The Mark Highlights: Senior Edition 2024

East Union High School

Manteca High School

Manteca High School

Lathrop High School

Lathrop High School

Sierra High School

Weston Ranch High School

DEAR 2024 SENIORS,

This is my favorite time of year, seeing the hard work of students, teachers, parents, and staff culminate into one event – graduation.

As I reflect on this year, I think about the time I have spent at school sites and in classrooms interacting with students and educators. This is my favorite part of my job. I love seeing the interaction of teachers with students, as teaching and learning are taking place.

In my opinion, there is nothing more powerful than a caring teacher building a relationship with students based on respect, care, and inspiration.

Many of our staff and teachers extend kindness every day. I hope that they, along with other people in your life, have been a good example of providing the support that you need before you go out into that great, big world. I also hope that you will remember to extend kindness to others.

Reflecting on the state of our world, I believe that it is in great need of kindness. We need to be less quick to judge and quicker to see other’s point of view. Be kind to others, be kind to yourself, and always remember that the smallest acts of kindness can leave a bigger impact than you will ever know.

Your journey will have challenges to overcome, and sometimes you might even fail, it’s a part of the process. Just keep going. In the profound words of author Roy T. Bennett, “Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine.”

Congratulations, Class of 2024! May you go off into the world and welcome new experiences and face adversity unafraid to try, fail, and succeed as you continue to grow and discover yourself.

Clara Schmiedt Executive Director of Secondary Education

MANTECA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL BOARD

President Marie Freitas, Area 4

Vice President Eric Duncan Sr., Area 1

Board Clerk Stephen J. Schluer, Area 6

Melanie Greene, Area 3

Marisella C. Guerrero, Area 7

Kathy Howe, Area 2

Cathy Pope-Gotschall, Area 5

STUDENT BOARD MEMBERS

Sarah Petersen, East Union High School

Alexandra Chapman, Sierra High School

Aleena Daquioag, Manteca High School

Abigail Torres, Weston Ranch High School

Kaleb Constantino, Lathrop High School

SUPERINTENDENTS

Dr. Clark Burke, Superintendent

Roger Goatcher, Deputy Superintendent

VISION

Every student works to achieve grade level standards, feels safe and is supported to realize individual success.

MISSION

Through smart actions and decisions, MUSD will work together using meaningful, measurable and aligned data for all students to achieve mastery of grade level standards in all subjects based on their unique educational pathway in a safe environment inclusive of design, security and climate.

EAST UNION

Valedictorian

Trinity Pacheco

San Jose State University, Forensic Science

Activities: French Club, Key Club, Social Justice Club, Tennis

“The only limits we have are set by ourselves.”

Salutatorian

MacKenzie Weber

UC Merced, Biology

Activities: Club Hope President, Link Crew, Leadership Vice President, EUHS Sports Network Vice President, Soccer

“I am most grateful for the wonderful support system I have by my side, they hold a special place in my heart. I would especially like to thank my parents, who help me realize each day how lucky I am to have them in my life.”

Zach Grabowski

Undecided, Undeclared

Activities: Link Crew, Baseball, Basketball

“Reach out to new people and don’t be afraid to talk to teachers, most people are much nicer than you think! Communicating with people can make things better.”

HIGH SCHOOL

Jaqueline Badillo Ramirez

UC Los Angeles, Psychology

Activities: AVID, Key Club, Folklorico Club

“I am most grateful for my AVID teacher, Mrs. Herrera, for always encouraging me to do my best and learn new things. I am grateful for my friends as well for their unconditional love and support.”

Rimi Rumthao

UC Santa Barbara, Undeclared

Activities: Swim, Water Polo, Environmental Science Club, Art-n-Soul Club, Key Club

“Don’t be discouraged by the setbacks that may come your way and remember to be kind to yourself.”

Devin Graber

Oregon State University, History

Activities: Future Teachers Club, Social Justice Club, Cross Country, Track, Soccer

“The highlight of my time in high school has been enjoying my time, making many new friends, and learning a lot in AP classes.”

EAST UNION

Man Luong

UC Berkeley, Psychology

Activities: Key Club, Swimming, Water Polo

“Find a balance between studying and having fun!”

