We Are the Light by Eric Buell, Director of Catholic Identity As the 2019-2020 school year began, our faculty and staff gathered to examine 25 quotes from the letters of venerable Nano Nagle. The intent of this exercise was to adopt a quote from our foundress in order to keep our mission front and center for our students. One quote that was taken by a number of faculty declared: “The best works meet with the greatest crosses.” No one could have guessed how the school year would have ended when a variety of committees collaborated to choose our school theme for this year: “We Are the Light.” Looking to capture the spirit of Nano Nagle venturing continually out into uncertain conditions, guided by the light of her lantern and the convictions of her faith in Jesus, she zealously dedicated herself to the education of the forgotten. During our liturgical celebrations, our students began each Mass or prayer service singing Unspoken’s “Start a Fire” and ended each Mass joyfully proclaiming “This Little Light of Mine.” Guided by Nano’s initial footsteps, Presentation graduates are encouraged to be women of faith and intelligence, and committed to their personal growth and the service to PRES | 34
others. In the pages of this magazine you will see countless examples of our senior class who exemplified our theme and our graduation outcomes, especially those seniors receiving special honors including our Nano Nagle award recipient, Kathy Barajas ’20. In our first quarter, students reflected with their mentors on what it means to walk in the light of God and had the opportunity to nominate students who reflected this core idea. Our students nominated 285 unique individuals as people who were clear examples. In addition to Kathy Barajas ’20, our students honored three others. Kiara Francisco ’21 who was highlighted for constantly strengthening her relationships and being a continued positive presence for her friends and peers. Mrudula Chodavarapu ’22 was honored for creating an organization that makes beanies for cancer patients. Danica Kubota ’23 was nominated by her peers as they continually called out her generosity and positive presence to everyone she passes in the hallways. Paige Jackson ’21 and Faguni Gupta ’21 served as leaders of the freshman retreat. Paige gave a heartfelt talk to the freshmen regarding her faith in God and how she nourishes
