OLP Summer Magazine 2023

Dr. Lauren Lek

A Decade of Leadership

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

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OLP MAGAZINE

Head of School

Dr. Lauren Lek, Ed.D.

Assistant Head of School

Dr. Brandy Sato, Ph.D.

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Academy Of Our Lady Of Peace

Leadership Team

Diana Agostini

Rivka Bent

Jamie Flannery

Alonso Hurtado

Alison Knoll

Ryan Martin-Spencer

Jessica Occhialini

Sara Osmus

Tiffany Rajski ’07

David Ritzmann

Christine Wilson ’04

Contributors

Kristin Haygood

Dr. Brandy Sato

Ryan Martin-Spencer

Design, Layout and Editing

Rivka Bent

Monica Hickey

Elsi Hildebrand ’15

Manuela Vargas

Christine Wilson ’04

Proefessional Photography

Tim Hardy

Gary Payne

Robyn Scherer

Board of Trustees

Dr. Lauren Lek, Head of School

Chair Danitza Villanueva ’98

Paul Baribault

Francesca Castagnola

Monsignor Richard Duncanson

Chris Herrera

Dr. Steven Jones

Deacon Lane Litke

Sister Ann Bernard O’Shea, CSJ

Michele Schiele ’85

Dr. Seanna Thompson ’93

Timothy Truxaw

Joel Tubao

Dr. Lauren Lek, Ed.D. HEAD OF SCHOOL

The Lek Family Legacy

The journey to OLP, Moreau Catholic High School

1PETER FRANCIS SMITH-SHELLEY Director of Holy Cross Mission

When I think of Lauren Lek, as a leader, as a game changer, as a Holy Cross Educator, as a woman of deep faith, as a Mariner, I am reminded of our Founder and Namesake, Blessed Basil Moreau words of encouragement, to consider the great reward promised to those who have taught the truth to others and have helped form them into justice: “They will shine eternally in the skies like the stars of the heavens.” With the hope of this glory, we must generously complete the Lord’s work.

Lauren has devoted her professional life to passionately completing the Lord’s work. Her time at Moreau Catholic, first as a student, then returning as a teacher, then administrator and finally principal still shines with those who had the

that shine for many years and fondly remember Lauren’s devotion, her work ethic, her vision for educating the hearts and minds of Mariners as well as providing daily inspiration and focus for our faculty and staff. Lauren is a demanding leader, but always with warmth and gentleness of spirit. Her organizational skills are legendary. Her laugh is infectious.mHer commitment to family is unbounding. Her love of prayer is grace filled.

Though some years have transpired since her vocation as a Holy Cross educator, I know she has continued that vocation with being Head of school at Academy of Our Lady of Peace. It is not surprising at all that she has been chosen as a recipient of the 2023 Woman of Accomplishment in San Diego. Our entire Moreau Catholic community sends our congratulations and heartfelt admiration for a true Mariner. Blessings.

Connie Clark

Diana DeFrance

Chris Krisman

ANN KHRISTINE TABORA Director of Campus Ministry

After 37 years as an educator in various capacities: elementary, secondary teacher, principal, collegiate Campus Minister and now the Director of Campus Ministry at Moreau Catholic High School for 17 years now, Lauren ranks as an educator who inspires!

When she was the Principal at Moreau Catholic, I remember her cultivating our student’s character, having persistence, developing core values and displaying courage. I distinctly remember Lauren coming into the Campus Ministry Leadership class saying to my students “become a leader who values people of character”. In other words, develop your own character and seek to surround yourself with like-minded people who can join you on your journey to becoming a better person and leader.

Lauren is the epitome of what it means to be a scholar. I admire her insatiable desire to learn. She always encouraged our continued growth as a person and as a leader. With knowledge comes creativity, wit, and wisdom to engage and influence our world. After all, if you want to increase your sphere of influence, you have to develop a commitment to learning.

I can go on and on about Lauren! Here are my top 5 reasons to love Lauren as a person, as an educator and as a leader:

5. She is compassionate in everything she does.

4. She has a “can do” mind-set.

3. She is inclusive.

2. She is clear about the mission (vision).

1. She is a woman of deep faith.

Mike Aquino (center) and Tiffany Krisman (third from the right)

Tiffany Krisman at Santa Sophia 10 yrs

The journey to OLP, Moreau Catholic High School

DIANA (STRAGGAS) DEFRANCE Director of Alumni and Special Events

When asked If I would write a brief acknowledgment concerning Lauren, I did not hesitate for a moment. I first met Lauren when she was the Director of Admissions and leader of Link Crew. My daughter Chrissy ‘05 was a student leader for camp. Chrissy recalled how “perky’ Lauren was at 5:30 am! The years that Lauren and I worked together at Moreau Catholic High School were truly amazing. We worked closely together during her time as Assistant Principal of Instruction and as Principal. She was steller the day she recorded an Apple presentation - no notes or retakes! She was instrumental in securing the school two Apple Distinguished Awards. She is blessed with the gifts of intelligence, dedication and perseverance. Lauren will always find ways of completing a task - no matter how many mountains she must climb. Your steadfastness will help students become faith filled leaders who will transform the world. Congratulations Lauren for all your years of service to Catholic Education as well as your 10 year work anniversary at Academy of Our Lady of Peace.

PHIL WILDER Former Teacher

I once had the honor to meet with Charles Garfield, the author of Peak Performers, who had been part of the Apollo 11 Mission. After the accomplishment of this remarkable national goal, he was inspired to study those special individuals in all fields who are driven to accomplish great things. I have been so honored and blessed to have worked with Lauren Lek when she was a student in my class and then later as a colleague when she returned to bring her sense of mission and passion

as a teacher, administrator, and principal to Moreau Catholic High School. In all of these times she not only displayed and spread the magic that comes with peak performers but also inspired all of us to join with her to do the same!

