Presentation High School Dance Team decorated the school with many awards this year, including making Northern California history by bringing home the title of Nationals Grand Champion.
From left: Caitlin Conway '22, Rachel Ford '22, Isabella Barrientos '22, Ashley Arasato '22, Brighton Smedt '21, Nicole Villamar '22, Rylee Churnin '22, Paloma Winters '22, Janine Hernandez '21, Michelle Ledezma '21, Francesca Matesso '21, Aeryn Ovanezian '21 and Kira Jackson '21
This is the highest prize at the Contest of Champions Nationals competition on March 6, 2021. Normally, the 13-member varsity and 12-member junior varsity dance teams travel to Orlando, Florida to compete. Due to COVID-19, however, most contests this school year were 100% virtual. All teams performed at home in accordance with school and community safety guidelines and entered their routines into the competition via video.
“Given the pandemic, this was even more incredible because our restrictions in Santa Clara County were much tighter than for teams in other parts of the country.” Sara Fugate, PHS Dance Director
This is the first time a Northern California school was awarded the National Grand Champion. Go Panthers! 2 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Aeryn Ovanezian '21
PRES MAGAZINE
Summer 2021
Table of Contents
The Presentation magazine is typically published twice a year for parents, alumnae and friends of Presentation High School. For address changes or questions, contact news@presentationhs.org. Graphic Design: Nancy Ingersoll and Kimberly Walters Photography: Bacosa Photography 2281 Plummer Avenue, San Jose, CA 95125 www.presentationhs.org (408) 264-1664 Facebook: www.facebook.com/presentationhs Instagram: www.instagram.com/mylifeisplaid Twitter: www.twitter.com/presentationhs
2
Dance Team
4
Valedictorian
5
Letter from the President
7
Letter from the Principal
8
Art & Literature Magazine: Boundless "Reverie"
9
Strength in Community
10
The Call to Encounter and Dialogue
12
Year at a Glance
14
Speech & Debate
15
Robotics: A Season Like No Other
16
College Bound Athletes
17
Athletics: Panthers Persevere Despite Uncertainty
18
2021 Synopsys Virtual Science Fair Winners
19
National Yearbook Program of Excellence
20
Isabella Correa, A Shining Pres Graduate
22
Caitlin Gorin Recognized for 3D Printing
24
Jadelynn Dao Announced Top 40 National Winner
26
Platinum Project Highlights
27
Faculty & Staff Milestones
28
Class of 2021
34
Awards and Scholarships
40
Class of 2021 College Acceptances
42
Women Who Serve
43
Alumnae: Class Highlights
47
Career Day
48
Fashion Show: Rise Up!
50
In Memoriam SUMMER 2021 | 3
"We’ll be Wonder Women taking college classes, Wonder Women behind masks, Wonder Women going to job interviews, Wonder Women building a home, Wonder Women filing taxes and buying groceries, but always Wonder Women. And with that, we fold our chairs and celebrate the Presentation Class of 2021. We really were number one."
Meghan Bedi, Class of 2021 Valedictorian
LETTER FROM THE
President
Dear Friends of Presentation,
Inspired and energized by the light of Nano and the resiliency of our students, the Presentation experience prevailed in the face of unimaginable challenges this year. Our faculty and staff moved mountains and upended their lives in pursuit of fulfilling this promise, and we cannot possibly thank them enough for their dedication and personal sacrifices. Their incredible commitment to our educational mission never wavered, and I am in awe of all that our community accomplished this year. As you peruse these pages, you may find yourself, like me, in awe of the Class of 2021. Our graduates deserve incredible praise and recognition. This class has been a force since day one, and they have left an indelible mark—not only because they won the spirit trophy four years in a row, but also for their collective fortitude, courage, integrity, generosity and great love. They have strength and wisdom far beyond their years, and they are each a living example of Nano’s unwavering commitment to justice and service to others. We are a better school and a stronger community thanks to the class of 2021, and I cannot wait to see the force for good they will each become in our world. As we look back and pay homage to this past year—one that we are eager to say goodbye to, yet one we will likely never forget—we find stories of strength, generosity and creativity that give us hope for the future. From the moments of joy we shared collecting turkeys and celebrating the Junior Ring ceremony, to the creative virtual musical productions, concerts and truly hilarious Feast Show, to the condensed, yet three full athletic seasons that were finally realized, all culminated in our glorious class day mass and graduation ceremonies that we celebrated together. The spirit of Presentation High School gave us purpose, carried us through, united us, regardless of distance between us. This year also reminded us that Pres would not be the remarkable school we are today without our families. Our theme for the year was “Strength in Community.” We are so grateful to our parents who partnered with us in far more hands-on ways this year to ensure their daughters successfully navigated the challenges of attending class from home. Our entire community set records on our Crowds4Pres day of giving and supported our reimagined Fashion Show & Student Showcase and auction. Thank you so much! As we look forward to the promise of a new school year at Pres, we draw strength from each of you and from our rich and wonderful history. The Class of 2021’s faith, grit and moxie call on us to look boldly ahead and unite around our mission—the path illuminated by Nano and the Sisters. Our hearts are forever grateful to all of you.
In Partnership,
Holly Elkins President
SUMMER 2021 | 5
#PRESCLASSOF2021
99%
Attending College
11
Members of the National Honor Society
68
Lifetime Members of the California Scholarship Federation
25
Students recognized in the National Merit Competition
10
Committed Intercollegiate Athletes
334
Hours of Community Service
LETTER FROM THE
Principal
Dear Friends of Presentation,
Our summer magazine is traditionally a celebration of our graduation outcomes—specifically, who we want our students to be as a result of their Presentation experience. In this edition, you will see some of the accomplishments of the Class of 2021, such as their awards and college acceptances, and also view pictures of them as they celebrate their last months as Presentation students. The most important “outcomes,” however, are not simply measured by their honors or attending prestigious universities. While we are very proud of these achievements, our greatest source of pride is who they have become as young women. And, they’ve done all of this under the most exceptional and unprecedented circumstances. The Class of 2021 graduates from Presentation are resilient and empowered as women. They are intellectually competent and poised to compete in any arena they will serve. They are women of faith and recognize they are called to serve others, especially those less fortunate. And they leave Presentation committed to lifelong learning, as they develop into the person God wants them to be. I am proud of the education we provided in partnership with their parents and am confident the Class of 2021 will affect great good in their communities. If the last 18 months have taught us anything, it is that life is precious, and community makes us whole. We look forward to welcoming our sophomores, juniors and seniors back to school in August for a full return to in-person learning and are excited for the Class of 2025 to join us. Our theme for next year is “Do Small Things with Great Love,” and we plan to embrace this in all of our work to gently and joyfully return as a community. Thank you for your support and for being a member of our community. Pray for us as we plan for another school year and continue to carry on the ministry of Nano Nagle and the Sisters of the Presentation. May we light the lantern for generations to come.
In Partnership,
Katherine Georgiev Principal
SUMMER 2021 | 7
Presentation High School Art & Literature Magazine:
Boundless, Reverie
"Severance" Madison Goffney '22
Boundless was created to put together a quality
"Parhelion" Ella Zhang '22
magazine that reflects the importance and love of the arts and literature at Presentation. It is an opportunity for students to showcase their talents and skills in all forms and connect with our alumnae creatives. Inspired by such extraordinary artwork, photography and writing, this magazine is filled with the passion, creativity and dreams of our student artists and recognized by our talented alums. "Ghost of the Past" Jasmine Wong '21
From more than 300 student submissions, pieces of Art, Design, Photography and Writing were selected from student peers. Additionally, five alumnae, in various creative fields, selected pieces as the most outstanding from the categories. You can view the entire portfolio of the 2021 Volume III, “Reverie” at
www.presentationhs.org/arts Last year's edition, “Metamorphosis,” was selected to receive the rank of Excellent in the 2020 NCTE Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines (REALM) program through the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). Several members of the Art and Lit magazine team will be attending art schools in the fall including the magazine director, Jasmine Wong '21, who will be attending Parsons in New York and designed the magazine layout.
