2015-16 Annual Report

2015-16 Annual Report

S t re n g t h e n e d by Fa i t h . Pre p a re d fo r L i fe.

So then, just as you RECEIVED

Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live

your lives IN HIM, rooted and built up

strengthened in the FAITH as you were taught, and overflowing in Him,

with THANKFULNESS.

2

Colossians 2:6-7

2015-2016 Annual Report

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Message From The Executive Director................................................. 4

714.998.5151

Social Buzz . . ............................................................................................... 5

2222 N. Santiago Boulevard Orange, CA 92867

An OLu Thank You .................................................................................... 6 LIfe Through A Lens . . ............................................................................... 8 Art For The Ages . . ................................................................................... 10

www.lhsoc.org www.facebook.com/WeAreOLu www.twitter.com/WeAreOLu

Musically Made . . ..................................................................................... 12 Tackling Acting . . ..................................................................................... 14 Like Father, Like Daughter. . .................................................................. 16 Reaching New Heights. . ......................................................................... 18 A Look Toward The Future .. .................................................................. 20 2015-16 Breakdown .. ............................................................................. 23 Faculty And Staff . . .................................................................................. 24 A Summer In The Life............................................................................. 25 Lancers For Life....................................................................................... 26 Faith & Entrepreneurial Business Academy ..................................... 28 A Will Found A Way................................................................................. 30 Heart Of A Champion ............................................................................ 32 A New Direction...................................................................................... 34 Lancer Alumni. . ........................................................................................ 36 A Dream Realized. . .................................................................................. 38 We Love Our Volunteers........................................................................ 40 Power Of The Dream Gala..................................................................... 42 2016 Golf Classic & Lancer Ladies Brunch . . ....................................... 43 Message From The Advancement Office .. ......................................... 44 2015-16 Donors ...................................................................................... 45 Message From The Finance Office . . .................................................... 50

It is our blessing and honor to present to you the 2015-16 Annual Report, featuring stories about our wonderful Lancer family, programs and overall performance from the past year. We are grateful for your support and hope you enjoy the report. God’s Blessings.

ADVANCEMENT TEAM: CATHY BLANKENSHIP ‘86

Chief Advancement Officer

SANDY LOPEZ

Associate Director of Advancement

KATHRYN BISE

Senior Director of Major Gifts

DAVE CACCIAPUOTI

Videographer, Director of Summer Programs

COURTNEY KRUGER ‘08

Alumni Relations Coordinator

KYLEE KREUTZIGER

Marketing Coordinator

BRANTLEY WATSON

Public Relations Coordinator

SHAWNA VAN DAELE

Research & Database Coordinator 3

What an amazing year! During our 2015-2016 school year, God continued to bless our joint ministry way beyond what any one of us could have ever thought or imagined (Eph. 3:20-21)!

I love our Annual Report and our team is so proud to share with you some of the amazing accomplishments that God has allowed in our midst. I hope you take some time not just to flip through the pages, but to read the stories and read of the life change and transformation that is occurring at your school. And for the first time, we are very proud to have student involvement with this report. Several of our story ideas were developed in collaboration with students and many were written by one of our students. Additionally, our students took many of the pictures you will see. This is all as a direct result of the internships our students are participating in at the school.

Strengthened by Faith. Prepared for Life.

This is the “tagline” that we have been using for the last year. It is a great statement that communicates how God is working in our midst. Make no mistake about it, Orange Lutheran is an outstanding school in so many ways. As you read through the pages of this report, you will likely conclude with me that this was our best year ever in the areas of academics, athletics AND the arts. God truly is at work in a powerful way!

And while having a great year is impressive, we never forget that it is all about the mission – “helping students internalize the gospel message of salvation in Christ Jesus.” Our students can receive all kinds of worldly accolades, but the greatest importance is that they are prepared for what comes next. Life can be difficult and we take pride in walking with our students through everything they face so they are equipped for greater service to the Kingdom when they leave OLu. After all, they are Lancers for Life!

Generosity. Stewardship. Future.

Message from Executive Director, Todd Moritz

Without you, the loyal supporters of Orange Lutheran, none of this could be possible. The funding necessary to run a high quality program such as ours is huge. We have continued on the path of keeping tuition low and yet continuing to invest financially in our future. We all realize that the growing up years between the ages of 14 and 18 are spiritually, emotionally and intellectually some of the most important in a student’s life.

Because of you and your support, our operations are strong, our cash position continues to improve and God is getting all the glory. We are focused on building long-term strategies to ensure that Orange Lutheran is financially sound well into the future for all generations to come.

So what’s next? Only God knows our future (Prov. 19:21), but we believe our ministry is making too much of a difference to not be shared. Our county and even our country continues down a more secular path and students desperately need to hear about the love of Christ each and every day. To that end, we continue to explore ways of how we can expand our school. Because we are virtually full on our existing campus and rent athletic space, this is a challenge. But we believe that God has placed His desire on our heart – and so we begin to pray, plan and prepare.

How would God have you be involved in a significant movement of His? Big or small, everyone’s help is needed. Whether it is your time, talent or treasures – I pray you will participate (Prov.

1:1-5). I welcome your thoughts and wisdom.

Thank you for making a difference in things that matter. Eternal things.

Todd Moritz 4

Chief Executive Officer / Executive Director (714) 282-4602 (direct line) – todd.moritz@lhsoc.org

SOCIAL BUZZ Orange Lutheran’s top social media moments of the 2015-16 school year.

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FEB 2015

In only its fourth year of existence, OLu girls water polo is CIF Division 1 champions...congrats to Coach Steve, Coach Ed and the girls!!! #WeAreOLu

Class of 2016...we are so proud of you. #WeAreOLu #graduation

(https://www.instagram.com/p/BGAh07twMWX/?taken-by=we_are_olu)

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MAY 2016

Today, OLu students placed 2,977 American flags around the school, honoring the 2,977 victims of 9/11 #NeverForget (pic.twitter.com/BYuiSlBD1K)

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SEP 2015

WOW. And now, a proposal! Congrats, Ms. Z!!!

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OCT OLu football defeats Servite on the final play of the game, and after the game, then-Servite trainer Chaz Kekipi proposes to girlfriend and OLu trainer Karen Zieger. The two were married on June 3.

2015

Thank you to our Athletics Chaplain Major Shane Yates for an inspiring and humbling Veterans Day chapel. We thank all who have served and given the ultimate sacrifice for our country not just on Wednesday, but everyday.

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NOV 2015

(https://www.instagram.com/p/94B3oQQMZ4/?taken-by=we_are_olu)

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DEC 2015

It’s been 34 years and counting for Mr. Kramer, and his passion for advancing Orange Lutheran is still alive and well. #WeAreOLu

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An OLu Thank You On May 7, 2016, Asher Segelken saw a dream cross over into reality.

Segelken is a member of the Class of 2016, the newest of Orange Lutheran alumni. He is also a devoted filmmaker, who spent the better part of his final year in high school creating his coming-ofage documentary, “18”.

Once the film was completed, Segelken had only one place in mind to host the film’s premiere.

And that one place happily obliged.

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Below is a letter written by Segelken to Orange Lutheran, thanking the school for hosting the premiere and for supporting him through the creation of the documentary.

with its s, or is stingy ea id zy a cr lly for from not shy away k you specifica nk n es a o th d t a a is th l is o th tha ful for a scho enerous. While would like this to serve as a I am so grate geous and g I ra r, u te co en C th a o it b is 8” in the Nech blessings but iere my film “1 m re p to e m g allowin ell. ovation four years as w ed a standing iv ce re , you for the last le p eo 0p can not ls targeted. I red to about 33 a ie iv m st re fe p s m a fil w all 30 at $200 ave heard, “18” submitted to m pleased th a et I g s. to n o s As you may h ti n a o n ti o a mense se d enough don to collect tho you for the im y k it n n a u th rt o and garnered re p p ce o n si ough for the e school as a thank you en ing back to th m co is h ic h w was left over, imes the tended to me. ex y it n them. Somet u d rt fin is oppo o d grow in as to ies, all one h , I was able to it n n a u er rt o th p p Lu o e f g dividual Oran an is full o ell-rounded in well. While at w s a re o n Orange Luther io m p r, m te a I hope is e a bet find their ch mething that ers to becom so ch is a is te opportunities Th d . n ld a o rs resh ith my pee crossed the th relationship w hen I had first w n a th n . o ts ti ec theran studen with more dir n Hamby rk of Orange Lu a em d a tr ind. Mrs. Daw a m ys y m in alwa t u o d stan el Kramer, ts, four people al. Mr. Micha en iv st lim Fe p m lm co Fi h h Fait udents and many wort am of the Teen ection between him, his st re d y While there are m g in deepest nn in actualiz over have my meaningful co d f rl o o it w u supported me e rs u th p l ill Spors, for ho w nd impactfu m. Mr. Robert m Heinicke, w fil ia d ir n M a for his deep a l . o rs o M h . sc who spoke ween he conveys e first person nd for me bet th a g h n it the concepts ei w b e r n o fo d nd all she has an. life and art, a gratitude for Orange Luther f approaching to o e y m a w ca I lt n fe so rt a his deeply hea iggest initial re nd faculty. film and the b f o e g ua g eir students a n th la in t my es b e th ng for llow for God continue looki nd that you a a to r is vo n a ea d er th en ary refer God’s Orange Lu school only p idea is not a sc e zy th a t My prayer for cr a a th g d n in a to n of follow he leads you resence.

That the notio ifferent paths d in his loving p e th lly n fu ce ow d ea u p yo rk o e w id u d g n to ce a ..that sums human insisten ing God’s call. w llo guidance over fo in ed rt bless this ppo d by being su od continue to G ke y vo a ro M p ! y ch jo u t, m by though nk you all very Joy provoked perience. Tha ex n a er th Lu e up my Orang ministry.

Dear Orange

Lutheran,

titude,

gra With deepest n

Asher Segelke

Mrs. Miriam Heinicke spoke to Asher’s success as a student and filmmaker.

Robert Spors, who teaches media arts and social studies at OLu, spoke to the ambition and character of Segelken, whom he mentored during Segelken’s time at OLu. “I first became aware of Asher when another teacher showed me one of his early films when he was just a freshman,” Spors said.

“From that point on, Asher would come to my classroom often to discuss films of all types and from all time periods. I quickly realized that his passion for film was not a fleeting one and we discussed a wide range of film topics over the next three years.

“It says a lot about him that he would take the time to seek out conversations with a teacher he didn’t even have just to learn more about film and film history.”

“When Asher told me about “18”, I was blown away again by his scope and talent - that amid being a great student and involved in the student body, he also found time to do his film work. I also credit his parents for their incredible love and support - the awesome upbringing they’ve provided for him.”

Segelken is beginning his freshman year at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, majoring in Entrepreneurship and minoring in Film Theory.

From Orange Lutheran to Asher, we thank you for allowing us to support you during your four years at OLu. It’s been a joy to see your growth as a filmmaker, student, and most of all, as a follower of Christ!

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LIFE THROUGH A LENS

by Mackenzi Greene ‘17

What began as a hobby is looking more and more like a career for Jack Garell ‘17.

Jack Garell has found that his vision for others can also serve as his own personal creative outlet.

And now, Garell is hoping that his passion for photography can be more than just a creative outlet...it can be a fulfilling path.

During the summer going into his 8th grade year, Garell, now a senior at OLu, went on a trip to Europe and was allowed to use his dad’s camera to take high quality pictures for the first time. He was astounded by what a camera could do and wanted to get his own.

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I love the Christian atmosphere at OLu. The staff cares for each student.

–Taelor Griffin ‘16

“My neighborhood friend and I would take pictures and mess around on the nature walk around our houses in Newport Coast, and soon after that, I made an Instagram account to share my pictures with friends and family,” Garell said.

After large feature accounts began reposting Garell’s photographs and crediting his work, Jack gained a larger following and started to have models request he take pictures of them. Towards the end of his freshman year at OLu, Garell started promoting his work by encouraging followers to reach out to him if they needed photography work.

“I worked with other photographers, models, and people in that line of work to increase my experience and recognition,” Garell said. “During sophomore year, people started calling me by my Instagram account username, “@jacknewport,” and I was known as the photography guy. I knew then that my work was being taken seriously.”

Garell kept working with as many new models and companies as possible. Jewelry, swimsuit, and clothing companies would contact Jack to shoot their work and promote it on his Instagram page. Beginning his junior year, he began taking his passion to a new level by interning for big photographers, and branching out by shooting weddings and other events.

Currently, Garell has over 29,000 followers on his ‘jacknewport’ Instagram account.

Photography has given Jack an outlet for his creativity and imagination, while also teaching him a great deal about what it means to run an independent business and have self management skills. Social media has played a huge role in this.

“The internet sometimes has a bad rep for promoting people who pretend to be someone else, but when used cautiously, it is an incredible connecting point,” Garell said. “In my Instagram community, everyone knows each other, and it’s been easy for me

to make friends that are safe and that I have a lot in common with.”

Through social media, Garell has met numerous other photographers, models and talented people in the photography business.

“If I didn’t have photography I would not have a form of selfexpression and thus not be able to show who I am through my artistic passion. In college, I plan to major in business and continue doing photography work. One day, I want to own a business and incorporate my photography into it.”

Jack has also grown immensely in his faith over his time at Orange Lutheran, which has affected his approach to photography.

“

My faith has kept me grounded in the way I do photography and how I work with my coworkers,” Garell said. “My faith in Christ has influenced my perspective when taking photos because of the fact that we are all equal sons and daughters of Him. Rather than viewing myself as a successful photographer who happens to be a Christian, I am a Christian who happens to be a photographer.

That mindset makes all the difference.

“

When reflecting back over his experiences with photography, Garell added, “I remember when I first started my account just to share with my family and friends, and I never thought it would grow to where it is now or transform me into the individual I am today. I’ve matured creatively, professionally, and emotionally because of my experiences with photography, and I cannot wait to see where it takes me in life.”

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ART FOR THE AGES The Inaugural Primary Roots Alumni Art Show Held on the campus of Orange Lutheran on Sunday, April 10, 2016, it featured artwork from several Lancer alumni, many of whom found their passion for the arts during their time spent at Orange Lutheran.

The event’s featured artists included: Megan (Kramer) Armes ‘03 Natalie DeAngelo ‘10 Elisabeth Dye ‘09 Kristina Fertala ‘08 Lauren Fields ‘11 Ariel (Podas) Gjersvold ‘07

Kristyn Kazanjian ‘08 Kaylin Kazanjian ‘11 Karly Kazanjian ‘14 Christine Locke ‘08 Jack Maize ‘07 Mackenzie (Kraemer) Meckley ‘08

Tessa Mooney ‘06 Tyrrell Mooney ‘03 Tara Morency ‘09 Alexandra Nechita ‘03 Anne Towles ‘09 Victoria Van Steenhuyse ‘10

It was an evening full of fellowship, desserts, and of course, art! Check out photographs from this wonderful event!

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Orange Lutheran Photography Bio

ALEXANDER KITANO ‘18 My name is Alexander Kitano and I am a junior at Orange Lutheran High School. I am currently editor of photography for our yearbook and I enjoy photography very much. When I was eight years old my father gave me his camera to take a few pictures for a family event I was at and I absolutely loved it. From there my passion for photography grew. I decided I wanted to continue with the hobby so I began saving for a camera.

