OLP M a ga zi n e
A cademy of Our Lady of Peace {sUMMER 2016}
In This Issue {summer 2016}
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Graduation
Scholarship Fund
The Class of 2016 is ready
The Alumnae Scholarship Fund
to change the world after celebrating their commencement recently.
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Alumnae Change the World
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Girls Who Sail Aitana and Lorea Mendiguren '16,
sisters and teammates, reflect on the life lessons that sailing has taught them.
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Beyond the Border Service learning is an important
Read how four of our alumnae are changing the world through science, faith, international relations and finance.
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helps many of our students afford tuition. Learn about how you can help extend its longevity.
part of OLP's curriculum and our students recently gave back to an orphanage in Mexico.
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Wrap-Up
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Jessica McRoskey ’16 is named Athlete of the Year and more athletic and theatre awards and accomplishments.
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Parents in Prayer
Pilots Take Flight
Learn how Parents in Prayer gives our parents a dedicated space for personal growth and involvement.
Read the latest news about your fellow Pilots in our alumnae news section.
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OurMission Statement
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Founded and rooted in the Gospel values of the Catholic church and the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, the Academy of Our Lady of Peace empowers young women in an innovative learning environment that honors the individual while fostering community, and develops faith-filled leaders dedicated to the “love of God and the dear neighbor without distinction.”
Letter From Head of School Dear OLP Pilot Community,
Dr. Lauren Lek congratulates Kilee Seifert ’16 on her graduation.
On May 26, 2016, the Academy of Our Lady of Peace sadly said goodbye to 185 outstanding young women who are taking flight out into the world. These extraordinary OLP Pilots in the 134th graduating class were the singers, dancers, athletes, musicians, engineers, artists, mathematicians, scientists, writers, and programmers, who have touched our school for the past four years. Collectively, they were extended more than 915 offers of admission to colleges and universities internationally, and garnered more than $25.6 million in merit-based scholarships and academic grants across 70% of the graduating class.
These graduating Pilots have garnered more college accolades and scholarships, across the largest percentage of students, than we have seen in our school history. Not only are they heading out to the top universities across our nation and world, more importantly they are embarking on this next chapter as women of faith, women of heart, women of courage and women of excellence. These young women are a testament to the power of an OLP education – a tradition that has been preparing generations of women. Each of our young women currently attending OLP are provided an education rooted in academic, spiritual, and social experiences that prepare them for the multifaceted challenges of college and life. These are women poised to be leaders in whatever path they choose, and to have the strength of their faith to carry them. The impact of OLP can be clearly seen through the lives of our alumnae. In this edition you can read more about our alumnae Bethany (Klant) Turner ’95 , Dr. Sarah Dunn ‘01, Monica Palid ‘12, Katy (Gergurich) Frankel ‘88, and Sister Kathleen Martin ’44, CSJ. That commitment to academic excellence and gospel values, which the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet founded for our school 134 years ago, is a legacy that continues today. As we preserve the significant traditions of the past while pushing our vision of excellence for the future, the administrative team has made decisions to ensure academic rigor is guided by current research-based practices. Our recent partnership with the National Coalition of Girl’s Schools (NCGS) is one way. In addition, under the direction of Mrs. Jeanette (Prantil) Handelsman ’64, and Sr. Joanne Heinritz, CSJ, all four high schools sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet sent eight students to participate in a four-day conference focused on the CSJ charism. Furthermore, as we look to ensure our students are given access to all of the skills they might need for the future, OLP has invested in a myriad of new college-preparatory courses including String Orchestra, Bio-Technology, AP Statistics, AP Computer Science Principles, Entrepreneurship, Honors Choir, and will be hosting our own online courses through our Pilot Academy. Over the course of the spring semester, the school also embarked on a rigorous, collaborative process - involving faculty, staff, the Board of Directors and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet - to evaluate and revise OLP’s Mission statement. You can see the newly affirmed Mission statement in this edition of our Magazine on page 2. As always, a lot is going on at OLP! With the Fall just around the corner, and our newest Class of 2020 preparing to join our sisterhood, I encourage all of our families and friends to join us at our third annual Endless Summer event on August 12th here on our beautiful North Terrace. I would also like to personally welcome all of our Alumnae to attend our Alumnae Reunion Weekend August 12th -13th. We look to these two events to connect, re-connect and celebrate together the blessings of OLP. May God bless you this summer!
Dr. Lauren Lek Head of School
On the Cover: Graduates walk under the arc of gladiolas held by Carondelet Circle Ambassadors. The Class of 2016 was the first to experience the rebirth of this classic OLP tradition, which ceased almost 40 years ago. Photo Courtesy of Robyn Scherer.
OLPMagazine Academy of Our Lady Of Peace Head of School Dr. Lauren Lek Assistant Head of School Jessica Hooper Director of Communications & Marketing Emily Pippin ’06 Leadership Team Dr. Lauren Lek George Battistel Dr. Melinda Blade Chris Boyer Marlena Conroy Aaron Gonzalez Jeanette (Prantil) Handelsman ’64 Jessica Hooper Jessica (Goncalves) Occhialini ’88 Emily Pippin ’06 Toni Russo Kristin Wiggins Contributors Rivka Bent Dr. Melinda Blade Emily (Mollering) Devereaux ’00 Kathleen Herb Baker ’70 Samantha League Jenine Winslow Kristin Wiggins Leticia Oseguera Board of Directors Dr. Lauren Lek, Head of School Coreen G. Petti, Board Chair Patricia (Mulcahy) Boer ’55 Mike Coughlin Dr. Nora Faine-Sykes ’78 Michael Guerrero Susan Hause Terry Kalfayan Clair Cunningham Kennedy ’81 Diane Koester-Byron Damian McKinney Gayle McMahon Martha McRoskey Sister Jill Marie Napier, CSJ Mary O’Connor, DDS Barbara Picco Sister Virginia Rodee ’53, RSCJ Nina R. Sciuto-Morales ’76 Peg Stehly
Class notes should be sent to Alexis Rodriguez at alumnae@aolp.org
To update your address, please contact Kari Hooker at khooker@aolp.org
{campus news}
1. Our annual Mass
End of Year Events
on the Grass took place on May 20.
2. Students stroll
along the sidewalk after the class of 2016 drew their college logos. Photo by Melissa Jacobs
3. The AP
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Environmental Science class was very successful in their gardening efforts and produced a large harvest for The French Gourmet's salad bar each week. The girls have said they feel empowered to start a garden of their own at home. Here they are enjoying the fruits of their labor after their AP exam.
4. Rita Daniel ’16
received the Larissa Eklund-Dethlefs '94 Memorial Scholarship at the Evening of Excellence.
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STEAM Spotlight Finding Beauty in Equations By Jennifer rodgriguez
"Where do you see yourself in 10 years?"
Honors Precalculus completed a Conic Art Project through a math program called Desmos. Students were asked to create an art piece that answered the question, “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” They did not draw these pictures; rather, every line was created by inputting equations into Desmos’ graphing calculator. The emphasis of these pictures were conic sections, but students also included other types of Isabella Hoang '17 equations into their pictures. Every figure "Watching my toddler play at you see shaded with color was created by the park." 79 equations inputting inequalities.