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"Untitled" Ming-Chau Pham '22
STRENGTH IN COMMUNITY By Eric Buell, Director of Catholic Identity
One of the defining characteristics of the early Christian Church was its deeply held sense of community. They needed to adapt to constantly changing conditions and worship in their own homes. I wonder what these earliest believers would have thought approaching St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome or St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Could they have envisioned a future where such things existed as they lived in secrecy amidst persecution? The past year has stretched our imagination and definition of what it means to be a school community. Over the course of this pandemic, we have had to reimagine what it means to learn and pray and, even, be together. The line dividing the challenges we faced at home and the challenges we face at school or work were erased.
Senior Retreat Campus Ministry was very excited to welcome our seniors back on campus for Senior Retreat. Senior Retreat offers a profound experience where seniors have an opportunity to reflect upon their four years of high school, reflect upon the relationships and friendships they have formed, and to look ahead to the type of human being they want to be.
Yet through it all, the light of Nano Nagle’s lantern was still burning. While the buildings were closed, school continued. Teachers adapted curriculum and assessments continually, students showed up and put in the work and parents and caretakers rallied together to keep things moving. None of this was easy. None of this was comfortable. In one of the letters we have from Nano Nagle, she writes as she is starting her schools: “You see it has pleased the Almighty to make me succeed, when I had everything as I may say, to fight against.” As we look back on the most unusual and difficult year in the history of Presentation High School (without forgetting what has been lost), where have we found success, growth, love, hope and strength? These moments and the experiences that have shaped us this past year will be the (re)building blocks of our future community. As the earliest Christians could not imagine the splendor of future cathedrals, what will our experience help us to create and form in the years to come? I remain hopeful that the community we forged together in tough times will bear great fruit for us as long as we remain anchored to our vision of a school whose foundation is Christ and whose students are faithful and fearless in their pursuits. SUMMER 2021 | 9
THE CALL
to Encounter and Dialogue By Crystal Catalan, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
In Pope Francis’ latest encyclical, Fratelli tutti, he writes, “If we want to encounter and help one another, we have to dialogue.” No doubt, the “twin pandemics” of the global health crisis of COVID-19 and racial injustice events have only emphasized the importance and necessity of having healthy dialogue with one another - both topics which not only affect our world, but also our family here at Presentation High School. While maintaining social distance, now more than ever, dialogue and healthy communication has been essential to creating brave spaces for learning, discomfort, challenge, love and support. Since the beginning of the school year, students gathered virtually in small “cohorts” and were led through a series of discussions by their adult facilitators to check-in with each other and process how things were going. Through this process, students were invited to speak from the heart, engage in deep listening as they heard from one another, and establish positive relationships with one another. This has been a critical part of our collective journey this year, accompanying each other through the moments of hardships and joy that we have each uniquely experienced. Though this year has presented a number of obstacles, there has also been an invitation to think creatively, thoughtfully and persistently. And, there have been many things to celebrate and be grateful for. Led by the efforts of the DEI Team, in commitment to the current DEI Action Plan, our community is grateful for the leadership of Dr. Sandra “Chap” Chapman who led trainings for our faculty/staff and parents/guardians on microaggression and racial anxiety. Additionally, members of the DEI Team and Administration had the opportunity to participate in a two-day intensive training focusing on the implementation of restorative justice practices on existing policies.
10 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
We are also grateful to have established the HR Director position, which is dedicated to creating more equitable practices through our hiring processes and providing for a more diverse applicant pool. Our student and adult affinity groups have also been underway, not skipping a beat and remaining firmly committed to creating spaces for education, exploration of cultural identity, celebration, dialogue and support. Our Black Student Union led monthly Brown Bag Lunch discussions on various topics including “African Americans in the Catholic Church,” LatinX led a beautiful prayer service in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and our Asian and Pacific Islander Student Union (APISU) led a series of discussions during Diversity Week on #StopAsianHate and violence against the API community. Led by Maestra Heidi Contreras, we are also so grateful for our Familias Unidas parent affinity group, who hosted “Noche de Mariscos” during Diversity Week, sharing with us music and food from their culture within the Pres community. Our Diversity Week this past March was truly a success, celebrating the array of diversity among our community— that which makes us Presentation. Through dance, original poetry and art, students were invited to share their cultural heritage and unique identities with all of us at the Multicultural Rally, an inspiring event led by junior, Galilea Escobedo '22. The momentum created with this kick-off event paved the way for themed discussions throughout the week on topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, including ableism, neurodiversity, racism, and justice. As Pope Francis continues, “Unlike disagreement and conflict, persistent and courageous dialogue does not make headlines, but quietly helps the world to live much better than we imagine.” Through dialogue, I firmly believe that we can build bridges, recognize the inherent dignity of one another, and work together collaboratively to create a more just, loving world for each other and generations to come. This year has been no exception, and we continue to learn, grow and move forward. Onward!
Do you have an idea? Would you like to serve our efforts towards diversity, equity, inclusion and justice in any way? We would love to hear from you! Please contact Crystal Catalan, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion with any thoughts and questions at ccatalan@presentationhs.org.
SUMMER 2021 | 11
YEAR AT A GLANCE The moment Presentation was faced with the challenge to move teaching and learning online, the entire school pivoted in just two days. Instruction, faith and student programs continued, and everyone got creative to keep Pres traditions alive. It was heartening to see such resilience and hope as we all adapted to this new environment. Safely returning to campus was our focus from the start. Pres began with small campus programs in Fall 2020 and returned for in-person instruction in March 2021. Our hyflex model and technology ensured a flexible, safe and equitable experience for all students. When it was needed most, our commitment to justice shined brightly. Pres provided emergency support and financial aid, and our students honored frontline workers and helped those in need, culminating in our holiday drives and continuing with Mission Drive. Regardless of the challenges we face, together, we will provide the Presentation experience our students deserve. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone back to campus in August!
14 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Our extensive safety plan includes enhanced cleaning, health screenings, and expanded supervision. Pres redesigned classrooms, upgraded air filtration, designed safe outdoor spaces, and invested in the necessary equipment and training. We continue to follow the latest health and safety requirements from the County and the CDC for schools as they evolve.
SUMMER 2021 | 13
Through it all, we continued to build community and honor school traditions. Speech & Debate and Robotics competed virtually. Masses, Spirit Week and the Fashion Show migrated online. Athletics managed to offer all three seasons of competition this spring. Pres offered in-person options for many of our valued traditions such as Junior Ring, May Day and unforgettable senior celebrations including Prom and Graduation.
Feast
Spirit Week
Junior Ring
May Day
Prom
SPEECH & DEBATE
Pres' Speech and Debate Team competed in the CA Coast National Speech and Debate Association's national qualifying tournament. Overall, the team placed ninth in the team sweepstakes at the tournament.
Meghan Bedi '21 14 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Anagha Nair '22
Meghan Bedi '21 finished sixth in Original Oratory which makes her second alternate to attend nationals this summer. Anagha Nair '22 finished fifth in the Program of Oral Interpretation of Literature, qualifying her to attend the national championship tournament to be held virtually this summer.
ROBOTICS: A Season Like No Other
This robotics season was unlike any other, due to the pandemic. No build season. No competitions. Can’t meet in person. How do you do robotics when you can’t even get near the robot? Well, it turns out you can do quite a lot!
Pictured: Robotics team participating in "The Presentation Cup"
Shweta Arun '22
Since last June, Robotics has been meeting via Zoom, bringing aboard new members, and working on various projects that not only kept them involved in robotics but also brought benefits to the team for years to come. Here are some of the projects completed this year:
There was a new game every three to four weeks, designed by four veteran team members. For each game, each student built her robot to perform that particular challenge, and then submitted a video of the robot completing the game for judging. There were four total games held from January through March. The students collaborated together in weekly Zoom meetings as they prepared their robots for the challenges, asking questions and helping each other work through issues. In May, they were able to hold an in-person tournament where seven students competed with their VexIQ robots. The involved students really enjoyed this program and had fun working together on robots.
• Designed a new t-shirt shooting robot • Designed two super-pit modules to be used at competitions • Designed a new robot driver station console • Created a new Android scouting app for competitions • Learned how to use Path Weaver and Robot Simulation to create autonomous paths and follow them in simulation The team is looking forward to getting back in the shop this summer to manufacture and assemble all of the newly-designed projects. The team gained new members in the fall. As a way to give these new members some of the hands-on, competitive experiences that are normally available on-site, the team kicked off a VexIQ robot challenge called The Presentation Cup. This program was designed to provide those experiences to all of our first-year members and the manufacturing sub-team, so more than half the team participated. Each person got a VexIQ robot kit (on loan from the team) to build and program.
