Update Saint Joseph Notre Dame
WINTER 2023
Excellence in Research
SJND Highly Ranked pg. 6
Unsung Hero pg. 10
Steampunk Art pg. 12
Big Picture Faculty and staff got in on the fun during September's Pilot Pride Rally as shown in this spirited musical chairs competition. Mr. Fisher '14 found a comfortable floor seat (Sorry, but that doesn't count.) while Mr. Calvin decided to find the nearest lap courtesy of Ms. Mullin '14 (Sorry again.) once all available chairs were taken. It was a great day for all SJND students, faculty, and staff to come together for some fun.
Principal Fr. Steve Kim Director, Advancement Lucy Lopez Editor-in-Chief Jim Muyo Designer Katherine Hanover '14 Writers Christopher McKittrick Jim Muyo Photographers Richard Fuoco Wai Lee Michael Ho '24 Jennifer Meure Jim Muyo Tomas Pineda Mission Statement Saint Joseph Notre Dame, a Catholic parish high school, provides a dynamic and rigorous college preparatory education. Our faith-filled, diverse, and welcoming community embraces the teachings of Jesus Christ. We develop confident, open-minded, and effective leaders who are ready to live joyful lives of faith, scholarship, and service. Vision Statement SJND will continue to expand innovative pathways that enable students to learn, engage, serve, and live confidently in pursuit of opportunities to become their best selves. Class Notes Submit notes to Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving Vicki Bargagliotti at vbargagliotti@sjnd.org. Send story ideas, suggestions, and letters to the editor to: jmuyo@sjnd.org. Saint Joseph Notre Dame Update Magazine 1011 Chestnut Street Alameda, CA 94501 Views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, SJND or the Oakland Diocese. Winter 2023, Vol. 40, No. 2 © Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School
Features
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COVER EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH Our AP Capstone program prepares students for the rigors of college while allowing them to choose their own area of study.
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RANKINGS BONANZA
10
UNSUNG HEROES
12
An A+ grade from Niche and recognition from the College Board for our AP programming has people taking notice of the strength of SJND's academic offerings and community environment.
Fernando Barragan '12 draws on his experience as an SJND student to guide him in his role as director of student activities.
STEAMPUNK ON DISPLAY Inspired by an emerging genre of art, our students let their creativity come forth. See some excerpts from our literary and arts magazine, PRISMS.
contents
Update Saint Joseph Notre Dame
Departments FROM THE PRINCIPAL
2
NEWS
3
BY THE NUMBERS
11
SUPPORT
20
CLASS NOTES
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REUNIONS
23
IN MEMORIAM
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ON THE COVER From topics such as baseball to West African music, tarot cards, and political corruption in Mexico, SJND students in our AP Capstone program are immersing themselves in research that develops the skills that matter most for college success — research, collaboration, and communication. Photo by Jennifer Meure
WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 1
From the Principal
T
Dear Alumni, Parents, and Friends, hank you for your continued love and support for SJND. It is truly a blessing to be part of the SJND community. I'd like to share with you three lessons that I learned in my first three months at SJND and three things we are working on to elevate the experience of our students next semester. Lesson 1: Prayer works. As soon as I started at SJND, I was overwhelmed with existing faculty and staff vacancies. I was brought to my knees and started asking everyone to pray, including all of my friends and the many men and women religious that I know. After two weeks, we were able to fill all nine vacancies with solid candidates. So, prayer works! Lesson 2: SJND is a special community. There is definitely something special happening on Chestnut Street. Students are genuinely kind and compassionate. The school spirit is amazing, and I'm humbled to be part of a community where everyone belongs and cares for each other. Lesson 3: SJND students bring us hope. In a world full of uncertainties and conflicts, all you have to do is walk around campus during lunch for a dose of hope. Whether students are eating, studying, or participating in intramural sports or cultural activities, there is a sense of optimism that brings a smile and hope for a better future thanks to our wonderful students. There are also three things that we will be working on starting next semester to elevate the high school experience so that our students will feel good, eat good, and do good.