I did small jobs for our neighbors, friends and finally, I had enough to buy my first camera at age ten. I began shooting and during all three years of middle school at Red Hill Lutheran School, I was a yearbook photographer. During the summer from middle school to high school, I was not very busy and began a small photography business, Kitano Photography. I began shooting for small events and this ran into the school year where I continued as a yearbook photographer for my first two years at Orange Lutheran. In my first two years I have continued to learn, enhanced my skills, and I am now beginning to learn those of a manager by leading my first group of photographers. I am proud to be the editor of photography and ecstatic to be a part of creating the wonderful book we create every year. Carrying on, I love photography so much because it is so diverse and unique to the individual. For example, if someone were to ask five different photographers to take a picture of the same scene, each would come back with a different photo due to the endless possibilities of pictures. I also absolutely love the support I receive from Orange Lutheran High School with my passion for photography and Orange Lutheran is an experience which I will never forget. Everyone truly cares so much, and the amount of dedication and hard work that the staff put towards making the high school experience so great, can only be found there. This is why I have defined Orange Lutheran as a place where young men and women can come to, enhance, compete, develop, perform, and above all internalize the gospel message of salvation in Christ Jesus.

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MUSICALLY MADE

by Mackenzi Greene ‘17

Amanda Dayhoff ‘17 was born to be under the bright lights. And with the dedication to her craft, her success is bound to continue.

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OLu cares about me as a person and not just a student. Teachers care about my education in addition to my personal and spiritual growth. I feel that OLu is the best place for any young adult or teenager to attend to have success in life beyond high school. –Hope Pilkerton ‘16 Amanda Dayhoff found her passion in elementary school and carried it into high school.

Now, she’s hoping her passion will carry her through college.

Dayhoff, now in her senior year at Orange Lutheran, began participating in theater in a fourth grade production of The Lion King, and immediately fell in love with being onstage. She immersed herself in the art, taking dance classes and voice lessons. She wanted to go to a school with a strong musical theater program and emphasis on faith, and she chose Orange Lutheran.

Dayhoff said that playing Fiona allowed her to explore different methods of acting, which led to her stepping outside of her traditional role.

“In theater, I’m normally the mom or a sassy friend, so with Fiona I got to really explore my horizons, dig into a character with a lot of depth, and learn more about myself as I related to her,” Dayhoff said. “In society, we are often labeled and feel stuck in a box. Fiona is a princess, and labeled stereotypically that way, but she breaks out of that. From her, I learned you have to be yourself, because that’s what truly allows you to grow.”

Dayhoff is the latest in a line of Orange Lutheran actors and actresses honored with a MACY Award. In 2015, OLu alum Anthony Skillman won for Best Actor, and in 2014, alums Sarah Pierce and Michael Burrell won both Best Actress and Best Actor. Burrell also won the JRAY for Best Featured Actor in 2013.

“Amanda is not only a talented actress and singer but also a dream to work with,” said performing arts teacher and director Chelsey Everhart. “The world is full of talented people but it lacks actors who are willing to throw themselves fully into their character. Amanda has no problem immersing herself completely into whatever role is given to her and her commitment to her craft is why she was selected as the MACY award winner.”

During her time at OLu, theater has served as an incredible place for Dayhoff to find community. Rehearsals multiple times a week often consist of team building activities and bonding exercises. It is vital, Dayhoff said, that the cast be a cohesive group on stage.

“In the show Tarzan, we were a tribe of apes,” said Dayhoff, who played the role of Kala, her favorite role, along with

Fiona. “We worked on being a real family like gorillas are, through trust exercises and games such as literally running around the Nechita.”

After winning the MACY Award, Dayhoff earned the opportunity to compete in the Jimmy National High School Musical Theater Awards in New York City.

Each of the recipients of Best Actor and Best Actress from their respective counties got to perform on the famous Minskoff Stage, home of The Lion King production. Dayhoff sang part of Fiona’s main song from Shrek in a medley with the other participants.

“It wasn’t even about the competition,” Dayhoff said. “Everyone there was so talented. I got to meet kids from all over the world and take master classes from Broadway professionals. It was amazing beyond words.”

For her JRAY Award win, once again, Dayhoff had the opportunity to travel to New York over the summer, and her trip included an intensive acting camp and performances for producers and directors.

Dayhoff often reflects on what Orange Lutheran has meant to her over her theater career.

“

I experienced so much growth over time. I learned how to be a better actress and push myself in the best way possible. Because of encouragement from OLu staff, I’ve realized that I can do more than I thought I was capable of.

“

From the day she set foot on the OLu campus, Dayhoff has participated in every musical since her freshman year, which eventually led to her winning both the Music and Arts Commendations for Youth (MACY) Award for Best Actress and John Raitt Award (JRAY) for Best Actress for her role as Fiona in Shrek during her junior year.

Dayhoff’s directors Everhart and Terry Sohn have had a huge impact on her time at Orange Lutheran and experiences on the stage, teaching her to explore theater and understand that even with setbacks, she is capable of moving forward.

“I learned how to conduct myself in a professional way, and to go into an audition and feel confident in my abilities,” Dayhoff says. “This year, I am so excited to be a senior and finish out my time at Orange Lutheran with my friends on the stage. I hope to pursue theater in college, and cannot wait to see where God takes me in life.”

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TACKLING ACTING

by Mackenzi Greene ‘17

Matt Hutnyan traded in his pads and cleats for a costume and a microphone.

Now, no one can stop singing his praises.

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At OLu, I learned a lot about having balance and how to appreciate different people.

–Kate Wegener ‘16

Senior Matthew Hutnyan spent his junior year making quite a name for himself.

In fact, the football player turned thespian has inspired many with his story of taking a chance and pursuing his passion.

Hutnyan participated in both tackle football and musical theater as a child until the age of 12, when football became his priority. At the time, Hutnyan says, football seemed like the right thing to do, so he dropped theater and truly dove into the sport. When he came to Orange Lutheran, freshman football was his first connecting point.

“I met all of my first friends at school that even now I’m still close with,” Hutnyan said. “Football allowed me to immediately feel the strong community that Orange Lutheran has. As the season went on, I really enjoyed it. I loved the brotherhood and the coaches, and I felt a sense of pride that I was able to represent my school.”

But after his freshman season, Hutnyan debated whether or not he still wanted to play, as he did not know if football was truly his passion. Regardless, he wanted to stick with his commitment and not let his team down, so he continued playing.

However, during his sophomore year, Hutnyan became less invested in the sport, and his focus shifted towards school, student leadership, and tutoring.

“At that point, I felt like my life didn’t have a purpose. I know that sounds dramatic, but I just really wanted to find something that I was excited about.”

incredibly well, yet also brings new and interesting choices to each character he plays.”

The support from Everhart went a long way with Hutnyan.

“Now I’d committed to another avenue of pursuit, and felt really confident for the first time in awhile,” Hutnyan said.

At the start of the next school year, Hutnyan joined the Drama 1 class - a 6’3” junior in a room full of freshman.

But from the first moment it began, he absolutely loved it.

Hutnyan auditioned for the fall musical Shrek and felt like he had no idea what he was doing. A theater friend of his helped him prepare music for the audition.

“I surprised myself with how well I did and how good I felt afterwards.”

Hutnyan felt like he was at home on the stage and he landed the lead role.

“When I found out I got the role of Shrek, I was overwhelmed with joy. I felt like then I really knew where I belonged, and that my passion and dream were realized.”

Towards the end of his sophomore year, Hutnyan attended the spring musical Footloose and felt immensely proud of the cast, and also, felt a pull towards the theater.

Hutnyan put on an incredible performance as Shrek - the lead in his first high school musical. The year’s next two productions, Pride and Prejudice and Pippin, helped him develop further as an actor and refine his skill, and Hutnyan’s love for theater only grew more, and will continue to do so as he enters into his final year at OLu.

“I thought about my times on the stage when I was a kid, and how much I loved it, and realized that’s where I needed to be performing,” Hutnyan said. “I knew that if I didn’t do something about that urge, I was going to regret it.”

From the beginning, Hutnyan says, it was Ms. Everhart’s support and guidance that allowed him to reach his full potential. He also felt incredibly blessed that his former football teammates and coaches were so encouraging.

“It was tough to know that it would feel like I was abandoning the brotherhood, so I went back and forth on it a lot, and I thought about it and prayed about it a lot. I just knew that I wasn’t going to be as happy playing football as I was pursuing theater.”

Hutnyan finally made the tough decision to stop participating in the sport that had been the primary focus of his entire life. He emailed drama teacher Chelsey Everhart, asking if he could join the program and take a drama class. He told her about his younger experiences, and how he had been inspired after seeing Footloose.

Hutnyan said she was thrilled.

“Matt is my diamond in the rough,” Everhart said. “As a former football player turned actor, he understands the discipline and endurance it takes to perform on the stage. Matt takes direction

“

It’s a testament to Orange Lutheran that I could change what I was doing and thrive in a new environment - that I felt safe taking a risk, and was able to be successful even when starting something new so late in high school.

“

However, Hutnyan knew that he would not have time to pursue theater if still playing football.

Through his experiences in high school, going from football to theater, Hutnyan was able to realize that being adaptable and following your heart are so important to success and happiness in life.

“I could not have realized my true passion without the support of the Orange Lutheran community,” Hutnyan said. “High school is all about experiences; it’s about growing and finding out what it is that makes you feel joy and pride. For anyone struggling to find their purpose and place the same way that I was, I would encourage them to be fearless in their pursuit of passion.”

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LIKE FATHER, LIKE DAUGHTER Through softball, Steve and Jenny Miklos have seen their relationship evolve over the decades.

It’s a talent that not many parents have been able to master, one that Steve Miklos and his daughter, Jenny, are both proud of.

“I’ve always been able to compartmentalize softball, on the field and off the field,” Steve said. “When we left the field, it stayed there.”

Miklos, the longtime Orange Lutheran softball coach, recently finished his 19th season at the helm of the program, leading the

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Lancers to a Trinity League title and a berth in the CIF Division 1 title game. He has now officially served as the Lancers coach longer than any of his players have been alive.

And during those 19 years, he’s had the joy of coaching his daughters Jenny, Laura and Kimmy, and watching them graduate from OLu. And now, heading into his 20th year as coach, Steve is enjoying having the best of all worlds.

At OLu, everything is Christ-centered, and teachers and coaches really care about you and want the best for you. –Campbell Ruh ‘16

He’s helping to shape young Christian athletes and students. He remains an integral part of the OLu community. And he’s getting to do it all with his daughter by his side.

Miklos’ involvement with Orange Lutheran evolved from his own curiosity, and in 1988, he took a step towards influencing the school by becoming a member of the Board of Directors.

He served on the board until 1994 while his three daughters attended St. John’s, before serving as Corporate Financial Officer for OLu in the early 2000s.

“I’ve always just loved the school,” Miklos said. “I took an interest in the high school in the area and we loved coming to the sporting events.”

It wasn’t until 1998, however, that the real fun began for Miklos, when he took over the softball program, right when his girls were in the thick of it.

During the 1999 season, Jenny, Laura and Kimberly were a senior, sophomore and freshman, respectively, and each played on the varsity squad under their father.

Luckily for Miklos, the oldest of his three daughters followed in his footsteps personality-wise.

“We’re both pretty serious, and I think I actually might be more serious than him,” Jenny said. “But he never took home what happened on the softball field. He was always really good at separating those two things.”

All three of the Miklos daughters attended Concordia University, Irvine after leaving Orange Lutheran. In 2003, after graduating and finishing her collegiate softball career, Jenny came back to Orange Lutheran as a teacher and assistant coach under her father on the softball staff.

to give you life-long lessons, about setting goals and working together as a team.”

Like any father would, Miklos is relishing in the opportunity to see his daughter on a daily basis during the softball season.

And despite the ever-present father-daughter dynamic, both agree that their friendship is stronger than ever.

“On the field, it’s great because we can give each other input and we’re always on the same page,” Jenny said. “And off the field, it’s really strengthened our relationship because most adults don’t get to spend that much time with their dad. My dad is one of my best friends.”

Miklos said that he always planned on having Jenny come back to Orange Lutheran as his assistant. Luckily for him, he had the support of Orange Lutheran, who also planned to bring Jenny back into the fold.

“It’s been a great experience,” Miklos added.

“We get to interact on a different level than just father-daughter. I take her advice and respect her opinion, and she’s a great teacher and mentor for the girls.”

“From a young age, Jenny always wanted to be a teacher,” Miklos said. “And Orange Lutheran wanted her to be back here. When she was in high school, Mr. Hansen let her help teach in a few classes. And as a parent, I always appreciated that support.”

Both Steve and Jenny credit a lot of their success to the opportunities provided to them by Orange Lutheran.

While teaching may come easy to Jenny, who was named the 2014 Pacific Southwest District High School Educator of the Year, after playing softball throughout her life and at the collegiate level, Miklos said that the transition to coaching wasn’t a walk in the park for his eldest daughter, mainly due to the mentality of a college player versus a high school player.

“I never expected to be coaching here, it just kind of happened,” Steve said. “And it was easy because I love the school and I’ve always taken an interest in its sports.”

But Jenny said that her dad’s approach to coaching helped her ease into the assistant role, and also benefited her as a teacher.

“He’s very rational,” Jenny said. “He takes his time making big decisions, and as a teacher, there are always different circumstances with students. It’s taught me to not make rash decisions, and think about it and pray about it to see what the right answer is for that student.

“Coaching has really shown me as a teacher that you don’t treat everyone the same,” she added. “Everyone is an individual. And you need to coach that individual player like you teach that individual student. My dad has always viewed softball as a tool

And seeing as how his daughter not only attended the school, not only coaches at the school, but also teaches at the school, Steve can speak from a parent’s point of view on exactly what Orange Lutheran offers to its families.

“It’s just a great place to send your kids and it gives students the chance to practice their faith openly. And that is what this is all about.”

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REACHING NEW HEIGHTS Emily Coombs is used to being a high-flyer.

So when she left gymnastics behind to take on pole vaulting, she quickly realized that the sky was the limit.

A fear of heights is the least of Emily Coomb’s worries.

Coombs is a senior at OLu, and for the better part of her life 14 years to be exact - she was a successful all-around gymnast, competing in the vault, beam, bars and floor exercise disciplines.

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There is always an atmosphere of positivity and support, and I take comfort in the knowledge that if ever I need help, there is someone - whether it be a friend, teacher, or counselor - who would not hesitate to help me. –Aubree Kawata ‘16

In fact, Coombs became a Level 10 gymnast, meaning she was one step away from becoming a professional.

But in her mind, she was more than a few steps from being a professional.

In fact, she was nowhere near it.

“I was really burnt out.”

The grind of gymnastics had worn on Coombs and in the winter of 2014, Coombs had a decision to make. While at a gymnastics practice, Coombs fractured her orbital bone during an evening workout, which in her mind, was the sign that it was time to step away from the sport.

But that didn’t mean that Coombs was done being a high-flying athlete, which is why she revisited a past conversation with OLu track and field coach Clim Moore.

“My mom heard that gymnasts make good pole vaulters,” Coombs said.

“Coach Moore had spoken to me sophomore year about joining the team but it was just too much at the time to balance with gymnastics and schoolwork.”