PAT GEISTER Former Principal

It is my honor to have known Lauren and all her family when I served as principal at Moreau Catholic High School. Lauren was truly an exemplary student and greatly appreciated by her peers and teachers for always keeping the mission and standards of our school in focus. I have enjoyed hearing of her sequences of dedicated study from high school student to great achievement as an educator. In particular her dedication to STEM and transformative education have led many students and teachers to a keener sense of equity and excellence. Congratulations, Lauren!

YOLANDA MORAN Spanish Teacher

I had the enormous pleasure and honor to have had Lauren as a student. Few times we are presented with a student who is energetic, eager and fully dedicated to school. I’m sure that she was not just that kind of student in my class. She is a perfectionist in all she does. It was my pleasure to have been guided by her when she became principal of the school after graduating from college. It was a very sad day for our school when she left us and moved to San Diego to take the post of principal at The Academy of Lady of Peace. Your gain was certainly a big loss to us. I wish her continued success for she truly deserves it. Love and prayers always.

7 8

CHRIS ABDENOUR Parent and Former Colleague

I met Lauren, her first year student teaching my daughter as she gracefully and intelligently led the class. She next taught my son’s English class in a challenging yet fun environment. I later had the pleasure of working with her at MCHS’ Admissions Department and witnessed her approachable demeanor comfortably encourage future students to join the Mariner family. When my family circumstances brought me to San Diego, Lauren welcomed me at OLP with open arms. Lauren is not only a fantastic professional but a true friend; I happily congratulate her!

DR. LIZ GUNERATNE President

Congratulations to Dr. Lauren Lek ’97! The Mariner family joins the Academy of Our Lady of Peace family in celebrating a decade of her phenomenal leadership. As President of Moreau Catholic High School, Dr. Lek’s alma mater and a school community in which she shared her myriad gifts, I am honored to commemorate this milestone from her home on Mission Boulevard in Hayward, California. Dr. Lek profoundly influenced our community through her faith-filled service as a teacher and leader, and she has always radiated light and hope. I am sure the past decade has been filled with much joy and success, with more to come. We join you in celebrating Dr. Lek and look forward to her continued transformational impact upon the lives of young people!

Top to Bottom

Dr. Lauren Lek, Dr. Joe Connell, Patricia Geister, Terry Lee Principals of MCHS

Kathleen Radecke, Dr. Lauren Lek, Sister Barbara Grey, Terry Lee

Baccalaureate Mass at Moreau Catholic High School

Dr. Lauren Lek at Baccalaureate

Take Flight Moments

Toni Russo

As I sit here looking at an antique door knob from the 1920’s that is attached to a 140 year old piece of solid walnut cut from an equally ancient door, I can’t help but think of Dr. Lauren Lek. I have kept this particular piece since the spring of 2019 when Dr. Lek and I began Phase 1 of the Boundless project, the complete reimagination of Aquinas and Saint Joseph’s Halls, now known as Navara Hall and Shiley Hall. It may seem like an odd memento to hold onto, but for me it represents the many doors Lauren has opened not just for the students of The Academy of Our Lady of Peace, but for all of us who have been lucky enough to work for her, with her, or simply know her.

Lauren has a God given gift to connect with people, to pull talents and skills out of people that they didn’t even know they had. I met Lauren in the Summer of 2014, I was in a transition in life, my children were getting older and involved in school and extracurricular activities, and I was ready to find a new purpose and return to full time employment. I was offered a short three week temporary position covering the front desk during summer school at OLP. That 3 week job changed the trajectory of the rest of my life. I was fortunate enough to have had a few opportunities to work directly with Lauren during those 3 weeks, she saw something in me that I had forgotten was there. I ended up working with Lauren for the next 8 years.

Lauren challenged me, she wanted to know what I was passionate about, when it came to working she wanted to know what my ideal job would look like. These are the kinds of questions she would ask, then she would ask so how are you going to get there? How can I help you get there? Lauren walked the path with me, she taught me the importance of building relationships, of choosing where to put my focus, time, and talents, and how to surround myself with others who could support the areas I was not as strong in. Lauren taught me that saying no didn’t have to be a closed door, rather it could simply mean not how we originally planned, let’s find another way. Lauren reminded me that I am capable, that anything I can dream of is attainable if I am willing to put in the work. Grateful doesn’t seem like a big enough expression when I think of my time working with Dr. Lauren Lek. I intentionally did not use the phrase “for Dr. Lek” because when you are fortunate enough to be #ledbylek you quickly realize she is working as much for you as you are working for the mission.

Working with Lauren is not easy, she is the epitome of firm but graceful, driven, and will ask you to dig deep and to be courageous. I am living a life I had not dared to dream of because of Lauren’s God given gift to lead and to build leaders, for this I am forever grateful.

The Legacy of love, family and faith

Dr. Lauren Lek and Toni Russo

Stephanie Kanaski ’ 99

Leadership is never easy and I feel honored to have been able to bear witness to Dr. Lek’s relentless devotion to OLP’s mission. She always forged a clearing for me so that I could spread my alumna wings and take on new challenges. For that (and for a million other reasons), I’m forever grateful.

Jessica Hooper

A beacon of progress for young women in San Diego, OLP has stood the test of time with its commitment to educating San Diego’s young women to become all of which they are capable, a tenant of the school and the CSJ tradition. Lauren Lek’s arrival ten years ago brought a renewed spirit of innovation. Under her leadership, the school maintained its tradition of excellence while simultaneously discerning what could be. With a drive to innovate, Dr. Lek empowered innovative learning and programming. As a result, we embraced technology to enhance learning, empowered young women to consider career and learning opportunities within the STEM fields, and intentionally the history, privilege, and calling of our CSJ heritage.