4 | OLP Magazine
Keila Yazdani '16:
Katie Kreiger '17:
"Specializing in cardiothoracic surgery." 34 equations
"Taking a picture of my dog." 122 equations
Summer Enrichment Camps
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This year we added enrichment camps for middle school girls to our summer school program. Girls have the chance to learn new things while experiencing the magic of OLP's all girls’ environment. Here are a few glimpses into our camps! 1. Girls watch an experiement take place in Food Science. 2. Baking cookies in Food Science! 3. Musical Theatre ends the day with choreography. 4. Warming up with some high kicks! 4. Girls created a foosball table in Sustainable Engineering. 5. Converting Celsius to Fahrenheit in Sustainable Engineering. 7. Who needs a conventional oven when these three engineers can build you a solar oven? The girls cooked hard-boiled eggs in their inventions!
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Scan this code for more information on our summer camps!
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Research spotlight Fly Invaders By jenine winslow The AP Environmental Science class has been collaborating with UCSD to collect data on two invasive species of flies in our county: Drosophila suzukii and Zaprionus indianus. Under the direction of Dr. Maxi Polihronakis Richmond, students constructed a fly trap and set it up at their homes. Every morning and evening, students collected the flies from their traps and placed them in prepared ethanol vials. Each vial was labeled with the time of day and the GPS coordinates of the trap, as the study aims to determine the current distribution and peak times of activity of the two species.
After three weeks, students brought their vials of flies to class to identify and count the number of invasive species. Zaprionus indianus (above left) is easily distinguished from other fly species because of the white stripes on its head and thorax. Drosophila suzukii (above right) males are easily identified by the black spots at the tip of the wing; the females do not have wing spots and must be identified by the large, serrated ovipositor, which is body part that breaks into the flesh of fruit to deposit eggs inside of the fruit. In conjunction with the United States Department of Agriculture, UCSD will use OLP's data to document the presence of these species in San Diego County, and results may be published in a peerreviewed scientific journal.
Reaching a New Pinnacle
Congratulations to our Head of School, Dr. Lauren Lek, for her big win at the Athena Pinnacle Awards. She was chosen as the winner of the Individual in Education category, beating 10 other highly qualified finalists including professors at USD, UCSD and CSUSM. The Athena Pinnacle Awards are considered to be one of the highest recognitions of achievement for women leaders in San Diego. OLP is honored to also have been selected to join as an Athena Corporate Member. Students have already been able to take part in several workshops as a result of this membership.
Summer 2016 | 5
graduation 2016 Graduating the Next Generation of Women Leaders & Innovators It was a day of excitement for the graduating class
of 2016 as they celebrated commencement on May 26. Our Head of School, Dr. Lauren Lek, addressed our seniors and their families before Salutatorian Sienna Rohrer ’16 and Valedictorian Hannah Lawson ’16 gave their remarks. Also in attendance was the class of 1966, who celebrated their 50th reunion on campus earlier that day. The ceremony ended with the class of 2016 singing their winning Spring Sing song, “We Belong,” before the entire audience joined in on reciting the alma mater.
IN A CLASS OF ALL GIRLS,
39% plan to pursue STEM majors in college. OUR STUDENTS RECEIVED
915 college acceptances at 220 unique institutions. This includes two Ivy League schools (Columbia and Yale), Cal Poly SLO, UCLA, USC, Claremont McKenna, University of Notre Dame, College of the Holy Cross, Occidental, the US Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy.
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IN A CLASS OF 185 STUDENTS,
70% received at least one scholarship.
THIS AMOUNTS TO MORE THAN
$25.6 Million
in merit-based scholarships.
7 1. The Class of 2016 sings “We Belong” at the end of the ceremony. 2. Katelyn Heffler ‘16 throws her cap on North Terrace. Courtesy of Katelyn Heffler ‘16
3. Shannon Daly ‘16 and Alexandra Howder ‘16 smile as they process into the ceremony.
4. Isabella Rivera ‘16, Romary Osorio ‘16 and Kaitlyn Andersen ‘16 sing at commencement.
5. Mrs. Hooper congratulates Ximena Aragon ’16 while handing her a diploma.
OF OUR GRADUATES,
16% will be first generation college students.
6. Brianna Tangredi ‘16 walks underneath the arc of gladiolas
on her way to the stage. This OLP tradition ceased almost 40 years ago. The Class of 2016 is the first to experience its rebirth. Courtesy of Brianna Tangredi ‘16
7. Students, parents and family members celebrate Baccalaureate Mass on North Terrace.
8. Head of School Dr. Lauren Lek, Assistant Head of School
Jessica Hooper, Deacon Lane Litke, Assistant Principal of Campus Life Jeanette (Prantil) Handelsman ’64 and Father Jacob Bertrand pose after Baccalaureate Mass on May 25.
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9. Lindsay Bilger ‘16, Jimena Villasenor ‘16 and Kilee Seifert ‘16 wave while they wait for Mass to begin.
-All photos by Robyn Scherer unless stated otherwise.
Class of 2016
Achievements » Photos courtesy of OLP Parents
Romary Osorio Barajas ’16
will be
attending the University of San Francisco, where she was offered a $108,000 tuition grant. At OLP, she was a member of the National Honor Society, the Swim and Dive team, and was the Captain of the JV Softball team. Romary was offered an additional $94,500 in scholarships.
Hannah Lawson ’16 served as Valedictorian for the Class of 2016. She will be attending the Lincoln Center Campus of Fordham University, which offered her a $290,000 Presidential Scholarship. Hannah was a member of the California Scholarship Federation and National Honor Society. At OLP, Hannah was the president of the Robotics Club, a Peer Tutor, Junior Ambassador and a member of the Speech & Debate Team. Hannah was offered an additional $200,900 in scholarships.
Alexia Nunez ’16
will be attending Boston
University, where she received a $14,000 University Grant. Alexia was a member of the California Scholarship Federation, National Honor Society, and is a Top 10 Senior. She was also on the Track & Field and Cross-Country teams. Alexia was offered an additional $300,000 in scholarships.
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Caitlin Edwards ’16
will be attending
the University of California, San Diego, where she received a $10,700 scholarship. Caitlin was a member of the California Scholarship Federation, National Honor Society, and is a National Merit Scholar. She was offered an additional $531,860 in scholarships.
Sienna Rohrer ’16
served
as Salutatorian for the Class of 2016 and will be attending the University of California, Los Angeles. Sienna was a member of the California Scholarship Federation, National Honor Society and OLP’s Council of 10, and was the ASB Commissioner of Social Justice. Sienna has received numerous awards, including the Ada B. Nisbet Alumnae Award, English Department Award, CIF Female Student Athlete award and OLP Scholar Athlete of the Year award. She was also the Captain of the Varsity Tennis team. Sienna was offered a total of $320,400 in scholarships.
Gabrielle Abou ’16
will be attending
Gonzaga University, where she was offered a $50,000 Dassault Scholarship. Gabrielle was a member of the California Scholarship Federation, National Honor Society and National Spanish Honors Society. She received the Dear Neighbor Service Award for completing more than 100 hours of community service last year. Gabrielle was offered an additional $278,000 in scholarships.