Gracie Kallstrom

UC Davis, Civil Engineering

Activities: Girls Empowerment Leaders, California Scholarship Federation, Golf

“I am most grateful for the people in my life who push and inspire me to do my best.”

Valerie Lugo

CSU Chico, Nursing

Activities: Volleyball, California Scholarship Federation, Art Club

“I am most grateful for my family and how they supported me in my goals and academics throughout high school. I would also like to thank my friends and peers who made high school fun and memorable.”

HIGH SCHOOL

Marline Rubio-Alcala

Undecided, Animal Science

Activities: Art-n-Soul Club, FFA

“Try your best and don’t let opportunities pass you by. You only live once, so make the best out of it!”

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Alysa Jimenez

CSU Monterey Bay, Liberal Studies

Activities: Future Teachers Club President, ASB, Girls Empowerment

Treasurer, Community First Treasurer

“I loved planning and hosting my first Mel’s Garage event! Figuring out what to teach kids was an experience I won’t forget, and I hope to continue helping kids experience the joys of learning in the future!”

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Denisse Lopez

San Joaquin Delta College, Nursing

Activities: California Scholarship Federation, Yearbook, MECHA Club, Key Club, Art-n-Soul Club

“I hope everyone had a memorable high school experience and I wish everyone a successful future!”

LATHROP

Valedictorian

Pia Marie Calub

California Institute of Technology, Mechanical Engineering

Activities: Academic Decathlon, STEM Club, Sing with Heart Club

“You should always be proud of the small accomplishments. Even the smallest steps keep the momentum pushing forward.”

Valedictorian

Neil Yang

Undecided, Computer Science

Activities: STEM Club, JROTC, Civil Air Patrol, Ocean Conservancy, Congressional Award Program

“I will never forget Sergeant Williams and his funny personality. He has been a valuable instructor who instilled moral standards that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.”

Salutatorian Suhani Banwait

UC San Diego, Human Biology

Activities: Track & Field, Flag Football, Basketball, Interact, California Scholarship Federation

“The highlight of my high school career was winning the first girls’ Section championship in school history with our track team!”

HIGH SCHOOL

Julissa Aguilar

University of the Pacific, Bioengineering

Activities: Interact, California Scholarship Federation, College Bound, Softball

“I am most grateful for my parents and their endless support throughout my education, never placing a limit on my dreams. ¡Los amo mil! (I love you a million!)”

Jeneavy Vu

UC Davis, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Activities: HOSA, Interact, STEM Club

“The most memorable parts of high school have been the friendships I made with others in my classes and clubs. The friendships I made in high school are ones I will never forget and will look back on with joy.”

Nishitha Kadiyala

UC San Diego, Neurobiology

Activities: HOSA, California Scholarship Federation, Water Polo, Swim

“We made it, congrats to everyone graduating!”

LATHROP

Alena Jaeden Gallo

San Jose State University, Chemical Engineering/ Chemistry

Activities: Sing with Heart Club, Academic Decathlon, Uplifted by Energy, STEM Club

“I will always cherish the time during my senior year when our choir program was awarded three superior ratings for our pieces at the Delta Choral Festival.”

Karla Capilla Gutierrez

San Joaquin Delta College, Engineering

Activities: Family Career and Community Leaders, Academic Decathlon

“I wish my peers good luck on their future journeys and hope they find all the happiness they seek.”

Mya Grisham

San Joaquin Delta College, Screenwriting

Activities: Golf Club President, Yearbook Club Vice President, Every 15 Minutes Volunteer, Soccer Club Secretary

“No two journeys are the same, so don’t dampen your ambitions with the weight of others’ opinions.”

HIGH SCHOOL

Sophia Moreno

UC Riverside, Bioengineering

Activities: Band, Water Polo, Swim, Golf, Give Every Child A Chance Volunteer

“I am most grateful to my parents for providing the encouragement, support, and opportunities needed to involve myself in extracurriculars and challenge myself in class.”

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Kaleb de Leon Constantino

Los Positas College, Biological Sciences

Activities: Interact, California Scholarship Federation, Student Council Leadership

“Take advantage of opportunities and pursue what makes you happy. You can achieve anything you put your mind to.”