Now serving as the President of Nativity Prep of San Diego, I hold more appreciation than ever for Dr. Lek’s commitment to making an OLP education accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Dr. Lek has modeled for the Diocese of San Diego what it means to embrace diversity as a core value, and for that, the OLP community is more vibrant than ever. Dr. Lek’s vision for OLP has empowered it to become all of which it is capable. Women of heart, women of faith, women of courage. What more does our world need? Congratulations to Dr. Lek as she celebrates ten years of leadership at OLP!

Toni Russo, Stephanie Kanaski ‘99, and Dr. Lauren Lek

Dr. Lauren Lek, Jessica Hooper, and their daughters Emma Lek and Clare Hooper in November 2016

Current FaCulty and StaFF

n i Cole r aynor

My journey to OLP began with my high school education at a CSJ-sponsored school in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In the 1980s, I was fortunate to witness the St. Joseph sisters’ charism both in their roles as administrators and teachers. My parents were tremendous supporters of my Alma Mater, and they gave of their time and treasure in a yearly benefit which took place at my parents’ fine dining establishment. My parents are now deceased, and I left my home state over thirty years ago; but my family legacy lives on in a fund my parents established all those years ago.

I tell this origin story because there is a true connection between who I was as a student at St. Joseph’s Academy and who I became when I arrived, serendipitously, at OLP ten years ago. I always knew that I wanted to give back to my high school as a teacher, but marriage and the United States Navy took me back and forth from the West and East coasts. I approached OLP for the first time in 1991 to inquire about teaching positions in my area of study, French language and literature. Alas, there were no openings, but in the ensuing years,

I found work in a private high school on the east coast and in community colleges. We settled in San Diego for good in 1995, and my husband completed his training as a physician at the Naval Medical Center. At that time, I also commenced my 18-year “maternity leave.” Periodically, during these 18 years, various friends (alumnae and parents) who were stakeholders in the OLP community advised me that I should apply for a teaching position when ready.

In 2013, a friend of mine whose three daughters were OLP students informed me that OLP was looking for a

long-term part-time substitute teacher in the world languages department. As my two sons were entering their senior and freshman years at St. Augustine High School, the timing was perfect for me to dip my toe back into the world of teaching. I contacted OLP and said my prayers. I was hired in the summer 2013 and met Lauren Lek during orientation for newly hired OLP teachers. My first impression of her was that she was incredibly enthusiastic and charismatic. It has been exciting to be a member of a cohort who entered the OLP community with a new lay leader at the helm.

Lauren is a skilled storyteller, and from the get-go she has been committed to keeping alive the legacy of her Sister predecessors, both recent and in the history of the CSJ order as a whole. In fact, as an alumna of a CSJ school, I did not know the backstory of the sisters who educated me. Because there were so many sisters in education in the time of my schooling, the charism was living in the here and now of that time; and there was no need to qualify it with terminology and nomenclature. Lauren is a lay leader who understands the awesome responsibility of carrying on the legacy. Her doctoral dissertation and continued connection to the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet in Los Angeles are illustrative of that commitment to the legacy.

Personally, I appreciate Lauren because during the last ten years, she has contributed to my holistic betterment as an CSJ educator. I am eternally grateful that under her leadership, I had the opportunity in 2018 to attend

the Footsteps of the Founders pilgrimage in France. This trip was transformative for me, and I now have a greater understanding of the CSJ story that began in 1650 in Le Puy, France. The terminology of which I spoke earlier is clearer, thanks to this nine-day journey. Terms such as dear neighbor, unifying love, divide the city, and swarm of bees are part of the story. Lauren understands the power and action that these words convey.

Additionally, I am grateful to Lauren that she believed in me when I applied and was granted to be a Fellow in the inaugural cohort of the Global Action Research Collaborative (GARC), an initiative sponsored by the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS). Participation in this research project was humbling and challenging, and Lauren supported me every step of the way. It was an incredible honor to accompany Lauren to Boston in the summer of 2022 and meet my nine-member cohort, the members of which hailed from seven countries. Finally, I have deep gratitude that Lauren wants to share the Footsteps of the Founders pilgrimage with student members of the school community. As a French teacher, I strive to make meaningful connections between my academic discipline and the heritage of the founding sisters. As a chaperone on the pilot student pilgrimage to Annecy, Le Puy and Lyon during Easter of 2023, I am overjoyed that OLP students will take the transformational journey I experienced in 2018. I know that these student pilgrims will share their hearts and newly found knowledge to their community upon their return.

As I conclude this reflection upon Dr. Lauren Lek’s first 10 years at OLP, a period which has coincided with my own tenure as a teacher at OLP, I’d like to state how much it has meant to my husband and me to participate in the Boundless Campaign, a hallmark of Lauren’s leadership thus far. I feel a deep association between OLP and my own Alma Mater, and giving to the school that nourishes me in the present is how I pay tribute to my past. We are so honored to help to contribute to OLP’s future. Thank you, Dr. Lek! Congratulations on your first 10 years at OLP. I look forward to the realization of Boundless and to a bright second decade under your leadership!