6 Photo Details: 1. Class of 2016 friends pose on campus. 2. Catherine Dang ‘16, Abby Holland ’16 and Alyssa Dharmawan ’16 after the ceremony. 3.
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Kilee Seifert poses after Graduation. Nathalie-Rose Malecot ‘16 receives a kiss from her brother, Christian. Her family owns The French Gourmet, which serves Pilot Cafe. Seniors are ecstatic as they turn their tassels. Jessica McRoskey ’16, Brianna Tangredi ‘16, and Maria Balistreri ’16 raise their diplomas.
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{Alumnae changing the world}
Dr. Sarah Dunn ’01
Changing the World Through SCIENC E
Q
What is your professional title and in what ways does it speak to your innate and cultivated strengths?
A
I am the Electron Microscopy Specialist and Lab Manager of the Waitt Advanced Biophotonics Core Facility at the Salk Institute in La Jolla, Calif. I am a naturally curious and inquisitive person, and early on at OLP, I noticed that my favorite classes were those involving scientific study.
Q
How did OLP prepare you for your current role?
A
Due to the knowledgeable faculty and college-preparatory curriculum of OLP, I have felt incredibly prepared in every role since high school. While attending OLP, I was encouraged to find my voice and passion in life. I was given the leadership, communication and organizational skills that I utilize and foster daily. I had an advantage over other women in my undergraduate science courses due to having a strong academic foundation that was built in a single-sex learning environment, free of the distractions common in co-educational classrooms. I am proud of my accomplishments and have my OLP education to thank for that.
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Q
What projects are you currently working on at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies?
A
Our main focus at the Salk is answering fundamental biological questions, with emphasis on neurological and aging disorders, metabolism, cancer and plant biology. However, scientists in surrounding research labs in La Jolla come to our Core Facility because we are equipped with the latest cutting-edge commercial imaging and data analysis instrumentation and technologies. By working in a Core Facility, I am exposed to a greater variety of research being conducted at the Salk Institute. I have generated images of plants, cancer tissues, diabetic tissues, and various cell suspensions treated by various potential drugs or molecules.
I am proud of my accomplishments and have my OLP education to thank for that.
Q
What advice do you have for OLP graduates as young women who are looking to change the world?
A
My advice is to try new things. Constantly challenge yourself and find new interests. In order to succeed, you have to work hard; but remember, the rewards are worth it. Continue to look for ways outside of scholastic and employment settings to volunteer and participate in activities that help the lives of others. I have a Rosalind Franklin quote framed at my desk, “Science for me gives a partial explanation for life. In so far as it goes, it is based on fact, experience, and experiment.” I love science and I love the challenges and excitement it brings to my life.
Sarah Dunn. Ph.D. realized her love of laboratory research during her undergraduate studies at St. Mary’s College at the University of Notre Dame. In graduate school at UCSD, she realized she could combine her love of science with her passion for imaging.
Bethany (Klant) Turner ’95
Changing the World Through FA ITH
Q A
What is your professional title and would you please explain its significance? I am a lay Catholic Chaplain. We are not priests or deacons; we are chaplains with a lay ecclesial endorsement. I serve as the first paid Catholic chaplain for Kaiser Permanente Southern California Region and the first paid female chaplain at Kaiser Permanente in San Diego.
Q
Would you describe your journey to becoming a Chaplain?
A
As I reflect on how I came to be a chaplain, I’m brought back to my senior year at OLP. I recall sitting on the lawn at Mission San Luis Rey de Francia in Oceanside during retreat and hearing an inner voice calling me to ministry. At the time I did not understand the call. Thankfully, I have learned that if at first we do not understand, God will keep calling.
Thanks to the years of retreats at OLP, I knew how to listen to God’s call. In 2001, I was living between New York and San Francisco with offices in both cities, working in marketing and public relations. I was great at my job, but in my heart I felt something was missing. As St. Augustine said, “My heart is restless until it rests in you oh Lord.” That August, during a trip home to San Diego, I found myself sitting at church in the parish where I grew up. It was in that space that God’s voice once again spoke.
God was telling me that I needed to get more involved in church. Moments later, the priest announced that the parish needed a Director of Catechetical and Youth Ministry. I suddenly felt this internal push to apply. I did, and the pastor offered me the position that afternoon. Thanks to the years of retreats at OLP, I knew how to listen to God’s call and a familiar peace came over me as I accepted. I returned to work the next day and gave my two weeks notice; nothing they offered could entice me to stay. Two weeks later, as I sat watching the horror of 9/11, I realized had I not accepted this call, I would be under the World Trade Center changing trains at the exact moment the Towers fell. I went home to San Diego on September 16, 2001 and started the job. While serving in that role, I pursued Masters coursework and interned as a chaplain, and I’m now in the process of earning a Doctorate in Pastoral Counseling.
The foundation for this service award is deeply rooted in my time at OLP.
Q
You recently won an award from Kaiser Permanente. What was it for and what does it say about you?
A
Within six months of my hire date, I received a ROSE Award for quality improvement. The foundation for this service award is deeply rooted in my time at OLP. I recall being encouraged to strive for my personal best and to work toward “gentleness, peace and joy” in helping “our dear neighbor.” As a result of this award, I was asked to be the Regional Co-Lead for Spiritual Care in Southern California, leading 45 chaplains in elevating the professional standard of spiritual care. 1. Bethany with her husband, Rob, and her children, Kayla and Eli 2. Bethany with daughter Kayla ’20
Summer 2016 | 11
{AlumnaE changing the world}
Monica Palid ’12
classroom and how often they raise their hands to speak. I have made a number of friends at Brown who had also attended all girls’ high schools, and they have told me they feel a similar need in the classroom to speak up, to make sure that everyone who wants to contribute is heard and that all perspectives are given equal consideration.
Changing the World Through
I NTER NATIONA L RELATION S Q
What is your concentration at Brown University, and what drew you to your chosen discipline?
A
My concentration is in International Relations (IR), with a focus on Security in Latin America. I fell in love with IR because it is interdisciplinary. I have always been interested in studying different forms of thought, and I dream of seeing those political, spiritual and cultural philosophies in practice across the world.
Q A
Q A
Drop everything and get out of your comfort zone.
Q A
What’s next after graduation? I am currently living in DC and working in the Office of Public Affairs for the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction. I’ll return to Brown in spring 2017 to do my eighth semester, after which I hope to join the Peace Corps. Eventually, I hope to earn my Master’s Degree and apply to my dream job of Foreign Service Officer for the Department of State and spend the rest of my life working all over the world.
Q
What advice do you have for OLP graduates who are looking to excel at a university?
best decision I made as an A The undergrad was to leave.
Sophomore year I volunteered with the Providence Refugee Project, tutoring a woman from Nepal and a man from Eritrea in English literacy and American culture and government. This past year I taught an ESL class for a group of adults in a neighborhood in Providence primarily composed of Mexican, Salvadoran and Guatemalan immigrants. I feel lucky to have had these opportunities to get out of the insular world that is a college campus and form connections with people who make up the larger Providence community.