Student Board Member

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Christine Marie Ygay

CSU Sacramento, Nursing

Activities: Band (LHS, San Jacquin County Honors & Manteca Area Community), K-Pop Dance and Social Club, USA Varsity All American Drum Major

“I am grateful for the teachers who helped me grow throughout my time at Lathrop High School. Without them, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.”

MANTECA

Valedictorian

Christian Avila

UC Los Angeles, Biochemistry

Activities: Hispanic Youth Leadership Club, STEM Club, Academic Decathlon, California Scholarship Federation, Red Cross Blood Donor Ambassador

“Si lo lograste, continuaras haciéndolo posible. No te rindas, échale ganas, no te rindas.”

(If you were able to make it possible, you will continue to do it. Don’t give up, give it your all, don’t give up.)

Valedictorian

Christina Nguyen

UC Berkeley, Chemical Biology

Activities: Tennis, STEM Club, National Honor Society, California Scholarship Federation, Academic Decathlon

“I am most grateful for my family and friends; Mr. Hillier and Mr. White who inspired my love of science; and Ms. Tolbert and Sr. Burr who nurtured my soul into who I am today.”

Elise Miller

UC Los Angeles, Environmental Science

Activities: National Honor Society, California Scholarship Federation, Academic Decathlon, Thespian Club, College Prep Club

“Never give up, there is always a solution.”

Salutatorian

HIGH SCHOOL

Evani Jordan Gaeta

Undecided, Biology

Activities: California Scholarship Federation, National Honor Society, College Prep Club, Basketball, Track & Field

“Be humble, stay focused, and don’t procrastinate.”

Izabella Sanchez

Modesto Junior College, Engineering

Activities: Basketball, Volleyball, Track & Field, California Scholarship Federation, STEM Club

“Never stop working hard, no matter what obstacles life throws at you!”

Cedrick Maglinao

San Joaquin Delta College, History

Activities: Asian Pacific Islanders Club, CTE Education, Volleyball

“I am most grateful for Mrs. Haskett, Sr. Burr, and Mrs. McIntyre for helping me realize that I wanted to pursue education.”

MANTECA

Nolan Marley

UC Berkeley, Political Science

Activities: Saxophone Section Leader, Thespian Club, MMA Black Belt

“I am inspired by my grandparents, who took me in when I was five. Because they welcomed me with open arms, I have been able to flourish into who I have become today.”

Oliver Ramirez Carrera

UC Santa Barbara, Civil or Mechanical Engineering

Activities: Boxing, Key Club

“Put yourself out there. Don’t be afraid to try new things and push yourself outside of your comfort zone.”

Catherine Beattie

CSU Long Beach, Applied Mathematics

Activities: Band, California Scholarship Federation, National Honor Society

“The highlights of my high school career were football games with the band and taking AP Literature and Creative Writing with Haskett.”

HIGH SCHOOL

Maya Lowery

UC Davis, Civil Engineering

Activities: National Honor Society, Golf, Academic Decathlon, American Legion Auxillary Girls State

“The highlight of my high school career was being chosen as the only representative from my high school to go to ALA Girls State with 400 other girls from all over California. I had an amazing time and found many new friends that were both similar and dissimilar to me.”

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Mark Ibrahim

UC Santa Barbara, Mechanical Engineering

Activities: ASB, Key Club

“I am most grateful for my brother Andro. He has been my guiding hand throughout a lot of tough situations and taught me many important lessons about how to live a happy life.”

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Sarai Juarez Vivar

UC Los Angeles, Neuroscience

Activities: National Honor Society, Black Student Union, College Prep Club, Track & Field, Cross Country

“I am inspired by Mama - her courage, her determination, her strength, and her beautiful acts of kindness.”

SIERRA

Valedictorian

Sydney Ladrido

UC Los Angeles, Biology

Activities: National Honor Society President, Academic Decathlon President, Golf, California Scholarship Federation, Wide Horizons

“To all of my peers, I’m very proud to have grown beside you and I know our futures will be bright. Go T-Wolves!”