Congratulations to Dr. Lauren Lek for her ten years of leadership as Head of School at OLP. It is with great pleasure that I share her leadership impact at OLP and beyond. Dr. Lek has been instrumental in the transformation of OLP’s infrastructure and culture. We have seen existing buildings transform into learning centered classrooms and the plans of new buildings come true under her leadership. Throughout these ten years, Dr. Lek has helped OLP grow and anchor to continue its legacy. As a faculty member I have seen the classrooms adapt and have access to the needs of our ever changing technological world. I have seen students be introduced to and have access to multiple leadership opportunities that shape them into strong women. Yet, Dr. Lek’s passion and leadership does not stop at the OLP community. Not only is Dr. Lek fully involved and committed to her work at OLP but also at the greater community through organizations such as Rotary. Through Rotary Dr. Lek is in partnership with a global network of individuals who take action to solve problems across the globe. With her vision, Dr. Lek has brought this global initiative to the OLP community in the form of the Interact Club as an affiliated high school version of Rotary. Students have been supported and inspired to service the dear neighbor on a global scale through the Interact Club.

Having joined the OLP community a few months after Dr. Lek, in these almost ten years I have been able to witness her leadership and also the impact it has had on a personal nature. Dr. Lek has trusted me to grow in different roles. The various entrusted leadership opportunities have helped me become a more confident individual and more open to take on new challenges. It is with joy that OLP celebrates the perseverance of Dr. Lauren Lek and her ten year milestone of leadership at OLP!

a lma Kim-Carranza

emily d evereaux

The definition of Lauren Lek may as well be “innovative.”

As an alumna from the Class of 2000 and a faculty and staff member from 2008–2013 and 2014–the present, I have experienced the Academy of Our Lady of Peace (OLP) both before and after Lauren’s leadership. While OLP has always produced students who excel academically, thrive socially, and graduate ready to succeed in post-secondary studies, it was Lauren who spearheaded new programs that have made OLP a modern, trailblazing institution in San Diego. She started the Bring Your Own Device initiative on campus, provided ample professional development to faculty to advance our fluency in educational technologies, started the OLP Magazine, created the Women’s Symposium, revamped annual fundraisers like the gala and golf tournament, and developed and oversaw the master site plan which included campus renovations, ADAcompliant facilities, and the preservation of historical buildings. She did all of this and more in only 10 years. Lauren operates with the speed and vision of a Silicon Valley CEO but with the heart of a lifelong educator, marrying OLP’s history and mission with modern education.

t im Palu S o

It’s crazy to think that it has only been ten years that Lauren has been at OLP because of all the significant advancements she has made in that time. Ten years ago the STEM department consisted

of one computer science class, fast forward to today and OLP offers a variety of different STEM classes and we continue to see enrollment in these classes trend upward. One class, in particular, is our Computer Science Principles course which Lauren was very instrumental in having OLP pilot years before the AP test was even offered. In the 2022-2023 school year, roughly 10% of all students are enrolled in the course.

Another significant addition to the department is our robotics team. Having started the robotics team nine years ago, I am very aware of the amount of hard work the team puts into each and every season. A special shout-out to Mr. Cooney and all the girls on the team for the time and dedication they put in.

While there is still plenty of room for growth in this department, that in itself is the exciting part... that it is given the opportunity from Lauren to grow.

Working alongside Lauren Lek these past ten years has proven to be the most exciting and rewarding experience of my career. As I tell most people, “I didn’t mean to fall in love with OLP, but the students and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet have captured my heart.” Of course aligning to an organizational mission that one believes in is very rewarding, yet it has been the constant inspirational leadership from Lauren that has had the most significance upon me. Different from hierarchical organizations I’ve worked with in the past, Lauren talks the talk and walks the walk of collaborative, servant leadership.

One of my first experiences at a work event, I remember watching Lauren, the new Head of School, arranging furniture in consideration of the flow for forthcoming guests. At the end of the evening event, she was there picking up trash and putting things away alongside our custodial team. She was the first one to arrive from our team and always the last one out. Her investment in the welfare of people is equity driven and offered with sincere consideration of others. And her dedication to teenagers is astounding, as she is deeply invested in their safety, learning quality, socialemotional wellbeing, with an understanding of their need to be supported during the critical adolescent years.

I have been witness to Lauren crafting programs or creating platforms on the spot from head-to-toe, start-to-finish, inclusive of every operational detail. Her ability to recall data and research findings is like no other. She drives meaningful initiatives and conversations with an erudite understanding from a national and global perspective. Her ability to navigate the rich tapestry of knowledge has challenged my own growth for the better. She moves the needle higher, so to speak, of professionalism and in doing so has allowed me (and all of us interested) new heights of skill learning and application. Honestly, standing in the company of her genius makes every day an exciting endeavor because she enthusiastically offers generative learning opportunities, empowers all stakeholders to grow and thrive, and does so with a sincere dedication to her Catholic faith and love of education.

Though I didn’t mean to fall in love with OLP and our CSJ Sisters, I am also keenly aware that mission alone is not the only measure of retention. It is having a

boss who leads without ego and celebrates others professional growth – even to the point of send off – that truly makes Lauren Lek and her phenomenal decade of dedication the gift and continual blessing it is today.

I stand in awe and gratitude daily for Lauren’s leadership, and thankful to God for bringing her (and me) to OLP.

Congratulations, Dr. Lek, on 10 years of leadership at OLP. Your commitment to the education of young girls and the values of the CSJ’s has provided continuing excellence for the Academy.

~ Mary Caratan Sloper ‘58

I had been re-engaged with OLP back in the 1990’s, specifically for the Holy Family Event Center fundraising and build. Once that building was complete, I thought I, too, had finished my work with my high school alma mater. I really hadn’t thought about creating a legacy tie to OLP, however it was after meeting Lauren Lek that my consideration of honoring my mom and her investment in my own OLP education came to be. Of course this wasn’t the origin of our relationship, I believe Lauren and I connected through our shared Catholic faith and the unified interest in educating girls within that faith. Lauren’s commitment to innovation, research, love and care of today’s and tomorrow’s OLP students resonated so strongly with me. Some leaders step into their passion for a momentary journey, but I have found in Lauren a deeply committed woman of faith and a tremendously brilliant leader invested in furthering young students to “all of which woman is capable.” It has been such a fun blessing to work alongside her.