Despite maintaining a 4.3 GPA, serving as publicity coordinator for the Student Leadership Team, and participating in NART and Appalachia Missions trips, Coombs still amassed some newfound free time after halting her gymnastics career, and began pole vaulting in September of 2015.

“It’s really similar movement-wise,” said Coombs, comparing gymnastics to pole vaulting. “It uses a lot of the same feeling and muscles. My second week, I was jumping 8 feet. So I was able to pick it up pretty quick.”

Towards the beginning of the spring track and field season, Coombs traveled to Reno with her club team and competed in the National Pole Vault Summit.

And at her first meet, she jumped over 10 feet.

“I didn’t realize how good it was for a first year vaulter but as time went on, I realized I could be good at this,” Coombs said.

Coombs only got better as the season continued. She finished in fourth place in the Trinity League Finals in early May, before moving onto the CIF Prelims and a week later, the CIF Finals.

At the CIF Finals, Coombs jumped a personal record of 11-9, breaking the OLu school record of 11-7 and qualifying for the CIF Masters Meet. And at the Masters Meet, after performing a series of qualifying jumps, Coombs earned a berth in the CIF State Track and Field Meet in Fresno, CA, in less than a year of participating in the pole vault.

Along the way to State, Coombs said that her “family in faith” at OLu helped guide the way.

“

“

I felt so supported. I really like that we get to pray whenever we want, before meets and practices. All that I do is to give God glory and I think that is the most important thing.

Coombs said that she still loves to watch gymnastics, but that her urge to compete has been satisfied by pole vault, which she called “a lot more laid back.”

Next year, Coombs, who was also named to the OC Register All-County Track and Field team, is aiming to qualify for the CIF State Meet once again. She plans to spend the summer, fall and winter perfecting her technique and mechanics, as this season was simply focused on her jumping as high as possible.

As for her main goal heading into next season?

Naturally, it’s a lofty one.

“I’m going to hit the 13-foot mark.”

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A LOOK TOWARD THE FUTURE As the demands of high school only become greater, Orange Lutheran continues to promote balance among its students...and the results are only getting better.

From academics to athletics to arts, the 2015-16 school year was a memorable one in Orange Lutheran history.

In the classroom, advanced placement numbers improved and ACT test scores spiked. On the field and court, sports teams accomplished feats never seen before in school history. Arts students continued to be recognized on a local and national scale. OLu school programs expanded, in quantity, in scope, and in reach.

However, despite the different avenues of success, it all comes back to one common denominator: the relationships.

“Everything we do is about student’s having multiple touch points in life,” said Principal Todd Eklund. “I like to say we have at least 10 20

touch points on campus, and that means influential figures in the lives of students, that have the ability to be transformational. A coach, a teacher, a counselor, or another student.

“Sometimes these mentors are leading the way, sometimes they’re standing behind to give that push, and sometimes they’re walking with you, side by side.”

In recent years, Orange Lutheran has made it a point to shift towards promoting emotional intelligence on the same level of academic success. The stress that occurs in the life of a high school student from college applications to grades to performing on the field or the court - is not to be taken lightly.

At OLu, I learned to always keep Christ first and always be kind to those around you. –Gianna Vertucci ‘16 It is vital that students find balance in their everyday lives and develop as human beings as opposed to just academic achievers, a fact not lost on Orange Lutheran administration.

“While the direction of education in our country the past few decades has shifted more to a focus on test scores, grades, and achievement, we believe the future of education will recognize the significance of preparing strong, responsible, caring adults,” said Head of School, Leslie Smith.

A report released in early 2016, sponsored by the Harvard Graduate School of Education and supported by over 80 colleges and universities across the nation, has proposed the college admissions process undergo a major shift, including lessening the importance of standardized testing, possibly making the SAT and ACT optional.

The report also suggests promoting more community service as opposed to taking more advanced placement classes, focuses on a limited number of extracurricular activities as opposed to several, and promoting “good fit” colleges and universities as opposed to only a few top-tier schools.

Orange Lutheran has taken heed of this growing conversation, and sought to move in that direction.

One such way is with World Council, introduced at OLu this past year.

Teachers and administrators were assigned countries and a group of students assigned to that country. Then, groups met throughout the year to discuss different topics permeating through society and through the school.

In other words, World Council is about relationship-building and leadership development.

“With World Council, we wanted to help students increase their emotional intelligence,” Smith said. “We wanted to provide a specific setting that would allow students to break down what’s going on in the world and focus on leadership and character development.

World Council provides the entire student body with various opportunities to work collaboratively in small groups and have meaningful discussion about various life topics.”

This year, Orange Lutheran will continue with World Council, but will also introduce Academies.

Two Academies are currently in place: Faith and Entrepreneurial Business Academy (FEBA) and Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Academy (STEM). Three new Academies will come into effect next year: Humanities Academy, Ministry Academy, and Arts Academy, which includes visual arts and performing arts.

The purpose of the Academies is to allow students to focus on an area they’re passionate about, as they prepare to pursue that career path in college and beyond.

“One of our core values is innovation,” Smith said. “I love that about our school. Our faculty, staff, and student body are always looking to grow and find new and better ways to do things.”

“New academies were designed to increase personalized learning opportunities and to encourage students to work in their areas of strength, interest, and passion. Having the opportunity to focus on a specific area of concentration inspires students to take more ownership in their learning and increases their confidence and personal satisfaction. We are committed to providing meaningful opportunities for our students to grow and succeed and to earn admission to ‘best fit’ colleges.”

As the years continue, more Academies are scheduled to come into play at Orange Lutheran.

“It’s about providing recipes for students to be able to foster motivation and understand where their passions and gifts might lie,” Eklund said.

Another avenue in which kids are offered the opportunity to find their passion is with internships, which Orange Lutheran has facilitated externally through STEM and has begun to facilitate internally through different departments.

During this past school year, several current Orange Lutheran students and some recent alumni completed internships in departments such as athletics, advancement and admissions. Internship duties included taking photos and writing stories for school publications and website content, helping to put on scheduled school events, overseeing administrative office duties, and more.

Through the STEM Program, students serve summer internships at companies such as Boeing, Toyota and many more.

“One of the best things about the culture here is we encourage students to try new things without fear of failure,” said Dean of Academics and STEM Director Matt Hansen. “Students can seek their path in whatever area they feel gifted. Here, a football player auditioning for musical theater is commonplace.

“When you have students and teachers that are pursuing their dreams and ideas in a safe and positive environment, that produces great results.”

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Academic Year In Review In an ever-competitive high school academic environment, Orange Lutheran continued to stand firm in its academic success.

Last year, over 25 percent of OLu students took an Advanced Placement test, a number that has grown each year since 2013. Nearly 85% of those students earned a 3 or higher. The state and national average is closer to 50%.

ACT scores reached an all-time high in 2016, as students earned a composite score of 24.8 on the test, a 1.5 increase from last year, and more than 4 points above the national average and 2 points over the state average. The top 25% of test takers nationally scored 24 or higher, which is considered an excellent score.

Athletics Year In Review There was no shortage of impressive feats at Orange Lutheran last year.

Athletically, the school enjoyed one of its greatest years ever, including the first ever CIF title for the girls water polo team, which has been in existence for only four years. In addition, coach Steve Carrera was named OC Register Girls Water Polo Coach of the Year and Kelsey Tyler was named Girls Water Polo Player of the Year. In 2015, Carrera was named Boys Water Polo Coach of the Year.

Also in only its fourth year in existence, the OLu hockey team, for the second year in a row, won the CAHA State Championship, and the OLu girls basketball team repeated as CIF champions, winning the Division 3AA title and advancing all the way to the State semifinals.

The OLu softball team put together arguably its best campaign ever, going undefeated in Trinity League play and finishing as runner up in the CIF Division I final. Coach Steve Miklos was named OC Register Coach of the Year and Maddy Dwyer was named Softball Pitcher of the Year.

The OLu boys basketball team was selected to play in the prestigious CIF Open Division for the second consecutive year, and made it to the regional semifinals of the CIF Division II State playoffs. The Lancer football team also made it to the second round of the CIF PAC-5 Division playoffs and the boys water polo team made it to the quarterfinals of the CIF Division I playoffs.

Arts Year In Review The accolades continued to roll in for the Orange Lutheran Arts Program over the past year, highlighted by the selection of Amanda Dayhoff ‘17 as the MACY Award winner and JRAY Award winner for Best Actress for her role as Fiona in Orange Lutheran’s rendition of Shrek.

Nick Wise ‘19 won the Cappie Award for Featured Actor for his role in Pippin.

Orange Lutheran also received 13 JRAY nominations for Shrek, the most ever for the awards show.

Continuing with the theme of 13, that exact number of students were nominated for OC Register Artist of the Year Awards in their respective disciplines.

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CLASS OF 2016

Breakdown

Mission

Student

MINDED

POPULATION

Over

Orange Lutheran is extraordinary in everything they do. From the STEM program to the arts programs to the athletic department to our Yearbook and media classes and everything in between, Orange Lutheran goes above and beyond to give their students the best tools to succeed in their prospective fields beyond high school with a Christian basis to everything they do. OLu encourages students to be the best they can be while giving all glory to God.

–Audrey Bivens ‘16

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4,226 is the number of mission trip participants 2001 thru 2016

1,300 students in 2016

NLSA/WASC ACCREDITATION

Call TO

Serve 34,950 total number of hours served on Missions trips since 2001 full-time, dedicated college counselors on staff which equals a 250:1 student to counselor ratio vs. the national average of 470:1 (2013)

Exemplary Accredited School by NLSA and earned highest WASC Accreditation 6-Year Rating

62

7

$1.7

million need-based financial aid dollars

Financial SUPPORT

Student SUPPORT

62%

of students participate in Athletics, 52% participate in Arts, 27% take Advanced Placement Classes

provided annually

E-Learning

Student

OPPORTUNITIES

Orange Lutheran online offers over 40 online classes and 100% of students participate in at least one online course over 4 years

ENGAGEMENT

COLLEGIATE SUCCESS at OLu 2 or 4-year 98% Attend universities accepted to a 4-year 85% Are university

125 DIFFERENT COLLEGES Students will attend 125 different colleges in 31 state and 4 countries

$13,423 SCHOLARSHIP AMOUNT The average accepted scholarship amount that students receive is $13,423

22%

Go on to Christian Colleges or Universities

38% ALUMNISTATS

60%

Students who were offered talent or merit scholarships in 2015-16

Go on to Private Colleges or Universities number 6915 Total of Alumni who are current 39 Alumni faculty/staff 23

FACULTY and STAFF Rachel Abijay Joe Adams Sara Adelman Darlene Alfuso Jessica Anderson Pamela Ayers Caroline Bailey ‘05 Steve Barillier ‘06 Tara Bathke Nicholas Bedell ‘13 Andrea Betancourt Lisa Beukers Cindy Bigelow Kathryn Bise Cathy Blankenship ‘86 Dustin Boburka Eric Borba Ignacio Brache Amy Bramson Michele Brown D’Cean Bryant Linda Burnett Dave Cacciapuoti Timothy Camarco Steve Carrera ‘95 Edwin Carrera Megan Carvale ‘04 Kathy Christensen Kevin Christy Christopher Cornish ‘10 Cecilia Cummaudo David Dekker Timothy Detviler ‘79 T.J. Detviler ‘07 Taylor Detviler Barbara Dorfmeyer

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Maggie Duerr Lisa Ehret Matthew Eichinger Todd Eklund Rachel Eklund Chris Elder Sharon Elliott Douglas Erickson Ronald Ervin Crysti Everhart Chelsey Everhart ‘05 Chad Fleager ‘03 Lauren Floris Carl Galloway Joseph Garcia Alyssa Gibbons ‘11 Diane Gihring ‘89 Nicholas Gilroy Ariel Gjersvold ‘07 Genevieve Graff-Ermeling Michael Grasz Tanya Grasz Kimberly Hahn Dawn Hamby Matthew Hansen ‘80 Pamela Hansen ‘80 Erica Hantula Chase Harrison ‘10 Elizabeth Heim ‘99 Drew Heim ‘03 Brad Heinecke ‘82 Miriam Heinicke Brent Hellesen ‘08 Kimberly Herbel Jessica Hernandez Je’Von Hetland

Matthew Hill ‘10 Azalea Holness Matthew Hood Tom Howard ‘94 Dru Huston ‘91 Nathan Johnson Jeremy Johnston Jeff Johnston Paul Jones ‘02 Joey Jones Barbara Joslin Darren Kelso Karen Klein Barbara Klinkenberg Mark Klitzing Ashley Klitzing Michael Kramer Brenna Kress ‘06 Kylee Kreutziger Courtney Kruger ‘08 Debbie Kruk Ellen Lange Alexander Lange ‘10 Peter Lark Jennifer Lark ‘98 Marc Laulhere Patricia Lazcano Dennis Lin Ryan Lisk Joseph List Anne-Marie Lockmyer Sandy Lopez Rosa Lopez Andrea Lufti Andrew Mabry Susana Madrigal

Mark Maietta Skye Marciniak Kelsey Marquette Steve Mattoon Kimberly McCaffrey Dee Meza ‘99 Jennifer Miklos ‘99 Steve Miklos Sean Mitchell Jeannie Mooney Clim Moore Joseph Morales Matt Morgan Todd Moritz Lindsey Motis Jamie Nadeau Cody Nadeau ‘09 Kevin Nadeau Danielle Nazaroff Kathleen Nelson Long Nguyen Annie Nolasco Christopher Nordstrom Bonnie Nourse Barbara Olson Cory Olson ‘05 Mark Olson Julie Ormsbee Dominique Ovalle Julia Parsons ‘01 Nancy Paul Christina Perez Lorraine Perez Roya Petersen Chuck Petersen Marsha Podas

Matthew Potthoff Jason Presley ‘92 Michelle Ramos Sandra Redmond Carlos Rivera Scott Robertson Joanna Rogers Jill Ronstadt Garret Ross Roddy Russell Sarah Salzberg Hayley Sampson ‘02 Laura Sampson Dawn Sandie Cindy Schlichtemeier Vicki Schulte Kent Scott ‘83 Elizabeth Sheplay ‘07 Erin Shevlin Vincent Shih Victoria Siksnus Hollie Simmons Leslie Smith Lydia Smith-Davis Shaunna Snow Terry Sohn David Sohn Suzanne Sotelo Robert Spors Janeen Steele Rodghl Stewart Ben Strohschein Robyn Strohschein Gregory Stull Kelli Talmage ‘01 Lukas Tandy-McGlasson

Craig Teuben Ronald Thayer Mark Thomason Michael Thompson Christina Toorop Steven Torres Vicki Tupa ‘90 Bhakti Ulery Shawna Van Daele Jennifer Vaughan Christopher Vecera Trevor Voth ‘02 Daniel Vu Bea Wakeling Gary Wann Brantley Watson Emily Watson Shannon Whitney Diane Whitten Kathleen Williams Deborah Wingert Nicholas Wingert ‘06 Traci Wise Montero Witherspoon Shane Yates Patty Young Rick Young Kenneth Young Paige Zeinstra ‘09 Aaron Zelinger Carole Zelinger Karen Zieger David Zlaket

ASSOCIATION CONGREGATIONS and SCHOOLS

EXECUTIVE STRATEGY Council

BOARD of DIRECTORS

Abiding Savior Lutheran Church Bethel Lutheran Church Christ Lutheran Church, Brea Christ Lutheran Church, Costa Mesa Good Shepard Lutheran Church Hephatha Lutheran Church Immanuel Lutheran Church Messiah Lutheran Church Mount of Olives Lutheran Church Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Red Hill Lutheran Church Redeemer Lutheran Church Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church Salem Lutheran Church St. John’s Lutheran Church St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Garden Grove St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Orange Trinty Cristo Rey Lutheran Church Trinity Lutheran Church Vietnamese Lutheran Church Zion Lutheran Church

Brett Bissell David & Donna DuBois Mike Gibbons John & Alecia Kruger Jerry & Sherri Nourse

Anne Alario Mark Apodaca James Bright Seth A. Britton Roger Burtner Curt W. Cattau Roger P. Frick ‘81 Michael Grant Thomas D. Gray ‘78 Anita Hernandez William Hood Leann Luchinger Robert Odle Craig W. Olson Kurt M. Rammelsberg ‘78 Carolyn Shiery Kimberly J. Voelker

ADVISORY Council Bridget Bogh Don & Toni Bradley Jonathan & JoDee Clark Andrew & Lisa DelRey Robert & Linda Grimm Rick & Debra Rodriguez Robert & Diane van der Goes

A SUMMER IN THE LIFE

by Mackenzi Greene ‘17

Recent OLu alums Jeran Heistermann ‘16 and Julia Zimmerman ‘16 got a taste of their future career aspirations through the STEM program.