This spring, the team nominated two outstanding juniors for the FIRST Dean's List Award: Christine Yang '22 and Shweta Arun '22. They have been important leaders during this past year, which was all the more challenging being totally remote. Shweta advanced to become a Dean’s List Finalist in May! This is a very prestigious award and the team is very proud of Shweta. This summer, the team will run a week-long robotics summer camp for middle school students, with the VexIQ robot kits used this year. Team members who gained experience with these robot kits this past year will help run the camp. This is a great opportunity to introduce robotics to middle school students and for team members to gain leadership experience.
SUMMER 2021 | 15
Caroline Bernal '21
College Bound Athletes
Loyola Marymount University, Rowing
Congratulations to our ten committed senior athletic signees who were celebrated on Signing Day, April 14. Our students’ hard work and dedication are unmatched, and they have represented Presentation proudly in their chosen sports over the past four years! Please join us in congratulating our seniors that will be continuing their sport in college.
“I am really excited to be continuing rowing at LMU in part because of the supportive team environment that the sport fosters, I am looking forward to being a part of a team of such strong women.”
Jadelynn Dao '21
Zoe Hartfield '21
“I couldn’t choose a better school than Caltech - they allow me to pursue engineering at such a high level, while giving me opportunities to continue my favorite sport and be involved in the unique studentathlete community.”
“My high school athletic experience at Pres was invaluable as it helped me realize the importance of setting and working towards a goal and the importance of teamwork. It helped instill in me a strong sense of confidence through my successes in competition.”
California Institute of Technology, Swimming
Paige Maier '21
Cal Poly, SLO, Softball “I have been grateful to be able to compete and represent my school while making lifelong friendships at Pres during my four years. I am most excited to be able to continue to compete and play my sport in college!”
University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, Cross Country and Track & Field
Sophia Harvey '21
Santa Clara University, Water Polo “I am most looking forward to competing at the Division I level and it’s competitiveness.”
Sarah Shaw '21
Villanova University, Water Polo
Anabelle Morle '21 Rhodes College, Diving
“I am most excited to continue competing and to learn new dives at Rhodes College. It was a very fun experience diving for Presentation, having qualified for CCS twice and being voted Freshman of the Year for the team in 2018.”
Audrey Taylor '21
Brown University, Fencing “I am super excited to have a second family of fencing at college and to travel for competitions!”
Grayson Vives '21
Lauren Zontos '21
“I am so grateful for the close friendships I've made with my teammates on and off the field, and I would say my greatest accomplishment was calling pitches during our St. Francis game during my sophomore year. That game was such an amazing feat of teamwork, and it felt so good to win that game, especially after it went into extra innings!”
“My time playing soccer at Pres has been a great experience, and I am very thankful for my coaches and teammates that have helped me grow throughout the years. I am most excited to keep growing in my soccer career and to play the sport I love at the next level.”
Yale University, Softball
16 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
“I am most excited about getting to play water polo at a competitive level at an amazing school and having the opportunity to explore a different part of the country.”
Santa Clara University, Soccer
PANTHERS PERSEVERE DESPITE UNCERTAINTY By Kevin Saldivar, Athletic Director As we wrap up a school year for the history books, I couldn’t be more proud of what our student athletes and coaches accomplished this past year. While success is often determined by wins and championships, in a year with so much uncertainty, we were holding out hope to just be able to play our seasons. From seasons being pushed back, a county wide lockdown, uncertainty of competitions and practices and training outdoors for seasons that may not happen, our athletes handled this adversity and change as only Panthers could—with positivity and grace. In a year of “firsts,” field hockey, water polo, volleyball, golf and cross country all had their first-ever seasons in the spring. Basketball and soccer started their seasons five and six months later than normal in March and April, and our softball, track and field, swim and dive and lacrosse teams had to deal with ever changing schedules, practice times and guidelines just to be able to practice and compete. From COVID testing twice a week, to wearing masks while practicing and competing, to avoiding high fives, to using more hand sanitizer than we ever thought possible—our athletes have persevered and succeeded through one of the most “interesting” athletic seasons in history. Our championship this year was already won when our Panthers first stepped foot on the field, court, pool deck, track, golf course to officially begin practice and competition for their sport. However, our Panthers demonstrated their championship spirit beyond that. Our Swim and Dive team sent two relays to the CCS Championships in Hollister the last week of May, while our softball team battled to the very end for a second place finish in CCS! In track and field, Nicola Manalili '21 and Kylie Francisco '21 claimed WCAL championships in Pole Vault and 300 meter hurdles, respectively. At the CCS Championships, Kylie Francisco '21 finished fifth in the 300 meter hurdles. It hasn’t been easy for our Panthers, but through their resiliency and dedication, our seasons were able to happen. Presentation Athletics strives to teach our athletes life lessons that they will carry with them far beyond their playing days, and while this past year was challenging, it has also been the most rewarding as we have been able to see our athletes grow into Presentation leaders. We are proud of all you accomplished in such a trying year and look forward to all you will accomplish.
Go Panthers! SUMMER 2021 | 17
Math & Science Colloquium This school year, scholars and experts in the fields of mathematics and science were brought together via Zoom for evening presentations to the student body, faculty, and staff, as
2021 SYNOPSYS VIRTUAL SCIENCE FAIR WINNERS Pres students competed and placed in several categories. Through the annual competition, students are challenged to go beyond their classroom studies to do independent project-based research. They work independently or in teams to address questions in the fields of science and engineering.
well as open to the general public. One of the colloquium series goals is to bring in successful women to speak from the fields of mathematics and science.
Arshiya Anand '23
Honorable Mention, Physical Science & Engineering Category
Development of Renal Targeted Antibodies as Therapeutics for Polycystic Kidney Disease, Presented by: Meg Schimmel Thursday, March 18 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Virtual Event Ms. Schimmel will discuss strategies used to combine high molecular specificity of monoclonal antibodies with a method of targeting such antibodies specifically to renal cyst lumens in PKD.
Niharika Bozza '22
Alexandra Mull '23
Honorable Mention, Physical Science & Engineering Category
Sasha Wang '24
Honorable Mention, Certificate Only, American Society of Engineers of Indian Origin Award
Honorable Mention, Biological Science & Engineering Category
Harshini Manian '21
Katherine Mekechuk '21
Tanisha Prasad '23
1st Award, Physical Science & Engineering Category
Jadelynn Dao '21
2nd Award, Physical Science & Engineering Category
Thursday, Feb. 11 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Virtual Event
ADVENTURES OF WHALEGIRL Join guest speaker Allison Payne, who will be sharing her journey to become a marine biologist; including her research experience around the world. Allison will also be sharing details of her research project on humpback whale entanglement and its accumulation over time. Allison received her undergraduate degree in Cognitive Science from UC Berkeley. She is currently studying to obtain her M.S. in Interdisciplinary Marine and Estuarine Science at San Francisco State University.
20 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Honorable Mention, Certificate Only, American Society of Engineers of Indian Origin Award
Honorable Mention, Certificate Only, American Society of Engineers of Indian Origin Award
Shachi Prasad '21
Student Award in Geoscience Excellence from Association for Women Geoscientists Bay Area Chapter, Association for Women Geoscientists, Bay Area Chapter
PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
YEARBOOK
WINS GOLD LEVEL & LOOK BOOK 2021 AWARDS IN JOSTENS NATIONAL
PROGRAM OF EXCELLENCE
Jostens, the leading producer of yearbooks and studentcreated content, has announced that Presentation’s yearbook program has achieved the Jostens 2021 National Yearbook Program of Excellence award at the Gold Level. The National Yearbook Program of Excellence recognizes engaging yearbooks that reflect a broad representation of the student body while helping students develop 21st century skills such as communication, collaboration and information and communication technologies literacy.
Presentations’s award-winning yearbook program was led by student editors Meghan Bedi ’21 and Alisha Ahmed ’22, Co-Editors-in-Chief Erin Peters ’22 and Asma Aslam ’23, and Section Editors under the direction of Digital Arts Teacher, Nancy Ingersoll. Jostens works with 15,000 schools nationwide, and only 127 schools achieved the Gold Level. Presentation is one of only eight schools in the entire state of California to receive the Gold Level award.