During my seventh semester I was offered the chance to move across the world to work for the Department of State, and I said yes. I took a leave of absence from Brown to intern in the Office of Public Diplomacy at the U.S. Embassy in Madrid, and in the process figured out exactly what I want to do with my life and how to get there. I recommend that everyone take some time off before, during, or after college to explore, travel and learn about how other people walk, talk, eat and sleep in different parts of the world. Drop everything and get out of your comfort zone. You might just find your dream career, and you will definitely learn something new about yourself. You’ll come back proudly self-sufficient, resilient and a bit more aware of how the philosophies they teach in universities manifest in the real world.
In what ways has OLP impacted your college education?
1. Monica with the U.S. Ambassador to Spain, James Costos
I am always aware of how many girls there are in any
2. Marcela Palid, Monica Palid, Paul Palid at Brown University’s graduation May 2016. Even though Monica won’t receive her diploma until semester Spring 2017, Monica walked with her class.
What are your most recent accomplishments?
12 | OLP Magazine
3. Monica at the Mosque of Muhammed Ali at the Saladin Citadel of Cairo
Katy (Gergurich) Frankel ’88
Changing the World Through F INANC E
Q
How long have you worked for Ernst & Young and what is your professional title?
A
I have been with Ernst & Young for 20 years. I am a Federal Tax Partner and the Office Tax Partner, which means I’m the partner in charge of the tax practice in San Diego.
Q
What other titles do you hold? What is your secret for successfully managing all of your roles?
A
I am a wife and the mother of two amazing little girls: Molly (9) and Rosie (7). Balancing those very important jobs with my career is a challenge, but I’ve learned over the past few years that “balance” is the wrong concept on which to focus. In managing my life, and in counseling younger women as they climb the ladder, I prefer “harmony.” Balance implies equal time and effort on each of these aspects, which isn’t possible. Harmony allows me to find the resonance that works best for my family and myself.
Q A
Women are still the minority in the finance industry. For OLP graduates who are aiming to pursue a career in finance, what advice would you give them? The finance industry is an area of incredible growth for women. It is important to realize that you may not opt to do things exactly the way your male colleagues do. Not only is that okay, it’s necessary and important for that to be the case. We, as women, have much to contribute to any industry, which includes a diversity of thought and practices that are important to keep our processes and growth from becoming stale.
There isn’t an area of my life on which my years at OLP haven’t had an influence.
Q A
How did OLP prepare you for your current role? OLP provided me an amazing classical and STEM education, but the most valuable lesson I learned was perspective. The curriculum was designed to challenge the way we thought, learned and interpreted the world around us. We were not handed our opinions, but required to develop them ourselves, and encouraged to express them. As a result, I believed from the day I graduated that I have something to add to the world, and that my ideas and contributions have value.
OLP taught me...that I could do anything...I never considered that there might be some limitation to what I could accomplish.
Q
What lasting impact did your experience at OLP have on your career, personal life or volunteer roles?
A
OLP has had numerous lasting impacts in my life. I met one of my closest friends on the first day of the first class of freshman year, and we’ve been through everything in our lives together. Professionally, OLP taught me early in life that I could do anything. I was able to explore who and what I was going to be in an environment that encouraged me to believe I had the right and the obligation to use the gifts I had been given to contribute in some way. As a result, I never considered that there might be some limitation to what I could accomplish because I was a woman or for any reason. That confidence enabled me to pursue my professional certification as a C.P.A. and, ultimately, my partnership at Ernst & Young. In service, OLP instilled in me an understanding that I have an obligation to share my blessings, whether that is via financial aid, my talents or my time. There isn’t an area of my life on which my years at OLP haven’t had an influence. It was a wonderful experience in every sense. 1. Katy shared that OLP has had lasting impacts on her life 2. Katy with her family: husband Kenn, and daughters Molly and Rosie
Summer 2016 | 13
Reconnect at OLP’s First Annual
AE N M ALU ION REUN END WEEK
Alumnae Reunion Weekend AUGUST 12-13, 2016
FRIDAY , AUGUST 12 Hosted Reception with Members of the Class of 2017
ASB Student Government and Council of Ten Reconnect with Mrs. Jeanette (Prantil) Handelsman ’64
11:00 am | Carondelet Library and North Terrace | FREE!
12:00 pm | Carondelet Parlor | FREE!
» Welcome Remarks by Head of School Dr. Lauren Lek » Alumna of the Year Award Ceremony honoring Sister Virginia Rodee ’53, RSCJ » Light Refreshments
Join with the OLP community at the 3rd Annual Endless Summer Event
Campus Tours Led by Carondelet Circle Student Ambassadors
5:30 pm | North Terrace | $35/$50/$750 VIP » Live Band, Beer and Wine Bar, and Delicious Food!
12:00 pm | Campus | FREE!
SATURDAY , AUGUST 13
Alumnae Mass
Another Chance For Campus Tours Led by Carondelet Circle Students
10:00 am | OLP Chapel | FREE! » Special Honoring for Alumnae Who Have Passed Away
Ladies Champagne Brunch
12:30 pm | Campus | FREE! Individual class-specific celebrations taking place off campus that evening. Contact your reunion chair for details.
11:00 am | North Terrace | $30 » Class Pictures
WEEKEND DETAILS All classes and alumnae are welcome to attend the festivities. Special classes celebrating reunions are: 1941–75th 1946–70th 1951–65th 1956–60th 1961–55th
1966–50th 1971–45th 1976–40th 1981–35th 1986–30th
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1991–25th 1996–20th 2001–15th 2006–10th 2011–5th
RSVP TODAY! AOLP.ORG Purchase tickets and find event information at aolp.org/alumnae-reunion-weekend Questions? Contact alumnae@aolp.org
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Al
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Learn More
Dear Fellow Alumnae,
I’ve spent most of my life here at OLP, initially as a student and now as a music teacher. In that time I have been asked what keeps me coming back. The answer is simple: it’s the spirit and mission of this magical place. Every August, a new group of bright, youthful faces enter the green gates to begin their OLP journey. And what a journey it will be! As a teacher I witness up close the transformation of these girls. I listen as they explore new concepts and identify their passions both inside and outside of the classrooms. I watch as they gain confidence and find their voices in leadership positions. I observe as they learn to collaborate and to negotiate with those who see the world differently. I look on proudly as they grow physically and intellectually, mature spiritually, and as they strengthen their relationship with God and each other. It’s through the loving care and encouragement of our community that OLP girls become women, poised to spread their wings in the “real” world.
The Alumnae Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to students who embody the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, show academic potential, and demonstrate financial need. As beneficiaries of an OLP education, alumnae know first-hand the impact of OLP’s curriculum, values and culture. Donations of all sizes are greatly appreciated and will help OLP meet its goal of providing an OLP education to students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.
