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A Magazine of the Priory · Issue #69 · Winter 2018
2018
ALUMNI REUNION Saturday, April 14 • 4 p.m.
All are welcome!
For more information or to RSVP: www.prioryca.org/reunion
Celebrating the Milestone Classes of:
1963, 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013
Priory at 60 Celebrating Our Past Inspiring Our Future
NEWS FLASH!
In Honor of
The new STREAM center has inspired Priory science teachers and students to tackle an ambitious experiment: time travel. It has been said that time travel is impossible. However, the photos submitted herein beg to differ. Participating student “Era-jumpers” discovered that, even though they could beam into the past for a short amount of time, they were invisible to the people of the particular Priory period they landed in. Hence, in the historic photos presented in the following pages, they appear as ghosts.
Priory's 60th Anniversary
SAVE
Shown here: Elizabeth Duncan ‘18 and Emerson Swan ‘18 stroll down the original Priory driveway in 1957. At first they thought they were lost.
the
DATE
Saturday, March 17, 2018
CLUB
On the cover: In an apparent backwash, or as Science teacher Gabe Tang termed it, “a time burp,” students from 1962 found themselves wandering a little confused in front of the new STREAM center.
Board of Directors Abbot Mark Cooper, OSB Father John Fortin, OSB Father Benet Phillips, OSB Father Martin Mager, OSB Father Maurus Nemeth, OSB
Priorities magazine is published in the Winter, Spring and Summer by Woodside Priory School for its alumni, parents, students, neighbors, and friends.
Chapel Services
Masses at 7:15 a.m. Monday-Saturday 9:30 a.m. Sunday 11:00 a.m. Sunday Hungarian service All are welcome.
Board of Trustees Brian Axe Catherine Boyle Dave Brett Mike Calbert Mike Carusi Laura Cornish Craig Dauchy Eileen DiGiorgio Dominique Filloux Kathryn Fitzgerald Cathy Gawne Phil Golden ‘76 Karen Gregory Tom Halbach Sandy Herz Greg Hughes
Bob Larson Father Jonathan Licari, OSB Stephen Nachtsheim Jennifer Nash Nancy Newman Stan Pierson Stewart Putney Beckie Robertson Kari Rust Dave Schinski Sally Screven Edward Sun ‘87 Anne Senti-Willis Phil Young
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P riory G ala
Contact the Communications Office at 650-851-6131 or the school at 650-851-8221.
auction • D inner • DancinG
Editor: Kelly Sargent
S haron h eiGhtS G olf & c ountry c lub
Contributing Writers: Diana A. Chamorro, Kathleen Gonzalez, Emily (Kirkland) Mangini ‘01, Kelly Sargent Design/Production: Jim Kirkland, J. Ennis Kirkland Creative Services Photos: Jose Aguirre, Molly Buccola, Sergio Calderon, Diana A. Chamorro, Jennifer Hammer, Jim Kirkland, Father Martin Mager, Kelly Sargent, Yary Photography Printing: Colorprint, Mark W. Allen Proofreader: Michelle Taffe
For more information, please visit www.prioryca.org/gala
A Happy New Year to all! This year is a special one as the Priory celebrates its 60th anniversary. 60 years of being Benedictine, 60 years of educating young people, 60 years since opening the doors to fourteen young male students, 60 years of a growing campus from 16 to 51 acres, 60 years of Monks roaming that campus, 60 years of Listening … with the ear of our hearts. The student body has appropriately named the theme for the year, “Timeless.” In this issue, you will see “timeless” photos, a mix between the past and present, a representation of how much Priory has changed in 60 years, yet Priory is still Priory. This past fall, we started the school year with three completed construction projects on campus. The pool is now completely renovated and is regulation size for water polo. The new Joe Montero Aquatic Center also sports a large scoreboard capable of displaying videos. The Garden Pavilion is a beautiful addition to the Franklin Garden, it creates a classroom environment for the students and also provides a storage room and an office. The track houses located by the Father Christopher Field, provide a much needed all inclusive locker room for the football, soccer and lacrosse teams as well as restrooms, a training room, and storage. The LaureL Stream Center is completed, perfectly situated on the top of the campus, with a breathtaking view of Windy Hill. Your sons and daughters are now enjoying a learning environment second to none. The beginning of the school year was filled with excitement from the success of Priory student Sergio Calderon ‘18. Sergio competed over the summer on a music competition television show called “Boy Band” and was crowned a winning member of a five-person band, called “In Real Life.” Sergio continues to thank the Priory for the support and is a common visitor to the campus in between his performances. We are thankful that Sergio could find success in doing something he loves as he lives out our mission to “productively serve a world in need of their gifts.” In the last few months of 2017, the Priory lost two long time beloved members. Julianna Székely, who worked in the dining hall for the past 32 years, died on September 17th after a battle with cancer. Joe Montero ‘76, a faculty member, alumnus, and coach, died on December 21st after a heart attack. Julianna and Joe touched the lives of many, stretching over three decades. They will be greatly missed and remembered as the special people they were. We also ask that you continue your prayers for Father Pius as he deals with his health issues and remembering his many years of service to our students as a language teacher. I like our Tuesday Chapel services because they speak to the heart and soul of each of us–student, faculty, staff and Monks. The songs and talks challenge us to reflect on the greater meaning of our life and the importance of each one of our relationships. One song’s refrain particularly resonates with me and our Priory mission: We are called to act with justice, We are called to love tenderly, We are called to serve one another and walk humbly with God. Wow–three lines that speak volumes of what we strive to attain as members of the Priory community. Happy 60th birthday Woodside Priory School and a wish for many more!
Head of School
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear Priory Community,
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 4
Woodside Priory School Celebrating 60 Years of Benedictine Education
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Fall at a Glance
10-11
MS Athletics
12-13
US Athletics
14-15
Performing Arts
16-17
Student Spotlight: Sergio Calderon
20-23
60th Anniversary Timeline
26-27
Campus Updates
28-31
LaureL STREAM Center Opening
Daraja
34-35
St. Benedict Medals
38-43
Alumni Reunion Recap
44-47
Class News
48-51
In Memoriam
52
Monastery News
TABLE OF CONTENTS
32-33
Rock & Roll will never die. Not as long as musicians like Arianna Schmulbach ‘18 and Zach Zafran ‘21 can sit in and jam. But they discovered that in the ‘60s it could just as easily be folk rock. Didn’t matter to these era-jumpers. They just like to play.
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FALL AT A GLANCE
1. The Hungarian Robotics team performed a demonstration of their award winning robot for the students.
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2. Mr. Somerville’s Outdoor Education class learned how to fish. 3. Middle School students worked on lighting techniques in the digital photography class.
4. (l-r) Rhea Behl ‘23, Ava Ammari ‘23, Lauren Hurley ‘23, and Summer Shapero ‘23 visited the photo booth at the MS Kindness Fair.
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5. Vivienne Gilbert ‘22 and Isabella Thibault ‘22 expressed their kindness with a handmade sign.
6. During the solar eclipse, Chloe Huffman ‘23, Maya Hsu ‘23, and their mothers Virginia and Juliane gazed at the darkening sun. 7. Alex Yonehiro ‘21 and his mother Veda Putnam witnessed the historic solar eclipse together. 8. Picture day is always a fun time for Seniors like Max Leiter ‘18 to get creative.
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9. Paul Trudelle and Max Fairon ‘18 traveled to Corvallis, Oregon to experience a total solar eclipse.
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FALL AT A GLANCE
1. The H-Block Fair is a fun time for students to explore new clubs like Hopeful Paws that works with animals. 2. Devin Schinski ‘18 and Noah Willis ‘18 represented the Sustainability Club with a few friendly chickens. 3. Sonya Walker ‘19 and her mother Ella Shum, brought their dog and a very brave cat to the Blessing of the Pets. 4. Several animals and their humans showed up for a blessing by Father Maurus. 5. Michael Gunn ‘18 and Devin Schinski ‘18 made a great wheelbarrow team in the Field Day relay race. 6. With a little directional push by Tatiana Reese ‘18, Jerry Tang ‘18 ran as fast as he could in the dizzy bat race. 7. The entire Middle School pulled with all their might in the annual Field Day tug-o-war.