~ Annie Navarra ‘63

Board of Trustees

“I and the entire Board of Directors applaud and celebrate Dr. Lauren Lek for her 10 years of service and leadership as the Head of School for the Academy of Our Lady of Peace. During her tenure, Dr. Lek has been committed to creating an inclusive community, celebrating sisterhood, and engaging the students -not only academically but through faith experiences. A strong team builder and hands-on leader, she has taken actions to establish the groundwork to provide an exceptional environment for the students, a great diversity of programs, and multiple extracurricular and community events. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we congratulate Dr. Lauren Lek on her leadership and for staying true to the missions and values set forth 140 years ago by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet,” Danitza Villanueva ’98 shared enthusiastically.

The Students’ Journey with Dr. Lek

Maggie Brady ‘19

University of San Diego ‘23

Dr. Lek has left a lasting impact on students, families, and communities that embodies servant leadership, compassion, and determination. She has served as a role model of a confident, successful leader who constantly works to create the greatest experience for students she can. When I was a student at OLP, Dr. Lek always motivated me to be the best version of myself, to never stop growing, and to be graceful in the process. Her leadership aided in what made my experience at the Academy so great! I am forever grateful for her mentorship in my life and for the example she set of what students strive to achieve. Over the last 10 years, it is clear that Dr. Lek has made OLP a place for learning, development, and success. If the next ten years are anything like the last, then the Academy is sure to succeed even further with Dr. Lek’s selfless leadership and dedication to its values.

Reflecting on my time at the Academy, I don’t know where I would be without my teachers, mentors, but most importantly without the guidance of Dr. Lek. She is one of the most influential, impactful, and inspirational women I have ever met. I remember the first meeting I had in her office, in regards to helping me with my (once concept, now prototype) business idea. She was quick to offer any and all assistance in the ways of connections, guidance, as well as emotional support.

What inspires me most about Dr. Lek is not only her fierce leadership and dedication to OLP’s mission, but her sheer compassion for all the women at this school. I firmly believe she cares about each student’s growth and development as scholars but mainly as women. My experience at OLP, like college, is what I made of it. I took advantage of the resources it provided, but also the mentors that existed on campus. For me, that was Dr. Lek. I grew my relationship with her over the past four years and am extremely grateful to know and seek advice from her. I have come to know her on multiple levels: a principal, a teacher, a wise mentor, but also a dear friend and someone who I strive to remain in touch with over the years. She has inspired many of my aspirations and passions, mainly in the ways of expanding my network of connections, striving to understand each person from a holistic point of view, and always remembering to remain humble.

Humility, grace, and compassion are Dr. Lek’s defining qualities that make her the woman we all know, look up to, and love. She is someone whom I aspire to become some day. As we celebrate her 10th anniversary of bringing light and leadership to this school, let’s reflect in gratitude on all she has done for OLP and all the women she has impacted. I have become a true woman of heart, faith, courage, and excellence because of her.

Cassidy Matwiyoff ‘22 University of Alabama

CSJ BOARD

SISTER JILL NAPIER, CSJ

I was privileged to be serving OLP as a member of the Board of Trustees when Lauren was named Head of School in 2013. On day one, Lauren hit the ground running. Her infectious smile and boundless energy grabbed hold of all of us. She felt privileged to be leading OLP into the future. She reverenced her history and charism and immersed herself into learning and translating all that is OLP for those currently connected and those to come. For the Sisters of St. Joseph, Our Lady of Peace Academy, has always been regarded as a jewel in our history. My years of service as a board member, blessed by Lauren’s passionate leadership, gifted me with understanding the jewel that is OLP! Congratulations, Lauren, on 10 incredible years at OLP!

SISTER SANDRA WILLIAMS, CSJ

SISTER MAUREEN O’CONNOR, CSJ

For the past four and a half years I was privileged to be the CSJ Province Leadership Team Liaison to Our Lady of Peace Academy. Lauren Lek’s leadership has made a difference in my life. As Head of School at OLP, Lauren embraces the Spirit and Charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. In the manner in which she has faced numerous challenges, Lauren has demonstrated that she is truly a woman of courage and integrity. Using the gifts with which God has blessed her, I believe that Lauren exemplifies Maxim 73: “Live out your life with one desire only: to be always what God wants you to be, in nature, grace and glory, for time and eternity.” Thank you for your example, Lauren.

I first met Lauren Lek when she interviewed with the Board for the Head of School position at AOLP. She had prepared well for the interview and, as a Sister of St. Joseph, I was impressed with her strong sense of mission and familiarity with the CSJ charism. These already had a firm foundation in the life of OLP, and over the last ten years, Lauren has encouraged a continued deepening of community ownership of the mission and charism of unifying love and service on behalf of the dear neighbor. There is a common effort to ensure that it permeates every aspect of OLP life. It is the commitment and intentionality of the entire community that keeps the mission and charism vibrant and generative, and prepares young women to be leaders of integrity and compassion in a world in need of both. As a Sister of St. Joseph, this blesses me with incredible hope for the future. I am so very grateful for Lauren’s vision and leadership!