Donate today at aolp.org/giving
Several years ago, I began supporting OLP with an annual donation. I endeavored to help provide deserving students with the opportunity to flourish in a loving, spiritual environment. So many of our students’ families struggle to afford an OLP education. In fact, did you know that more than 40 percent of our students receive need-based tuition assistance; and, on average, 22 percent of OLP students will be the first in their families to attend college? As OLP hosts its first ever Alumnae Reunion Weekend this August, I think it would be amazing to re-launch the Alumnae Scholarship Fund and I’m hoping you can help. All the money raised from the weekend will go to support the Alumnae Scholarship Fund; and with additional donations from Alumnae and our OLP community, we hope to raise enough funds to endow the scholarship. With an endowed scholarship, the principle funds will be preserved and invested, allowing the school to distribute the scholarship every year in perpetuity. So I challenge you, my fellow Alumnae, to help make an OLP education possible for girls from all socio-economic backgrounds by contributing to the Alumnae Scholarship Fund. Join with me, and support those who follow. Your gift will help the next generation of girls have access to the exemplary education that touched your life, shaped your friendships, and ultimately helped transform you into the incredible woman you are today. Gifts of all sizes will really make a difference! Send in your donations today, or give online at aolp.org/giving. Are you up for the challenge? Blessing and peace,
Katherine Kamrath, ' 7 1
ALUMNA OF THE YEAR
Sr. Virgina Rodee ’53, RSCJ
Please join us in honoring a beloved member of the OLP community, Sister Virginia Rodee ‘53, RSCJ with the Sr. Claire Patrice Fitzgerald ‘56 Alumna of the Year Award. The award ceremony to honor Sister Virginia will be held on Friday, August 12 at 11 am at the Alumnae Reunion Weekend’s Hosted Reception. To RSVP or learn more, visit www.aolp.org.
Girls Who Sail
By Samantha League
Sisters Aitana ‘16 and Lorea ‘16 Mendiguren are competitive sailors, traveling the nation to compete in co-ed contests. Photo courtesy of Aitana and Lorea
Aitana ‘16 and Lorea ‘16 Mendiguren’s mother always enjoyed
driving the girls over the Coronado bridge to visit their grandfather: it gave her a perfect view of the “pretty sailboats.” She loved it so much that once her family moved from Spain to San Diego, she enrolled eight-year-old Aitana and Lorea in sailing classes. Two years later, the girls began sailing competitively for the Coronado Yacht Club and now travel the U.S. to compete. They primarily sail a 2-person boat, and they do it together. “I see it as such a blessing having my sister as a teammate,” Aitana says. “When we were younger we used to fight a lot… but as we got older, we’ve definitely become a lot closer.” The girls sail Club 420’s, which are 16-foot boats. Aitana is the skipper, controlling the main sail and steering, while Lorea is the crewmember, balancing the power of the sails with her bodyweight. One of Lorea’s favorite techniques is trapezing, where she hangs off the edge of the boat in a harness.
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According to her, “trapezing is better than any roller coaster.” Years of sailing together have paid off in competitions. Last summer, the girls placed 15th out of 200 teams in the National Triple Crown competition, and were the top female team to place overall. They also came in first place for a few races at the Club 420 Nationals in Rhode Island last year. “The first day we started off the race and literally bounced away from everyone,” Aitana beams. “Two of my guy friends were like, ‘How did you do that? How did you point so high and go so fast?’” Sailing is one of the few sports where women and men can compete against each other. Although more women have started sailing, it is still a male-dominated sport. “Men have reacted aggressively when we pass them on the water because they don’t see us as a threat [to winning] to start off with,” Lorea says. “They’ve yelled profanities and have tried to sabotage us on the water.”
Dealing with these reactions is stressful, but beating the boys in a race is extremely rewarding. “To be able to prove [those stereotypes] wrong is incredible. We take all of our ‘disadvantages’ and just make them work for us,” Lorea elaborates. Sailing has allowed Aitana and Lorea to explore characteristics that are not always encouraged in girls. When you’re on the water, you must learn how to assess risks, trust your instincts and be self-reliant. These crucial skills are necessary for making independent decisions with confidence.
I see it as such a blessing having my sister as a teammate. “Those are all things that eventually in life, you’ll grasp, but sailing really accelerated it for me at an earlier age,” Lorea reflects. She also recognizes that the skills learned on the water have helped her excel at OLP. “I don’t think I’d be where I am now academically, or on a social level, if I hadn’t started sailing,” Lorea says. Both girls were very involved in student clubs over the past four years and have made deep friendships. They expect to miss their OLP community the most once they leave for college. As Lorea says, “There’s something about OLP… it’s cheesy, but there’s a sisterhood. It’s not just because we’re a private school or because we’re an all girls’ school – it’s just the way OLP is structured. It gives us ways to bond as a class. I don’t think there will be a place where I can be so close to people all at once, like a community.” Our new alumnae sisters will also miss each other when they head off to different colleges in the fall. Aitana was recruited by George Washington University to sail as a skipper in college, and Lorea will be attending the University of Southern California where she can join a club varsity team.
I don’t think I’d be where I am now academically, or on a social level, if I hadn’t started sailing. They still have this summer to sail together, too. They are both teaching at the Coronado Yacht Club and are competing in the U.S. Junior Women’s Doublehanded Championship in Missouri July 5-10. The girls have capsized, fallen into shark-infested waters and pulled their boat out of mud, but wouldn’t trade their experiences for a different kind of sport. “It’s one of the only sports where you’re one with the elements. When I’m standing on the side of the boat in a harness and look out, I just see how beautiful everything is,” Lorea says. “You’re so aware of God’s creation. It’s incredible.”
Sister Spotlight Aitana (left)
Lorea (right)
Attending: George Washington University
Attending: University of Southern California
Majoring In: Physical therapy
Majoring In: English and biochemistry
OLP Activities: Section President, Four Years; Blood Drive Committee; Green Team (Secretary); Kiwins; Red Cross School Club; Track and Field Other Accomplishments: Pilates certified
OLP Activities: Mock Trial; Academic League; Junior Retreat Leader; Speech & Debate Team; Culinary Club; Peer Tutor; Pilot Press Other Accomplishments: Internship at San Diego Family magazine
Summer 2016 | 17
Historically Speaking...