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FALL AT A GLANCE
1. Sixth graders enjoyed a hike with Mr. Daniel and a canine friend at Outdoor Ed. 2. Seventh graders prepared to go cave dwelling at their Outdoor Ed outing. 3. During the Washington D.C. trip, the eighth grade class visited the picturesque Capital Wheel at National Harbor. 4. Sophomore students built a team sand castle at the Sophomore Retreat with the help of their retreat leader Miranda Prince ‘18. 5. Good spirited faculty member, David Neale, took several pies to the face to help raise money for the Puerto Rico flood victims.
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6. Colby Cheung ‘19 took home the Overall Best Halloween Costume award with his Russell from the movie Up costume. 7. Aladdin and Jasmine, aka Kieran Pandey ‘18 and Eva El Fishawy ‘18, were even accompanied by their little friend Abu!
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8. Zsofia Horvath ‘24 and Mikatrin Heynen ‘24, enjoyed themselves at the Halloween festivities.
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FALL AT A GLANCE
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6 7 1. The Scooby Doo Spirit Day themed Seniors upped the game with Scooby and the Mystery Machine! 2. Middle School boys prayed for snow during their snow themed spirit day.
3. Sophomore students reigned “Supreme” for their spirit day.
4. Juniors searched high and low for Nemo in their orange clad outfits. 5. The energy was highly caffeinated for the Freshman Starbucks themed day. 6. Ila Lane ‘19 and Tatiana Reese ‘18 leap for the ball at the annual Girls Football game. 7. Ruben Zambrano and Jill Wernicke prepped dough to make pizzas in the Franklin Garden Pavilion. 8
8. Heather Baszucki ‘23 and Katie El Fishawy harvested produce from the Franklin Garden during the MS Garden class.
MS ATHLETICS 10
MS Flag Football
Both teams were competitive within the WBAL Silver Division. This is the first year that the games were played on the new Father Christopher Field.
MS Girls Soccer
The Varsity girls had a balanced record of 2-2-2 and the JV team went 3-1 and were very competitive in the league championship game.
The MS softball team displayed resilience without a home softball field. The team placed second in the league with a record of 5-1.
MS ATHLETICS
MS Softball
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MS Cross Country
MS Cross Country continues to be a popular fall sport by maintaining solid roster numbers.
MS Boys Basketball
A record five teams were fielded for Middle School boys basketball. They were lead by the Varsity A team that went 4-2 and made it to the league championship game.
US ATHLETICS
US Cross Country
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1. The Priory JV boys team takes off at the front of the pack at the WBAL league finals.
2. Cross Country seniors, (l-r) Miranda Prince ‘18, Jack Nash ‘18, Michael Gunn ‘18, Chris Gao ‘18, Devin Schinski ‘18, and Eva El Fishawy ‘18, have fun with their cutouts after their final race. 3. Members from the girls team are beaming with excitement before their first race. 4. Ada Fathers ‘20 and Eva El Fishawy ‘18 push themselves through the tougher parts of the terrain.
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US Football
1. Ayo Aderoboye ‘18 booted the ball during the opening kickoff. 2. At quarterback and running back, Jaeden Barker ‘19 was often able to outrun the defense.
3. Mikhail Saliba ‘18 focuses on the goal line while outrunning his defenders. 4. The team ended the season with an amazing 8-1 record and a trip to the league championship game.
5. The team celebrated a hot “Oratum et Cor” trophy win over Stuart Hall on a record breaking 106 degree day.
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1. Mick Jeon ‘18 defends the goal. 2. Seniors (l-r) Kieran Pandey ‘18, Max Fairon ‘18, Mick Jeon ‘18, and Sam Putney ‘18 at the Senior Game.
3. Max Fairon ‘18 looks for an open pass. 4. Mark Hughes ‘20 takes a shot.
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US ATHLETICS
US Boys Water Polo
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US Girls Volleyball
1. The JV girls team celebrates a point. 2. Isa Kowalski ‘21 and Makena Serughetti ‘21 from the Freshman team get the block.
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3. The JV girls team. 4. The Varsity girls team after their final match. 5. Sammie Sargent ‘18 has major hang time before crushing the ball.
6. Seniors (l-r) Jenna Tonogai ‘18, Sammie Sargent ‘18, Jane Robertson ‘18, Zoe Weiss ‘18, and Olivia Flynn ‘18, are honored at the Senior Game. 7. The Varsity team celebrates a big point at their final home game. 5
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PERFORMING ARTS 14
Cyrano de Bergerac All School Show The play and character of Cyrano de Bergerac have resonated with audiences for over 120 years. It is an adventurous, heroic, comic, tragic and sweeping play in which someone of extraordinary grace, wit, honor, courage, friendship and uncompromising morality, yearns for an unrequited love but is hobbled by their own sense they are too hideous to go after the one that their heart desires. Excerpt from play program by John Sugden
PERFORMING ARTS 15
Fall and Winter Concerts Performing Arts put on two fun and entertaining concerts this Fall. The spooktacular Halloween themed Fall Concert, “Something Wicked This Way Comes,” debuted all of Priory’s music ensembles. The festive Winter Concert with the theme of, “Gloria: A Winter Concert,” was a holiday favorite.
Cookies and Classics The annual Cookies and Classics featured performers from all grade levels. Students performed a variety of talents including singing, dancing and playing musical instruments.
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with Sergio Calderon By Kelly Sargent Sergio Calderon, a very talented singer, had a summer he will never forget. A few weeks before wrapping up his junior year at Priory, Sergio received an email from a talent scout. He recalls opening the email while in Damian Cohen’s U.S. History class. “I remember sitting next to Emerson and showing him the email; we both flipped out because we thought it was so cool!” he said. That email led to a Skype audition with the casting director, and then an audition for the executive producers of a new music competition television show, Boy Band. Finally, Sergio auditioned for the architects (judges) of the show, which were Nick Carter from the Backstreet Boys, Emma Bunton from the Spice Girls, and record producer and rapper Timbaland. Sergio was cast to compete against 30 other young male vocalists, with the final prize of becoming a member of a new five-piece boy band. Throughout the summer, the Priory community watched in anticipation as Sergio advanced week by week. Over the 10-episode period, the competition had whittled down to just eight vocalists and the final five would be revealed in the finale. The Priory did not disappoint with votes for Sergio; everyone from classmates, faculty, staff, alumni, parents and even grandparents jumped on whatever electronic devices they had to vote for Sergio. At the season finale, Sergio’s family and friends anxiously watched in the audience, as the finalists were revealed one by one. Sergio shared what his thoughts were before the finale, “My mom and I were truly convinced that I wasn’t going to make the band. Something that people don’t know is that my mom already had some bags packed up on that last day! Even though we had this final plan of me going home, I still had a little bit of faith.” On August 24, 2017, the final five boys were revealed. Brady Tutton, Chance Perez, Drew Ramos, Michael Conor, and our very own Sergio Calderon were the new members of the boy band, now named, In Real Life. In Real Life also received a recording contract with Hollywood Records and would spend the next year touring and performing at events and concerts. With Sergio’s sudden life change, it also meant he would not be able to return to Priory for his senior year. “Even though I am living my dream, senior year is something I would’ve loved to live through,” he said. “I miss Priory a lot. It was honestly my second home.” So what has Sergio’s life been like since the show ended? He has walked the red carpet and attended a lot of award shows, met many artists, performed across the U.S., recorded songs, interviews, photo shoots, and met many adoring fans! A few of Sergio’s favorite moments were debuting their music video on the jumbo screens in Times Square and their recent performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live. Sergio doesn’t consider himself a celebrity even though he is often recognized and asked for photos. “I want to make sure that I always stay as grounded as possible and that’s the beauty of being in a group with other teenage guys. We just love to have fun and live our dreams,” he remarked. “When people ask for pictures, it is the best feeling ever. I love meeting the people that support us. They are the reason I am here and I’m so lucky for every single fan,” said Sergio. Sergio credits his parents for his success. “They drove me to many other auditions and gigs that I had before Boy Band.” His mom, Josefina Calderon also made a big sacrifice after Sergio joined the band, “When the show started, my mom decided to leave her job because she had to be with me and that is a big sacrifice,” he explained. “They deserve the world and I love them so much.” The future of Sergio and his band, In Real Life, will be an exciting time for them as they plan to go on tour and release an EP in the Spring. Sergio still hopes to visit Priory and join his classmates in some senior events. “It’s a very special place that made me very happy. I will miss it so much and hope that everyone’s dreams at Priory will come true. Thank you for everything!!!”