2 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
Feel good: We will be changing our uniform services to provide higher quality apparel with better pricing so we can proudly show our orange and blue. Eat good: We will provide our own cafeteria services so that students can have access to tasty and healthy gourmet food. Do good: Many students are already involved in our communities. We want to formalize this with service requirements starting in the spring and building up to a four-year service-learning program. Thanks for being a part of our SJND family, and please let me know if you have any questions or want to stop by. I'm having 1:1 meetings with current families, faculty, and staff, and would love an opportunity to get to know more alumni and friends. These sessions have proven to be a valuable resource for me as I continue to become acquainted with the SJND community. They also provide me with a great opportunity to meet members of this passionate community. Schedule your meeting by calling me at (510) 995-9442, by email at skim@sjnd.org or use our simple scheduling tool by visiting https://bit.ly/meetwithfathersteve to set up a convenient time to meet. Blessings to you and your family!
Father Steve Kim Principal
News
Renewal of Spirit on Kairos 73
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ovember's Kairos 73 provided our seniors a fun and meaningful connection to self, others, and God. Members of the class of 2024 took advantage of this SJND rite of passage with their openness to all that the retreat entails – community building, sharing life experiences with courageous vulnerability, and reflecting on signs of God's love and friendship. The retreat took place at Christ the King Passionist Retreat Center in Citrus Heights, California. Members of the class of 2024 who participated in Kairos 72 in September stepped up in this student-led retreat to
Partners in Geometry
facilitate small groups and offer presentations with adult leaders. In small group and large group settings, retreatants opened up with courage and vulnerability to process their life's meaning and reflect on their spirituality. Talks focused on topics such as personal ideals, obstacles to God's friendship, and forgiveness inspired students to consider how God's unconditional love is present in the ups and downs of their lives. The retreat ended with Mass enlivened by members of our One Voice choir. We clapped, we stomped our feet, and we filled the small chapel with the joy of SJND renewed in Spirit.
Students at neighboring St. Joseph Elementary School are getting an early-morning dose of high school geometry at SJND thanks to a new program that kicked off at the start of the school year. Students who complete the course will be given high school geometry credit should they choose to attend SJND, accelerating their math education toward advanced study. Students follow the same curriculum and rigor as SJND students. They've already tackled the basics of Euclidean geometry. In addition, the program is designed to build community, according to SJND geometry teacher Allie Fralick. "I literally walk the students down to their morning assembly and that also helps to build community," Fralick says. "I get lots of hellos and waves from staff, other students, and parents, and that's great. The program is proving to be a great opportunity for our SJES neighbors academically, and also socially. Students get a real-life window into the high school experience." Currently, 16 SJES students are in the program, undeterred by the 7 a.m. start time. SJND is considering offering the program to additional elementary schools next year. It's another way SJND is living its mission of community service. WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 3
News Campus Gets New Security System
Co-Pilots Social Club Takes Off
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ur new Co-Pilots Parent Social Club held its kick-off event this fall at The Rake in Alameda. Co-Captains Terry Pierre and Taryn Mickus were thrilled with the turnout. Attendees got to know each other and compared notes on raising teenagers. Principal Father Steve Kim also attended to mingle, show his support of the new club, and share news of some exciting projects that are in the works at SJND. The Co-Pilots Club is comprised of SJND parents and guardians who are dedicated to strengthening the SJND community by organizing activities that allow members to socialize and support each other. All SJND parents and guardians are members of the Co-Pilots and are invited to all events.
A new security system was installed over several weeks this fall. Safe and Sound, which also partners with St. Joseph Elementary School, managed the project installation of new Verkada security cameras, sensors, and electronic door access to enhance campus safety. SJND remains committed to a safe campus environment as part of our students' high school experience. We thank our Crab Feed donors who supported this porject. Additional security enhancements are planned.
Early Arrival
W the newest member of
e were delighted to welcome
the SJND family in September. After being induced at 33 weeks, SJND STEM science teacher Katie Harp gave birth to baby William Anthony Lee Harp at 11:35 p.m. on September 13, weighing 6 lbs, 13 oz. Liam, as he is known, spent some time in the NICU, but was soon released to go home with his mommy and big sister Emilia.
