. Basilious is currently developing these projects into an undergraduate honor's thesis, and hopes to publish before her graduation. Post-grad, she will be continuing her academic career at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth as an MD candidate.

ANGEL LINARES CLASS OF 2019

Angel just graduated from AMDA New York. She’s come back to Hollywood to pursue her dreams and to support her mom, who is fighting cancer after recovering from a brain aneurysm suffered during Angel’s senior year. Says her mother, “She’s such a sweetheart for coming back to be near me! … God really helped her get through that terrible season!”

ASHLEY SANDS CLASS OF 2019

Since graduating from Village in 2019, Ashley Sands has graduated from UC Irvine and UCLA. She graduated from UC Irvine in three years in the spring of 2022, earning a Bachelor’s of Arts in Sociology (Cum Laude). During her time at UC Irvine, she was a cheerleader on the Spirit Squad and a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. Shortly after graduating from UC Irvine in June, she began a graduate program at UCLA to get her Paralegal Certificate. Sands recently finished this program with distinction and was awarded her Paralegal Certificate by the American Bar Association. Since completing this program, she has been interning at the UCLA School of Law Veterans Legal Clinic as she prepares to apply to law school.

NICOLE

FASHAW

CLASS OF 2021

Nicole Fashaw is a second-year student at Pepperdine University currently finishing up her debut musical album, which she produced, engineered, sang, and song-wrote all elements, while simultaneously studying law back on campus. She is the executive Social Chair on the board of the Black Student Association and the President of Debate and Mock Trial.

CALEB HUGHES

CLASS OF 2022

Caleb Hughes is a freshman at Clemson University, where he was chosen as one of two freshman to serve on the student advisory board to the business college.

CALLA YOON CLASS OF 2022

Calla Yoon is a first-year Physiological Science major at UCLA on the pre-med track. She’s blessed to be a part of the student organizations at UCLA, including sports medicine, MEDLIFE, and KDSAP, continuing the passions kindled at Village. She’s looking forward to helping organize a kidney screening program with UCLA Health and the KDSAP organization.

ALEX

AZARIAN

CLASS OF 2022

Alex Azarian is in the Army stationed at Fort Bragg serving active duty as a 13M HIMARS Driver, while also studying civil engineering at Fayetteville Tech Community College. He is working toward being a competitive power lifter. Though he did not graduate from Village, he attended from kindergarten through junior year before his family had to move prior to his senior year.

Please send us your updates. weddings, births, graduations, and everything in between. We want to know what’s happening in your life. Send us your milestones and class note for inclusion in the next issue of the Village Voice.

ALUMNI

UPDATES: Submit your information using the ALUMNI UPDATE FORM.

Finish LET'S THE Race

LEGACY CAMPAIGN IN FINAL YEAR TO RAISE $3.3M

Half way through the final year of our multi-year fundraising effort, the Legacy Campaign, the end is in sight, projects are progressing, and the support from individual families has been tremendous— as has the invaluable assistance of volunteer parent groups across campus.

Our Parent Teacher Fellowships, Booster Club, Patron’s Club, Armenian Parent Group, and Korean Parent Group have rallied in impactful ways to help us advance and elevate programs and facilities for the benefit of VCS students and teachers.

“Whether through giving, volunteering, or participating in events, involvement from our community and parent group-led efforts has been unbelievable this year,” said Vice President Tracy Nightingale. “Every gift goes a long way, and the faith and support demonstrated by our families has been such a blessing.”

The 24th annual Crusader Golf Classic, championed by the Booster Club, experienced one of its best years in terms of profits and registrations.

Elementary PTF’s Ready, Set, READ! read-a-thon had its most successful year yet, and High School

PTF rallied students and teachers for a spirited Silver Wars.

KPG has nearly paid for new servers, and APG is raising extremely valuable resources toward the South Athletic Field.

And as November came to a close, our families capitalized on an anonymous donor’s generous giving match to raise a record amount for Giving Tuesday.

None of this could be done without the Village community.

As we take the final turn into the homestretch of the campaign, we want to extend our most heartfelt thanks to everyone who has partnered with us these last few years.

You hold a special place in the VCS Legacy.

If you haven’t yet, and would like to make a contribution to the Legacy Campaign, please visit www.vcslegacy.com or contact Vice President Tracy Nightingale at tracyn@villagechristian.org for unconventional or complex gifts.

ALUMNI

HEAR