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
In Real Life
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60th ANNIVERSARY 19
In this photo, Era-jumpers Mick Jeon ‘18, Elizabeth Duncan ‘18, Emma Lewer ‘18, and Noah Willis ‘18 conduct some research on the research habits of 1967. “It was pretty cool to meet Fr. Egon—even if he couldn’t meet us.” said Duncan. It was no surprise for the entrepid timetravelers to see that the study rigors of Priory have not changed in 60 years. Although, they did note that the dress code certainly had.
60th ANNIVERSARY 20
1955-56 • Father Egon arrives. • The Gilson Ranch, eighteen acres, purchased for site of Woodside Priory School and King Saint Stephen’s Monastery.
1970-71 • Two new facilities added, the Carlton Lee Briggs Science Center and the 12,000 volume Pannonhalma Library. • Students build the Stephen T. Kalman baseball field.
1956-57 • Father Egon celebrates the first Mass at Woodside Priory, in the small ranch house, on the feast day of St. Martin, patron saint of Pannonhalma. • Fathers Leopold, Christopher, Emod, Stanley, Benignus and Achilles arrive. • Socialite Suzanne Eyre recruits eminent landscape architect Thomas Church and with her volunteers begin landscaping the Priory grounds. • First classrooms built, still in use today.
1971-72 • Father Charles Schilly is headmaster from 1971 to 1974. • The Gambetta Gymnasium and Athletic Center dedicated. 1973-74 • Seventh and eighth grades added to Woodside Priory School. • Dr. Otto Van Hapsburg, head of the Austrian House of Hapsburg, speaks at the Priory.
1957-58 • Father Emod Brunner is appointed acting headmaster for the school year. • Woodside Priory School opens with fourteen students. 1958-59 • Father Egon Javor is headmaster from 1958 to 1960. • First dormitory completed.
1974-75 • Father Christopher Hites is headmaster from 1974 to 1978. 1975-76 • Priory merges with Saint Anselm Abbey in Manchester, New Hampshire. • Saint Anselm sends four monks, including Father Martin Mager. 1976-77 • The varsity soccer team is undefeated in 20 matches, and it wins the Bay Counties League (BAC) Championship.
1959-60 • A small temporary office from the Palo Alto Veterans Hospital construction site arrives to house the Jackling rare books. This building moved about and changed roles many times. • New chapel and more classrooms are added. • Father Pius arrives.
1977-78 • Priory celebrates its 20th anniversary. • New Olympic-size swimming pool dedicated. 1978-79 • Father Jude Gray becomes headmaster. • Sixteen members of the Benedictine community are living in the monastery. Ten are members of the faculty, along with 17 lay teachers. • Church Square, the courtyard outside of the science complex, is dedicated. Around the corner, a fountain is dedicated to Mrs. Eyre and her Landscaping Committee.
1979-80 • Father Simon O’Donnell becomes headmaster. • Woodside Priory School has grown to 200 students. • Varsity baseball team wins the Bay Area Conference. 1980-81 • Father John Fortin becomes headmaster. 1981-82 • Father Simon O’Donnell becomes headmaster. • The expanded Chapel is built. Father Martin builds the pews. • The Priory receives its first seven computers; a donation from the Atari Corporation. • First Auction held.
1960-61 • The first class graduates with 9 students.
1963-64 • Father Maurus arrives. 1964-65 • The second dormitory is built. • The first of several Emerald Balls was held, signaling a change of major social fundraising events. • Priory seeks and attains the maximum level of accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
1966-67 • Woodside Priory Foundation (WPF) formed. 1967-68 • Woodside Priory School’s 10th anniversary. • Army barracks housing two temporary classrooms for ten years replaced with three new classrooms.
1968-69 Abbot Matthew Leavy of Saint Anselm enters the Priory as a novice to the priesthood in 1968. 1969-70 Woodside Priory School sponsors the Woodside Priory First Invitational Soccer Tournament.
1985-86 • Father Philip Valley becomes headmaster. • Administration Building, the ranch house, burns down. 1982-83 • Father Christopher Senk becomes headmaster. • Varsity swim team are the Bay Area Conference (BAC) champions.
1986-87 • Father Jude Gray returns as headmaster. • First campus-wide technology installation made possible through a grant by the Weigand Foundation.
1983-84 • The library is moved under the dining hall. The former library space is refurbished for use as an assembly hall and theater. • First faculty housing units built behind the gym. • Father Martin builds his first grandfather clock for the Auction.
1987-88 • Woodside Priory School celebrates its 30th anniversary. • Ground broken for Founders Hall. 1988-89 • Dr. Richard Gray becomes the first lay headmaster. • Brother Edward Englund arrives. • Tim Molak arrives as dean of students.
1991-92 • Priory becomes coeducational. • Seniors win first Priory Spirit Week. 1992-93 • Brother Joachim Froelich becomes last headmaster from Saint Anselm. 1993-94 • The first “Blessing of the Pets” is held. • Sixth grade begins at the Priory.
1994-95 • Computer enhancement plan achieved through gift of William and Rosemary Hewlett. • Priory joins the PSAL (Private Schools Athletic League). 1995-96 • Dr. Frank Cody becomes headmaster. • First coed class graduates at Woodside Priory.
60th ANNIVERSARY
1961-62 • First science lab is built. • First dance is held on campus. • Varsity soccer team wins the Peninsula Soccer League championship. The Priory fathers had brought soccer to the Bay Area. • First “Christmas Fantasies” fundraiser featured handmade ornaments and objects for sale. • The current refectory (dining hall) is built—the Priory’s first truly “architecturally designed” building.
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1997-98 • New bylaws established for the Board of Trustees. Board is reconstituted as one of limited jurisdiction, to work with a Board of Directors of Benedictine fathers from Woodside Priory and Saint Anselm. • Woodside Priory celebrates its 40th anniversary. • Tim Molak begins his first year as head of school. 1998-99 • Priory families begin to host seniors from the Republic of Slovakia to attend Priory for a year.
2015-16 • Benedictine Building is completed- 10 classrooms and a faculty lounge. • “Benedictine Square” is remodeled and renamed to “Schilling Square”. • Statue of Saint Benedict is installed in Schilling Square. • A living wall is created by students.
2002-2003 • Maas Family Commons built – seven new faculty units. • Paul Trudelle receives first Trustees Teaching Award. • Robotics team is created. 2000-2001 • Priory girls volleyball team wins its first NORCAL and State Championships. 2001-2002 • Priory girls volleyball team is the runners-up at the State Championship.
2016-17 • Father Christopher Field and Trudelle Family Track are completed. • Priory is awarded a $50,000 grant from the Edward E. Ford Foundation around the core principle of balance. • First girls lacrosse team. • Benedictine Buildings are awarded the Green Building Award.
2003-2004 • Priory hosts the International Youth Congress for Peace. • Priory celebrates Father Pius’ 50th anniversary as a Benedictine priest. • Chapel renovated and dedicated.
2017-18 • 60th anniversary of the first Mass celebrated at the Priory. • Track House and locker room completed. • Pool renovation is complete and renamed to the Joe Montero Aquatic Center. • Franklin Garden Pavilion is constructed. • Girls basketball team wins CCS for the first time.