Top left: Nancy Ryan, Sr. Rita Sherrei, Sr. Linda Snow, Sr. Maureen O’Connor, Sr. Sharon Margaret Ninteman, Peg Stehly

Bottom row: Sr. Ruth Anne Sauners, Sr. Jill Napier, Sr, Sandra Williams

International Coalition of Girls Schools

In 2014, under Dr. Lek’s leadership, OLP for the first time in their 135 year history, joined what was then the National Coalition of Girls’ School (NCGS), and began taking advantage of the wealth of opportunities the coalition had to offer. Quickly gaining the reputation as a school that would show up with the largest group of faculty and staff at national conferences, OLP jumped in to partake in professional development opportunities, spearhead Headways Conversations with professionals around the world, and lead groundbreaking sessions at conferences. In July of 2019, Dr. Lauren Lek was invited to join the Board of Directors for the National Coalition of Girls’ Schools. In 2020-2021, OLP was the recipient of the Moulton Student Global Citizenship Grant for the annual Hackathon. NCGS co-founder Meg Moulton established this annual prize in honor of the Coalition’s 25th anniversary for a faculty-led team of NCGS member school students. The grant helps girls engage in leadership, fortify their strategic thinking, and enhance their global mindfulness by developing empathy and respect for others. As NCGS transitioned to the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools, OLP was proud to be named a Founding Member of the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools in February 2023.

Megan K. Murphy Global Executive Director, International Coalition of Girls’ Schools

Joyfully optimistic. This state of mind does more than shape who Lauren Lek is as a teacher, a role model, a forward-thinker, and a leader. It’s a feeling that she embodies and exudes. It’s a sense that overtakes you whenever you’re around her. It’s what animates her very soul.

Lauren loves what she does, and you can tell. She is a fierce advocate for girls and for girls’ education. The entire International Coalition of Girls’ Schools community is better for Lauren’s thoughtful advocacy efforts on behalf of all students and faculty around the world. Lauren has played a vital role with ICGS as a member of our Governing Board of Directors since 2019. With nearly 400 member schools, ICGS is a richly diverse network of educators and students who are part of independent, public, charter, and religiously affiliated schools in 18 countries. Lauren is committed to helping our Coalition find ways to lift and celebrate the voices of all of our members, and she sees the power and potential in bringing together schools and students across the globe. As a member of the ICGS Board Resource & Allocation Committee and Investment Policy Task Force, she also helps us to find real, sustainable, and concrete ways to support and enhance the work of all of our Coalition schools.

At the height of the pandemic, Lauren stepped forward to facilitate five different robust discussions among ICGS educators, leading important conversations with Heads of School about the impact on daily operations, and leading colleagues through conversations about celebrating their graduating classes and preparing for the year ahead.

It’s a special pleasure to see how energized and inspired Lauren is by being part of the Academy of Our Lady of Peace community as well. Recently, I had the opportunity to spend time with Lauren on campus,

where she enthusiastically, gracefully, and lovingly talked about the history and culture of OLP, springing forth from the legacy and values of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. I was inspired by Lauren’s lessons about the tradition of lacemaking among the founding sisters as well as the background for The Butterfly Project with its interfaith teachings. I was impressed by the diversity of OLP students and graduates and deeply appreciated how this diversity was reflected in every aspect of the school’s mission, curriculum, and campus for all to take inspiration from.

Lauren is a quintessential leader. Her tenure at OLP has been transformative, and I am proud to witness her joyfully optimistic (and powerful) impact on the world.

Danielle Heard President of the ICGS Governing Board

It has been an honor to work with Dr. Lauren Lek in our shared commitment as trustees for the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools. Lauren has served in this capacity during a pivotal time for the organization, as we have moved from national to international in our focus and scope. Lauren’s keen wisdom, insightful questions, and unfaltering optimism have provided important perspective for our work. It has been a joy to work with Lauren, to watch her lead, and to be inspired by her vision. I can’t wait to see what the next chapter of her

SAVETHEDATEMARCH8,2024

KimberlyKing,HonoraryChair

Women's

For the past nine years, OLP has hosted the Women’s Symposium during Women’s History Month, to bring together the top women leaders from across the country. The focus is to empower the next generation of women leaders to manage the multi-faceted aspects of being a woman in the workforce. This year’s theme was, The Hope is Here, which invited women leaders and our students to partner in the hope of being the change the world needs today.

This two-day event kicked off with our Roundtable Luncheon. This was an exclusive opportunity for OLP students who applied to participate. Nine women, including four alumnae, were either speakers from past Women’s Symposiums or Hackathon judges, and were invited to participate in intimate roundtable discussions with small groups of students. Students were offered the chance to take a deeper dive with each mentor and truly understand the importance of networking and the benefits of mentorship.

That same evening, we welcomed guests, including past and present speakers, alumnae, parents and community members to gather for our first Symposium networking

event. The evening gave guests the opportunity to connect with each other, shop, update their headshots, and hear from Alumna, Sara Bendrick ‘04, who shared about how she has built her brand and continues to be a part of the OLP community.

The following day we welcomed guests including alumnae, other local high schoolers, professionals and community members, alongside our current OLP students for the main event! This year’s symposium featured more than 60 speakers, 30 unique workshops, including 7 unique themes, a first of its kind for OLP! Students were able to choose their sessions in advance, modeling after most university style conferences.

This format allowed our students to choose sessions and meet speakers that aligned with their personal interests and aspirations. Speakers included 16 alumnae speakers as well as male faculty and parents who facilitated a workshop titled, He for She: Male Allies Among Us. Another first of its kind workshop! Stories of diverted plans, unexpected opportunities, and curve balls that turned into grand slams were shared throughout the day.

THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF THE OLP WOMEN’S SYMPOSIUM

“empowered women, empower women”

One of the most popular sessions was The Art of Makeup, featuring professional makeup artist, Whitney McElvy. One student reflected, “The Art of Makeup was super enjoyable because Whitney really connected with us. She gave us a heartful presentation and really took the time to answer our questions.”

During session breaks, guests had the opportunity to browse the vendor marketplace where student entrepreneurs, alumnae and local businesses showcased services and sold goods. Entrepreneurship and supporting women-owned businesses are cornerstone elements of the OLP Women’s Symposium and this year we were thrilled to welcome over 20 vendors!