Heistermann did her internship at the Boeing Company. She was part of a team that developed a luminescent paint used on aircraft and submitted it for a patent. If approved, Heistermann will have her name on the list of the submitting team.

She also tested properties of glow-in-the-dark paint pigments with respect to their ability to burn and after-glow for both commercial and military applications. Highly regarded by her coworkers, Heistermann made a major contribution to the project and learned a lot through the process.

I gained so much work experience, and knowing that the project I was working on was going to help the United States and possibly the rest of the world was very motivating. I was able to see firsthand what it will be like later in my future when I begin to build my career.

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“

Heistermann plans to major in Mechanical Engineering with an emphasis of Aeronautics or Aerospace in graduate school. She was

also an accomplished athlete as a four-year varsity tennis player and captain of the team.

Zimmerman participated in an internship at Toyota Racing Development. She was part of a team testing racing engines before they were sent back to North Carolina to be used in Toyota’s NASCAR racing cars. She mostly helped in subassembly, which is where the engines are put together. Zimmerman enjoyed her time at TRD immensely, and gained fantastic hands-on experience.

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Working at TRD was an awesome experience. Throughout my time there, I helped design, create, test, and ship out the race car engines. I really learned how important it is to work as a team, especially in the race car industry. If one person didn’t make their assigned part perfectly, then the entire engine would not work. It was awesome to see how important each individual was to the entire process of building an engine.

“

In the summer of 2015, twenty five Orange Lutheran students participated in remarkable internships through the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics program (STEM). Two seniors made an especially significant impact. Jeran Heistermann and Julia Zimmerman demonstrated incredible work ethic and passion for their respective areas of interest.

Zimmerman learned a lot from working in a male-dominated space, and “loved how the guys didn’t treat me any different. I think that women are becoming more prominent in the race car industry. It’s incredible to see the impact that women are making.”

Both Heistermann and Zimmerman learned valuable skills from their internships, and made significant contributions to their respective teams.

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LANCERS FOR LIFE The Gibbons family has a deep connection with Orange Lutheran, one that it plans to maintain for life.

For all that Orange Lutheran means to the Gibbons family, Mike Gibbons was able to sum up their feelings in one sentence.

“We see Orange Lutheran as a Christian family that also runs a high school.”

The Gibbons family is a longtime supporter, advocate and believer when it comes to OLu. Mike and wife Kristen sent three children through the school - all of whom have graduated - but still remain as involved as possible for one simple reason.

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“OLu fits into our own faith walk as a family,” Mike said.

And it’s that mentality that Mike and Kristen can’t seem to forget, as they watch their three children move through college and beyond, using God as their guide and the lessons they learned as a family at OLu as the backdrop.

Before Mike and Kristen sent their first son, Matt Gibbons ‘07, to OLu in 2003, they searched for a high school that filled their most important requirement: that it be a loving environment.

Orange Lutheran fit the bill.

At OLu, I learned how to be self-sufficient, responsible and self-motivated. –Elizabeth Jahn ‘16

“It helps them that they had this foundation. It helps them in the secular world on a daily basis. They learned how to stand up for their faith.”

In addition to steeping themselves deep into the OLu mission and reaping the benefits as a family, the Gibbons crew has done its best to ensure that other families enjoy the same opportunities provided by OLu that they did.

Private religious schools receive no government funding, meaning that financial support for OLu is critical in expanding and maintaining the curriculum, as well as the school’s many programs.

“

We love our kids and wanted them to go to a school and be in an environment where they are loved,” Mike said. “If you’re going to be here in any capacity, you need to have a love for the kids on campus. And that’s what drives it. We believe that comes from God, that love that passes on to the kids. We found that environment at Orange Lutheran.

“

“We’re not perfect and the school isn’t perfect.

People aren’t perfect. But at least OLu is starting with the right mission. Then, we all work together to get better and as a parent, you contribute to that process. It’s a group effort to love kids and to educate them.”

In addition, through giving, Orange Lutheran provides nearly $2 million in financial aid each year.

“If you have the opportunity to help your own kids and the whole school, that’s when you get involved in being on a board or with fundraising,” Mike said. “Now, you’re taking that same belief and passion and helping not just your own kids.

“Those that can help a little more, it has big pay back for the system. You’re helping thousands of kids over the course of time. By contributing to the annual fund, and helping a few kids go through here, you may never know who that kid is...but there is a direct need and direct result of that contribution. If there is any place you can give money and see it used quickly and wisely, it’s a private Christian high school. You bought into the fact that this place is good for your kid, but is there something you can do to help someone else’s kid?”

For the past 10 years, the Gibbons family has given to the OLu mission.

OLu’s mission, to help students internalize the Gospel message of salvation in Christ Jesus, was a sticking point for Mike and Kristen, who saw the rewards of a Christian education on display through Matt.

“You have to look at the big picture,” Kristen said. “We asked ourselves, ‘What are we supposed to be doing with our treasures and talents?’ Knowing that you can impact lots of kids by helping a school whose mission you believe in, that gives such great satisfaction.”

So three years later, the Gibbons’ second child, Chris Gibbons ‘10, followed suit in becoming a Lancer.

Beyond financial support, the Gibbons family has also given its time and talents to the school. Mike and Kristen have both served on the school’s Parent Advisory Council and Mike served on the school’s Board of Directors for two terms.

In addition, both have volunteered to help with school programs and were extremely active in both of the school’s recent major fundraising campaigns (Vision and Values and Beyond Expectations).

Four years later, Kaitlyn Gibbons ‘14 became the last of the fleet to walk the OLu halls.

“The kids loved being here and made great friends here,” Mike said. “They enjoyed it and we enjoyed participating in that process.”

For Kristen, OLu’s approach to education by means of promoting a family learning dynamic, based in a love for God, was vital for the future success of her three children.

After graduating from OLu, both Matt and Chris attended and graduated from their father’s alma mater, Harvard. Kaitlyn is currently attending Yale.

In addition, Matt married high school sweetheart Renee Gibbons (Roberts) ‘07 and Chris married high school sweetheart, Alyssa Gibbons (Smith) ‘11.

“We see OLu as a family and we’re a part of it,” Kristen said. “We’re all working together. What’s happening at home is being reinforced at school and vice versa.

We’re all working for the same mission.

Both Mike and Kristen also participated on the call committee for Executive Director (Kristen for Gregg Pinick, Mike for Todd Moritz), and Mike is active on the Audit and Finance Committee, as well as the Executive Strategy Council.

As evidenced, even though their kids have graduated, Mike and Kristen continue to contribute to the school with their talents and treasures.

“It’s one thing to say you believe in a mission, but when you are also getting involved as a family, it not only shows kids that you approve of the school but you truly believe in what it stands for,” Kristen said. “If you’re actually active, it sets the tone in the family. We are a part of the Orange Lutheran family, all of us, because it’s more than a high school. It’s the faith community that we still care about. And as part of our journey, we feel like this is what God would like us to do.”

Mike agreed wholeheartedly with his wife, and simplified their feelings towards Orange Lutheran into these simple words.

“We believe in the family here and we want to contribute along the way. We’re ‘Lancers for Life.’”

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SPOTLIGHT:

FAITH & ENTREPRENEURIAL BUSINESS ACADEMY The Orange Lutheran Faith and Entrepreneurial Business Academy is effectively open for business.

FEBA, under the guidance of advisor Anne-Marie Lockmyer, just completed its first official year, one in which the program saw more success than even Lockmyer could have imagined or hoped for.

In 2015-16, FEBA maintained 32 members, a number that Lockmyer says will double to 65 for the 2016-17 school year.

FEBA students focus on learning the skills necessary to explore and pursue a career in the business world, all the while incorporating their faith into their career aspirations. They meet with local professionals - including Orange Lutheran alums - to discuss their individual career paths and learn important aspects of the business world.

Lockmyer sat down to speak about the impact that FEBA has had in only its first official year, how faith mixes into the business world, and the future of FEBA:

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Q: Why is it important to put an emphasis on faith in our business academy?

A: Our faith should be lived out in EVERYTHING we do. Not just on Sundays. Honoring God and loving people, are the first two rules of business we teach in FEBA – the two greatest commandments.

When one makes business decisions based on those, they are doing it God’s way. At times one may lose money living by these standards, but in the long run, they are always more successful.

Q: How does faith mix with business in your eyes?

A: God owns everything. We are just the stewards. This can be a difficult concept as it is completely contrary to the world’s way of doing business. But the students are challenged to be a light for God in whatever position they may hold and by how they do business.

–Mario Vansuch ‘16

It truly was an education as to how effective your program is. I did not meet one student that did not respond to me with confidence and great eye contact. I had fun with them!

I believe they will ALL do well in whatever they choose to do with their lives. They all believe God is their source of direction and strength.

Gary Huneycutt, Logistics Consultant in Placentia, CA

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What makes OLu great is the ability to claim your faith and be accepted.

Q: In your short time with the program, what do you see most kids take away from being involved in FEBA?

Q: How have you seen the FEBA program prepare students for their futures?

A: It definitely prepares them for the future. The students should be sought after, as they will stand out with their skills and positive attitude. They are more confident in the future, as many high school students are feeling very insecure. They tell me they are going to come back years from now and tell me the impact this program has had on their lives.

Q: What is the future of this program? How do you see it expanding in the upcoming years?

A: I hope in the future, FEBA students will have an excellent reputation in the community, at college, and in the workplace. We have doubled in size this first year, so I see it continuing to grow.

I don’t specifically have any big plans on the horizon, but I have no doubt God does. He has touched this program and given us immeasurably more than we could imagine. My role is to get out of the way, so God can do what He wants to equip these students and help them discover their own beautiful, unique design. I am just the instrument. This is His program.

Dr. Vicki Harvey, Psychologist in Brea, CA

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Renewed my faith in the young generation last night.

Eager, motivated, respectful, insightful high school juniors and seniors grilled me last night on my career and my faith and those of other entrepreneurs. These kids had it going on.

We are in good hands.

Aside from gaining real-world knowledge on how to successfully navigate the professional world, as Lockmyer mentioned, students are guided on the path to incorporating their faith with their careers.

“FEBA has not only taught me a wide variety of applicable information and skills, such as personal finance basics and the specific business etiquette of several different countries, but it has also shown me that taking Christian morals and ethics into the professional and entrepreneurial world is a shrewd business decision,” said J.P. Velasquez, the previous year’s FEBA vice president. “Hearing from guest speakers from a range of different fields has given me the opportunity to really explore what career path I would like to take, whether that be in business or not.”

And with the help of FEBA, Velasquez, who has now ascended to FEBA president for the 2016-17 school year, is one of several already dipping their toes into entrepreneurship.

“After completing the second year of the program, another FEBA student and I have started our own company,” Velasquez said. “The knowledge we’ve gained has proven to be extremely valuable to overcoming and avoiding many of the challenges of a start-up.

“I’m extremely confident that FEBA is providing me with the tools for a successful future in both my professional and personal life.”

“

I just wanted to reach out and say thank you for asking me attend your FEBA event! I was extremely impressed to see such a beneficial and exciting program in the works! It was also inspiring to see how many hard working, passionate and God-loving students you have in the program!

As a graduate of OLu, it has been quite a while since I have been on campus and now, to see firsthand the excitement of this generation’s students preparing for the next step in life with a plan with reachable goals, was amazing!

If I can assist or mentor any of the students along the way in this path through the curriculum, please let me know!

Michael Rossi ‘89, Executive Chef at The Ranch in Anaheim, CA

“

A: The students are leaving with practical real world and life skills that are necessary for the future and that few college graduates have - and they are excited about it! Some of our topics include personal finances, debt, investing, taxes, teamwork, design thinking, leadership, networking, goal setting, time management, communication and ethics. Specifically related to business, we cover types of corporations, international business etiquette, marketing, branding, customer service, project management, entrepreneurship, a business plan and they create their own business. They have learned that creating a business is much harder than they thought it would be. One of their favorite activities was a networking mixer with 20 local Christian business professionals. I don’t know who enjoyed it more – the students or the professionals.

We have had tremendous support from the business community.

Many professionals have been guest speakers or mentors.

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A WILL FOUND A WAY Feeling a desire to impact the global community, Danielle Gutierrez ‘17 took on the task of funding her own mission trip experiences.

by Mackenzi Greene ‘17

In order to represent the hands and feet of Jesus, Danielle Gutierrez ‘17 knew she would have to put her hands and feet to work.

Gutierrez is in her senior year at Orange Lutheran. She has seen the value of mission trips firsthand by not only traveling with the Missions team, but by personally funding her own travels.

Her Missions experience began freshman year. Originally, Gutierrez was not signed up for Missions class, but wanted to fill her free period.

Counselor Lisa Ehret and Missions class teacher Jessica Heim arranged for her to take part in the Missions class.

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The campus environment created for each and every student is one that strives to foster growth in Christ and success in every aspect. –Nick Nordstrom ‘16

“I absolutely loved it right away,” Gutierrez said. “The seniors were so excited to lead the freshmen and to show us what it was like to pursue Jesus.”

Gutierrez went on her first ever mission trip to Appalachia in November of 2013 and was amazed by the authentic worship and community.

“I grew tremendously on the trip. I had never been comfortable praying for people, but was encouraged to step out of my comfort zone. I was able to pray over a lady whose granddaughter died the night before, which was a significant moment in my own faith.”

“My aunt had breast cancer 25 years ago, and now every year, she does the Avon Walk to raise money for cancer research. She makes tamales to raise money, and when she heard that I was looking to raise money for trips, she said that she would do a double fundraiser with me.”

Gutierrez, affectionately known as ‘Dig’ amongst her peers, made over 700 tamales for her first fundraiser during her sophomore year. She also participated in the Missions Program’s recycling program to raise money.

Due to her fundraising efforts, Danielle was able to go on the program’s three-week Romania trip the summer before her junior year. There, she worked at local churches with other teenagers who she is still in contact with. Gutierrez also shared her testimony before a Romanian congregation while an interpreter translated.