2004-2005 • Woodside Priory School’s boarding program becomes coed. • Town of Portola Valley approves the Priory’s conditional use permit for 350 students and the Priory’s Master Plan. 2005-2006 • “Red Square” renovated and renamed “Benedictine Square”.
2018-19 • Priory celebrates its 60th anniversary. • LaureL STREAM Center is completed.
2008-09 • Father Egon Javor passes away at the age of 91. • School logo is redesigned. • First solar panels on campus. • First boys lacrosse team. 2007-2008 • Performing Arts Center completed. • Woodside Priory celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Miranda Prince ‘18 and Tatiana Reese ‘18 eavesdrop on a 1960’s phone conversation by Larry David ‘62 and friend. Prince and Reese attampted a prank call but there was no reception.
2009-10 • First 8-man football team. • Labyrinth and John Erkman Memorial Garden are built.
60th ANNIVERSARY
2006-2007 • Groundbreaking for the Performing Arts Center. • 50th anniversary of the first Mass celebrated at the Priory, by Father Egon Javor. The Priory also celebrated his 90th birthday. • Boys varsity basketball team wins it first Private School’s Athletic League (PSAL) championship. • Girls varsity soccer team wins the school’s first West Bay Athletic League (WBAL) championship. • Forty-nine boarding students live on campus.
2013-14 • Franklin Garden is built- 9000sf garden that provides the school kitchen with harvests on a daily basis. • Brother Edward Englund passes away at the age of 71. • Middle School begins iPad program.
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Athletes making the jump: Casey Walsh ‘18 (tennis), Keyshawn Ashford ‘18 (football), Anysa Gray ‘20 (soccer), Sammie Sargent ‘18 (volleyball), Sam Putney ‘18 (baseball), Amaya Gray ‘20 (track and field), Anna Barton ‘19 (lacrosse), and Emmanuel Ajanaku-Makun ‘18 (basketball), had the chance to photo-bomb a group shot of students representing the various athletic teams in 1967. As the photographer took his time to set up, the ‘67 students engaged in a rousing game of dodgeball. The gang from ‘18 joined in and, to no ones surprise, Priory won.
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60th ANNIVERSARY
CAMPUS UPDATE
New Features on Campus Franklin Garden Pavilion
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The 2017-18 school year started off with several newly constructed and renovated areas on campus. The Franklin Garden Pavilion is an addition to the Franklin Garden that provides several amenities to the garden area. The large open area in the center allows students to gather for a class, such as when chef Claudia Geoly, mother to Tessa Geoly ’19, does special food presentations to the students using freshly picked goods from the garden. The pavilion also features washing stations, prep tables, and two rooms for storage and an office space. The Track House, which is located next to the track and field, features long awaited facilities for athletics. The most exciting feature is the impressive locker room for use by the football, soccer, and lacrosse teams. Each locker has a keypad lockbox, USB charging port, and lights. A television, white board and photo of Brother Edward Englund adorn the walls. The Track House also has an athletic training room, a restroom, and two large storage rooms for equipment. The entire pool area was updated, including the name, which is now called the Joe Montero Aquatic Center, fondly renamed after the recent passing of faculty member and alumnus Joe Montero ’78. The Joe Montero Aquatic Center features a new welcoming entrance, a swimming/water polo pool, and a large scoreboard with video capabilities. Many of the pool users comment that even the water feels smoother, most likely due to the intricate pool filter system.
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Joe Montero Aquatic Center
Track House/ Locker Room
FEATURE
“Dreams and
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After sixteen months of construction, and an even longer dreaming and planning process, the new LaureL STREAM Center officially opened. Science teachers Bob Bessin, Paul Trudelle, and Lisa Wood moved into their science labs, and teachers Reed Sullivan, Shawn Matson, and Christine Hemiup took over new facilities in the Nachtsheim Art and Science Wing. The robotics team will transport their large equipment into their new digs over the
summer but will begin using the new space for assembling this year’s robot. The new building also brings big changes to the Middle School. For starters, the portable classrooms will be removed. Jessica Senn will relocate her humanities classes into room C2, and the tinker lab will fit into room C3. For the first time, all classes that face Church Square will be Middle School classes, fulfilling a long-held dream that could not have been realized without the generosity of so many donors.
FEATURE
Hard Work”
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Priory teachers have always been creative in finding ways to make learning both dynamic and engaging, and the new spaces will give them even greater opportunities for delivering curriculum or inspiring innovation. The facilities themselves are coming up to the high standards set by Priory’s instructional program. As Science, Technology, Robotics, Engineering, Art, and Math come together, the possibilities for collaboration are endless and exciting.
Who knows what designs will be sparked, what ideas will be hatched, or what projects will be conceived? This STREAM Center is the culmination of hard work and bright dreams—and will lead to invigorating work and new dreams to come.
FEATURE
Kathy Fitzgerald (parent): It’s closer to the outdoors and garden with an inviting feel that just out the door you’re in nature. Brian Schlaak: I think we’re taking some of the most creative and innovative programs in the school and putting them together. Richard Paige: Robotics used to take over a couple classrooms to build our robot, and we’d leave metal shavings all over the carpet. Now we won’t have to worry about that! Paul Trudelle: The higher ceilings will make higher pendulum and catapult demos possible. Floor outlets will help when we use many electronic balances during labs.
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Reed Sullivan: We’ll have an expansion of metalworking, such as large scale bronze casting. We’ll be able to move between the indoor and outdoor space with the sliding garage door, and more natural light will come in. There will be space for four more ceramics wheels, too.
Lisa Wood: Having a sink will be so much better than a bucket of soapy water. I can leave materials out for simultaneous and multi-day labs. Caitha Ambler: It will be a whole new reality once the Middle School students can move into complete science labs. Ultimately, the students will learn to be scientists. Ali Shah: This new building will bring robotics back to the heart of the school. Daniel Klein ‘19: The new space and technology are excellent for Priory robotics. Anika Khakoo ‘18: I’m really excited for the art classrooms. There will be a lot more space. Eva El Fishawy ‘18: Priory students are really artistic people. We’ll have more space for artistic pursuits.
Zeta Weiss ‘20: The new rooms will have a great view. When I have something nice to look at, I feel at peace and fidget less in class.
Jessica Senn: It will allow the Middle School to be more cohesive.
Isa Kowalski ‘21: I look forward to the new equipment and technology we’ll get to use.
Jose Arnaldo Mejia-Torres: The art room will have more room to organize materials. Plus the view is amazing!
Kieran Ruder ‘20: For robotics, we won’t have to drag the heavy saw outside every time. But part of me will miss the barn.
FEATURE
Christine Hemiup: The new building allows more opportunities for collaboration with art plus better facilities and equipment to make things happen.
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LaureL STREAM Center Dedication and Blessing On January 19, 2018, the LaureL STREAM Center was officially dedicated and blessed. Students, faculty, staff, and special guests gathered to hear remarks from Dave Brett, member of the Building and Grounds committee, and Father Maurus. Tim Molak then revealed the building dedications to Father Martin and Father Maurus for their commitment and passion for the arts and science. The Priory was honored to have Abbot Mark Cooper, OSB and Father Benet Phillips, OSB from Saint Anselm Abbey be present for the special event. “All of us should be proud of this beautiful building, but even more proud of the vision that some conceived to make us push forward and to make a dream, a vision, a hope a reality,” expressed Abbot Mark. In closing, the Priory community sang “Sanctuary” as Father Martin, Father Maurus, Father Benet, and Abbot Mark put their blessing on each area of the STREAM Center. It was a day to remember and a moment for our Priory history!