“Remote school made what seemed like an impossible task sitting before us,” said Nancy Ingersoll, Yearbook Moderator. “After being forced to move sports coverage to the supplement due to the delay that the pandemic imposed upon athletics, it is remarkable that nearly 70% of the students are featured in the book three or more times. I am so proud of my class for rising to the occasion and doing such a great job.” Nancy also added, "Presentation High School's yearbook, Honora, has been recognized for excellence with a feature in ‘Look Book 2021’, which celebrates the best-of-the-best in yearbook design and coverage. The annually published Look Book honors the important role well-crafted yearbooks play in helping schools chronicle the experiences, stories and achievements most relevant to students and that academic year. A panel of judges, comprised of nationally recognized scholastic journalism professionals and award-winning yearbook advisers, carefully selected the best spreads and covers from outstanding yearbooks.
SUMMER 2021 | 19
In many ways Presentation High School senior Isabella Correa is extraordinary. At just 18, she was co-president of The Tech Interactive’s Student Board, has devoted over 800 hours to Robotics projects, and will intern as a systems engineer this summer at Lockheed Martin. She chose Stanford University—where she plans to major in mechanical engineering and earth systems—over other schools including Columbia University. Not only does Stanford boast a top-notch engineering program, but also Isabella couldn’t bear the thought of being too far away from her beloved Maltese, Molly. Isabella attended six different schools before landing at Presentation. She attributes moving around to helping her develop a “sink or swim mentality.” From a young age, she recalls putting forth 110% effort. “I’ve always been a go-getter. When something captivates me, I find a ton of ways to pursue it and satisfy those curiosities,” she said. Case in point: at just six years old, Isabella spent hours tinkering in the garage and raiding her father’s toolbox for construction supplies. She used PVC pipes and fasteners to construct different courses, filling the pipes with water to see how she could move the liquid. As a young woman who’s interested in learning in and beyond the classroom, Presentation High School has been a dream. Isabella is grateful for the programs, classes and activities that played a role in her explementary trajectory. Particularly rewarding were the school’s Math and Science Academy Colloquiums where Pres invites professionals to speak, including alums. “They share their current projects, which are usually STEM-oriented. My favorite one was Professor Laura Doyle’s presentation on humanitarian engineering. She inspired me to build my own aquaponics system. Later, I invited her to speak at our Youth Climate Action Summit. That was a cool full-circle moment,” said Isabella.
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Isabella's extracurricular activities include... • Previous co-president of The Tech Interactive’s Tech for Global Good Student Board for the past two years. An initiative to The Tech, the organization collaborates with scientists and changemakers tackling climate change and other environmental problems as well as social justice issues. Isabella served as social media manager and outreach lead. • Helped create a Youth 2021 Climate Summit alongside Galilea Escobedo '22 who also served as a junior board member. The virtual event included dozens of workshops, keynotes and speaker panels, and was attended by 900 students from around the world. During the year-long planning, Isabella called and Zoomed with educators, scientists and CEO’s.
• Amassed 800 hours in the Presentation High School Robotics program; as this year’s co-captain, during COVID-mandated distance learning, Isabella helped spearhead a hands-on at-home robotics program and created challenges so members could build, compete, and “unleash their creativity.” • Completed a virtual internship at The Climate Museum in New York City. • Volunteered as a bilingual homework coach at MLK Library; wrote original lesson plans and tutored underserved fifth graders through the Read, Write, Discover program.
SUMMER 2021 | 21
3D PRINTING CAITLIN GORIN RECOGNIZED FOR
TESTING METHODS ON VARIOUS MATERIAL In August 2020, Pres senior, Caitlin Gorin, was featured in ASTM International News for pushing the way forward for a new ASTM testing procedure for layer adhesion strength of 3D printed plastics. This project was built on what she learned from her previous science fair projects where she tested different 3D printing material strength properties, including tensile, flexure, compression and shear. Caitlin’s father once brought home a 3D printer that he borrowed, and that is when Caitlin became interested in 3D printing and its physical properties. She was elated when her father found a 3D printer for a great deal! Today, “at home, we have a Lulzbot Taz 5. I love how 3D printing has become an effective tool for replacing parts of anything,” says Caitlin. During high school, Caitlin used ASTM International standards to help design and build her own miniature Universal Testing Machine (UTM) with a dual-drive system. This machine was able to run tests for other standards beyond plastic tensile strength. After noticing warping and layer separation when she was 3D printing, she wanted to understand more about layer adhesion. Thus, she developed a test procedure for determining adhesion strength that she hopes might someday become an ASTM standard. Last school year, Caitlin placed first in the RRI Physical Science and Engineering Category at the virtual Synopsys Silicon Valley Science and Technology Championship for “Developing a Test Procedure for Layer Adhesion Strength of FDM 3D Printed Plastics.” She also received a first place award and certificate of achievement from the American Society of Materials (ASM) International. Caitlin was really looking forward to competing and showcasing her project at the California Science & Engineering Fair; however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the state tournament was canceled.
22 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
In 2019, Caitlin took home first place in the Physical Science & Engineering Category at the Synopsys Silicon Valley Science and Technology Championship for her project “A Multi-Faceted Material Strength Testing Machine for 3D Printed Plastics,” where she designed and fabricated an affordable, mini UTM. Professional industry-grade UTMs can range in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. She also received a first place award and certificate of achievement from ASM International. Caitlin qualified to the state science fair, where she placed fourth in the Applied Mechanics & Structures, Senior Division Category. When COVID-19 surfaced in March, Caitlin learned that healthcare essential workers in hospitals were facing a shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and so, she made it her mission to put her 3D printing skills to use. She 3D printed, created molds, and resin casted headbands to construct face shields that were then donated to hospitals nationwide, protecting frontline essential workers. She also 3D printed face shields to donate to Pres for the facilities staff. “I want to learn as much as possible so that I can utilize my knowledge and skills to help others,” says Caitlin.
This fall, Caitlin will be attending Santa Clara University, majoring in Marketing. “I chose to study business because I want to run my own company someday. I am also considering pursuing a minor in engineering so that I understand the inner workings of nextgeneration technologies,”
While at Pres, Caitlin was actively involved in science fairs, Speech & Debate, theater, mock trial, and various honor societies (National Honor Society, California Scholarship Federation, Mu Alpha Theta, National Art Honor Society, National Speech & Debate Association, and Math & Science Academy). She was also a student keynote speaker at the Math & Science Colloquium this past school year. In her spare time, Caitlin enjoys baking, painting, jewelry making, ceramics and archery.
Caitlin Gorin '21
When asked what advice she would give to Pres students, Caitlin says, “Always believe in
Caitlin also specializes in Congressional Debate where she has championed many tournaments her senior year, winning multiple awards at the local, state and national levels. This year, Caitlin took home first place at the California Coast District National Qualifiers Tournament for Congressional Debate. This summer, she is looking forward to representing Pres at the NSDA National Speech & Debate Tournament.
yourself. Pursue your passions as you have nothing to lose. And most all, just have fun.”
JADELYNN DAO ANNOUNCED
TOP 40 NATIONAL WINNER
FOR THE NCWIT ASPIRATIONS IN COMPUTING AWARDS On January 21, 2021, Pres senior, Jadelynn Dao, was announced a national winner for the NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Awards! There were over 4,200 applicants across the US, and Jadelynn was selected as one of the top 40. The NCWIT Award recognizes high school students that excel in leadership, technical computing experience, and service/outreach within the computer science field. “I’m really humbled to have received this honor and been recognized among some incredible leaders", says Jadelynn. Her journey in STEM started in middle school when she joined a robotics (FLL) team, giving her several opportunities to compete and win at regional and international competitions. Jadelynn was most fascinated that people can come together from different backgrounds and parts of the world and connect through STEM. At Presentation, she continued to pursue her engineering interests. Jadelynn joined the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) team as an incoming freshman, and in her senior year, she became one of the team co-captains. Jadelynn also has taken a rigorous, STEM-oriented course load at Pres. She says, ”I've really enjoyed the computer science classes I have taken at Pres - I took an Intro to Java class my freshman year and AP Computer Science class during my sophomore year, which allowed me to explore my STEM interest in a supportive learning environment.” Jadelynn describes how both classes were project-based, which made it fun to code. She also conducted independent engineering research in Presentation’s Math and Science Independent Research class and has worked closely with science teacher Dr. Tracy Hughes. Her latest research utilized computer vision algorithms, 3D infrared sensors, and embedded devices. This joint research was recognized with top prizes at the Synopsys Science Fair and from the Association of Computing Machinery. “Jadelynn's passion for Computer Science and applying her knowledge and skills to 'real world' problems has been exemplified in the projects that she and her independent project team member Advit Deepak have chosen to work on,” says Dr. Hughes. Jadelynn has also participated in various tech-centered programs, including STEM clubs, K-8 STEM initiatives and other outreach programs. She was a student keynote speaker at one of Pres’ first Math & Science Colloquiums of 2020. In addition to her passion and involvement in STEM subjects, Jadelynn was also an active leader of the Pres academic honor society, student government, swim team and journalism program.