4 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
Have We Got News for You? Can't get enough SJND news? We have you covered. Check out our online Newsroom at www.sjnd.org/about/ news for the latest SJND happenings.
Sailing Team Launches into Action
C (l to r) Sailors Reuben Butt '27, Amanda Wheeler '25, Melina Ahrens '27, and Ella Schwartz '27 at November's UC Irvine Anteater Regatta. The team has competed well in its first season.
ongratulations to the new SJND varsity sailing team and its strong showing as the varsity sport comes to a very natural place. After all, a school on an island should be sailing, right? In their first regatta of the year, the NorCal Regatta at the Richmond Yacht Club, Luke Probst '26 and Ella Schwartz '27 sailed to a solid 16th place in the Silver Fleet competition on Day 1. On Day 2, also in Silver Fleet, Melina Ahrens '27 and Ella placed an impressive 6th in their first regatta. Amanda Wheeler '25 and Reuben Butt '27 were moved up to the Gold Fleet and placed 19th in this highly talented fleet. At the UC Irvine Anteater Regatta in November, Melina, Ella, Reuben, and Amanda finished 24th in the Silver Fleet. This was a great showing in the team's first full team Pacific Coast Interscholastic Sailing Association regatta.
SJND Seniors Represent U.S. at Rowing World Championships
S Fresh off of their appearance at the Under 19 World Rowing Championships in Paris, Jack Hume '24 (second from left) and Cosmo Hondrogen '24 (right) will continue to compete for Oakland Strokes, looking for a berth at the U.S. Nationals in June.
eniors Jack Hume and Cosmo Hondrogen competed in the 2023 World Rowing Under 19 Championships in Paris in October. Their four-man team finished eighth at Worlds. Competing for Oakland Strokes, Jack and Cosmo were part of a team that took silver at the June 8-11, 2023 Youth National Championships in Sarasota, Florida, to qualify for the world championship. Cosmo and Jack continue to race with their Oakland Strokes team and will participate at competitions leading up to the U.S. National Championships in June.
Become a Social Media Ambassador Do you know that you could be an SJND social media ambassador just by engaging with our posts on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn? When you do, you help to amplify our messaging to your social networks. facebook.com/sjndhs
@sjndpilots
Don't delay. It's simple. Just like, share, comment, or repost today and often to spread the word and help us to let the world know what life at SJND is like. Thank you, SJND social media ambassadors! @SJNDPilots
Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School
WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 5
Rankings Bonanza Vaults SJND into Rare Company By Jim Muyo
Among only 2% of U.S. high schools with an A+ grade by Niche, SJND was also recently recognized by the College Board for its AP program.
6 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
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he fall semester began with two reports that recognized SJND for its stellar academic offerings and inviting atmosphere, providing affirmation of SJND's ability to deliver high quality academic offerings to a diverse, close-knit community. In early October, the school was notified that it had earned two prestigious recognitions by the College Board for its Advanced Placement (AP) program. SJND earned platinum recognition on the AP School Honor Roll and received the AP Access Award, the latter of which honors schools that encourage low-income and underrepresented students to take AP courses. In late September, the school had learned that it maintained its rare A+ grade by Niche, the most widely used high school search portal in the U.S. In addition to the A+ grade, SJND received several impressive rankings from Niche, including ranking as the fifth best private high school in Alameda County, the sixth most diverse private high school in California, and the 23rd best Catholic high school in California. SJND is amongst just 2 percent of high schools in the U.S. to earn an A+ grade.
Top of the AP Class The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools that have done outstanding work to welcome more students into AP courses and support them on the path to college success, according to the College Board. "The recognition from the College Board is a sign of affirmation for our faculty and staff who work so hard to help our students," said SJND Vice Principal Andy McKee. "It is also a great indicator that we provide an excellent academic experience for our students as we strive to develop confident, open-minded, and effective leaders who are ready to live joyful lives of faith, scholarship, and service." Programs such as SJND's Biomedical Pathway program and AP Capstone experience are cornerstones that have given SJND graduates advantages when they transition to college and grad school. Already, several alumni from the biomed pathway are on to graduate study at a number of prestigious institutions. They attribute their academic success to the preparation they received at SJND.