DARAJA
Bridges Are the Opposite of Walls
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“When we know each other as people, we win.” Jason Doherty, founder of Daraja Academy in Kenya, summed up the value of bringing Elizabeth Malibe and Mary Meshami to Priory. The girls lived with the Fathers family, gaining new sisters Ada ‘20, Jessica ‘22, and Liberty, from October 1 to 23, with a few days spent in Marin with Jason and Jenni Doherty. Elizabeth said, “I hoped to meet new people, and brilliant teachers, to eat new foods, and to make new friends, which I have.” Elizabeth shadowed classes with both Ila Lane ‘19 and Vivian Chuang ‘19 while Mary attended with Claire Kim ‘19 and Nonso Elelleh ‘19. Ila commented, “It was awesome having them around. They were warm right away.” Amaya Gray ‘20 added, “When I met them I said ‘You are beautiful’ in Swahili, and they said it back. We hugged and we had only just met!” Students may also have noticed the girls spending extra time in Chemistry, Geometry, Biology, and Psychology, their favorite classes. They presented some of the teachers, like Chemistry teacher Mr. Tang, with a Kenyan beaded bracelet as a thank you.
“I was surprised that on Wednesdays students can sleep in,” Elizabeth stated. “Our minds are not machines. I think we would do better if we could get more rest.” Mary shared her surprise at learning details about America’s government. “If someone is poor, the government tries to level their lives so they are treated the same,” she observed. Both girls also appreciate other aspects of American culture, like acceptance of homosexuality and the pervasiveness of technology in classrooms. “Our school only uses computers for a 45-minute class,” Elizabeth explained. Daraja Club members spent time sharing Priory with Mary and Elizabeth at an ice cream social, cross country practice, and at volleyball and water polo games. They also enjoyed their time making and then selling tie dye t-shirts for a fundraiser that supports Daraja Academy. As a school designed to provide an excellent college prep education for girls of promise who wouldn’t otherwise get to continue school, Daraja depends entirely on donations. “When I came here I saw that the students are kind,” Mary said. “They work together.” Elizabeth continued this theme, stating, “The students are allowed to participate in their classes so their talents can grow.” The girls would like to share these ideas with their Daraja community. Daraja’s Assistant Head of School Charles Mbuto, who accompanied Mary and Elizabeth, spent a day shadowing Brian Schlaak. “Bringing people together creates a spark,” Mr. Mbuto said. “This visit paves a way for an awareness of what we’re trying to do at Daraja.” Bob Bessin, Priory math and physics teacher, did most of the planning to make this trip possible. “Gaining the perspective of students who come from an extraordinarily different culture and economic situation gives our students a much better understanding of the significant similarities and differences from what they see
every day and what others in the world go through,” he said. Mr. Bessin, an early advocate of Daraja in 2007, also helped recruit Priory families to fund the girls’ trip and is organizing a return trip to Daraja Academy this June. During a roundtable discussion on October 23, Mary and Elizabeth were asked to compare the Kenyan education system with the American one. “In Kenya, we can hold large amounts of information in our heads for four years before we must take a final examination,” Elizabeth pointed out. The Kenyan system for teaching math is quite different; they don’t separate it into classes like Algebra, Geometry, and Calculus. “I think we have a bigger understanding because we take so much time to do the topics,” Elizabeth said, but Mary added, “I think that I prefer the way you do it here because you take a quiz at the end of each topic.” When asked what they would have Kenyan education officials change about their system, both girls agreed that they would have smaller exams more often, rather than one high-stakes test at the end of high school. Both girls were surprised by the freedoms that American students have in the way they dress and the technology they use. “I would like us to continue wearing a uniform because that makes us equal,” Elizabeth said. “I wouldn’t want us to have phones because not everyone pays attention when they have phones. The social media should be closed during class.” She also talked about Daraja’s WISH class, which stands for Women of Integrity, Strength, and Hope, where students learn public speaking, advocacy, and empowerment; Mary suggested that Priory should offer it and call it TISH for Teenagers instead. Daraja means “Bridge” in Swahili. Jason Doherty commented that “Bridges are the exact opposite of walls. Priory and Daraja are practicing this now.”
“The students are allowed to participate in their classes so their talents can grow.” The girls would like to share these ideas with their Daraja community.
DARAJA
By Kathleen Gonzalez
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ST. BENEDICT AWARD 34
With Honors On January 19, Priory kicked off the new year with a special 60th anniversary celebration. With special guests, Abbot Mark Cooper, OSB, and Father Benet Phillips, OSB, eleven distinguished individuals were recognized for their all-embracing commitment to Priory as loved ones, faculty, staff, and alumni helped to celebrate this distinct group. The evening opened up with the Priory Jazz Band entertaining the crowd as guests mingled. Board of Trustees Chair Mike Calbert welcomed the group and expressed from his point of view how the Priory was in excellent shape, and most importantly stressed that, “the Benedictine Values and Spirituality that this institution was founded on are alive and thriving.” Tim Molak continued with his appreciation for so many reasons to celebrate 60 years of Being Benedictine. “Tonight we celebrate 7 pioneering Monks who through blood, sweat, tears and prayers, founded and established this school in the Lord’s service–a true American Miracle,” he said. The crowd was also treated with an original song written by performing arts teacher, Tina Paulson called, “This is the Priory.” Drama teacher John Sugden and Tina then performed the catchy song live with a choreographed dance. As you can imagine, the show was quite the hit! Guests then took a trip down memory lane with a video showing the history and progress of the school over the past 60 years. Father Martin and Father Maurus closed the evening out sharing their personal experiences at the Priory over the past 40 years. “I should write a book,” explained Father Martin as he realized how many great stories he had to share. The following honorees were given the Saint Benedict Medal, which is the highest honor that Priory bestows. Mark Allen Don Carroll Mary Carroll Eileen DiGiorgio Eva Csicsman-Etter Jim Kirkland Father Piers Lahey ‘67 Dean and Susan Miller Ramsay and Bob Waterman Each of the honorees demonstrated years of involvement and dedication to Priory that went above and beyond. Without their good works in all fields from publishing to liturgical celebrations, they have each helped Priory to become the exceptional place it is today.
Since Established in 1999 (With the newest recipients in green.)
Peter Agoston Mark Allen Caitha Ambler Ruth Benz Dave Brett Mitzi Briggs Janet Brownstone Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Brugger Willa Budge Don Carroll Mary Carroll Josie Castaneda Stanley Charles Hovey Clark Damian Cohen Mr. and Mrs. George Clyne Richard Cooley Abbot Mark Cooper OSB Louise Davies Wayne & Cindy Davison Fran and Tom Dempsey Eileen DiGiorgio Carolyn Dobervich Mr. and Mrs. Tom DeSzily Sir Daniel Donohoe Al and Sue Ebneter Brother Edward Englund OSB Eva Csicsman-Etter Suzanne Eyre Susan Falaschi Barb Falk John and Didi Fisher Gabe Galeana
Bishop Joseph Gerry OSB Mr. and Mrs. Robert Gill Betsy Haehl Pete Hammond Rebecca Harper Tom Hennig Mr. and Mrs. Bill Hewlett Stephanie Hill Father Christopher Hites OSB Father Pius Horvath OSB Father Egon Javor OSB Dr. Pete Kasenchak Mr. and Mrs. John Kiely Gail Kimball Jim Kirkland Father John Kirwin Sue Koppett Klara Kovacs Louie Kovacs John Kriewall Harry Kutchins Father Piers Lahey ‘67 Carl and Shirley Larson Lorry Lokey Suzanne and Al Maas Father Martin Mager OSB Rick Magnuson Steve Marsheck Carol Mauss Jack and Joan McGraw Dean and Susan Miller Tim Molak Joe Montero
Jamie Nachtsheim Father Maurus Nemeth OSB Nancy Newman Mr. and Mrs. George Nicol James O’Grady Matt O’Rourke Mary Paine Hank Plain Joseph Pon Peter Reinhardt Rick Riebhoff Ray Rothrock Doug Sargent Julianna Székely Angel Simon Nate Spears Allison Stastny Mark Stogner Reed Sullivan Father William Sullivan OSB Paul Trudelle Todd Turner Andy Verhalen Betty Van Wagenen Bob Ward Bob and Ramsay Waterman Matilda Wilbur Jeff Wise Jane Yates Camille Yost Al Zappelli
ST. BENEDICT AWARD
Saint Benedict Medal Recipients
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DEVELOPMENT 36
“What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from.” - T. S. Eliot Each new year comes with a fresh start: new beginnings and dreams for the future. The incredible support of the Priory community has energized the start and fueled the achievement of our dreams. We enter 2018 with immense gratitude. For the first time in nearly four years, no active construction is taking place on campus. New classrooms are filled with students. Portable buildings are on their way out. Roads have been repaved and restriped. Runners and swimmers are enjoying their new track and new pool. Native landscaping beautifully complements every structure. The Priory campus is a joy filled oasis. The most breathtaking views of the Priory oasis are at the top of campus, from the magnificent new LaureL STREAM Center, which opened to art, robotics, and middle school science classes second semester. The entire school—students, faculty, staff, administration, builders, benefactors, instrumental leaders, our monks, and our Directors from St. Anselm Abbey in New Hampshire—gathered in the Sloss Family Maker Court for the official blessing and dedication on January 19th. As Father Maurus said in his remarks, “The LaureL STREAM Center should remind us of the past 60 years of dedicated hard work and support of so many wonderful people who believed in the vision of the founding monks. What we are seeing here today is a dream becoming a reality.”