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“Jadelynn has taken advantage of many opportunities to learn about Computer Science outside the classroom as well as voluntarily mentoring other students in the subject. We are so proud of her,” says Dr. Tracy Hughes. Jadelynn will be attending the California Institute of Technology, majoring in Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering. She will also be joining Caltech’s intercollegiate Swim and Dive team. Throughout her four years at Pres, she has been a dedicated swimmer and has always found ways to balance academics and sports.
“Caltech is renowned for their "I'm excited to pursue engineering
research opportunities, cutting-edge
at such a high-level while continuing
curriculum,and societal impact in the
my favorite sport and the unique
sciences. I cannot wait to immerse
opportunities that come with being
myself in the incredible community
on an intercollegiate team."
and pursue innovative and socio-technical research."
When asked what advice she would give to Pres students, Jadelynn says, "don't be afraid to try something new at Pres!"
SUMMER SUMMER 2021 2021 || 23 27
PLATINUM PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
The goal of a Platinum Project is to design and implement a service project which will fulfill a need in society. This project must directly benefit individuals and/or communities who are disadvantaged or marginalized in any way and serve to educate and advocate on a related justice issue.
SHROBANA SENGUPTA '22
SARAH SHAW '21
Since middle school, junior Shrobana Sengupta has been volunteering with Sunday Friends. And this past year, given the challenges of the pandemic, decided that she wanted to help raise money for families in need. By selling her countless macarons and launching an online donation portal, she has since raised nearly $11,000 to fulfill the technology needs of families served by Sunday Friends. This has been a successful Platinum Project and Shrobana hopes to surpass her overall goal of $15,000 this summer.
In a series of five Zoom calls over the course of a month, Sarah organized an immersion experience in partnership with L'Arche Tahoma Hope Community, to learn more about their community, the history of the intellectually and developmentally disabled (I/DD) community in the U.S., how to build friendships in the I/DD community, what ableism is, and many other similar topics! Most importantly, students had the opportunity to meet and make friends with an incredible group of folks of all abilities in Tacoma, Washington!
"To me, this project means everything. Sunday Friends always prioritizes each and every family as a whole, and when I used to volunteer in person, I would see how happy the families were and how each family member was spending quality time with each other. This sense of family reminded me of my own family back in India and how we interact in the same way. This is how I mainly connect with the Sunday Friends families, and this makes me want to help them as much as I can since I consider them as my family, and family always supports each other." Shrobana Sengupta
Sarah will be attending Villanova University this fall majoring in liberal arts with an interest in psychology. She will also be playing for the Villanova women's water polo team! Sarah has been active on the Pres water polo team and helped organize the Splash Out Cancer game with the team.
"People my age should be concerned with the disabled community and disability rights because of the relevance to our society. Finding ways to de-stigmatize the disabled community through education and interacting with them can help promote a culture of compassion and kindness." Sarah Shaw
Presentation honors the long-time service of faculty and staff who
FACULTY & STAFF MILESTONES
celebrated their 10, 15, 20, and 25 year anniversaries with the school this year and last year. Thank you for your shining reflection of Nano, your ongoing commitment and your generous contributions.
Laura Zepeda
Sarah Thomas
Rick Rodoni
Hanh Nguyen 10 Years
10 Years
10 Years
10 Years
Sara Fugate
Kim Dang
Monica Stampfl
Lisa Dalton
Rosemarie Healy 21 Years
21 Years
16 Years
16 Years
15 Years
Diane Rosenthal 21 Years
Margaret Schrader 25 Years
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"The Class of 2021 is easily one of the most spirited classes to have walked the halls of Presentation High School. Their resounding resilience and commitment to the mission of Pres transitioned our community online in the middle of their junior year. Not missing a beat, these Wonder Women clinched the Spirit Trophy four years in a row. Class of 2021, thank you for showing up 100% in all you do and being a stellar role model for the generations of Panthers to follow. You will be missed!" Serrena Zanotto, Class of 2018
Sarah Thomas, Senior Class Moderator
28 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
One Piece of Advice for Pres Students “Get involved as much as possible and don't be afraid to be your genuine self. You will meet the people who truly care about you that way, and the rest of high school will be filled with love and joy.” Athena Sedlack '21
Class of 2021
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CLASS OF 2021
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SUMMER 2021 | 31
32 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Favorite Pres Memory “Singing the alma mater after every mass.” Grace Hare '21
SUMMER 2021 | 33
AWARDS Presentation High School salutes students who excel in a variety of areas. These students are selected for their outstanding work and dedication.
Kristina Agresta '21
Outstanding French Student Seal of Biliteracy in French
Niharika Bozza '22
Top Student Award: 11th
Meghan Bedi '21
Outstanding Spanish Student Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish Outstanding Social Studies Student Excellence in Yearbook Outstanding Speech & Debate Competitor
Elise Buellesbach '21
Outstanding Social Studies Student
Citlalli Bejarano '21
Performing Arts Inspiration Award Mass Hysteria Award Academic Dean’s Award
Isabella Correa '21
Madeline Bentzel '21
Fearless Leader in Journalism
Jadelynn Dao '21
Outstanding Religious Studies Student Exceptional Robotics Member National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar
Excellence in Robotics National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar
Emily Davied '21
Mariana Diaz Infante '21
Sarah Do '21
Poornima Dorairaj '22
Campus Ministry Magnificat Award
Modern Language Recognition Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish
Senior Service Award Modern Language Recognition Leadership Academy Gold Member
Top Student Award: 11th Wellesley Book Award
34 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Kiara Francisco '21
Campus Ministry Magnificat Award
Faguni Gupta '21
Campus Ministry Magnificat Award
Kira Jackson '21 Excellence in Dance
Dahyun Jung '21
Grace Galy '21
Outstanding Student Athlete
Kamyllie Gutierrez-Arteaga '21 Outstanding Writer National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar
Paige Jackson '21
Campus Ministry Magnificat Award
Anvi Kasargod '21
Angela Gill '21
Campus Ministry Magnificat Award Outstanding English Student
Janine Hernandez '21
Grace Jackson '21
Nandita Jayanthi '21
Olivia Jennings '21
Excellence in Dance
Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish National Merit Finalist
Michelle Kelly '23
Fearless Leader in Journalism
Outstanding Math Student
Top Student Award: 10th
Claire Lakkaraju '21
Franchesca Lazaro '21
Michelle Ledezma '21
The Director's Award
The Director's Award
Isabella Gorton '21
Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish
Excellence in Dance
Outstanding Senior PAC Member
Modern Language Recognition
Victoria Kerslake '21
Outstanding French Student Outstanding Visual Arts Student
Isabel Leoni '21
Ella Fitzgerald Award Excellence in Performing Arts Mass Hysteria Award SUMMER 2021 | 35
Darcy Long '24
Top Student Award: 9th
Sheryl Mathew '21 Outstanding Writer National Merit Finalist
Elise Mullen '21
Outstanding Student Athlete
Alexandra Parish '21
Outstanding Visual Arts Student
Gayatri Puppala '21
Outstanding Math Student
36 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Emilia Long '22 Tulane Book Award
Zoe Miller '21
PAC Senior Service Award
Anjali Nambakam '23 Top Student Award: 10th
Maireád Polverino '21
Leadership Academy Gold Member
Rujula Rao '21
Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish Leadership Academy Gold Member
Joscelyne Martinez Nguyen '21 Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish
Alexa Molinaro '21
Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish
Xuan Anna Nguyen '21
Francesca Matesso '21 Excellence in Dance
Kyra Morris '21
Panther Pride Award
Grace Nguyen '21
Campus Ministry Magnificat Award
Outstanding Religious Studies Student
Tanisha Prasad '23
Rebecca Puga-Dempsey '21
Top Student Award: 10th
Ariana Santos '21 Senior Service Award
Fearless Leader in Journalism
Monica Schneck '21
Seal of Biliteracy in French Outstanding Speech & Debate Team Member
Shrobana Sengupta '22 Platinum Project Award
Ella Speed '21
Platinum Project Award
Sarah Shaw '21
Campus Ministry Magnificat Award
Corinne Smearden '21
Brighton Smedt '21
Apoorva Thanvantri '22
Seal of Biliteracy in French
Outstanding Science Student
Manjari Talasila '21
Audrey Taylor '21
Caitlin Tips '21
Carolina TiscareñoKennedy '21
Seal of Biliteracy in French
Sofia Vosky '21
Margaret Wang '21
Campus Ministry Magnificat Award
Mass Hysteria Award
Kathryn Trent '21
Excellence in Dance
California Math League
Carolina Villa '21
Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish
Excellence in Technical Theater
Grayson Vives '21
Campus Ministry Magnificat Award
Margaret Yang '24
Top Student Award: 9th
Seal of Biliteracy in French
Lauren Zontos '21
Presentation High School Scholar Athlete
National Merit Finalist
Sasha Wang '24
Top Student Award: 9th
One Piece of Advice for Pres Students “Things may be scary or unknown, but everything works out better than you may have expected.” Emily Stenseth '21
SCHOLARSHIPS Memorial Scholarships and Presentation Awards are given each year to outstanding students based on specific criteria. These memorial scholarships and awards honor the spirit of Nano Nagle and the enduring memory of special students and community members who have each made a unique impact to the mission of Presentation High School.