"Our current pathways guide students to develop a portfolio of work and experience that will help them reach their college goals," said McKee. "Pathways place students in a cohort of like-minded peers who share interests and resources. In our Engineering Pathway, students compare different college engineering programs and work together in cross-functional teams to develop distinguishing skills and projects. SJND students have many other areas of passion that we'd like to develop into pathways, including our Visual and Performing Arts, Athletics/Sports Business, and Theology/Service."
Programs such as SJND's Biomedical Pathway program and AP Capstone experience are cornerstones that have given SJND graduates advantages when they transition to college and grad school. New this year, the College Board's AP School Honor Roll is a prestigious annual recognition program that celebrates schools whose AP programs have done outstanding work to welcome students into AP courses and support them on the path to college success. Schools earn this recognition based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness, according to the College Board.
Paula Mendoza goes over the finer points with one her students in trigonometry.
WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 7
The College Board's AP recognitions were well deserved in light of the achievements of SJND's 2023 graduating class. Members of the class were accepted to an impressive array of colleges and universities. Included are Ivy League schools Columbia University, Brown University, and Yale University, private schools such as Stanford University, Santa Clara University, Boston University, Villanova University, the United States Naval Academy, many schools in the UC system, and community colleges known for facilitating transfers to four-year universities. Not only are the destinations impressive, but members of the class of 2023 were offered more than $9.1 million in scholarships to pursue their studies. Truly, SJND graduates are in demand and sought after by some of the best universities in the country. "SJND's vast AP course catalog coupled with dedicated, expert educators allowed me to succeed in 11 AP courses throughout my high school career," said Alana D'Cruz '23 who is studying psychobiology at UCLA. "Now, I am equipped with the time management skills and foundational knowledge needed to handle the rigorous pace of the UC quarter system." Research shows that students who take AP courses and exams are more likely to attend college and graduate on time. The students who enter four-year colleges with credit from AP courses accelerate their path to graduation and build confidence for college success. Even for those who don't earn college credit, AP coursework provides early exposure to college-level work and contributes to a college-going school culture.
Not only are the destinations impressive, but members of the class of 2023 were offered more than $9.1 million in scholarships to pursue their studies. "We know it takes a significant schoolwide effort — dedication from teachers, counselors, administrators, students, and parents — to make AP access a priority," wrote Trevor Packer, head of AP and instruction at the College Board, in a letter announcing the recognition to McKee on October 2. "We join you in celebrating this inspiring achievement for your community. Again, congratulations! I'm inspired by your commitment and grateful for the chance to honor your success."
Long-time head of the Visual and Performing Arts program Mark Ritter offers advice on painting to studio arts students.
Current AP Courses Offered at SJND AP 2D Art and Design AP Biology AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC AP Chemistry AP Computer Science A AP Drawing AP English Language and Composition AP English Literature and Composition AP Environmental Science AP French Language and Culture AP Physics 1 AP Research AP Seminar AP Spanish Language and Culture AP Statistics AP United States Government and Politics AP United States History AP World History: Modern
8 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
Finding its Niche Niche rankings are compiled by its data team that uses advanced algorithms and statistical techniques to compare, score, and connect millions of data points to analyze U.S. schools and neighborhoods. Niche uses the most up-to-date data available from dozens of public data sources, including the Department of Education, the Private School Universe Survey (PSS), Common Core Data (CCD) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), and student and parent surveys.
“I'm delighted when I see reviews from parents, students, and alumni, who express their satisfaction with our academics and comfort within our school environment.” Niche also uses student, alumni, and parent reviews that must be submitted directly through the platform. "It's gratifying to see us do so well on the Niche platform because Niche pulls from so many data points from independent sources to compile its rankings," said SJND Director of Admission Eileen Graybeal. "That third-party confirmation of the type of education we offer and the sense of community we have built to support our students is humbling and extremely gratifying."