Salutatorian

Seeun Kim

Stanford, Media Studies

Activities: EQ Hacks, Bloom Institute, Hackathon Competitor, Lobo Gold Rally Team, What’s OK Youth Advisory Council

“I am most grateful for my mentors David Baszucki, Erik Cassel, and my teacher Mr. Dolieslager for harnessing my love of media, arts, and comedy.”

Sienna Gavino

San Jose State University, Nursing

Activities: Cheer, Band

“I am most grateful for Coach Michele, as she has inspired me to push myself, step out of my comfort zone, and reach my full potential. I would not be the person I am today without her guidance and support.”

HIGH SCHOOL

Ella Chau

UC Los Angeles, Psychology

Activities: California Scholarship Federation, National Honor Society, Tennis, Track & Field, ASL

“Life is way too short to be defined by numbers and letters, so being the best version of yourself is what truly matters.”

Sophia Marian

UC Berkeley, Biology

Activities: Fellowship of Christian Atheletes President, National Honor Society, California Scholarship Federation, Volleyball, Church Worship Leader

“The highlight of my high school career was the amazing community I’ve built and friends I’ve made along the way that will last a lifetime.”

Zoe Kossart

UC Santa Barbara, Psychology

Activities: National Honor Society, Volleyball, Leadership, Link Crew, Wolfpack Club

“I will never forget winning our last volleyball league game at Manteca High, ending the season with a 10-0 record, and receiving the first league title in school history.”

SIERRA

Erfan Ballew

UC Berkeley, Engineering and Business

Activities: Manteca Youth Focus, Swim, Water Polo, Academic Decathlon, Youth About Business

“A positive mindset yields positive results!”

Abigail Chapman

Brigham Young University, Animation/Illustration

Activities: Class President, Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field, Manteca Parks and Recreation Youth Sports Coach

“I am grateful for my parents. They pushed me every year to become the best version of myself. I can honestly say that I fulfilled everything that I could have possibly wished to in high school because of them.”

Komal Kaur Thandi

Stanford University, Human Biology

Activities: Sikh Honors and Service Society, National Honor Society, Creative Writing Club, Tennis, Track & Field

“Find value in everything and everyone, no matter how trivial or minute it may seem. Don’t take a single experience for granted.”

HIGH SCHOOL

Hamzah Mahmood

UC Irvine, Biomedical Engineering

Activities: National Honor Society, California Scholarship Federation, Engineering Club

“The highlight of my high school career was volunteering at Second Harvest Food Bank.”

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Alexandra Chapman

Brigham Young University, Media Arts

Activities: ASB President, Basketball, Volleyball, Track & Field, National Honor Society

“I am most grateful for my parents, my brother, and most of all my twin sister (and best friend), for helping me get through high school.”

Student Board Member

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Tristan Crowe

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, City & Urban Planning

Activities: Cross Country, Track & Field, Lacrosse, National Honor Society

“The highlight of my high school career was beating Kimball at the cross country league championships, and overall, the experiences with my cross country team.”

WESTON RANCH

Valedictorian

Tommy Duong

UC Berkeley, Economics

Activities: California Scholarship Federation President, Volleyball Captain, Tennis, Soccer Team Videographer, Church Volunteer

“Be comfortable being uncomfortable! Getting out of my comfort zone is what led me to develop and become the person I am today. Ask questions, take initiative, and be proud!”

Salutatorian

Diego Zamora Martinez

UC Berkeley, Computer Science

Activities: Robotics Club, ASB Band and Orchestra Club, M.E.CH.A Ballet Folklorico, Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble

“Remember that life consists not just of big and important moments, but also of small and simple moments. Make sure to appreciate both.”

Brianna Rodriguez

Undecided, Biology

Activities: Leadership, California Scholarship Federation

“I am most grateful for my parents who encourage me in everything I do no matter what, as well as my sister, Adrianna, who is always there for me.”

HIGH SCHOOL

Christy Nguyen

UC Davis, Materials Sciences Engineering

Activities: Genders & Sexualities Alliance, Cougar Den Club, Taste of Culture, Dancing Cougarettes

“Always be the best version of you that you can be!”