Priory’s Vibrant Culture of Philanthropy Shines Through the Annual Fund The full force of parent generosity showed up through this year’s Annual Fund. Thanks to all who participated thus far and especially to our Class Chairs, all-school participation is at 91 percent as of the December 31st. We consider this robust response a demonstration of your belief in our work and a willingness to partner with us to advance the mission of assisting students in creating meaningful and balanced lives, developing as lifelong learners and stewards, and productively serving a world in need of their gifts. We are all fortunate indeed to be at Priory.
Suzanne Couch Director of Development
DEVELOPMENT
With the official opening, construction of our Phase III academic spaces is complete. Generous gifts from leadership families have funded 90 percent of this work. We are tremendously grateful for the partnership of the leadership families who have supported these necessary improvements. Today, and for years to come, Priory students can reach their maximum potential supported by the right tools. Over the course of the last four years, through the Building Ingenuity campaign, there truly has been an awakening. From renovation of classrooms and the track and field to the replacement of original structures, including the pool, the campus has been reborn. Our community-wide 60th anniversary celebrations will culminate with the opportunity for all to contribute to this campaign and be a part of this dramatic campus renaissance. Completing the construction phase of the campaign may feel like an ending, but as T.S. Eliot reminds us, “the end is where we start from.” As we acknowledge and celebrate the past 60 years and begin the next, filled with hope and promise, we know the founding monks are smiling from the heavens.
“Completing the construction phase of the campaign may feel like an ending, but as T.S. Eliot reminds us, ‘the end is where we start from.’”
Lord God, you who are the giver of all good things, we ask you to bless this building which is dedicated to the education of young women and men of the Priory in the arts and sciences. May they always be inspired to use their knowledge for the good of the human family and for Your greater glory. Guide and protect all those, students, faculty and visitors who enter here. We thank you for this day and this gift. Amen
-Prayer by Abbot Mark
We were fortunate to have Abbot Mark Cooper, OSB on campus to offer the LaureL STREAM Center blessing during his annual Directors visit from Saint Anselm Abbey in Manchester, New Hampshire. His very first visit to Priory was as Brother Mark Cooper in the fall of 1975, when at the request of Father Pius Horvath, the Abbey graciously shared four monks, including Father Martin Mager, OSB to bolster the dwindling monastic community. As a U.S History teacher, Abbot Mark taught Joe Montero ‘76.
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REUNION RECAP 38
2017 Reunion Reignites Priory Bond With more than 100 alumni and guests in attendance, Priory’s 2017 Reunion Weekend this past Sept. 15-17 was a smashing success. Over the three-day weekend, generations of alumni were able to reconnect with former classmates, the monastic community, current and former faculty, and explore how the campus has evolved. A big win from the Panther football team kicked off the weekend at the Alumni Football Game, followed by an evening social at the newly remodeled Aquatic Center. As alumni mingled, they enjoyed the famous wood fired pizzas from Father Martin Mager and Priory chef Ruben Zambrano, along with a wine tasting featuring alumni-owned or managed wineries. The Priory spirit and camaraderie echoed through campus the next day at a sunset cocktail reception and dinner in the Performing Arts Center. All those in attendance enjoyed hearing from alumni speakers Larry David ’62,
REUNION RECAP 39
Greg Hampton ’67, Andrew Valentine ’82 and Edward Sun ’87, on the foundational impact Priory made on them when they were students and how important it is for them to remain active members in the community. The festivities were highlighted with special recognition for the milestone classes, including a heartfelt reflection about the Class of 1967 celebrating their 50th reunion from Father Maurus and a touching tribute and prayer to conclude the evening from Father Pius Horvath. Before closing out the weekend, alumni convened one last time for Mass in the Priory Chapel and a brunch hosted in the monastic dining room. Save-the-date for the 2018 Reunion on Saturday, April 14! If you would like to get involved with the Alumni Association or serve as Class Captain, please contact the Alumni Office at alumni@prioryca.org or 650.851.6176. Please note, there will not be a fall reunion.
40 REUNION RECAP
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REUNION RECAP
42 REUNION RECAP
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REUNION RECAP
CLASS NEWS & NOTES 44
Lori Teraoka ’04 is enrolled in Duke University’s graduate physician assistant program and will graduate this spring.
James Cirino ’00 married Angie on June 3, 2017 in front of family and friends. The newlyweds enjoyed honeymooning in Maui for eight days, before returning home to Texas. James continues to work at Sabre Airline Solutions and is in his second year as the team lead IT project manager.
Pablo Avalos ’02 is currently a physician practicing in the Los Angeles area. While participating in a medical conference at Stanford, he visited Priory to attend Mass and spent time with Father Maurus on January 21.
Meaghan Gerhart ’10 lives in Minneapolis, Minn. and works as the Sales and Marketing Communications Manager for Inspectorio, an early-stage SaaS startup. While the cold was an adjustment, she loves exploring all that the North has to offer! Veronique Filloux ’11 is currently completing her master’s degree in opera performance at the University of Maryland. Following graduation in May 2018, she will be performing at the Central City Opera in Colorado, along with upcoming scheduled performances during the spring of 2018 and 2019 in Chicago. Kathleen Gregory ’12 will graduate from Stanford University with a Master’s in computer science in Spring 2018. In addition to teaching computer science and ethics classes to undergraduate students, she is a member of the Stanford ski and cycling teams and running club. Following graduation, Kathleen will spend the summer and fall hiking the Pacific Crest Trail from Canada to Mexico with her brother, John ’16, before joining Google Translate to work in its London office.
Did you get your Priory sunglasses this fall? Thanks to all the alumni who came from near and far to visit the campus this past fall! Next time you’re in the area, be sure to stop by the Priory, catch up with the monks, former teachers and see the Alumni Office for your Priory sunglasses! If you know you’re going to be visiting campus and would like to arrange a tour or shadow a class, please email alumni@prioryca.org.
Alyson Perna ‘12 is working at the San Diego Padres as an Account Executive with the Membership Development Department, selling season tickets and suites. She began working at the Padres following her 2016 graduation from the University of San Diego. Courtney Cheung ’13 graduated from Cornell University in 2017 and is working at Nutanix as a global marketing programs specialist. Carmen Cordova ’13 graduated from Colby College in 2017 and currently works as a Formalities Specialist at Oblon LLP. Sam Crow ’13 graduated from the University of Washington in 2017 and is currently enrolled in graduate school at UC San Diego in the computer science and engineering department. Brian DiGiorgio ’13 graduated from Carleton College in 2017 and is enrolled at UC Santa Cruz’s astrophysics PhD program.
Max Goumas ’14 is a junior at UC IrRachel Leiter ’14 will graduate from vine, where he is majoring in astrophysics Whitman College this spring with a Bachand minoring in archeology. elor of Arts in psychology.
Molly O’Toole ’13 graduated Summa Cum Laude in December 2016 with a degree in political science from Loyola Marymount University and currently is enrolled at UC Hastings College of Law.