“I got to visit an older lady named Rosie who is confined to her bed due to terrible pain in her legs,” Gutierrez said of the experience. “As soon as we showed up she started crying and said we were a gift from God. Her bed frame was covered in socks that she told us she knitted ‘with her tears’ for kids in Africa who don’t have socks. Rosie gave each of us a pair of socks and we prayed over her. That was such a moving experience.”

Gutierrez also spoke about a significant experience during one of the VBS camps that her group ran. There is a large social divide between the white and gypsy Romanian children. The first few days of camp she noticed that they played separately and that the gypsy kids were left out a lot.

However, the volunteers encouraged all of the kids to play together, and there was a gradual, but tremendous, change. By the end of the week, all of them were playing together.

“There was a huge transformation in the gypsy kids,” Gutierrez said.

“Heads hung low turned into bright smiles, and they interacted with everyone so much more. It showed me so much about the reality of prejudice and how they all found common ground more easily than they thought possible. I loved to see their joy.”

Gutierrez did a second tamale fundraiser for this summer’s Australia trip, once again making and selling hundreds of tamales.

On this three week trip, Lancer students and chaperones worked with an Australian high school at locations across the continent.

Gutierrez was taken aback when the Australian students began participating in OLu’s nightly devotions and started to ask questions about having a relationship with Jesus.

“It was incredible to see them step into that and make it a priority.

They had never done anything like that.”

In total, Gutierrez has been on seven mission trips. And with each experience, new friendships, connections, and memories are formed.

“

Being able to share God’s love is the sweetest thing ever,” Gutierrez said. “There are so many people who are hopeless and don’t understand that they are loved. Showing them that they are worthy of my attention, and more importantly of God’s attention, is one of the most rewarding things. It is really encouraging to be on these trips and see God’s power work.

“

After seeing firsthand how impactful mission trips could be, Gutierrez knew that she wanted to participate in more. However, she also knew that mission trips were expensive, and that she would need a way to fundraise.

Gutierrez’s love for those she comes in contact with has not only left an impression globally, but on the Missions Program as a whole.

“Dig has a passion for Christ that affects everyone she meets,” said Director of Missions Mark Maietta. “She is honest, faithful and sincere in all that she does and has been a tremendous blessing to the Missions Program. She plays a vital role in the leadership of our program, and I love Dig’s heart for Jesus and for those we have the opportunity to serve.”

Moving forward, Gutierrez will be president of a Missions class this year, and plans to participate in multiple trips in her final year at OLu. The Missions Program has had a profound impact on her high school experience.

“I never expected to be so impacted by Missions,” Gutierrez said.

“The fundraising and effort beforehand was always so worth it. The Lord used it in so many ways to shape and mold who I am, and I could never replace it with anything.”

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HEART OF A CHAMPION After her volleyball career was derailed by injury, Macy Capen ‘12 turned her attention to founding the non-profit organization, seven + heart.

Macy Capen spent seven years of her life defining herself as a volleyball player.

Now, she’s defined by her calling to impact families globally.

Capen is not far removed from her high school days, having graduated from Orange Lutheran in 2012. And the person she became at OLu continues to frame who she is today.

“In high school, I put so much value into myself and into being a good volleyball player. But I learned that at the end of my life, when I stand before God, He won’t want to know how many kills I had in a championship volleyball game. He will care about how well I loved other people and how much I loved Him.” And for that reason alone, in 2015, Capen founded seven + heart, a non-profit organization that makes and delivers baby swaddles to orphanages and hospitals across the globe.

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Seven + heart, which refers to Jeremiah 24:7, was born out of Capen’s desire to move on from the sport she dedicated herself to for nearly a decade, after injuries derailed her athletic career.

“I was a soccer player my whole life, but I got burnt out, so I decided to play volleyball,” said Capen of how she got into volleyball. “I had never played, so I made the OLu freshman team barely and the next year, I made the JV team barely. But I began to play club and I got better.”

It was during her club matches that Texas Christian University caught wind of Capen and began to recruit her.

“My senior year of high school, I knew I had a gift in volleyball to glorify Christ,” Capen said. “I had something that could get me through college.”

Capen earned an athletic scholarship to TCU and began in the fall of 2012.

The relationship between the staff and students makes OLu such a great school to attend.

You’re able to go to a school and absolutely know that your teachers care about you. –Bri Uipi ‘16

That’s when the real-world learning process began.

“The jump from playing volleyball in high school to college is super hard,” Capen said. “It was unreal. I didn’t think I would make it at times.

“I learned that I have to be so much more than a volleyball player.

By the time I was a senior at OLu, in my mind, I was good. I thought volleyball was Macy Capen. When you think of her, you think of volleyball. But to go to TCU and be the bottom of the bottom as a freshman, what I learned was that I can’t define myself as a volleyball player.”

At TCU, Capen played three years of indoor and one year of outdoor volleyball. However, she suffered from chronic back pain and going into her senior season, decided to see a doctor.

Doctors told Capen that she could play her senior year and then have surgery on her back after she graduated because the injury wouldn’t get worse. But while Capen underwent all the necessary treatments in an attempt to alleviate the pain, she finally realized that something was seriously wrong.

In May of 2015, she visited a specialist who informed her that she was born with a mild form of spina bifida. Capen now had to decide to continue playing and risk worsening her condition, or step away from volleyball and have surgery.

“I asked myself, ‘Do I want to play volleyball or risk being wheeled down the aisle?’ And that caused me to look at my life as a whole.”

TCU honored Capen’s scholarship for her senior year, even though she decided not to play. For Capen, the question was what to do with her life now that her volleyball career was finished.

“The biggest thing was I knew I’d be bitter about it and mad that I couldn’t play. And I didn’t want to be like that. I didn’t want to be laying on a couch feeling bad for myself. I had to find something that I could pour myself into.”

Ironically, laying on the couch is exactly what led Capen to create seven + heart.

“I ran to the garage and got some pillowcases and sewed buttons on them. I took my brother’s football pillow, that was about a baby’s size, and wrapped it up in the pillowcase.

And that’s how it started.

“

“

I’ve always had a passion for children and babies, so I wanted to do something with that. I was laying on the couch one day and one of the pillows had this flap that folds down into a button. So I started playing around with it and thinking what I could make with it.

In June of 2015, Capen began to create baby swaddles, giving each their own personal touch by placing different Bible verses on the tags.

And in merely a year, Capen has sent over 300 swaddles to eight countries across the world: Nepal, Zambia, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Uganda, Kenya, Peru and Mexico.

Capen mainly sends the swaddles with those going on mission trips or traveling. She also has a team of volunteers that now make the swaddles while Capen handles the logistics of the project.

Capen makes no money off of seven + heart.

“It helps me reach outside of myself and love others more while at the same time, loving Him,” Capen said.

In August of 2015, Capen had surgery, which included a double laminectomy and a spinal fusion. The recovery time is 18 months and August 3 of this year marked one year since the surgery.

“It was hard,” Capen said. “You’re practicing with friends and teammates one day and the next day, you’re sitting in a wheelchair.

But, it made me realize how lucky I was that I got to play as long as I did.”

This fall, Capen is off to Baylor University for graduate school, where she will study speech and language pathology and hopes to have a career working with kids with cleft palates. Her younger brother, Cole, is a junior at OLu and her younger sister, Mckenna, graduated from OLu in 2014.

Capen is in conversation with many at OLu about continuing to expand seven + heart to other countries and across the nation, and says that her time at OLu prepared her for adulthood by strengthening her relationship with God at a young age.

“I think it’s the greatest place ever,” Capen said of OLu. “It was just a cool place to go to school. I feel lucky to have went here. It made it easy to have a relationship with Christ.

And it’s that relationship with God that Capen says has carried her to where she is now and will help develop the future of seven + heart.

“My relationship with God has been the rock that I have leaned on heavily throughout my life. The grace of God has brought me to where I am today and His love for me has encouraged me to spread that love to others through seven + heart. I am able to show children the kind of tangible love that I feel God surrounds me with every day.”

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A NEW DIRECTION Heather Hall ‘12

knew she wanted to affect young lives, but only God knew the best route for her to achieve her goal.

And as it turns out, she almost did...but God had one twist in store for her.

Hall graduated from Orange Lutheran in 2012 and was the third recipient of the Nancy Paul Teaching Scholarship as a graduating senior. Her plan was to attend Biola University and major in Christian Ministry, with her focus on returning to OLu and teaching theology, a plan that was backed by those at her high school alma mater.

“My plan was to intern with Ms. Shevlin or Ms. Salzberg after I graduated from Biola, and Mr. Eklund said we could work it out,” Hall said. “But I believe God changed my heart.”

As her college career progressed, Hall began to feel her passion for teaching sway in a different direction. In December of 2015, she interned at Rock Harbor Church in Costa Mesa and felt that her calling was now more directly tied to ministry work.

Nearing her college graduation from Biola in the spring of 2016, instead of further pursuing her teaching career, Hall decided to call on the Lord for guidance.

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“About two weeks before graduation, I took a day and told God I’m just going to fast and pray,” Hall said. “And that day, I got a job offer.

Everyone was asking me what my plans were and everyone else was getting jobs. So I told God I was going to take this day and He showed up.”

Hall took her talents for working with teenagers to North Coast Church in Vista, California, where she is now the Women’s Director for High School Ministry, working specifically with junior and senior high school girls as a mentor and what she calls “a consistent Christian woman in their lives.”

For Hall, Ms. Shevlin, Ms. Salzberg and others played a similar role of consistency and inspiration in her life.

“When I was at OLu, I really looked up to my teachers. They had such an influence on me that I wanted to be like them and have that impact on other students. And I think that’s through teaching, even though I’m doing it in a different way.

“

The teachers at OLu care more about your journey and process and spiritual walk of life rather than where you end up. They believe where you end up, God has placed you there.

“

Like many teenagers, Heather Hall thought she had it all figured out in high school.

OLu has a genuine concern for an individual’s growth. While some schools do care about growth, OLu’s focus is broad and encompasses more than just a textbook education.

–Will Suryajaya ‘16

Despite her career path alteration, which meant Hall did not receive the second half of the NPTS financial support, she always maintained the support of those at OLu.

relationship with God. I love seeing high schoolers desire to know God. I don’t know all the answers to their questions, but I love figuring it out together.”

“Heather is an amazing young woman who truly used her Godgiven gifts and talents while in high school at Orange Lutheran,” Ms. Shevlin said. “Although Heather didn’t end up teaching in a classroom, she is working at a church where she teaches God’s Word daily to students. She is doing great things in teaching the next generation with an eternal purpose for the Kingdom.”

And when she’s going through the process of guiding a young woman, Hall harkens back to the lessons she learned at OLu.

“It’s the most amazing thing I could ever imagine,” Hall said of her current position. “I walk kids through what it means to have a

“

Who I wanted to be and who I am has been inspired by OLu.

“

And for Hall, she couldn’t imagine God having inserted her in a better spot.

“When I am doing my job, I like to think of how I was in high school.

It really was the teachers. They had a lasting impact on me. So when I am facing a situation with these girls, I remember what Ms. Shevlin said to me at that moment, and share it with them.

hers’

ancy Paul Teac

eN members of th Dear wonderful mmittee, Scholarship Co

THANK YOU FOR ANOTHER GIFT Liz Maxwell ‘11 was the second-ever recipient of the Nancy Paul Teaching Scholarship. After receiving her second gift of $500 from the NPTS Committee, Maxwell sent this thank you letter...

r gift! My rosity of anothe ne ge ur yo r fo u so much nd deliver was Wow. Thank yo Miss Paul to ha r fo nd A e! ris it a surp e. I recently got goodness was opportune tim an at e m ca ly finite preschool just lovely :) It de d, co-teaching oo w ke La in m Lutheran position, a job at Bethlehe it is a contracted le hi W 8.

Kr ei urce for th kindergarten and doing reso ve first grade or ha l I’l tic is tim ely op recent student they are extrem I did my most ol ho sc e th so is al Growing next year. This to move! Yikes! ve ha l I’l d an art January 11 teaching at. I st of work. up is sure a lot at the s always come te no tle lit ce ni ing letters and h a hard Your encourag ost to get throug bo a tr ex tle lit give me a d more than right times. They s are appreciate ft gi d an ts gh ers, thou week. The pray s.

I can ever expres Thank you ery one of you! ev d an ch ea essings on God’s richest bl again!

In Christ, Liz Maxwell

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HOMECOMING CELEBRATION Generations of Lancers were welcomed home for the alumni tailgate in September 2015, to reconnect and reunite at the Homecoming Football Game.

MEET LANCER ALUMNI ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES

“

OLu Connects are on-campus college visits organized by Alumni Relations and Counseling & College Planning offices. We organize campus meetups hosted by recent graduates of Orange Lutheran with the goal of connecting current seniors with Lancers in college.

Total STUDENTS Total ALUMNI VOLUNTEERS Total CAMPUSES USC UCLA

36

Concordia Irvine Pepperdine U

Point Loma Chapman U

38 18 8

USD Azusa Pacific U

Along with getting to spend a day at the college, I got to see what it felt like to live within the Orange Lutheran community beyond high school; the fact that there were still so many deep and meaningful connections after people’s four years at high school spoke so much about the value of the faith-based relationships one makes at Orange Lutheran, and I am beyond thankful to have been able to experience that.

–Kaitlyn Peterson ‘16

“

Olu Connects is a great way for students to get a day on what could be their home for the next four years! It was very helpful in my final decision.

–Asher Segelken ‘16

“

OLu Connects

“

LANCER ALUMNI

More than 100 alumni from classes of 1977 - 2015, along with family and friends, attended Orange Lutheran’s tailgate celebration. This year’s event began a tradition of Lancer ties for annual participation in Homecoming festivities.

ALUMNI Board We are pleased to announce our new Co-Chair, Greg Gower ‘08, who joined the board in January 2015. He brings experience with strategic planning and passion for growing connections with Lancer Alumni. Greg will work alongside our committee leaders to increase engagement, introduce mentoring opportunities, host events and connect with students. Committees include: Service, Social, Business Networking, Athletics, Arts.

Debbie Guss ‘77 Wayne Weisman ‘77 Marc Neben ‘79 Debbie (Rogers) Merced ‘87 Marlo Naber Mole ‘89 Meredith (Riebau) Dufield ‘89 Jeffrey Palmer ‘89 Amy (Willett) Leon ‘90 Robert Meaux ‘96 Katie Holly ‘97 Paul Jones ‘02 Brandon Lester ‘05

Caroline Bailey ‘05 Chelsey Everhart ‘05 Grant Avise ‘05 Phil Roberts ‘05 Blake Edwards ‘06 Jessica (Jordan) Johnson ‘06 Renee (Roberts) Gibbons ‘07 Greg Gower ‘08 John Harb ‘08 Kristina Fertala ‘08 Trent Schlom ‘10

In June 2016, the Young Alumni Council gathered for a visionary meeting and workshop at the Wayfare in Costa Mesa, CA. Members across class years joined, representing 2011 - 2016.

Our time together was focused on strengthening our purpose and vision for YAC. Together, young alumni developed ideas, planned events and inspired connections to bring value to their Lancer family.

Young Alumni Council members are great ambassadors, communicators and encouragers.