...with Sister Kathleen Martin '44, CSJ
By rivka bent
Sr. Kathleen Martin ‘4 4 came
upon our radar through her proud cousin, Mary “Ricky” (Ruplinger) Warkentin ‘61. Though Sr. Kathleen is nearing 90 years young, she is still the manager of her schedule and affairs and returned our call to meet with enthusiasm. Upon our arrival to the Carondelet Center in Los Angeles, she was eagerly awaiting us in the foyer, photo books in hand. Sr. Kathleen is filled with rich history from her OLP days and subsequent adventures as a CSJ. Her stories are threaded with tales from early San Diego, as her family established itself in the city in 1905. In fact, it was her grandfather, Patrick Martin, who started the beautiful Nazareth House, a ministry that is still alive and well today. Her father, Nicholas Martin, a highly educated man, was also prominent in both civic and religious affairs for the city. Kathleen Martin is one of five children. Both she and her sister, Jean (Martin) Muhr ’46, attended OLP and her three brothers are Saints alumni. During her time as an OLP student, Sr. Kathleen was very involved in athletics. She was thrilled to learn of our current archery team and reminisced about her own days as a teammate in archery and crew. During her time, Morley Field supported the bow and arrow group while the ZLAC Rowing Club (founded in 1892 and still active today) provided the opportunity for women in rowing. Sr. Kathleen graduated from OLP in 1944 and took her first vows right after. Upon taking her final vows in 1947 she chose the name Sr. Mary Nicholas (in honor of her father). After Vatican II, she was allowed to switch back to her given name of Sr. Kathleen Martin. While still cloistered (unable to read newspapers or current literature) in 1945, she remembers being outside and learning from an enthusiastic chauffeur about the end of WWII. “He came
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Sr. Kathleen was thrilled to learn of our current archery team and reminisced about her own days as a teammate in archery and crew. running across the grounds exclaiming, ‘the war is over, the war is over!”’ She shares this memory with such clarity and enthusiasm that we feel as if we are witnesses alongside her. Her vocational adventures began at the elementary school, Holy Cross, in Los Angeles before she moved on to the Transfiguration Elementary School, also in L.A. She taught for 10 years before becoming the Principal of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish School in Laguna Beach (where she and Sr. Anne Lorraine Mahlmeister worked together), and in 1961 was called to open St. Anthony’s, a new school in Fresno, California. She was transferred in 1967 to Prescott,
Arizona, and taught there for another three years. With a spry sense of humor, Sr. Kathleen tells the story of the return to plain clothes for the religious and the return to her hometown: “It was 1970 and while still in my habit I arrived to San Diego only to learn of the Vatican II issue for us to return to plain clothes. Well I didn’t sew, therefore I had to wait upon my mom and sister to help me out. So here I was, looking like a mother hen. I was the tall one with these ‘little sisters’ in plain clothes. It was quite the sight!” Although her story nods to the quandary many of the religious women faced with the new circumstance of clothing, Sr. Kathleen reflects upon her admiration of the new encyclical. “The church in the modern world thrills me. It is as it should be,” she says. Following the sentiment, she shares that in 1974, after 27 years in schools, she became the Religious Educational Director for Public Schools in Los Angeles – a position allowing her access to the unchurched kids as well. After perusing her many photos we conclude our time together with the insightful story passed down orally from Mrs. Fitzgerald, mother of Sr. Claire Patrice Fitzgerald ’56, and good
Photos courtesy of Sr. Kathleen Martin '44 and Dr. Lauren Lek
friend of the Martin family. The story goes that her grandfather Patrick, along with Father Sullivan, went to see Mother Catherine at the OLP site in downtown San Diego, on A Street. The purpose was to talk to her about a property for sale that might be a good fit for the now overcrowded school. So along with Father Sullivan and grandfather Patrick, Mother Catherine was taken to see the Van Druff Estate, known to us all as Villa Montemar. And of course, the rest is history!
The church in the modern world thrills me. It is as it should be. Though she is now retired, the ministry of Sr. Kathleen is still in motion and is much evidenced through her joyous smile that truly lights up the room and beckons all to her rich legacy and familial stories. Much like the lace makers from France, the Martin family is threaded into the San Diego story, and Sr. Kathleen herself is the center knot, anchoring OLP and the CSJ to the rich heritage.
Around The World WITHOUT LEAVING THE CLASSROOM By samantha league
On May 6, OLP became one of 100 schools nationwide to participate in the new Google Expeditions Pioneer Program, which brings virtual reality to the classroom.
“Built with teachers for teachers,” Google Expeditions delivers interactive virtual reality via 360-degree panoramas. Teachers lead the experience through an app by annotating details and points of interest on the image while students watch through a Google Cardboard viewer. In order to see new sections of the panorama, students have to move their heads up, down and side-to-side. Many had a difficult time remaining in their seats. “(There was) a lot of screaming, laughing and ‘oh-my-goshing!’” said Katie Turner, the OLP English teacher who arranged the opportunity. “... Many students explained how incredibly powerful it was to observe our earth in a multi-dimensional space.” Turner found this opportunity on Twitter last summer and immediately applied. “As a CSJ school, OLP is committed to offering young women an education rooted in a deep care and concern for our earth and our dear neighbors upon it; what better way to encourage these goals than through an unequaled expedition into virtual reality?” she said. Each teacher selected expeditions that were relevant to what students had been studying all year. Jeff Kirschbaum, department chair of religious studies, let his Social Justice class follow a teenage girl who is a Syrian refugee. “By seeing the living situation and schooling facilities of Syrian refugees in Lebanon, our girls were able to develop a heightened sense of empathy with girls just like them across the world,” said Kirschbaum.
Alexis Bautista ‘19 on a Google Expedition with her Google Cardboard viewer.
The expedition had an impact on students. "It was eye opening. Literally," Denise Drachenberg '17 said. "Even though I knew I was looking at an image, it felt astoundingly real and extraordinary." OLP impacted Google, as well. The representative was impressed by our teachers for executing lesson plans instead of simply playing around with the application. She noted science teacher Stefini Ma’ake, who gave her AP Biology students a virtual peak into the nervous system just a few days before their AP Exam.
Even though I knew I was looking at an image, it felt astoundingly real and extraordinary. Our students visited the ocean, the moon, Jerusalem, Robben Island, Auschwitz, historic theaters across the world, and more. As Denise puts it, “this technology expands the boundaries of the classroom.” It is only a matter of time before virtual reality finds a permanent home on OLP's campus. Katie Turner leads her Honors English students through Verona, Italy because they had read Romeo and Juliet earlier in the year. The girls were able to “stand” on the street of the opening scene, where the ancient grudge turns violent.
By
Rivka Bent
Please Join Us
for prayer, coffee and fellowship on Tuesday, August 16 from 7:45 to 8:30 am in the OLP Chapel.
One would have never thought
that Cathy Smith once considered herself naive to the meaning of praying the Rosary – after all, she has been leading the Parents in Prayer (PIP) group for the last four years. Cathy shares a glimpse of her hesitancy to take on the leadership position, “I remember when (I was asked) to take over the group… My response was no way, I’m not holy enough!” Yet God’s call was upon her, and she continues to faithfully lead the group every Tuesday morning with an earnest humility and sincerity for each and every prayer that passes through their lips to the Father’s ears. Cathy’s story epitomizes the humility of the group and the dedication each member exudes. The group is not only honored to lift up the prayer intentions of the people in attendance (which includes the girls at school), but also focuses on the alumnae, administration, faculty, staff, priests and religious. Cathy reflects with joy that the idea of community prayer is a unifying tool and that several parents who come are not Catholic, but are people who share a common interest in the intentions of the OLP community and enriching their prayer life. Being that PIP gathers faithfully each week, they are often the first called upon to assist with schoolwide activities. Cathy recognizes that PIP essentially provides the “parental OLP experience”: while the OLP student creates her own memories and experiences over four years, so too does each parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle that joins in Parents in Prayer.