Following the workshops and panels, the entire community gathered in the Holy Family Event Center for our keynote discussion with big wave surfer, Maya Gabeira. Maya opened by sharing her personal experiences and how she was able to thrive in a sport typically dominated by men. Maya also spoke about her passion for the earth’s ocean and its environment. She demonstrated to our students the call to action from the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet to “care for our whole earth community.”

Architect of Change student leaders, Lauren Hill ‘26 and Blake Freeman ‘26 facilitated the closing discussion with Maya from the lens of challenging what is, imagining

what can be, and moving humanity forward. At the end of the conversation, Yuri Ortega ‘25 told Maya, “For me personally, I find your story inspiring in how you persevered through your challenges, physical and emotional, to get up and ride that wave again.”

This event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors. This year’s partners from prominent San Diego companies included RCP Block & Brick, Hologic, CGI, MyPoint Credit Union, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, K2 Fundraising Agency, Torrey Pines Bank and the Smallwood Family. We were also lucky to have in-kind support from Robert Green, The Pendry, and Surf Diva.

An OLP student summed up her experience with “The Women’s Symposium is a great opportunity to get to know more about the careers of these amazing women and I am very thankful for this experience as they shared their valuable knowledge and gave a great insight on their careers and how they are making a positive difference in the world by doing something they love.”

Thank you to everyone who participated in this event in some way. We look forward to celebrating our 10th annual Women’s Symposium in 2024 and hope to see you there!

We would like to thank our sponsor, ResMed. ResMed ResMed is a San Diego based medical equipment company, primarily providing cloud-connectable medical devices for the treatment of sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other respiratory conditions. We are proud to partner with this innovative company for both our Women’s Symposium and our Hackathon.

Sarah Hassaine, Head of the Inclusion & Diversity team at ResMed, has also been a long-time supporter of OLP and both of these events. She demonstrates to

our students to be leaders and innovators at OLP in an ever-changing world. This year, she was a speaker at the Women’s Symposium in the Find Your Voice: DEIB and Self-Advocacy workshop and in 2021 she was a judge at our Hackathon.

In addition to working at ResMed, Sarah is very involved in different San Diego initiatives, including refugee assimilation efforts and across the border in Baja Mexico with orphanages, the San Diego Tech Women Coalition and the San Diego Diversity Council. She currently sits on three local Boards of Directors.

Students’ Journey to Le Puy

As a Senior, my mission for my final year of high school has been to deepen my friendships with those I truly value and create memories I can look back on in fondness. This pilgrimage has not only allowed me to deepen my friendships with my best friends who also went on the Pilgrimage, but also to get to know people I otherwise wouldn’t have. During our time in France, the group bonded over friendly competitions on long bus rides, we visited gorgeous Cathedrals and Basilicas, and took pictures below the glittering Eiffel Tower- I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my final spring break of high school.

- Maddie Strazzeri

Pilgrimage to France

In the Footsteps of Our Founders

By the first half of the 17th century, war, disease, corruption, and indifference had ravaged France and other parts of Europe. Inspired by the spirituality and initiative of St. Francis de Sales, St. Jane de Chantal, and their co-founding of the Visitation Sisters in Annecy, France, six women and a Jesuit priest felt called to meet the needs of their “dear neighbors” who were suffering in Le Puy-en-Velay in 1650. Anna Brun, Marguerite Burdier, Anna Chaleyer, Clauda Chastel, Françoise Eyraud, Anna Vey, and Fr. Jean-Pierre Médaille, SJ founded the Sisters of St. Joseph with the support of their local bishop, Bishop Henri de Maupas, who asked them to take the name of St. Joseph for their new order. Unlike previous bishops throughout France and Europe, Bishop Maupas approved of the sisters’ plan to “divide the city” to directly meet the needs of the poor, hungry, widows, and orphans throughout the streets of Le Puy-en-Velay; they did not need to remain in a convent. Thus, the Sisters of St. Joseph (or Congregation of St. Joseph: CSJ) were instituted. Their humble kitchen served as the base in which they prayed, shared from their hearts how they encountered God, planned their ministry to their “dear neighbors,” and made lace to financially support themselves while teaching and empowering vulnerable women to do the same.

Ancient small hills or mounds of volcanic rock dot the landscape of Le Puy-en-Velay (which can be shortened to “Le Puy”) and they resemble needles in a valley, which is the rough translation of the town’s name. The original six Sisters of St. Joseph walked the cobblestone streets of Le Puy as they practiced the corporal and spiritual works of mercy, they very likely visited and prayed in the Chapel of St. Michael the Archangel built atop a “puy” of volcanic rock, and we know that they did visit and pray in the Cathédrale Notre-Dame du Puy. The kitchen where the Sisters and Fr. Médaille gathered still exists and has been preserved in its original structure.

Mount Saint Mary’s University in Los Angeles, a Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet institution, began taking faculty, staff, and students on a pilgrimage experience of Le Puy several years ago where they retraced the steps and visited the locations of the original six Sisters. Shannon Green, Director of the CSJ Institute at Mount Saint Mary’s,

Written by Ryan Martin-Spencer& Dr. Brandy Sato

graciously welcomes faculty and staff from the Academy of Our Lady of Peace to join in the pilgrimage experience. During the summer of 2022, our Head of School, Dr. Lauren Lek, and our Assistant Head of School, Dr. Brandy Ann Sato, while on pilgrimage in Le Puy, discussed how the wonderful pilgrimage experience could provide OLP students with a transformative encounter with the history, mission, and charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph. After months of planning and preparation with the Faith Journeys tour group, the OLP Pilgrimage of France became a reality in April of 2023.