Chris Gregory ’14 is graduating from Bucknell in May with a triple major in theatre, animal behavior and French, and a minor in dance. In addition to balancing a demanding school workload, he is a member of the school’s cheerleading team, an EMT and volunteer firefighter, manager of the campus nightclub, and is involved in campus theatre productions. Chris plans to spend the summer of 2018 working as a senior staffer at “Mountain Camp” at his beloved Priory, before spending the year preparing for the MCAT.
Jessica Stafford ’13 is a student at San José State University and is interning for the San Francisco Police Department in the homicide division. Shivani Dayal ‘14 will graduate from Wellesley College this spring. Over the past two years, she has studied abroad in Denmark, participated in the Madeleine Albright Institute for Global Affairs and studied public health in rural India. Shivani is a neuroscience major with a minor in public health and plans to work in the field of global health.
Madison Hughes ’14 is completing her professional year at the University of Portland, studying elementary education and teaching in the classroom. She is looking forward to coming back to sunny California following graduation.
Welcome Back! Several alumni have returned to the Priory in various job roles. (l-r) Wes Bennicas ‘05, Strength and Conditioning Coach/ Assistant Dean of Students; Louis Stromeyer ‘13, Robotics Mentor; George Schnurle ‘04, Computer Science faculty/Robotics Mentor; Marcus Stromeyer ‘11, History and Social Science faculty; Kaitlin Bonfiglio ‘12, Residential Life faculty. (Not pictured: Eric Turnquist ‘12, History and Social Sciences faculty.)
Bianca Rapp ’14 will graduate from Drew University this spring and is currently working on research models of anxiety and depression in rats. Her research aims at better understanding the effects and different behaviors, in addition to exploring whether the behaviors provided by the mothers can counter the anxiety and depression. Sarah Reid ’14 is completing her senior thesis examining how children learn and understand words with multiple meanings during language development. She will graduate this spring from Princeton University. Erin Simpson ’14 is majoring in nutrition with a minor in biology at Cal Poly SLO. She will graduate this June and plans to become a registered dietitian. Gabrielle Filloux ’15 worked with broadway director Darko Tresnjak at the regional theatre Hartford Stage, playing Cobweb in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. She currently is enrolled at the University of Hartford Hartt School of Music.
CLASS NEWS & NOTES
Avery Minor ’13 graduated from UCLA in spring of 2017 and is in her first year of law school at Boston College.
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CLASS NEWS & NOTES 46
Graham Hughes ’16 is studying electrical engineering and computer science at Delara Fotovatjah ’17 is in her first year at Chapman University, balancing UC Berkeley. life as a student-athlete on the women’s Cami Kaplan ’16 is currently running tennis team. a company called Anchor Labs, which Rachel Goines ’17 made her is in the cyber-manufacturing industry, while pursuing a degree in computer sci- off-Broadway debut over the summer and currently is writing, directing and starring James Phelps ’15 is actively engaged ence at UC Santa Barbara. in a grant-funded web-series. in Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity and studying public policy with a Hana Marsheck ’16 is a sophomore at concentration in economics at the Univer- Baylor University and is a member of the Greer Hoffmann ’17 is a freshman at Vassar and is currently enjoying women’s cross country and track teams. sity of Redlands. As a freshman, she was the only walk-on self-studying Cantonese and playing violin. to make the varsity cross country team Elizabeth Putnam ’15 is attending and attended the NCAA National ChamClark University and is very involved Eugene Miller ‘17 began working in a pionship in Terre Haute, Indiana. on campus as the vice president of the research lab over the second semester at school’s GSA, and a member of the trans/ Trinity College. Rachel Wolff ’16 is a sophomore at non-binary/gender non-conforming Tufts University and is studying political club on campus. They are also balancing Gianna Rose Morales ’17 is enjoyscience and international relations. school with working a part-time job. ing studying musical theatre at Foothill College. Matthew Carusi ’17 completed his Gigi de Fort-Menares ’16 is in her second year at McGill University studying first semester at Colgate University and is enjoying experiencing living in rural life sciences and specializing in animal upstate New York. He is looking forward health and disease. to what the next four years have in store for him. John Gregory ’16 spent the summer of 2017 as a wrangler in Paradise Ranch, WY, practicing his new skills as a farrier after attending Oklahoma Horse Shoeing School. He currently is a sophomore at Colorado State University, majoring in fish, wildlife and conservation biology and minoring in equine science. In addition to school, he works for a vet, helps train horses, volunteers at a food kitchen and is a member of the Pre-Vet Club. John is also enjoying spending time hiking, skiing, exploring spiritual pursuits, music, dancing and being outside as much as Thanksgiving Alumni Boys’ Game possible. He looks forward to hiking the Pacific Crest Trail with his sister Kathleen Bringing together the Priory current and alumni community the night before Thanksgiving, the boys basketball program hosted the annual Alumni Boys’ Basketball Game. Suiting up like old times, the former ’12 over the summer and fall. Bailey Marsheck ’15 participated in the UC San Diego Department of Political Science spring 2017 UCDC Program in Washington, D.C., interning at the American Foreign Policy Council. He also just completed a study abroad program in Berlin, Germany over Fall 2017.
Panthers hit the hardwood to square off with the current team in front of fellow alumni, alumni parents and current parents in Gambetta Gym.
CLASS NEWS & NOTES
Home for the Holidays Rings in Christmas Cheer Before gearing up for Christmas, young alumni enjoyed celebrating the season at the Alumni Association’s annual Home for the Holidays social in Founders Hall. Holiday cheer, mingling with classmates home from college and enjoying Father Martin and Ruben’s pizzas added to the merriment.
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Thanksgiving Alumni Girls’ Soccer Game Before feasting on a delicious Thanksgiving meal with family and friends, alumnae participated in the inaugural Alumni Girls’ Soccer Game versus the current Panther varsity team. Pictured above (l-r): Molly Simpson, Lexi Garrity, Erin Simpson, Lauren Allen, Alyson Perna, Caitlin Teoman, and Kaitlin Bonfiglio
48 IN MEMORIAM
JULIANNA SZÉKELY Julianna Székely, 75, an employee of Woodside Priory School for 32 years, died on September 17, 2017 after battling cancer. Julianna was born on June 4, 1942 in Gyergyóújfalu, a small village in Harghita County, also known as Székely Land in Transylvania, Romania. She was raised on a farm with her five siblings and helped with the animals and harvesting the crops. At the age of fourteen, Julianna followed her sister Elisabeth’s steps and moved to Marosvásárhely, Romania to become a live-in nanny/housekeeper for a well known dentist. On August 17, 1963 Julianna married János Székely Sr., Julianna met János by doing what she loved to do: dancing. They had two beautiful children, Anikó and János, Jr. János Sr. had attempted to escape the communism in Romania for many years but after several unsuccessful attempts, he finally escaped in 1984 and ended up in California. With János Sr.’s Hungarian background, he was referred to Woodside Priory School where he met Father Maurus and was hired as a handyman for the school. Julianna and the children reunited with János Sr. in 1985 when they came to America and Julianna joined János Sr. at Priory when she began working in the kitchen. The Priory dining hall became Julianna’s second home in many ways; her co-workers became her family and she fed each and every person like they were her children. Her heaping portions of food became legendary. Julianna enjoyed spending her weekends with her children and their families. They went camping, fishing, motorcycle racing, and toured around the U.S. and Canada. János Sr. was never tired of driving and loved showing the family endless adventures. Julianna had great additions but also unexpected losses in her family. Julianna became a grandmother in 1993 when her son János Jr. had twins, but sadly her husband passed away just 11 days after the twins were born. Her son János Jr., then passed away in 2009 after a fifteen-month battle with colon cancer. But Julianna’s heart was filled with joy again when she became a great-grandmother three years ago. Julianna was proud that her family stuck together through the ups and downs and instilled the same family values in the generations to come. She is survived by her brother, Marci; sisters, Mariska and Erzsike (Elizabeth); daughter, Anikó and her husband Sándor Nino; two grandchildren, János and James, and a great-grandson, Jax. Peter Agoston, the Priory kitchen manager, reflected on how special Julianna was, “Her infectious smile and love towards all, will be sorely missed, but especially by us, here in the Kitchen, her home. Julianna was our mother, our foundation, someone who cared about all of us, a few of us have know her for 30+ years. She was a loyal friend, dedicated colleague, and a loving mother/ grandmother, that cannot be replaced.”