Jadelynn Dao '21
Ella Fuqua '21
Faguni Gupta '21
Megan Manalad '21
Maireád Polverino '21
Neftali Rocha-Martin '22
Carolina Villa '21
Grayson Vives '21
Jennifer Martin Memorial Scholarship
Sr. Thecla Memorial Scholarship
Gracie Martin '21
Joscelyne Martinez Nguyen '21 Lindsay Parkinson Memorial Scholarship
Presentation Leadership Award
Corinne Smearden '21
Carolina Tiscareño-Kennedy '21
Alyssa Messier Memorial Scholarship
Nano Nagle Scholarship Award
38 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
Carmel Vaudagna Memorial Scholarship
Nano Nagle Scholarship Award
Alison E. Smith Memorial Scholarship
Dr. Zehra Attari Memorial Scholarship
Pavan Award
Christina Asbury Memorial Scholarship
GENERAL EXCELLENCE IN... ENGLISH
SCIENCE
VISUAL ARTS
Katie Baik Angela Gill Nitya Girase Stephanie Guastaferro Kamyllie Gutierrez-Arteaga Sheryl Mathew Ariana Santos Audrey Taylor Stella Yang
Meghan Bedi Nandita Jayanthi Anvi Kasargod Sophia La France Sheryl Mathew
Isabella Bernhard Madalyn Bowden Zachary Fernandez Caitlin Gorin Zoe Miller Caresse Po Vianne Sedlack Jasmine Wong Chloe Wu Abigail Yue
FRENCH Tanya Beri Kellianne Bomi Choe Olivia Jennings Sheryl Mathew Stephanie Virgen Ordaz Monica Schneck Ella Speed Kathryn Trent Grayson Vives Sofia Vosky Abigail Yue
MATH Madeline Bentzel Kamyllie Gutierrez-Arteaga Nandita Jayanthi Sheryl Mathew Grace Nguyen Lauren Novotney Neha Rachapudi Sukanya Sundaresan Christina Throckmorton Grayson Vives
SOCIAL STUDIES Katie Baik Kylie Francisco Nandita Jayanthi Sheryl Mathew Ariana Santos Sukanya Sundaresan Manjari Talasila Audrey Taylor Christina Throckmorton Sanika Yadav
SPANISH Mia Bodnar-Cohen Elise Buellesbach Mia Gallarate Kamyllie Gutierrez-Arteaga Nandita Jayanthi Mugdha Joshi Michelle Ledezma Rujula Rao Audrey Taylor Carolina Villa
NATIONAL MERIT PROGRAM COMMENDED STUDENTS Katie Baik Meghan Bedi Tanya Beri Jadelynn Dao Stephanie Guastaferro Kamyllie Gutierrez-Arteaga Dahyun Jung Anvi Kasargod Claire Lakkaraju Paige Maier Alexa Molinaro Anabelle Morlé Kay Ngo Kaige Pi Gayatri Puppala Neha Rachapudi Rujula Rao Monica Schneck Manjari Talasila Christina Throckmorton Julia Ton Kathryn Trent
SUMMER 2021 | 39
COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES Allegheny College
Carnegie Mellon University
Georgia Institute of Technology
Northeastern University
American University
Carroll College
Gonzaga University
Northern Arizona University
Arizona State University
Case Western Reserve University
Hampton University
Occidental College
Harvey Mudd College
Ohio University
Hawaii Pacific University
Oregon Institute of Technology
Hofstra University
Oregon State University
Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Pace University
Azusa Pacific University Barnard College Baylor University Belmont University Benedictine College Bentley University Binghamton University Biola University Boise State University
Chaminade University of Honolulu Chapman University Clark University Clemson University College of Charleston College of Saint Benedict College of the Holy Cross
Howard University Humboldt State University Indiana University, Bloomington Ithaca College
Boston College
Colorado State University, Fort Collins
Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Columbia University
Boston University
Concordia University, Irvine
Brandeis University
Cornell College
Brown University
Cornell University
Butler University
Creighton University
CA Institute of Technology CA Lutheran University
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
CA Northstate University
DePaul University
Loyola Marymount University
CA Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Dominican University of California
Loyola University Chicago
CA State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Drexel University
Macalester College
CSU, Channel Islands
Duquesne University
CSU, Chico CSU, Dominguez Hills
Eastern Washington University
CSU, East Bay
Emmanuel College
CSU, Fresno
Emory University
CSU, Fullerton
Fairfield University
CSU, Long Beach
Folsom Lake College
CSU, Los Angeles
Fordham University
CSU, Monterey Bay
Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering
CSU, Northridge CSU, Sacramento CSU, San Bernardino
Duke University
George Fox University George Mason University
CSU, San Marcos
George Washington University
CSU, Stanislaus
Georgetown University
40 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
James Madison University Kalamazoo College Kent State University Lawrence University Lehigh University Lewis & Clark College Linfield University Louisiana State University
Loyola University Maryland Marist College Marshall University Marymount California, University Marymount Manhattan College Miami University in Oxford Michigan State University Mississippi State University Molloy College Montana State University Montclair State University Mount Holyoke College Mount Saint Mary's University Nazareth College New York University
Pennsylvania State University Pepperdine University Point Loma Nazarene University Point Park University Portland State University Pratt Institute Providence College Purdue University Quinnipiac University Reed College Regis University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rhodes College Rider University Rochester Institute of Technology Rollins College Rutgers University Saint Edward's University Saint Louis University Saint Martin's University Saint Mary's College of California Saint Norbert College San Diego State University San Francisco State University San Jose State University Santa Clara University Seattle University Seton Hall University Simmons University Sonoma State University Southern Methodist University
Favorite Pres Memory "The many laughs that I have shared with friends in the classroom and out on the soccer field/pool.” Kyra Morris '21
Southern New Hampshire University St. Bonaventure University St. John's College
University of California, Berkeley University of California, Davis University of California, Irvine
St John's University
University of California, Los Angeles
St. Olaf College
University of California, Merced
Stanford University
University of California, Riverside
Stony Brook University Suffolk University Syracuse University Temple University Texas Christian University
University of California, San Diego University of California, Santa Barbara
University of Maryland, Baltimore County University of Maryland, College Park University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Massachusetts, Boston University of Miami University of Michigan, Ann Arbor University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
Texas State University
University of California, Santa Cruz
Texas Tech University
University of Colorado, Boulder
University of Nevada, Reno
The American University of Paris
University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
University of New Hampshire University of New Haven
University of Connecticut
University of New Mexico
University of Denver
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
The College of Wooster The New School The University of Alabama The University of Arizona
University of Glasgow
University of Mississippi
University of St. Thomas University of the Pacific University of Utah University of Washington, Seattle University of Wisconsin, Madison Utah State University Vanguard University of Southern California Villanova University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Washington & Jefferson College Washington State University West Valley College West Virginia University Western Washington University Westmont College
University of Oregon
Whitman College
University of Pittsburgh
Whittier College
University of Portland
Willamette University
University of Illinois at Chicago
University of Puget Sound
Woodbury University
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
University of Redlands
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
The University of Texas at Dallas
University of Rochester
Xavier University
University of Alabama at Birmingham
University of Iowa
University of San Diego
Xavier University of Louisiana
University of Maine
University of San Francisco
Yale University
The University of Montana The University of Tampa The University of Tennessee The University of Texas at Austin
University of British Columbia
University of Hartford University of Hawaii at Manoa University of Idaho
University of Southern California
SUMMER 2021 | 41
(Q) Where did you grow up? And, can you tell us about your experience at Pres?