YOUNG ALUMNI COUNCIL Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16

Ryan Brennan ‘15 Sarah Stumme ‘15 Courtney Dobbins ‘15 Savannah Dukes ‘15 Tayler Garis ‘15 Jennifer Appling ‘15 Michael Morris ‘14 Sam Goodwin ‘14 Natalie Miller ‘14 Jacob Grant ‘14 Lindsay Sampson ‘14 Heather Hopkins ‘14 Nikki Swoish ‘14 Graham Everett ‘14 Christina Toma ‘14

“

Workshops consisted of time to plan, connect and serve. Three areas of focus were:

Connect Social media campaigns, connecting on and offline, writing stories, developing college and professional connections

Plan Class reunions, events, gatherings, OLu Connects hosting

Orange Lutheran leadership has taught me a lot about being committed and responsible to the task ahead of you. I plan on staying involved in the council and doing whatever is needed of me. –Christina Toma ‘14

Serve Missions involvement, local service projects, supporting current students

“

YAC Members

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Left to Right: Kevin, Jeff & Tyler van Matre

A DREAM REALIZED Thanks to alumni parent Karen van Matre and a host of others, Day of Dreams is one of OLu’s greatest -- and most fun -- traditions.

Karen van Matre struggled to find the words to explain her feelings.

But once she did, she delivered them clear and direct.

“I could not have done this at any school other than Orange Lutheran. Nobody at OLu, in 11 years, has ever not supported this.”

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OLu is a great school because it provides places for everyone to get involved and pursue their passions. Without the programs offered at Orange Lutheran, I would be a very different person with a very different outlook on life. I am so grateful for the opportunities I have had to express myself and learn about myself because of this school. –Kennedy Smith-Kutyla ‘16

Van Matre is the creator and coordinator of Day of Dreams, which began in 2006. She is the mother to three Orange Lutheran alumni.

Her eldest, Jeff, graduated in 2008, followed by Kevin in 2010 and Tyler in 2013.

Van Matre’s experience with students with special needs is close to home, considering Kevin was born with Down Syndrome. However, it wasn’t her middle child that led her to initiate Day of Dreams.

“My sons were always exposed to the world of the disabled and my brain started ticking,” van Matre said.

After Jeff’s first service day at OLu, in which students participated in a beach clean up, van Matre had an idea to affect the lives of students having witnessed how Kevin affected his brothers on a daily basis.

“In my mind, at least for Jeff, I thought the service day could be more,” van Matre said. “And with this campus and this staff, I knew that everything was so over the top amazing, so I started thinking about this idea.

“If I could get students with disabilities, the same age, onto the campus, it would be an amazing day for them because their campus is nothing like this. And I wanted to pair them up with Lutheran students to show them around.”

Van Matre brought the idea to then OLu Executive Director Greg Pinnick and then-Director of Development Betsy Kunau, both of whom lauded the idea.

Van Matre kicked things into action. She found the schools that were interested in participating and got all lunch items donated for the special event.

Fast forward to today, and over 300 students visit OLu each year on Day of Dreams, thousands in the past decade.

“To me, I’m just spreading awareness,” van Matre said. “Obviously, in our family, we use lots of faith and prayer, and that’s helped pave the path for Kevin. I know that these kids with special needs are touching lives and making differences in the lives of those who might never have awareness. We all are more alike than different.

God made us all and gave us all strengths and weaknesses.”

On Day of Dreams, students from the three participating schools travel on school buses to Orange Lutheran, where they are greeted by balloons and over 1,000 OLu students and faculty. From that point forward, the activities commence, including dancing, playing basketball, painting, lunch, and most importantly, just hanging out.

During his time at Orange Lutheran, Kevin participated in several Day of Dreams events, and today, he continues to visit the school on the special day.

“Kevin was fortunate to come to Lutheran High with his disability,” van Matre said of her middle child. “Now, he comes back and he just spends time visiting with everyone. He just looks at it as a great day at Lutheran High. He loves Orange Lutheran.”

Van Matre said that the enthusiasm from the participating schools only grows each year, as evidenced by this note from Hope School visual and performing arts teacher Julia Hahn, after this year’s Day of Dreams.

“

Thank you so much for such a wonderful day. Your organization and appropriateness of activities, as always, was exceptional. We are particularly blessed by the wonderful gift of friendship your students gave us. What you have put in place at Orange Lutheran will be instrumental in changing the way people treat people. I know the tolerance and acceptance we were shown there will grow into making the world a better place.

“

The “this” that van Matre refers to is Orange Lutheran’s Day of Dreams, the school’s annual service day event, in which OLu students and faculty welcome students with special needs from three different schools: Hope School and Speech and Language Development Center, both of which are in Buena Park, and California School for the Deaf in Riverside.

And in the end, the day means as much to OLu students as it does the visiting students.

“It’s just a fun day,” said OLu junior Austin Liles. “You kind of feel this pressure to be like a good host and show the students everything and make sure they have a good time. But really, it’s just like hanging out with your friend all day. Everyone is just enjoying the day together, OLu students and all the visitors. It’s awesome.”

Senior Kennedy Smith-Kutyla said that participating in Day of Dreams helped increase her love for OLu. “It is so unique to our school and it makes me proud to say that I go to a high school that values human connection with all types of people,” she said. “We get the chance to learn about ourselves and others, while also learning to serve like Christ.

“We head into Day of Dreams wondering how we are going to change the students that we come in contact with, but we soon realize that they change our lives more than we ever expected.”

Those friendships developed on Day of Dreams are what inspire van Matre to often stand back and reflect.

“Every year, I get the same emotions walking around and observing the transformations that are made in the Orange Lutheran students,” van Matre said. “I hope it will help them after they leave OLu. “Many lives, those of the OLu students and those of the students with special needs, have been changed on Day of Dreams.”

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WE LOVE OUR VOLUNTEERS! We have so many areas for Lancer friends to get involved. And we are so grateful for all they do!

40

“

I literally drove on this campus and immediately I was like where can I land. I love kids and just to be a part of this school and to find so many different nuisances I just thought ok certainly I can do something here.

And I wanted to be a part of the love and all the excitement.

– Sheila Malloy (Volunteer)

“

Athletics, Missions, Thrift Store, Lancer Store, and Advancement events are just a few of the avenues for those who want to donate their time and talents to Orange Lutheran. We have volunteers who stuff envelopes, bring in auction items, greet people and do much more. We have friends who are good at decor or marketing/promo. We have parents who like to set-up, clean up or sell tickets. We need chaperones and drivers, people who are good on computers. Whatever your skill, whatever your gift there is something for you! Thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who have helped this year in any of our areas of need. We appreciate you so much, and this school is better because of your servant hearts! If you want to volunteer for this coming year, go to weareolu.org/volunteer and sign up, or email sandy.lopez@lhsoc.org for more information!

- Toni Bradley (Volunteer)

“

“

Everybody has unique gifts and talents.

It’s amazing to see how God puts all those in the right places at the right time.

Volunteers

Tammy and Howard Sandberg

“

Volunteering puts the focus on other people and not on you and you’re able to help somebody and you glorify God in the meantime.

- Chantell Tibbets (Volunteer)

Claire Tingen Diane van der Goes Catalina Walker Carrie Ware Diane Whitten Anna Wilson Tara Wright Karon Yates

It’s just a really great way to use your gifts and to give back and help the school and help the mission here. – Diane van der Goes (Volunteer)

“

“

Amy Leon Sheila Malloy Tracy McCray Lauri Morales Lindsey Motis Raquel Munoz Susan Nevell Lan Nguyen Jeni Noble Kendel Pink Angela Poremba Joalean Reynolds Terri Lynn Rogers Tammy Sandberg Vicki Schaffer Heather Sidell Jennifer Sterett Jennifer Sterett Debbie Stumme Su Thome Anne Thompson Chantell Tibbets

“

Amy Bailey Sandy Bartoldus Toni Bradley Ronit Bustillos Rosie Camacho Lisa Carpenter Liz Chan Melissa Chisick Shelley Conn Kelli Cunniingham Ron DeWitt Ronica Dixon Patti Escobedo Marilyn Fisher Karin Garell Kim Hassenplug LaVette Hennigham Gwen Hill Karen Huffman Linda Kee Alecia Kruger Michelle Landrith

ORANGE LUTHERAN THRIFT SHOP

Contribution to need-based financial aid fund

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

$295,565

$311,802

$403,264

$390,073

$416,109

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UNDERWRITERS GOLD Mike & Caryn Borland Kevin & Jamie Nadeau Craig & Jane Olson

POWER OF THE DREAM GALA Strengthened Through Faith

SILVER Brett & Kimberly Bissell Scott & Stephanie Bragg Robert & Linda Grimm BRONZE Anonymous Mike & Kristen Gibbons Carolynn Santaniello, Seven Gables Real Estate Wayne Weisman Ron & Grace Wright IRON Anonymous Mark & Anne Alario Concordia University Irvine Richard & Dorothy Landsverk Tom & Penny Ling Walt & Leann Luchinger Mark & Jolean Reynolds Richard & Dorothy Landsverk COPPER Rick & Silvia Albertini Charles & Amy Battaglia Mark & Bridget Bogh Thomas Boobar Jim & Dara Frize Douglas & Marissa Moore Tony & Tricia Sanchez Mark & Heidi Schmidt Robert & Tracy Wade

Our Power of the Dream Gala held on February 6 of this year was once again an inspiring, beautiful evening filled with people who love the Lord and support Orange Lutheran’s mission!

Because of the giving hearts of all who underwrote, attended and shopped, we were able to raise over $350,000 net for the students at Orange Lutheran! That is our second highest success in 13 years of incredible Galas. What a huge blessing! Support and generosity at this level represent a living example of the values we all share and hold dear!

A magnanimous $271,000 was specifically earmarked for our Lancer Legacy Fund, which is the financial aid endowment fund for future generations of Lancers. An amazing outpouring of love from all of our family & friends!

Thank you to all for believing in the Power of the Dream!

Please mark your calendars for our next Power of the Dream Gala which will be February 11, 2017.

We look forward to seeing you there!

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SPONSORS TITLE Wells Fargo • LuxBus Travis Mathew

2016 GOLF CLASSIC

GOLD nGeniSys • I Am BAR SILVER Allied Barton Security Services R.J. Allen Inc. • NCCI Healing Heroes Ministries CLASSIC Concordia University Irvine KPRS Construction Services, Inc Tropical Plaza Nursery, Inc. Grant Eklund Kridner College Consulting American Business Bank Pinnacle Professional Services Jeff Tibbets Case Systems, Inc. Andrew Harris Northwestern Mutual Fred M. Bagatourian Waxie Sanitary Supply

Another successful Orange Lutheran Golf Classic was held this past April at Yorba Linda Country Club.

As usual, we had a sold out crowd, and raised over $65,000 for our athletics programs! We were joined by two of our own OLu students, JP Velasquez & Travis Yates, who shared their testimonies about how God has led them during their time at Orange Lutheran. It was a blessing of a day for all involved!

Mark your calendars for April 10, 2017 for next year’s tournament, your chance to enjoy a day on the links in support of our great athletic programs!

Inaugural

LANCER LADIES BRUNCH

What a fabulous time we had at our inaugural Lancer Ladies Brunch!

It was a morning for mothers, sisters, daughters and friends of all ages to gather in fellowship and enjoy time together. We had a fabulous speaker, Michelle Thompson, whom inspired over 300 excited and lovely guests. We had 34 unique vendors that facilitated our need to shop ‘til we dropped. There were over 30 beautiful

tables decorated by our wonderful table hostesses, on which we enjoyed a delicious brunch. Every moment was incredible, and we couldn’t have asked for a better kick off to the holidays!

Look for upcoming announcements for this year’s brunch to be held Saturday, December 3, 2016. You will not want to miss it!

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Gratitude For Our Blessings Wow! What a year it has been at Orange Lutheran. Let me start by sharing a verse that fits my feelings, 1 Chronicles 29:13 “Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name”. I love this place and I feel blessed that we get to work for His Glory through our truly amazing students at Orange Lutheran. It seems like everytime I need it, someone reaches out and prays with me, shares a story with me about one of our incredible students, or a story about the positive impact the school or its faculty or staff have made. Let me tell you that is both affirming and inspiring.

This past year we introduced a new event, Lancer Ladies Brunch. Held early in December, this was a day for ladies to fellowship, enjoy a good meal, be inspired by a terrific speaker, and do some shopping. We had over 250 women attend this first time event and it really was a very special and lovely day. Mark your calendars ladies, we will be hosting this again on December 3, 2016. Thank you to all who came. We are looking forward to next year!

Our annual Gala was held in February and was truly a spectacular event. We raised over $271,000 just for our Lancer Legacy Fund, which is our financial aid endowment. What a blessing that so many were so generous! We are excited about next year’s Gala which will be themed “Faces of Hope” and will feature so many of our incredible students. Mark your calendars, Gala will be February 11, 2017.

In April, we hosted our annual Golf Tournament at Yorba Linda Country Club. We had a sold out crowd, gorgeous weather, a course full of food, drinks and fun activities, as well as two very inspirational students who spoke during the tournament banquet. A great day all around that raised over $65,000 for our athletics programs. These funds provide much needed resources to better equip our coaches, strength and conditioning staff and our trainers, providing a well rounded and safe environment for our student athletes. Mark your calendars for April 10, 2017 for next year’s tournament.

Message from the Advancement Office

You were very generous with your time, talents and financial gifts throughout the year. Our volunteer involvement increased this past year which was so much fun to see. There are so many ways to get involved and I really love that so many of you chose to do so. The Bible tells us in Ecclesiastes 4:9, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor”. Well, we saw that in action this year and I am grateful to all of you.

More of you contributed financially as well, which is such a bountiful blessing to us. We received gifts in support of our Annual Fund (critical component to our overall successes here at Orange Lutheran) as well as our Lancers for Life fund which directly supports our need based financial aid. This generosity reminds me of 2 Corinthians 9:11, ”You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” We are grateful for your generosity and we praise God for blessing us with you.

Everything we do here in Advancement is to further our mission which is to help students internalize the Gospel message of salvation. In every way that you support this school, you are helping every one of our students and making a positive impact for God’s Kingdom. We are grateful for all of your support through your time, financial gifts and most especially through your prayers.

Cathy Blankenship ‘86 Chief Advancement Officer 44

Thank You Orange Lutheran High School is so blessed by our generous supporters.

Every dollar gifted to Orange Lutheran allows us to be one of the premier educational environments in the country. Those dollars allow us to provide our students, faculty, and staff the necessary tools needed to excel in many different ways.

Our goal at Orange Lutheran is to redefine the high school experience.

We are diligently working to prepare healthy, caring, strong students who understand that their identity is in Christ alone and who are prepared and strengthened for a Christian life of purpose, service, and leadership in a global society. We want our students to be inspired to learn and grow and to discover who they are - to identify and develop their God-given gifts and optimize their strengths.

Your support makes this all possible and we are so grateful for you. Thank you for donating your time, financially and most especially for prayer.

The following list shows our institutional donors as well as our individual donors. The names in bold represent those who have given for five to nine consecutive years. Those in red-bold have given for ten or more consecutive years. This is truly a wonderful statement about loyalty and a lasting belief in the benefits of a Christian education for our young people today who will be our leaders tomorrow.

We strive to maintain accurate information at all times and sincerely apologize for any inaccuracies. Please feel free to contact the Advancement Office with any questions.