IN MEMORIAM
In Memoriam
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IN MEMORIAM 50
REMEMBERING
C O A C H
JOE
“How’s it going, Champ?” “Go get ‘em, Champ!” “We’ll get ‘em next time, Champ.” To Joe Montero, Priory alum, coach, teacher and Assistant Dean of Students, everyone was his “champ.” The truth, though, is that he was our champion. Champion of the athlete—the stars and the bench-warmers—the stressed-out student, the quiet student, the depressed student. Of the student who was none of the above, but just happened to pass Joe on campus. “Trying to get anywhere with him took forever,” laughed Andrew Daniel, Middle School English teacher, and Joe’s good friend. “He loved to talk to people, to hear their stories...to help people figure out how to deal with their situation.” It’s safe to say that everyone on campus loved Joe. Even students who only had him one year as a teacher, or not even not at all, felt a fondness for him. But who was the man behind the deep gravelly voice, the full belly laugh, and the joie de vivre which he shared so freely? Before he was lovingly known as “Coach Joe” or “J-money”, he was just Joe, or Joseph Bernardo Montero, Jr, to be exact. The third of five children, he was born in San Francisco and raised in Woodside. He was “wild and crazy”, his wife, Lindsay, said and credited the Priory for providing the structure and discipline he needed in high school. “He always said he went to the Priory because he wouldn’t have graduated from anywhere else,” she chuckled. And of course, Joe loved soccer. As a student, he was Priory’s goalie and continued to play throughout his adulthood. It was his love of the sport that brought him back to campus as a coach 22 years after graduating with the class of 1976. “He just loved soccer...he’d watch it 24/7. And he got so much joy out of coaching the Priory boys and girls,” Lindsay said. When the Montero’s son, Joe, was old enough to don cleats, his dad was on the field, coaching him, too. It’s fitting that Joe would have a passion for a sport that embodies teamwork. “Joe was a team player, he taught me what it means to be a Priory man,” said Father Martin. A new teacher when Joe was a senior, Father Martin remembers Joe the student well. “As a student, it wasn’t about himself, it was about the school, the friends he had, the connections he established.” Joe maintained that philosophy during his 20-year professional tenure at the Priory. “No one is bigger than the school,” Andrew recalled him saying often. “There’s no “I” in team,” he’d tell his math students. But what fueled his joy, the positivity that seemed to lay the foundation for seemingly every action he took, conversation he had? When asked for the secret, Lindsay gave a laugh. “You know, I’ve been trying to figure that out myself...I think his dad had a lot to do with it. He had a great relationship with his dad, and he was very positive too.” Joe was committed to carrying on that strong bond with his own son. When “Little Joe” was born, “Big Joe” turned to his soccer buddies and said, “Let’s only be friends with guys who are good dads.” Any student of Joe’s can attest that with his jovial disposition came a sense of purposeful irreverence. “He was rooted, to the community, to keeping a balance in Silicon Valley, to lessen the stress of very high-achieving teens,” Andrew said. “He knew how to manage a crisis, but he also knew how to make people relaxed and laugh.” On one of their last walks around campus together, Joe shared his teaching philosophy with Andrew. “He told me, ‘I never cared about the classes I taught, but about the students. I am interested in them, their views, their lives. The classes and books never really mattered to me.’” It can never be doubted that Joe was a beloved figure on campus. The question though, is did he know just how much he meant to everyone? Did he realize the impact he had on the day to day lives of those around him? When asked, Lindsay responded, “I think he knew the parents loved him, that the students did. But I don’t think he knew just how much. Even I didn’t.” And while it’s tempting to see sadness in this, that a man so beloved passed without knowing his own greatness, it also underscores who Joe was at his core. Because Joe was never about himself. He was about the Priory, about the community. After all, no one is bigger than the school, and there’s no “I” in team. Rest in peace, Champ.
IN MEMORIAM
By Emily (Kirkland) Mangini ‘01
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MONASTERY NEWS 52
60th Anniversary Mass On November 12, 2017, the Priory monastic community celebrated a special Mass of Thanksgiving in honor of the 60th anniversary. The principal celebrant was Abbot Elias Lorenzo, OSB from the American Cassenese Congregation, in addition to the concelebrants, Father Henrik Ontko, OSB from St. Martin Archabbey; Father Anselm Smedlie, OSB from St. Anselm Abbey; Father Piers Lahey ’67, from St. Andrew Parish; Father Martin Mager, OSB, and Father Pius Horvath, OSB.
NEWS FLASH!
In Honor of
The new STREAM center has inspired Priory science teachers and students to tackle an ambitious experiment: time travel. It has been said that time travel is impossible. However, the photos submitted herein beg to differ. Participating student “Era-jumpers” discovered that, even though they could beam into the past for a short amount of time, they were invisible to the people of the particular Priory period they landed in. Hence, in the historic photos presented in the following pages, they appear as ghosts.
Priory's 60th Anniversary
SAVE
Shown here: Elizabeth Duncan ‘18 and Emerson Swan ‘18 stroll down the original Priory driveway in 1957. At first they thought they were lost.
the
DATE
Saturday, March 17, 2018
CLUB
On the cover: In an apparent backwash, or as Science teacher Gabe Tang termed it, “a time burp,” students from 1962 found themselves wandering a little confused in front of the new STREAM center.
Board of Directors Abbot Mark Cooper, OSB Father John Fortin, OSB Father Benet Phillips, OSB Father Martin Mager, OSB Father Maurus Nemeth, OSB
Priorities magazine is published in the Winter, Spring and Summer by Woodside Priory School for its alumni, parents, students, neighbors, and friends.
Chapel Services
Masses at 7:15 a.m. Monday-Saturday 9:30 a.m. Sunday 11:00 a.m. Sunday Hungarian service All are welcome.
Board of Trustees Brian Axe Catherine Boyle Dave Brett Mike Calbert Mike Carusi Laura Cornish Craig Dauchy Eileen DiGiorgio Dominique Filloux Kathryn Fitzgerald Cathy Gawne Phil Golden ‘76 Karen Gregory Tom Halbach Sandy Herz Greg Hughes
Bob Larson Father Jonathan Licari, OSB Stephen Nachtsheim Jennifer Nash Nancy Newman Stan Pierson Stewart Putney Beckie Robertson Kari Rust Dave Schinski Sally Screven Edward Sun ‘87 Anne Senti-Willis Phil Young
60
P riory G ala
Contact the Communications Office at 650-851-6131 or the school at 650-851-8221.
auction • D inner • DancinG
Editor: Kelly Sargent
S haron h eiGhtS G olf & c ountry c lub
Contributing Writers: Diana A. Chamorro, Kathleen Gonzalez, Emily (Kirkland) Mangini ‘01, Kelly Sargent Design/Production: Jim Kirkland, J. Ennis Kirkland Creative Services Photos: Jose Aguirre, Molly Buccola, Sergio Calderon, Diana A. Chamorro, Jennifer Hammer, Jim Kirkland, Father Martin Mager, Kelly Sargent, Yary Photography Printing: Colorprint, Mark W. Allen Proofreader: Michelle Taffe
For more information, please visit www.prioryca.org/gala
Woodside Priory School 302 Portola Road Portola Valley, CA 94028 (650) 851-8221 fax (650) 851-2839
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A Magazine of the Priory · Issue #69 · Winter 2018
2018
ALUMNI REUNION Saturday, April 14 • 4 p.m.
All are welcome!
For more information or to RSVP: www.prioryca.org/reunion
Celebrating the Milestone Classes of:
1963, 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013
Priory at 60 Celebrating Our Past Inspiring Our Future