WOMEN WHO SERVE Tara has enlisted in the U.S. Army. From a young age, she always had the idea of joining the military in the back of her mind. When high school came around, the idea became very real and prevalent. Tara’s post-graduation plans include working as a signals intelligence analyst, and she is excited to start her training. Thank you Tara for your
I have always lived in San Jose, and following my freshman year of high school, I transferred to Pres. I have participated in PAC and Peer Ministry, and loved both clubs! Before Pres, I found the thought of entering into a male-dominated career pretty intimidating, but Pres’ all-girls environment proved to be empowering and definitely put my worries at ease!
(Q) What inspired your decision to join the Army? What truly inspired me to join the Army was my desire to take part in something bigger than myself. I love my country dearly and have always hoped to pursue a career in which I can protect those within it. Also, the Army offers travel opportunities, free education, and a chance to make myself physically and mentally stronger. It was a huge decision to make, but I knew it was a dream I just had to follow!
(Q) Who are your biggest heroes? My biggest heroes are my mom and dad. They have done so much for me and are so incredibly strong!
service to our country!
“Do not be afraid to stick out, go against the current, and disagree. If you truly believe in something, stand by it with courage and resilience.” Tara Bacon '21
44 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
(Q) Do you have any advice for other Pres students who are interested in serving? My biggest advice for Pres students interested in a military career is to go to your local recruiting office and ask LOTS of questions! Also, many service members have created online platforms with great advice and useful information.
1990's
Highlights CLASS
Once a Pres Girl, Always a Pres Girl! Pres girls, as usual, had another year of achieving special milestones, pursuing new hobbies, advancing their careers and celebrating exciting family changes!
1971
Rosemary Morantes Jensen Rosemary retired from De Anza College in 2019, as supervisor from the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services. She also had open heart surgery, same year, and is doing fine. She is enjoying retirement but misses getting together with family and friends. She will celebrate her mother’s 99th birthday next month!
1982
Lisa Capano Lisa presented two Zoom seminars as a guest speaker to The Coronado Optimist Club and The Coronado Rotary Club. An article about Lisa and her business was published in the Imperial Beach Eagle newspaper.
SUMMER 2021 | 43
CLASS HIGHLIGHTS
1984
2007 Kira Shaughnessy Miller Kira is a volunteer and member, Board of Directors for San Jose Search & Rescue which was founded in 1989 to help San Jose Police & Fire Departments find missing persons. Kira also keeps them up to date on safety/first aid training. Kira says they are a great group of dedicated volunteers!
1989
Nicole (Niki) Nostrand Rogers
2003
Niki is trying to remain positive during rough times. She is filling her time walking along the Truckee River in Downtown Reno, NV, doing photography.
2001
Francesca Lomotan In April 2021, Francesca Lomotan, MPH launched Bay Area Public Health! Bay Area Public Health aims to build bridges within the San Francisco Bay Area public health community! It is a space where public health professionals (and those aspiring to work in public health) can connect and learn about others who love public health, prevention and upstream work! Instagram: @bayareapublichealth Facebook: @bayareapublichealth Twitter: @bayareaph LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/ company/bayareapublichealth Website: bayareapublichealth.com
2009 Liz Russo Hutchinson Briana Di Bari Schachter The Schachters welcomed Henry “Hays” Bradford Schachter to their family on November 12, 2020.
Liz (Class of 2003; teacher from 2007-2010) and John Hutchinson (math teacher and soccer coach from 2003-2010) welcomed their son, Caleb Thomas, to the world on July 22, 2020.
We are eager to hear about your families, careers, achievements and milestones! Email updates and photos at any time to alumnae@presentationhs.org. '85
Jennifer Miller Hamilton Jennifer and husband Daniel Hamilton gave birth to a baby boy, Theodore James Hamilton, on July 4, 2020!
CLASS HIGHLIGHTS
2010
2014
Marina Iatomase Farinha
Emily Ekman Gregov
High school sweethearts Marina Iatomase '10 and Joshua Farinha (BCP '10) were married in Kapolei, Hawaii on May 14, 2021.
Emily got married last fall and recently moved to Atlanta, Georgia. Photo includes fellow class of 2014 Pres pals (from left): Kendra Chow, Nina Mandracchia, Shelby Ovrom, Alex Healey, Allison Bruner, Danielle Davis and Elise Barsch.
2011
2014
2016
Marialisa Caruso Kaitlyn Dahl
Daniela Curiel
Kaitlyn graduated with a Master’s Degree in Public Policy from American University.
Daniela graduated with a Masters in Public Health with a concentration in Community Health from San Jose State University.
Marialisa became an international award-winning actress, screenwriter and published author as a result of her work on the feature film Emerald Run. You can learn more about Marialisa's journey through the project, as well as how to watch, at www.emeraldrun.net.
2015 Jalene Weatherholt After finishing up her masters studying wildfire impacted soils at the University of Washington, Jalene will begin a new permanent position with the US Forest Service in Arizona as a soil scientist for the Coronado National Forest! SUMMER 2021 | 45
CLASS HIGHLIGHTS
2017
1983, 2016, 2018, 2019
Alumnae Apply Lessons from Pres to PR Industry You can take the girl out of Pres, but you can’t take Pres out of the girl. PRxDigital Silicon Valley, a PR and Marketing Communications firm established 46 years ago, and run primarily by women, has brought four Pres girls together to help their clients pivot, survive, and thrive during this past year with the pandemic. Terry Downing '83, Vice President, Claire Sulek '16, Account Executive, Briana Gallo '19, Digital Marketing Coordinator, and Kathryn LeBaron '18, Account Coordinator, all work closely together to promote their clients in the Bay Area and beyond.
Elizabeth Rosalia Tapia Elizabeth recently graduated from USC with a Bachelors of Science in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention and will be working toward a Master of Public Health degree!
"We have carried the lessons instilled in us by PHS into the world of public relations, using our core values of hard work and uplifting others while working with both nonprofit and for-profit organizations. “Not Words, But Deeds” is the motivating factor for all we do at PRxDigital, helping our clients not just talk the talk, but walk the walk. Pres taught us many lessons that we continue to implement in our daily lives, interactions with others, and our work life." —Terry Downing, PRxDigital These Pres Alum feel honored to be able to give back to the community.
2019
Isabel Bellot As Isabel finishes up her sophomore year at the University of La Verne, she has accepted an internship with the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. She will be working all summer in the Health Care Fraud Division under the supervision of the Head Deputy and with a select group of four other interns.
46 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
From left: Terry Downing, Claire Sulek, Briana Gallo, and Kathryn LeBaron
CAREER DAY Career Day was a success this year! "The women were hilarious, so fun, so sweet, and made me feel so much more comfortable and encouraged about the future. It was honestly life-changing." Pres Student
On February 24, our students, faculty, staff and alums gathered virtually to share their unique experiences and stories. There were over 90 alumnae who volunteered their time at this year's event. Alumnae participated on panels and talked about their own personal and professional experiences. Students got to hear from different fields such as acting and theater, arts, business operations, data science, education, entertainment, entrepreneurship, finance, HR, higher education, law, marketing, mechanical engineering, health, politics, project management, research, social services, software engineering, and much more!
THANK YOU,
Alumnae!