Harvir Hothi

UC Los Angeles, Gender Studies and Sociology

Activities: Tennis, California Scholarship Federation, Band

“I am inspired by my single immigrant mother, who is the most brave, independent, and loving woman I know. Everything I am and hope to be, is because of her.”

Whitney Mburu

UC Los Angeles, Psychology

Activities: Senior Class President, Black Student Union Secretary, Rotary/ Interact President, Church Youth Leader, California Scholarship Federation

“Hard work does eventually pay off in the end, even when it doesn’t feel like it. It is definitely worth it!”

WESTON RANCH

Sirius Novicio

Undecided, Astrophysics

Activities: Choir, Theatre

“I am most grateful for the fond memories I’ve made with the countless people I’ve befriended over the past few years. I can’t thank them enough for welcoming me into their lives.”

Stephon Dacus

Unites States Air Force

Activities: JROTC, Theatre, Chess, August Knodt Volleyball Coach, Basketball

“The highlight of my high school career has been my involvement with the arts, clubs, and sports on campus. The theatre program has been a big part of my growth. I’ve made so many friends throughout my tenure, and the hard work, sacrifices, and efforts always create a rewarding show.”

Maeson Louisse Bayot

CSU Fullerton, Biology

Activities: HOSA, Volleyball

“The highlight of my high school career was winning our volleyball tournament during my senior year!”

HIGH SCHOOL

Adrian Lupian-Muñoz

San Joaquin Delta College, Education

Activities: PLUS Leadership, Peer Resource, Cougar Den Club

“Don’t be afraid to get involved! There are so many opportunities to make awesome memories that you’ll never forget.”

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Arjie Saptang

CSU Sacramento, Graphic Design/Photography

Activities: CTE Graphic Design Director, WRHS Podcast Host, WRHS Multimedia Lead

“The highlight of my high school career has been my role as the CTE Graphic Design Director. This position allowed me to harness my creative skills and contribute to the Weston Ranch community.”

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Susana Soria

San Joaquin Delta College, Undeclared

Activities: ASB, Theatre, Color Guard, Dance

“I will never forget the two teachers who played a huge role in helping me blossom into who I am today. Thank you Mr. Basepayne and Mr. Albala!”

CALLA

Alexander Ruiz Trade School, Carpentry

“I am inspired by my dad and my brother, two of the most hardworking people I have ever known. They do anything and everything to support me.”

An Cao

The Citadel College, Biology Activities: Culinary Program

“The highlight of my high school career has been the willingness and openness of my teachers who have helped me strive to do better and who have played tennis with me.”

Hunter Concepcion

San Joaquin Delta College, Undeclared

“I am most grateful for the teachers and friends I met at Calla. They created a great environment and I would never trade my time here for anything else.”

HIGH SCHOOL

Elijah Hirle

United States Air Force

“I am inspired by my dad, he keeps it real.”

Nicholas DeVoe

San Joaquin Delta College, Computer Science

Activities: Basketball, Flag Football

“I am most grateful for Mr. Dalisay.”

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Gabriella Brinlee

Modesto Junior College, Sonography

Activities: Link Crew, Yearbook

“Always push yourself to be the best version of yourself.”

NEW VISION

Reyna Rose Colocar

San Joaquin Delta College, Nursing

“Let’s remember to stay true to ourselves and keep chasing our passions. It’s okay if we’re not sure what the future holds - we’ll figure it out on the way.”

Bianca Cervantes Angel

San Joaquin Delta College, Business/Marketing

“I am most grateful for the opportunities I have been given to finish high school, as well as the teachers who believed in me and gave me access to accomplishments.”

Andrea Paredes

Undecided, Fashion or Culinary Arts

“I am most grateful for those who push me to be better.”

HIGH SCHOOL

Santiago Sanders

Undecided, Health & Fitness

“Work hard and get it done!”

Principal’s Honorable Mention

Alexia Barajas

Modesto Junior College, Nursing

“I want to thank the staff at New Vision for helping me grow and seeing the light in me, even when I didn’t know was there.”

Not Pictured

Muthana Raoof Saleh Mohamed Ali

TOBEMUSD

East Union High School

Lathrop High School

Sierra High School

Manteca High School

Weston Ranch High School