Over Easter vacation, 24 students and five adult chaperones from OLP embarked upon the pilgrimage experience of France with a focus on Le Puy. After arriving in Le Puy on Good Friday, the OLP pilgrims met Sr. Eluiza, CSJ and CSJ Associate Olga for a walking tour of the cobblestone streets of Le Puy, including l’Eglise du Collège, the Jesuit church where Fr. Médaille very likely preached; a world class handmade bobbin lace shop; and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame du Puy. After a homemade dinner with Sr. Eluiza and Ms. Olga at the St. Joseph International Centre, the pilgrims returned to the Cathedral for a very emotional and powerful medieval style outdoor nighttime Stations of the Cross procession with praying, chanting, and penitents wearing clothing symbolizing repentance.

On Holy Saturday, the pilgrims returned to the International Centre to hear more from Ms. Olga and Sr. Eluiza about the work of the Centre to bring together Sisters, Associates, and partners from around the world for immersive learning experiences about the history and ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph. The pilgrims also learned, reflected upon, and shared about specific details about the history of the Sisters and the implications for their lives as students at a CSJ school today. The afternoon included opportunities for historical and cultural immersion as the pilgrims traveled to the Château de Chavaniac where Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, was born, and then returned to Le Puy to visit local shops and boutiques. A family owned restaurant hosted the pilgrims for a lively and fun dinner with jokes and friendly banter from the head chef and co-owner. Upon returning to the hotel, the pilgrims engaged in journaling and “Sharing of

the Heart,” inspired by the way the original six Sisters reflected in the kitchen in 1650, and how current Sisters of St. Joseph share to this day.

All of the pilgrims voted to attend 7:00 am mass on Easter Sunday back at the Cathédrale Notre-Dame du Puy, which included a special and beautiful blessing of other pilgrims who were journeying on foot along the Santiago de Compostela, or the Way of St. James, all the way to Spain. The simple, yet beautiful mass, moved the OLP pilgrims in a special way, and they were grateful to celebrate Easter mass in such a unique setting, even if it meant getting up extra early and being a little cold and hungry. After breakfast, some time to rest, and a light lunch from a local grocery store, half of the pilgrim group visited the handmade bobbin lace shop for a live demonstration, while the other half of the group experienced the kitchen in which the original six Sisters prayed and made lace. The two groups rotated so that all OLP pilgrims could appreciate the very special opportunity to learn about and pray in the original kitchen, the historical and spiritual source of the Sisters of St. Joseph, on Easter Sunday. The pilgrims continued in the footsteps of the first six Sisters by hiking up 268 steps to Rocher Saint-Michel, a chapel dedicated to St. Michael built over 1,000

The very special Easter Sunday concluded with a joyous dinner prepared by Sr. Eluiza and Ms. Olga back at the International Centre punctuated by laughter and unifying love in the true spirit of the Sisters of St. Joseph and our OLP sisterhood.

In addition to its importance historically, Le Puy-en-Velay has become a powerful symbol and invitation for students at CSJ universities, colleges, and high schools to take bold steps forward to meet the needs of our times, inspired by the original six Sisters, rooted in humility and unifying love. At OLP, we have learned from and collaborated with Mount Saint Mary’s University to equip our faculty and staff with tools and resources to empower our students to serve our dear neighbors without distinction. For example, Dr. Andrée Leighton has generously shared with us her project based experiential process called the Le Puy Method, which focuses on learning about the needs of our dear neighbors, co-creating solutions with them, empowering implementation of the solutions, and reflecting upon the experience. The OLP Pilgrimage of France, with its focus on Le Puy-en-Velay, provides an added richness to the opportunities for our school community to continue to grow in our embodiment of Jesus Christ’s unifying love and of serving our dear neighbors today and into the future so that all

Soirée

Our Annual Gala, Spring Soirée: Under the Blue Moon , was a memorable and successful evening in support of OLP!

Raised $170,000 toward our Carondolet Annual Fund

Thank you to our Honorary Chairs, Annie and Joe Strazzeri!

Academic Assembly

During our academic assembly in May we celebrated our hardworking volunteers who have supported OLP throughout the year. This is a chance to honor the wonderful Pilot Parents, Alumnae parents, various committee members, our Board, and friends of OLP who have volunteered their time, talents and treasures to the OLP community.

Each year, the OLP community recognizes a volunteer of the year. This is an individual who has demonstrated dedication and commitment to OLP, takes initiative and frequently volunteers, embodies the mission of OLP and demonstrates the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph. This year, we chose Rachel Flores as our Volunteer of the Year. Rachel is a senior parent who has gone above and beyond with all she has done. She is responsible for heading up our campus life crew which includes keeping us well fed during teacher appreciation week!

OLP Class of 2023 by the numbers

In a class of 175 graduates, The Class of 2023...

992 college admission offers were collectively received

20%

of the OLP Class of 2023 will be the first in their family to pursue a college degree

77%

of our seniors were offered merit-based scholarships for college that collectively total

$28,534,861 is the collectively total value of the merit-based scholarships offered

96% was the OLP acceptance rate to Loyola University Chicago

72

OLP students were accepted at the University of San Diego this year

Invest in her

Class 2023 THE of

Seniors

Proverbs 16:3 “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.”

As a college preparatory high school, OLP values academic success and is proud to recognize the following students who have demonstrated academic excellence, persistence, and a desire for lifelong learning for the Class of 2023.

Immersive experience, download the app to watch the videos of our outstanding seniors!

Valedictorian Mia Davis

Salutatorian Claire Latham

Valedictorian Michaela Hine

Sioban Downing

Valentina Parra

Miranda Labrada

Isabella Hernandez

Isabella Romero

Hayden Carter

Morgan Pack

Immersive experience