INDIVIDUAL Donors $100,000+

Michael and Caryn (Hildenbrand ‘81) Borland Anonymous Del & Debbie Montell, Sr

$25,000-$99,999

Anonymous Roger and Carol Burtner Mike and Kristin Gibbons Kevin and Jamie Nadeau Craig and Jane Olson Rick and Debra Rodriguez

$10,000-$24,999

Paul and Liz Belden Brett and Kimberly Bissell Mark and Bridget (Seegers ‘86) Bogh Scott and Stephanie Bragg Matthew Brown ‘97 Brian and Karen Cass Gerry and Tricia Esser Todd and Christine Moritz John and Annie Nicoletti Marius and Karen Van Der Watt Robert and Tracey Wade David and Lori Walker Ron and Grace Wright

$5,000-$9,999

Steven and Kathleen Amort Jim and Cindy Baca Chuck and Amy Battaglia

Youssef and Georgina Beshai Catherine Blankenship ‘86 Anonymous Don and Toni Bradley Michael and Tina Carlson Russ and Becky Casenhiser Will and Kay Cooper Ken and Norma Croucher David and Donna DuBois Ken & Judy Ellwein Steven and Ellizabeth Flanagan Michael and Sandra Grant Doreen Gray Robert and Linda Grimm John Haney Jim and Sheila Heim Mark and Jane Heim Paul and Annamae Huante Donald and Margaret Jervis Thomas and Penny Ling Walt and Leann Luchinger Jim and Andrea Maginn Mark and Angela Maietta Steven and Lori Marquez John and Tracy Milstead Jerry and Sherri Nourse Bassel and Erin Salloum Paul and Carolynn Santaniello Jenny Tongue Jeff and Teresa Walker Tim and Catalina Walker Robert and Julie Wheatley

2016

GIVING BREAKDOWN $15,760 Academics

$7,975

$248,809 Beyond Expectations

Endowment

$79,078

$472,767 Special Projects

Athletics

$426,352

$293,475 Financial Aid

Arts

Missions

$205,432

$546,204

Unrestricted

Total Giving

$2,295,852

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$1,000-$4,999

Brian and Gloria Abrams Sam and Debbie Abuzalaf George and Joan Adams Ronald and Leslie Adcock Mark and Anne Alario Rick and Silvia Albertini Edward and Kirsten Aleman Anonymous David and Shelly Barnes Bruce and Dawn Bartos Daniel and Stacey Bentley Kevin and Deborah Berg Richard and Pauline Bianchini Dennis and Kathryn Bise Jeanine Blackamore Boe ‘85 and Catherine Boezinger Marilynn Bragg Beverly Brand James Bright and Vicki Woodard-Bright George & Judy Brink Scott and Linda Britt Jennifer Brooks Daniel and Jeannie Burns David and Linda Cecil Qinger Chen Brad and Kathy Christensen Jonathan and JoDee Clark Thomas and Annette Collins Bill and Shelley Conn Brett and Jane Coombs John and Lisa Dalton Michael and Lorena DeCarlo Daniel and Elizabeth DeGuzman Andrew and Lisa Del Rey Anthony and Genevieve DeRosa Kristin Dougherty Grant Eklund Todd and Rachel Eklund Brad and Genevieve Ermeling Brian and Crysti Everhart Constantin and Maria Falcusan Mike and Tracy Feldman Les and Tina Fields Todd and Cynthia Fitschen Michael ‘88 and Silvia Fleischli Kevin and Teri Fogarty Nancy Forgay Nathan & Rebecca Fransen William and Camille Freeman James and Dara Frize Scott and Linda Fulton Danny and Tammy Gannon Jerry Gao ‘17 Maximilian and Kimberly Garces Jeff and Karin Garell James and Karen Garrison Mark and Danna George Matthew ‘07 and Renee (Roberts ‘07) Gibbons Russell and Kathleen Giess Angel and Maria Gonzalez Mike and Tanya Grasz Sean and Peggy Greene Scott and Andrena Greenwood Steven and Dianna Griffin Lori Guilford John and Gayle Gunnison Sebastian and Amy Gutierrez Ruben and Tracy Gutierrez Rick and Sherri Gutierrez Andrew and Kim Hahn Caroline Hall Greg Hall Warren Harms Andy and Stephanie Harris Mark and Cynthia Heistermann Doug and Linda Heller Jessica Hernandez Ostes and Candice Hernandez Steven and Catherine Heyman

46

Rick and Lisa Hicks Berkman and Rebecca Hong Thomas Howard ‘94 Mark and Marie Huff Jeff and Lynn Huston Robert and Cheri Hutnyan James and Susan Jackson Brad and Kathryn Jarvis Nathan Johnson Ronald and Kathleen Johnson Mark and Jessica (Jordan ‘06) Johnson Richard and Pamela Karam Jim and Kerin Kazarian Jack and Colleen Keeter Kris and Nancy Kent Gary and Cindy Kim Kent and Nancy Kitselman Timothy ‘82 and Barbara Klinkenberg Thomas and Cheryl Koch Kevin Kridner Courtney Kruger ‘08 Kurt and Carolyn Kutyla Lorne and Dee Dee Lahodny Pike and Jennifer Lambeth Timothy Lanning Stuart and Shirley Lee Kevin and Amy (Willett ‘90) Leon Brian and Mandy Liles John and Lisa Lind Ian and Michelle Macmillan Anonymous Michael and Carroll Maietta Joey and Kelly Maldonado Dean and Jennifer (Conradson ‘90) Mallender John and Leilani Martin Gonzalo and Johann Martinez John and Lydia Martinez Tracy and Leonard McCray Dawn McCrumn Philip and Robin Meckley Bryon & Maria Meyer Edward and Mary Miller Mike and Natalie Milton Cindy Mize Paul Moffitt Sherie Moreno Don and Charlotte Morner Elaine Mouw Michael and Alison Mowrey Patrick and Raquel Munoz Frank Naumann Michael and Susan Nevell Richard and Karen Newman Quoc ‘88 and H. Lan Nguyen Timothy and Jennifer Noble Matthew and Joyce Noel Lavance and Paula Northington Robert and Susan Odle Tim ‘89 and Kelly Odle Steven and Angela Ogaz Richard and Karen Olson-Newman Malcolm and Catherine Ortego Michael and Kathleen Palkovic Geijon Pao Greg and Jodi Parvin Jon and Anh Pettey Scott and Nina PicKell Dana and Stacey Pilkerton Todd and Christy Piper John ‘80 and Dana (Adams ‘82) Poerschke Katrina Pondell Gabe and Catherine Potyondy Joe and Susan Price Gina Puccio Reid and Jennie Pullen Kurt ‘78 and Carol Rammelsberg Donald Ressler Randy Rhodes Jason and Lisa Roberts John and Melissa Robertson

Christopher and Theresa Ruiz Scott and Terry Rummell Ken and Beth Sackett Reuben and Carolyn Salazar Joseph Saline Shawn and Kerry Salkeld Howard and Tammy Sandberg Brian and Kristen Sarvak Eddie and Shelly Scantlebury David and Sabrina Schaffer Andrew and Tracy Seagren Larry and Joyce Segelken Philip and Leslie Smith Jeffrey and Kerry Stanley Kevin and Terry Steckler Janet Steiner Ben and Robyn Strohschein Brent and Debbie Stumme Thomas and Karen Sunshine David and Carole Swanson Patrick Tallino Rick and Janine Tarbell Ray and Jodi Teare Mark Thomas Steve and Ann Thompson David and Lisa Threshie Jeff and Chantell Tibbets Paul and Michelle Trapp Rick and Sue Underwood Mario and Sonia Valencia Robert and Diane van der Goes Matt and Alison Van Steenhuyse Nicholas Vertucci Michael and Robyn Vossen William and Carla Walker Xiao Wang Jay and Carrie Ware Lawrence and Kay Washburn Glenn and Emily Weingarth Wayne Weisman ‘77 Doug and Julie White Chris and Meryl Wienand David and Michele Wiggs Gantry and Anna Wilson William Wooding Daniel and Lisa Wozab David Xie ‘19 Takuya and Atsuko Yamamoto Michael and Christine Yee Rick and Patty Young Brian and Kimberly Young Tom and Lois Yunghans Mark and Lisa Ziebell

$500-$999

Marty and Jill Milligan Pablo and Patricia Velasquez Patricia Sackett Richard and Thea Root Patrick and Jenny (Morner ‘76) Jordan Phillip and Christy Arey Charles and Karen Klein Rafael and Terry De Anda Dale and Julie Ducheny James and Ann Letz Tim ‘79 and Jenny (McCann ‘81) Detviler Laura Fitzgerald Tim Truitt Edwin and Anita Hernandez Robert and Rachel Abijay Doug and Becky Gresch Rebekah Barnes Kent and Cindy Schlichtemeier Scott and Vicki Strong Janet Tittle Sean and Leanne Sheward Marc Neben ‘79 Matt and Kathryn Voigt Jenny Miklos ‘99 John and Anamarie Allen

Robert and Roberta Bechtloff Jim and Marilyn Fisher Cory ‘92 and Clarissa Fleming Michael and Janet Hards Sarah (Moon) Johnson ‘87 Joyce Adams Jeff and Daiana Leedom Ken and Penny Bacon Todd and Melody Becker Bunky Call Jim and Heidi Dwyer Betty Enderle Mark and Rachel Klitzing Thomas and Kristin Taguchi Bret and Myra Taylor Jack and Wendy (Albrecht ‘92) Hunt Ricardo Rodriguez James ‘95 and Julie (Savage ‘96) Brown Drew ‘03 and Elizabeth (Salyer ‘99) Heim Chris and Meredith Nordstrom Joseph and Kaye Krum Kelli and Joe Cunningham Ray and Traci Arriola Joseph and Arline Barsa Phillip and Celine Blackley William and Shirley Boezinger Robert and Terri Crandall Bruce and Joanne English Charles and Esther Peterson Brady and Traci Schmidt The Shedwill Family Scott and Erika Walker Darin and Leslie Whitney Ronit Bustillos Win and Judith Western Brad ‘82 and Donna Heinecke Bret and Janeen Steele Kevin and Yvette Burdette Charles and Inja Chung Steve and Janette Mattoon Sue Norman Nancy Paul Jim Stepanian Melissa Brey Dane and Cathy Vaughn Jennifer Sterett John and Suzanne Sotelo Thomas Boobar Candice Davidson Rae and Sheri Farese John and Ellen Franklin Roger and Patty Frick David and Donna Garrett Richard Gartman and Laurel Peniche-Gartman Andrew and Sherri Gautreau Tom Gray ‘78 Christine House Michele Johnson Jeremy and Niki Johnston Elika Kangarlou Robert and Cindy Larson Bill Medina Douglas Moore Karen Morris Arvid and Geri Musgrave Jeffrey and Elizabeth Newell Jimmy and Angela Poremba John and Kim Root Tricia Sanchez Ken and Mary K. Schlueter Mark and Jan Schmidt Glen and Carolyn Shiery Dick and Pat Wallace Wendy Wilson

$100-$499

William and Lesli Adams Erin (Dannemeyer) Alt ‘08 In memory of Carol Amling Georgiene Anderson

GIVING Trends 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Mark and Deborah Apodaca David and Angela Arents Craig and Cindy Arentsen Craig and Danielle Augustin Steven and Natalie Aviles Caroline Bailey ‘05 Simon Bailey Michael and Susan Ballantyne Erick and Sandra Bartoldus Bernard Bartos Gary and Karen Bastien Rob ‘85 and Tara Bathke Michael and Debra Bean Jim and Judy Beil Marshall and Danalyn Belgen Scott and Elisabeth Benson Lisa Beukers Glen and Jeanne Blankenship Scott and Beverly Boley Eric and Cindy Borba Ignacio and Andrea Brache Lee and Amy Bramson Mark and Carolyn Brewer Seth and Julianne Britton John and Mercy Buchner Jason and Kari Buck Jon Bulthuis Ted and Lori Bultsma Jerry Bulthuis Family Gilbert Cacho Rockland and Lisa Caligiuri Ryan and Kelly Callaghan Jim Campbell Peggy Cansdale Jon & Terri Capuzzi Kelly and Stacia Carlson David and Lisa Carpenter Brian and Kelly Clauss Georgene Cole Michael and Cheryl Conradson Michael and Laura Conroy Wilton and Deborah Cornett

DONORS

GIVING

DONORS

GIVING

DONORS

GIVING

DONORS

GIVING

DONORS

GIVING

782 882 1,116 1,279 1,308

$2,045,616 $3,535,266 $2,562,156 $2,127,284 $2,295,852

Peter Cossavella Courtney Costa Richard and Tracy Crady Paul and Stephanie Darnbrough John DeCriscio Scott and Sharla Defrain Gerardo and Cecilia Dela Cruz David and Allison Demurjian Dan and Tina Devlin Jennifer Dial Thomas and Mary Dial Todd and Mary Dial Gary and Karen Dickinson Steve Dierker ‘83 Cheryl Dismuke Susan Dovak Doug and Karen (Bathke ‘81) Dueker Philip and Maggie Duerr Meredith (Riebau) Dufield ‘89 Kevin Dupree Mona Eakin Gene and Betty Egan Dave and Carolyn Elfman Scott and Christina Farquhar Leisha Fauth John and Dawn Feikema Bob and LaVerne Francis Josephine Fraser Wayne Freeland Vince and Kelley Fregoso Karen French Harold and Amy Fu Larry and Jennifer Furry Jorge and Kim Garcia Thomas and Kerrie Garrett James and Nancy Gartner Lori Gast Kimberly Gerhard Michael Gerhard Douglas and Karen Gerth Mark and Lori Glasgow Tim ‘81 and Cassandra (Gehm ‘83) Glastetter

Jesse Holguin and Raquel Gomez-Holguin John and Wendi Gornick Gregory Gower ‘08 Misty Graves ‘97 Tara Gross ‘05 Debbie Guss ‘77 Paul and Jean Hackmann Chris and Kelly Hansen Drew and Erica Hantula Stephen and Brenda Hantula Jolie Harnack Kenneth and Francine Harwood Fritz and Cynthia Heigis David Heim ‘02 Matthew and Lauri Hemsley Todd & Maria Hennigar David Henry William and Sandra Herbold Steve ‘78 and Karen Hight Mark and Susan (Dannemeyer ‘80) Hirzel Robert Hobbs ‘02 Max and Joan Hodge D.C. and J.W. Hohener Bil and Kim Hood Richard Huang Kenneth and Virginia Iles Anthony and Cindy Inga Daniel and Faith Jackson Rolf and Samantha Jacobs Erik and Diana Janis James and Sharon Jimenez Jeff and Barbara Joslin Myron and Virginia Kampfer Don and Kari Kazanjian Marcia Kear William and Susan Kendig Hilary Kircher Janis Kirkpatrick Joel Kott ‘02 Michael and Rebecca Kramer Scott ‘81 and Angela Krause Norman and Joyce Laesch