Keynote Speaker, Chelsea C. Hayes '07
The keynote speaker was Chelsea C. Hayes '07, CEO at the Coaching Factory, an LA-based corporate training and development firm that specializes in interactive experiences on inclusion, leadership and management. Chelsea provides ghostwriting and one-on-one coaching for celebrities and CEOs worldwide. Clients include PepsiCo, General Mills, and Morgan Stanley. Chelsea shared the day and life of a CEO, and seven things she wishes she knew about life and leadership when she was at Pres.
"Women are the most powerful beings on the planet. We're thoughtful, strong, kind, resourceful and fierce. Of course I saw that in women at home and my goodness I also experienced some of the deepest forms of mentorship and leadership from my teachers at Pres. They encouraged me to be myself and to speak up. When a woman is comfortable using her voice and using it for good—nothing will stand in her way." Chelsea C. Hayes
SUMMER 2021 | 47
On Saturday, May 15, we hosted our 54th annual Fashion Show and Student Showcase, Rise Up! This year we highlighted our seniors and showcased different school programs that featured students from all grade levels. It was a wonderful celebration of the strength and tenacity of our students, and we were thrilled to uphold our special Fashion Show tradition! The theme Rise Up is a beautiful reflection of our mission. Presentation prepares young women to become fearless and faithful leaders determined to serve the world. Our students develop the confidence to take healthy risks, challenge themselves, and rise up and act—to shine to their fullest. The event proceeds directly support the Financial Aid program, making it possible for 22% of our students to receive some level of financial assistance, totaling over $2.2 million. Without the generosity of our community, these young women could not attend Presentation. By supporting this show, our community touched lives in a most meaningful way—assuring that Catholic education is available to all who seek it, regardless of financial resources. On behalf of the young women at Presentation today and for all those yet to come, we want to thank you for joining us, and for continuing your support! And, to the Class of 2021, you will always hold a special place in our hearts. Your strength, grit, tenacity and great love for one another will always be remembered as a shining example of what sisterhood means at Pres. You embody all that we hope for in every Pres graduate—you’ve found your voice, discovered who you are, what you love, and what is worth fighting for. Rise Up with confidence and pride knowing that you have the love and support of the entire Pres family as you begin this thrilling new chapter.
We look forward to seeing you at our 55th annual Fashion Show next year from April 8–10, 2022! 48 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
“The years I spent at Pres have undoubtedly shaped parts of my identity and my future career goals, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the financial aid that I received. I believe that cultural and social awareness are important parts of education. I am grateful that Pres instilled that in me. I hope that you will all continue to support Pres students so that they can receive the same experience and education that will help to shape their future goals.” Jessica Palaganas '16
SAVE THE DATE!
ALUMNAE EVENT LEADERS
Bottles and Bites October 2, 2021
Crowds4Pres
Several alumnae offered
March 16, 2022
their knowledge, expertise
Fashion Show & Auction Weekend
and creativity to help provide
April 8-10, 2022
*Event dates are subject to change to follow COVID-19 guidelines.
virtual engagement opportunities to our alums over the past year!
Thank you for supporting the
PRESENTATION PANTHER FUND Make a donation online via ACH or credit card at www.presentationhs.org/support-pres
Jenny Voight '01 Lewis helped coordinate a beer tasting with Strike Brewing.
Mary MacLellan '00 led an estate planning seminar.
Or mail a check to: Presentation High School Panther Fund 2281 Plummer Avenue San Jose, CA 95125
led a salary negotiation seminar.
Tax ID #94-1562816
led a discussion on financial planning.
Oona Huber '87 Smith
Nicole Anzoategui '05
Jessica Palaganas '16 coordinated the Alumnae Day of Service through the organization Fulfilling Destiny.
Nicole Chubb '01 Ralston led a session on the Basics of Bullet Journaling.
SUMMER 2021 | 51
Patricia Anderson Mother of Gwendolyn Anderson '00 Hart
Ernest Battu
Father of Renee Battu '78 Grammes and Rindu Battu '80 Veronda and Grandfather of Brooke Veronda '13
Maria Castaneda
Grandmother of Gissel Hernandez '21
Charles Corbin
Husband of Mary Beth Peterson '66 Corbin
Betty DiSalvo
Mother of Sally DiSalvo '66 Longinetti, Grandmother of Aimee Longinetti '94, Dana Longinetti '96 White and Elena Longinetti '00, and Great-Grandmother of Gianna White '23
Sal DiSalvo
Father of Sally DiSalvo '66 Longinetti, Grandfather of Aimee Longinetti '94, Dana Longinetti '96 White and Elena Longinetti '00, and Great-Grandfather of Gianna White '23
Marilyn Cimino '78 Enos Alumnae
Barry Furtado
Father of Catherine Furtado '06
Eyda Giachetti
Grandmother of Jennifer Giachetti '94 Raby
Kerry Hamilton '86
Alumnae and Sister of Courtney Hamilton '90 Budziak
48 | PRESENTATION HIGH SCHOOL
IN MEMORIAM Danny Hananouchi
Husband of Kerry Blythe '91 Hananouchi
Jeanne Hartigan
Mother of Kelly Hartigan '89 Engler and Grandmother of Josephine Engler '21
Rita Helfrey
Mother of Kathleen Helfrey '99
Mary Houret
Grandmother of Stacey Fehr '97 and Leslie Fehr '00 Alameda
Kathy Jager
Mother of Erica Jager '90 Wang and Erin Jager '92 O'Neill
Todd Kitzmiller
Husband of Paula Munson '78 Kitzmiller
Elizabeth Kubic
Great-Grandmother of Liliana Dul '22
Clara Lawrence
Grandmother of Jenna Haren '99 Conners and Lynsey Haren '02 Cady
Charlotte Lazar
Grandmother of Megan McHugh '04 and Lauren McHugh '09
Kang Ho (Hubert) Lee
John Menne
Grandfather of Kate Menne '14, Bridget Menne '17 and Mallory Menne '17
Alvin R. Mesita
Grandfather of Julie Mesita '19 and Nicole Mesita '23
Eloise Mae Moffet
Great-Grandmother of Maya Blecher '24
Father of Julia Ruiz '98 Hoffman
Stan Rose
Father of Jayne Rose '72 Miller
Sig Sanchez
Grandfather of Nycole Sanchez '02 and Jaynie Sanchez '06
Grandmother of Addison Trenchak '24
Janice Sawochka Romeo Mosqueda
Grandfather of Alanys Mosqueda '23
Velma Munson
Mother of Paula Munson '78 Kitzmiller
Iluminada Picardal
Grandmother of Chelsea Sioxson '09 Laxa, Kirsten Sioxson '11 Arce and Crystal Sioxson '24
Eugene Premo
Grandfather of Jessica Walsh '11, Katherine Premo '16 and Carolyn Premo '20
Mother of Suzanne Sawochka '84 Hooper and Karen Sawochka '85 Woiciechowski
Stephen Sawochka
Father of Suzanne Sawochka '84 Hooper and Karen Sawochka '85 Woiciechowski
Janell Scalora
Mother of Marcy Scalora '89 Koehler
Barbara Weatherholt Frutchey Grandmother of Jalene Weatherholt '15
Thuan Ly Quach
Clancy Wilborn
Grandmother of Kylie Quach '21
Father of Wendy Wilble '86 Dutcher
Lou Randazzo
Jackie Wulftange
Grandfather of Julia Randazzo '00 and Vanessa Randazzo '04 Teixeira
Grandfather of Kellianne Choe '21
Florence Lewis
Joseph Ruiz
Mother of Denise Wulftange '82 Jackson, Kelly Wulftange '84 Kulers and Jackie Wulftange '87 Steberg
Betty Reitano
Grandmother of AnnMarie Novak '90 Kelly and Great-Grandmother of Gabriella Kelly '22
Barbara McKenna
Grandmother of Francesca Longwello '21 SUMMER 2021 | 51
Presentation High School 2281 Plummer Avenue San Jose, CA 95125
Thank you for donating to the 2021
CROWDS4PRES On March 24, the entire Presentation community showed up in a HUGE WAY to support Crowds4Pres! Money raised this year supported the Panther Fund and our outstanding academic and co-curricular programs. Every Pres student benefited from your generosity—thank you!
Total Dollars Raised
$173,732
Donors Increase
UP 27%
New Donors
240
SAVE THE DATE
Avg. Gift Increase
CROWDS4PRES ~ MARCH 16, 2022
UP $60