Prayers spoken in Spanish and English. Come at any time. My life was so enriched spiritually, socially and as a parent, being aware of school events and any current concerns. As a mother of a graduate I still enjoy an opportunity to return, know I can always ask for prayers, and share in the current news at OLP. —Carol Larkin, mother of Paula ‘12 Parents in Prayer means gathering with other parents for the privilege of praying for our children, the school, and the community. It is a powerful and spiritually uplifting hour every week. —Kay Van Tassell, mother of Melody ’12 It was wonderful to know that PIP was merely available. Whether I could join in or not, knowing that my community was praying for our girls, their families and their teachers, whether we needed intercession or giving thanks for our own issues or the world's, the gathering and group prayers were humbling and enriching. —John Wilson, father of Veronica ‘14 It is a clear sense of purpose. That purpose is generously both to support our school as a loving union of prayer and elbow grease, but also to include each mother and father's particular struggles in getting that job done. —Patty Bakhshi Fernandez, mother of Hailie ‘18 When I was a freshman parent, PIP was a place for me to meet other parents who shared the same values I wanted to instill in my daughter and who I could come to for advice. Everyone was so friendly and made me feel welcome at OLP. Throughout the four years, my prayer life has become stronger and I have a special closeness to Our Blessed Mother. PIP even allowed me to participate in the senior farewell assembly and a retreat for Marian Consecration. PIP has been a blessing in my life! —Mary Bautista Marty, Summer 2016 | mother of Emily ‘16 and Sara ‘19
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Beyond the Border Cultivating Global Citizens Through Service By leticia oseguera
A few years ago, I began implementing a unit on
immigration in my advanced Spanish courses. Living in a border town and in the middle of a global refugee crisis, it is important that our students are aware of global issues that affect society. In my courses, we go beyond learning vocabulary and grammar structures and focus on applying the language while learning about the culture and people of the Spanish-speaking nations. In addition, OLP’s mission and philosophy strive to educate global citizens who are aware of social justice issues.
approximately 100 children – ranging from newborns to 18-year-olds – many of whom are under protective custody. The orphanage is located in one of the most under-served and poverty-stricken areas of Tijuana.
The goal was for students to have the chance to learn, engage and ponder issues related to immigration while using the target language (Spanish) in a meaningful way. Our trip was guided by Via International, which is an organization that integrates community development initiatives with education and Although this unit always led to wonderful discussions, I was volunteerism to build leadership and self-reliance in underleft with a feeling that it was missing something – that I could served communities. do more. This year, I reached out to Mrs. Dawn Brannman, our Service Learning Coordinator, and together we created a one-day service learning experience for students that focused on border and cultural education in Tijuana.
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On April 20 and 21, students from Spanish for Heritage Learners Honors, Spanish III Honors and Mr. Jeff Kirschbaum’s Peace Studies classes participated in a field trip to an orphanage in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico. The orphanage houses
As she wrote in her reflection, 'I felt closer to God. The experience was moving and powerful.' OLPMagazine Magazine 2222|| OLP
The students also learned about a grassroots community organization in Baja, California called Los Niños, which aims to develop the capacity of community health workers by providing training in basic nutrition education. On the second day, students visited La Casa de la Cultura, a cultural center that offers a variety of art, music and dance classes to underprivileged children and teenagers in Tijuana.
The trip to Mexico was an incredible experience. I will never forget meeting wonderful people and becoming aware of the many problems Tijuana faces. I loved going to the orphanage and meeting children who only love and wish to be loved. Meeting them was truly heartbreaking. I also enjoyed taking a modern and accurate nutrition class with the women from the organization Los Niños. Not only did they feed us great food, but they also taught us about their organization which helps women in impoverished areas to get together and talk about serious issues in their community. Lastly, I really enjoyed going to what is called a ‘Casa de Cultura.’ Here, we acknowledged the arts in Tijuana and got to paint our own tree of life, which represented an aspect of our family and culture. I cannot recommend this trip enough. It was eye-opening and fun.
For many students this was the first time crossing into Mexico or visiting Tijuana. The simple act of crossing the most frequently crossed border in the world by foot was an unforgettable experience for these students. Overall, though, I think Marisol Teran ’19 says it best. As she wrote in her reflection, “I felt closer to God. The experience was moving and powerful.” As we strive to educate global citizens, we must take advantage of the opportunities that lie just south of our border. I hope to continue to expose our students to these and other opportunities in Mexico and other Latin American countries.
– Daniela
Miranda '19
My experience in Tijuana was extremely meaningful. My classmates and I had learned a lot about the experience of immigration, about los niños de la calle (or “children of the street”) and the poverty that affects some parts of Tijuana, but going on the trip made those lessons much more real. After driving through areas of extreme poverty, where neighborhoods were made out of plywood and tarps and entire families were living out of cars, I was no longer able to listen and move on. However, I also experienced a lot of joy. When we visited the orphanage, interacting with the kids and seeing how happy they were to have company touched my heart. Finally, the fact that the children knew only Spanish gave me a great opportunity to practice the language without being afraid of judgment.
– Mary
Kate Lanneau '18
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4 1. Madeleine King ’18 walks hand-in-hand with a child at the orphanage. 2. Mr. Jeff Kirschbaum supervises students while holding an infant. 3. Girls working together on a nutrition presentation for the ladies of Los Niños.
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4. Sra. Leticia Oseguera with a group of children, who want to know when we're coming back. 5. Students preparing their own meal, Soy ceviche.
Farewell to Our2016 thespians Cameron Asher ’16 was
Isabella Rivera ’16 was one
Rachel Rougas ’16 was
Haley Teves ’16 has
the music coordinator for Spring Sing every year and played “Millie” in the fall 2014 production of Thoroughly Modern Millie. She has a passion for swing dancing and sang at many events. She will be attending Cal Poly SLO, majoring in mechanical engineering with an emphasis in mechatronics and technical theatre.
of the Thespian presidents last year. She loves theatre and has a wonderful voice. Bella is one of two students who took Drama 3 and 4 and has directed, acted, and publicized the drama classes and productions. She is attending Seattle University to study psychology.
one of the Thespian presidents last year. She choreographed many musicals and was the lead in our most recent play, Twelfth Night. She is a talented Irish dancer and is attending Saint Mary’s in Minnesota to study theatre education.
been a dedicated participant in every drama production since freshman year. She was the publicity officer for Thespians and took drama courses. She is going to Chapman University and is planning on majoring in film studies.
State ofthe arts
Our talented thespians received a variety of awards and nominations this year. Grace Newton ’17 was nominated for the 2016 Ben Vereen San Diego Awards in the category of Best Actress.
Erin Stumm ’17, who made the Steampunk costumes for
Twelfth Night (pictured below middle), is interning with the costume department at San Diego Musical Theatre for their current production of 42nd Street.
LAMDA Medalists: Cameron Asher ‘16, Isabella Rivera ‘16,
Haley Teves ‘16, Grace Newton ‘17, Paulina Sierra ‘17, Sofia Mayer ‘17, Elisa Litke ‘17, Karime Laborin ‘17, Tatiana Sallins ‘18, Dana Adcock ‘18, Gabriela Sexton ‘18, Melissa AhrensViquez ‘18, Luam Mesghenna ‘18, Adelaide McGargill ‘18, Stella Stewart ‘19, Haley Gronski ‘19, and Kristina Mihilli ‘19.