Evan Lang Katherine (Lapworth) Rivero ‘96 Russell and Louise Larson Mike and Patty Lazcano Michael and Denise Leigh Joe and Susan Leonardi Thomas and Linda Lesher May Leyba Victor and Shu-Fen Liang George and Laura Livermore Robert and Colleen Lovret Tara Luke David Mains Norm and Sara Manalac Armando Marrujo Salvatore and Kara Martino Richard and Sara Mathis Arthur and Phyllis Maurer Kevin and Julie McKhann Mike and Maureen Mekjian Mark and Andrea Melcher Joey Menefee Bill Mengert Julie Mengert Baher and Manar Metry Mike and Gloria Metten Tom and Laurie Meyer Diantoine ‘99 and Kristina Meza Brian and Nicolle Miller Ron and Patty Mills Devon and Lisa (Olson ‘02) Molitor Steven and Moya Monroe Cindi Montgomery Robert and Jeannie Mooney Anthony and Leslie Murray Walid and Danice Najjar Nayeri Nayeri Rodney and Julia Naylor Doug and Jan Naylor Larry ‘79 and Elizabeth Neenan Shawn and Sharon (Francis ‘85) Nelson Eric and Jill Nielson Mark and Jennifer Nye William and Mary Jo O’Dell Thomas and Natalie O’Meara Wayne and Diane Oestreich Daniel and Barbara Palma Jeffrey Palmer ‘89 Don Pargee Alex and Mary Kay Park Matthew ‘01 and Julia (Hoerauf ‘01) Parsons Anonymous Eugene and Gloria Paulus Kenn and Peggy Peake Nancy Pescarolo Chuck and Roya Petersen Scott and Patrice Peterson James Philipp Paul and Shannin Pickle Diana Pilkerton Gregg and Melanie Pinick John and Kendel Pink Dolores Piper Ben and Solores Piper Stacey Pires John and Chris Poirier Tim and Trish Ponder Tim and Deborah Preuss Cecile Raasch Joseph and Maria Ramirez Joseph Ramirez ‘17 Lavance and Deniece Reed Matthew and Rosemary Reisbeck Mike and Julie (Koster ‘81) Ressler Augusto and Corazon Reyes Neil Reynolds ‘85 Pat and Kim Rhoten David and Jodie Ricketts Linda Riedmann Darnise Riley

47

Beau Robinson ‘18 Ronny and Donna Rowell Robert and Janice Royal Christopher and Penny Ruiz Steve and Rhonda Rutledge Mary Salgado Sarah Salzberg Anonymous Scott and Laura Sampson Dana and Tamara Sanders Ken and Cynthia Santini Vincent Sarmiento ‘18 Sean and Lisa Savala Gary and Susan Sawyer Philip and Victoria Schaffer Glen ‘83 and Rena (Perkins ‘83) Schlueter Brian and AnneMarie Schlueter Norman and Barbara Schmidt Matt and Vicki Schulte Michael and Melinda Schulteis Christine Scimia Brian and Cheryl Scudday Stephan and Melissa Shatynski Erin Shevlin Terry and Joyce Shibuya Darren and Julie Smith Susan Smith John & Lydia Smith-Davis Diane Snider David and Terry Sohn Jeff and Tana Spencer Edward and Jennifer Stancavage Mark and Nancy Steinbergs Fred and Veronica Stone Sam and Pauline Sugine Dave and Caron Summers Eddy and Susiana Suryajaya Dennis and Judith Sweeney Victoria Teasley Wanda (Zanchi ‘83) Teazis Dan and Su Thome Verna Thome Emily Tillitt Dale and Roxanne Timm Jasmine Torgerson Anne Towles ‘09 Joseph and Tamara Urban John and Toni Valdez Robert and Joan Valentine Ramon Vasquez Hans and Staci Vis Janna Vis Matthew Voigt Richard and Teresa Wagner Geraldine Walker David and Joanne Warsinski Jeffrey and Susan Washiashi Kent and Beverly Wegener Xuan Wei Douglas and Carole Wells George and Lois Widly Anonymous Robert and Holly Willis Murray and Shari (Morner ‘79) Willis Greg and Deborah Wingert David and Traci Wise Jessica Wnuk Kathleen Worthen Zinuo Xu ‘17 Bruce Young Robert and Diane Zeinstra

$1-$99

Eliana Amaya Christopher and Jessica Anderson Frank and Masal Arnold Matt and Erika (Ebel ‘92) Augustine Vannessa Badger Michael and Mitzi Ball Nancy Bane

48

Ty and Kelly Barksdale Kimberly Bastick Jeffrey and Millissa Bedell Stephen and Lynda Belgum Steve and Debra Belikoff Dustin and Julie Boburka Laura Bocanegra ‘99 Robert and Paula Boyer David and Kerry Brager Pamela Brehm ‘77 Casey and Amy Brookman Steve Brunkhorst Martha Brunkhorst Noly and Jigeth Bustamante Dave and Melissa (Boring ‘06) Cacciapuoti Michael and Andrea Carrick Herbert and Annette Carroll Ferdinand and Maria Josefina Catotal Chris and Valerie Chilcott Charles and Janet Chop Emily Chumchal Erik Coffin Dennis and Kathleen Cole Kent and Shiree Colton Alfred and April Cooper Matthew and Mardi Cork David and Linda Cowen Brittan Cox ‘04 Christina Crandall Oliver and Jennifer Dela Cruz Lina Dela Cruz Rene Dela Cruz Wilfredo and Eva Dela Cruz T.J. ‘07 and Taylor Detviler John and Deborah Emerick Mark and Sharon Evans Brent Ferdig James Fitzgerald Suzan Freeman Robert ‘81 and Valerie Freeman Michael and Kay Gadd Frances Gerhard Bernice Gerken Mr. Giacumakis Giacumakis Debbie Greenlee Kevin and Linda Grover Adriana Hallman Brenda Hallock Vincent and Deborah Hambright Matt ‘80 and Pam (DeGroot ‘80) Hansen John Harb ‘08

Jan and Annette Harzan Bradley and Carol Heath Derek and Edith Hirsch Thomas and Karen Hubbard Robert and Raylene Johnson Lester and Barbara Johnson Kristyn Kazanjian ‘08 Ron and June Kent A J. Kitzelman Kitzelman Nathan ‘03 and Ashley Klitzing Brenna Kress ‘06 Nallan and Sudha Krishnan Bari and Lynn Krisinger Gerald and Jackie Laffere Skip and Lara Lanfried Michael and Ellen Lange Jeff and Sharon Lee Dennis Lin Robert and Sandra Lopez Ben and Jesusa Luna Michael and Linda Mackin Rodolfo and Shiela Marilla David and Debbie Martin Robert and Sheila Marton D and K McAdams Mark and Andrea McCardle Robert ‘96 and Amy Meaux John Mekjian ‘08 Jaimee Melilli Tammy Mielke David and Joy Mitchell Monica Mojarro Yvette Mojarro James and Sheri Morse Kathy Nelson Raymond and Helen Nelson Al Neukuckatz Samuel and Marian Nichols Annie Nolasco Bonnie and Micah Nourse Jack and Henriette Nydam Joyce O’Brien Dorothy O’neill Teofil and Mariana Oros Brad and Karen Ottoson Dominique Ovalle Lillian Owens Jerry Owens John and Cynthia Patton Daniel and Kathy Pelekoudas Shirley Perkins

Mark and Elizabeth Piper Robert and Marsha Podas Matt and Melissa Potthoff Christian and Linda Pran Thomas and Catherine Radke Sandy Redmond Clint ‘85 and Becky Rieber Greg and Barbara Rieke Phil ‘05 and Joanna Roberts Ron and Linda Rogalski William Rogers Kenneth and Cecilia Romero Laura Root Andrea Rueter Alex and Shannon Salottolo John and Michelle Sanchez Kent and Dawn Sandie Steven and Sandra Sarandis Vicki Schaffer Tray and Carol Ann Schreiber David and Deanna Scott Shawn and Stacy Scott Richard and Sheryl Seapy Chris and Heather Sidell Eric Siegel ‘08 Trese Simmons Steven and Kristen Skelly Joshua and Sandy Soares Jeani Soares Sony Soegiarto Robert and Alison Spors Peter and Pamela Stam Charles and Arlene Stanfield Russell and Debra Steyer Greg and Shannon Striebel Larry and Janet Taitt Patricia Thetford Paul and Kim Thorp Robert and Renee’ Tripp George and Esther Umezawa Michael and Shawna Van Daele Diane Whitten Alfred and Sheila Williams Harry and Delphine Wilson Dorthy Wise Donald and Gina Woullard Aeryn Woullard Richard and Constance Ziehr Jon and Roxanne Zimmerman

PARENTS $1,266,693

GIVING

Sources

2016 TOTAL

ALUMNI $65,643

$2,295,852

OTHER $248,504

ORGANIZATIONS $715,012

FINANCIAL AID Thank You’s Each year, OLu receives thank you letters from financial aid recipients, saying thank you to donors for their generosity. Here are a few from this past school year:

“I want to thank you for the opportunity that you have blessed me with to attend Orange Lutheran High School.

You are giving me a chance to go to a school where I can receive a fantastic education, meet many wonderful individuals and compete at the top level in my sport. Even more importantly, I have been given a place where I can love and learn about God openly with others. Without you, none of these things would be possible for me. Thank you for your generosity!” –Samuel ‘18 “Thank you for helping my family this year with tuition for my brother and me.

From the generous contributions, I have been able to be involved in the Missions Program and cheer.” –Hannah ‘17

“I would like to take this chance to thank you for giving me financial aid. The past three years I’ve spent here have been amazing! I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else. So from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making my dream come true.” –Jacob ‘17 “Attending OLu has been one of the greatest blessings of my life, and I thank you for helping make it possible.

Hopefully one day, I can provide the financial support to Orange Lutheran the way it provided for me and my family.” –Joe ‘17

INSTITUTIONAL Donors $100,000+

Santa Monica BMW

$25,000-$99,999 LCMS Foundation Nadeau Productions Travis Mathew, LLC

$10,000-$24,999

Lux Bus America Northwestern Mutual Foundation Wells Fargo Wells Fargo Educational Matching Gift program

$5,000-$9,999

Accord Electric Corporation Amort Construction, Inc. Cholame Vineyard Cobalt Orthopaedics Inc Concordia University Irvine KDC Construction Law Offices of Robert Wheatley Ralls Family Foundation The Stahmer Foundation Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

$1,000-$4,999

A Professional Law Corp Allied Barton Security Services American Business Bank Apple Printing Avco Gas Propane Sales BAPKO Metal, Inc. Clint’s Formal Wear Commercial Window Coverings DJ Gregg, Inc. Earth Works First Lutheran Church Healing Heroes Ministries KPRS Construction Services, Inc Land Mechanics, Inc. MCP Computers, Inc. Melrose Educational Consulting LLC National Christian Foundation National Outreach Foundation Incorporated Ngenisys Corpotation Odle Communications

Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program Plug Interests Inc. Premier Marketing & Solutions PTI Sand & Gravel, Inc. R.J. Allen Inc. Radial Tire Service Rockwell Collins Matching Gift Program Savala Equipment Rentals Service Champions Shelly BMW Silicon Valley Community Foundation Steckler Trust Structure Networks, Inc. The Walt Disney Company Foundation The Webb Foundation Thrivent Financial Transportation Media Inc Trimark Funding Inc. Tropical Plaza Nursery, Inc. United HealthCare Services Inc Waxie Sanitary Supply Wellington Foods, Inc.

$500-$999

Brakebill & Associates, LLC Capital Solutions Partner, LLC D.B. Engineering, Inc. Dr. Shedwill & Associates Horizon Oxygen & Medical Equipment Laurel Peniche Gartman, Attorney at Law Orange Creek Marketing Inc. OSI Express, Inc. PKA Holdings LLC Potter Orthodontics Salon TM:2 St. John’s Lutheran Church of Orange Studio 3 Pilates Swardstrom Group, Inc. Teasley & Associates The Modglin Family Foundation The Perfect Circle Cupcakery Thrivent Financial for Lutherans N. Orange County CA Chapter Toyota Matching Gifts to Education Travel of Orange Wells Fargo Community Support Campaign Yours For Life Ministries Inc

$100-$499

Bidwell Marketing Coast Acceptance Corporation Coast City Medical Group Inc. Coffee Grove Dalton Capital E&K Enterprises F.E.C. Electric, Inc Fitstrength Athletic Products Fullerton Republican Women Federated Halls Medical Services Hilary And Wayne Kircher AB Living Trust Invision Ventures, Inc. Ivision Ventures, Inc. Jet Clean Janitorial, Inc. John Commercial Services Law Offices of Patrick Stacker Light Bulbs Etc. Lupat Corporation; DBA Advanced Realty Mallory, McGinnis, Hoeschen Mark Company Nelson Living Trust Newcal Electric Co., Inc. Orange County Soccer Officials Association Parkwest Construction Co R.J. Cabinets & Woodworks RVP Realty, Inc. Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. Scott H Maureen A Homan Revocable Living Trust Share & Do Good St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Strong, Inc. The Carol Lyn Wnuk Living Trust Toffoli Investments LLC Worship Generation

$1-$99

Barney & Barney Boeing Classic RV Service Center Integrated Prescription Solutions Tustin Lexus Renee Elise Luxury Events Seven Gables Real Estate Signature One Capital Inc TRUiST Zion Lutheran Womens League

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Our school continues on a firm financial position while continuing to improve its reserves for whatever future plans God may have in store. Highlights over the last four years include:

Message from the Business Office

148% $15M $5M

Increase in net assets Investment in new facilities Improvement of facilities

Strengthened cash position, accumulating dollars for future growth The beginning of Endowment Growth “God has blessed us in so many ways, including financially” says Todd Moritz, Chief Executive Officer. “While our school has continued to improve academically, athletically and in the arts (see story on page 20), financially we have improved dramatically as well.”

One of the amazing blessings that we have seen in recent years has been the completion of the Beyond Expectation project which includes the student union, lower gym and other athletic improvements. Not only has this improved the culture and climate at OLu, but it has opened up classroom space for more Advanced Placement and Honors offerings.

Taking care of the investment we have in our school buildings has also been a priority. Many capital items are not seen by the average person, but make a big difference. Improvements such as new windows, complete replacement of all roofs, LED lighting, campus wide solar, Information Technology infrastructure – and so many other projects - keep our school a safe, comfortable and intellectually challenging place to be.

While the financial results have been strong, the school is staying focused on the big picture of how this impacts families. Tuition increase percentages have declined to their lowest levels in many years and Orange Lutheran now has the lowest tuition in the Orange County Trinity League. Further, need based financial aid continues to grow in dollars and the number of families helped. And this has all been done while continuing to keep pace with competitive increases in wages and benefits to our school faculty and staff.

Moritz continues, “The entire staff at OLu is very focused on our mission and supporting students at every single step of their high school experience. It is such an honor to work with these dedicated servants of the Lord. So many people have been a part of the amazing work of the Spirit. I can’t wait to see what He has in store for us next!”

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OPERATING Expenses

OPERATING Income

Salary & Administrative Facilities Interest

Tuition & Fees Congregations Fundraisers & Other

Financial Aid Instructional & Competition Other

1%

93%

13%

14%

61%

6%

3% 7% 2%

DEBT vs CASH $ Millions

CASH by Designation $9

$20

$8

$18

$7

$16

$6

$14

$5

$12

$4

$10

$3

$8

$2

$6

$1 2012

$4 2013

2014

$2 2015

Investments Endowments Operating Cash

2016

$0

2012

2013

Bank Debt

CAPITAL EXPENDITURES $ Millions

2014

2015

2016

Total Cash

NET ASSET GROWTH $ Millions $25

$12 $10

$20

$8 $15

$6 $4

$10

$2 $5 2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

$0

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

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