From left: The cast of Thoroughly Modern Millie, the steampunk version of Twelfth Night, OLP thespians at the 2015 Thespian Conference.
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Rookie of the Year Catalin Yturralde ’19 has been described as “exemplifying the type of character that we hope all of our students possess” by Coach Aaron Gonzalez. She has earned the following distinctions in golf during her first year at OLP: » First Team Eastern League » Finished 3rd in the City Conference Tournament » Quarterfinalist in the City Conference Match Play Tournament » Set the freshman scoring record of 34 at Riverwalk Golf Course (Friars 9) » Named to the 2nd Team All-CIF San Diego Section » Named the Eastern League Player of the Year Congratulations, Catalin! Keep up the good work.
Athlete of the Year Jessica McRoskey '16 has been the leading outside hitter for the past four volleyball seasons. She has started almost every match for the Pilots since her freshman year and served as team captain during junior and senior year. Jessica was selected her freshman and sophomore year for the 1st team All Eastern League, and for the 1st team Western League both junior and senior year. During her senior year, Jessica led the Western League in kills with 390 on the season (.324 hitting percentage). Jessica also had 32 aces, 31 blocks and 207 digs as a senior. She was voted the team's Most Valuable player during her sophomore, junior and senior season. Finally, Jessica was selected to the CIF-SDS 2nd team her junior year and for the 1st team her senior year. Jessica will be competing for Cal Poly San Luis Obispo as a top recruit for the Outside Hitter position, and will be pursuing a degree in Materials Engineering. Congratulations, Jessica!
25T
H ANNUAL
Save the Date!
OLP Golf Tournament San Diego Country Club Monday, November 21
OLP Golf Tournament
aolp.org for details
PRESENTED BY T.B. PENICK & SONS, INC.
Summer 2016 | 25
{ A lumn a e Ne ws}
90s
Pilots Take
Flight
60s
Katie Wisniew Krska ’96 is a
Labor & Delivery nurse in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She serves as manager of Girl Scout Troop 1983, a troop of 30 scouts. They received the 2016 Troop Excellence Award and had 3 Bronze Award recipients this year, including her daughter, Sophia Krska. She also volunteers at Faith Formation classes at her church & with the Landsharks Running Club. She has been happily married to her husband for 12 years, with whom she shares 4 children: Sophia, 10, Isabella, 9, Olivia, 6, & Preston, 4.
barbara ann (mossinghoff) ribits ’06 and husband Andy
welcomed daughter Genevieve Rose Ribits on March 14, 2016. She was a healthy 7 lbs, 8.25 ounces and 20.5 inches long. Genevieve joins older brother Julius Ribits, who was born Dec. 15, 2013.
00s emily palid ’08 works in
The class of 1966 celebrated their 50th reunion with two days of activities both on and off campus. The festivities began with Mass in OLP’s Chapel, celebrated by Monsignor Duncanson, followed by brunch in the Carondelet Library, campus tours and time to reminisce through the OLP archives. The Class of 1966 received special recognition at the 2016 commencement later that afternoon. The following evening, the group enjoyed a delicious meal and danced the night away at the San Diego Yacht Club.
sara mckinney ’07 recently
graduated from Baylor Law School. One of her classmates from OLP, Arabel Rivera ’07, shouted out “Go Pilots!” as Sara shook hands with the President of Baylor University, and legendary prosecutor, Kenneth Starr. Sara (along with her sisters Rachel ’04 and Amy ’02) were recently recognized as the 2016 OLP Alumnae of the Year.
Information Security for PepsiCo. She engineers and implements new solutions to anticipate and address information security vulnerabilities and threats, with an emphasis on cyber security. She manages global workstation encryption solutions and is the technical lead on a project to enhance the vulnerability management program. She is also a lead for the PepsiCo Business Information Solutions (BIS) Internship Program and College Hire Development Program and is a board member for the PepsiCo Corporate Challenge team. In her free time she competes in Ballroom and Latin Dancing and dances casually at a local studio doing ballet, tap, jazz, and modern. During the football season you’ll find her cheering for her alma mater Notre Dame and during hockey season she’s guaranteed to be watching the Dallas Stars.
Samantha Jimenez ’09
recently received her Degree of Juris Doctor from Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles. Prior to this success, she earned her B.A from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles.
10s
Hannah Lanneau ’13
Adia Sykes ’12 recently
molly suggs ’12
graduated Summa Cum Laude from Texas Christian University on May 7, 2016. Double majoring in Anthropology and Philosophy, Molly received her Bachelor of Arts and intends on completing further higher education in the future. Before continuing school, however, she will be pursuing her passion for learning about different cultures by teaching English abroad throughout the upcoming years. First stop: Spain.
graduated from the University of Chicago. The past four years were as much an academic journey as they were a personal one. Her academic pursuits took her to Spain for a language immersion program and for a year to London to study anthropology. Before leaving for her junior year abroad anyone who knew her might have said that she was going to go on to be an attorney. However, after spending time abroad and realizing her passions, she has decided to pursue another course. Next year she will go on to pursue a master’s degree in Art Administration and Policy at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago with the intent to find a way to bring together her interests in the arts, law, and social justice. Congratulations to Adia!
was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa at the University of Oklahoma on May 13, 2016. Founded in 1776 at the College of William and Mary, Phi Beta Kappa chapters invite for induction the most outstanding arts and sciences students at 283 leading U.S. colleges and universities. In addition to GPA, the selection board also considers the rigor and breadth of coursework when selecting candidates. An honor typically reserved for the top graduating seniors, Hannah Grace was one of only 13 juniors from the University of Oklahoma invited to join the society this year. A student in the Honors College, Hannah Grace is also very involved at the University where she has served on the Campus Activities Council programming board, is a member of Phi Kappa Phi honor society, Gamma Beta Phi service and honor society, and Delta Gamma Fraternity, where she has been the Director of Volunteerism and is the current Vice President of Foundation. She credits OLP with instilling in her a love of learning and service to others and for teaching her to move outside of her comfort zone.
InMEMORIAM We remember our beloved alumnae who have gone to their eternal rest.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace.
Ishbel (Macintosh) murray ’36 Mary Anne (Donnelly) Goebel ’42 Joan (Greggs) Tyrrell ’50 Jacquie (Inman) Tracey ’77 Kyla (Maney) pearson ’86
Summer 2016 | 27
NONPROFIT ORG. U. S. POSTAGE PAID San Diego, CA Permit No. 1592
ACADEMY OF
OUR LADY OF
PEACE FOUNDED 1882
Endless Summer OLP’s North Terrace
Friday, August 12, 2016, 5:30 - 9:30 pm Tickets: $35 General Admission; $50 Premium Admission; $750 VIP Package This year’s event features craft beer from La Jolla Brewing Company and Novo Brazil Brewing Company, a variety of wine selections, tacos from the popular The Taco Stand, and rollicking live music by The Baja Bugs. Don’t let this end-of-season excuse to hang with OLP friends pass you by! Event proceeds will go toward the Alumnae Scholarship Fund.
Purchase tickets today at aolp.org! Thank you to our sponsors!