Recent Niche reviews by parents express satisfaction with SJND's welcoming, inclusive atmosphere, strong academics including accelerated study in the biosciences, a variety of performing arts areas, learning services, safety, diversity, and positive school culture. "I'm delighted when I see reviews from parents, students, and alumni, who express their satisfaction with our academics and comfort within our school environment," Graybeal said. "It's a signal to all of us that we are doing many things right at SJND."
Partial List of SJND Niche Rankings Grade: A+ (SJND is among only two percent of high schools graded as A+ in the U.S.)
In the U.S. 13th most diverse private high school 77th best Catholic high school
In California 6th most diverse private high school 23rd best Catholic high school
In the San Francisco Bay Area 3rd most diverse private high school
In Alameda County 2nd best Catholic high school 3rd most diverse high school 5th best private high school 8th best high school for athletes Students frequently team up to bring their combined talents to bear on challenging classroom assignments.
21st best high school for STEM
WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 9
Unsung Heroes 10 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
Student Activities for All
F
ernando Barragan '12 knows all too well what it's like to be an SJND student. It's that experience which serves him so well as director of student activities as he works closely with student government, oversees SJND student clubs and affinity groups, and collaboratively plans dances, spirit and cultural assemblies, and many day-to-day activities. "I will always be grateful for all that SJND gave to me when I was a student," he says. "In coming back I hope to give back to our current students and hopefully provide support and guidance." Señor Barragan, as he is called by students, says the students of today are very different from his time at SJND. "The world is so different than it was over 10 years ago." That change has brought with it events that have a much deeper social significance to students and their identities. It also provides a new metric for measuring success. Señor Barragan says, "It's not just about how many students showed up, but how they found the messages and context of the events. I measure success through student engagement and their feelings after an event. My hope is that all students, after attending events, have a positive feeling about what they just experienced."
50 clubs,
organizations, affinity groups, and societies,
By the Numbers
With more than
SJND has a group for everyone. Students who don’t find a club that aligns with their interests are free to petition to start new organizations. There’s always something new coming online for students to enjoy.
72%
That’s how many of our students belong to at least one organization.
8
The number of academic honors societies we have available.
10
Clubs that are directly tied to the arts.
WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 11
Didier Gutierrez Barajas '26 Peace Photography
12 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
Inspired by Steampunk
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RISMS, SJND's literary-art magazine published by our students, was established in 1990 by English and Spanish teacher Elizabeth Norris. Student submissions of poetry, prose, visual art, and musical scores are turned in throughout the year and judged by PRISMS staff. For our spring 2023 edition, students chose a theme of Steampunk, a subgenre of science fiction that incorporates retrofuturistic technology and aesthetics inspired by, but not limited to, 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery. Steampunk works are often set in an alternative history of the Victorian era or the American Wild West, where steam power remains in mainstream use, or in a fantasy world that similarly employs steam power. We asked PRISMS co-editors Christian Chiu '24 and Tobin Deaker '24 to help us select representative works to share with you. Visit https://www.sjnd.org/academics/arts to see the entire spring 2023 edition of PRISMS. We thank all of our student artists for sharing their creative visions and hope that you enjoy these unique expressions as much as we did as we endeavored to shine a light on their impressive works. WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 13
Destruction It all starts with a seed Shoved in the ground The one choice to succeed Upward it will bound Straight to the sun It reaches the sky Second to none Ready to fly high Then comes a foot Oblivious to the flower On the plant it is put To completely overpower The flower is gone, lost to time All the hard work, not worth the climb Robert Stebbins '25
Clara Johnson-Sandoval '24 Untitled Photography
Farewell Friend Mother Earth’s Radiant summer sun Fades in the horizon The oak slowly withers Rusty jewels and Decaying crowns Tumble To the floor Dreary green Hair turns to ginger Dew slips down Her bark And glistens now on Hollow peepers Only the sun shall revive This barren oak
Dillon McVeigh '24 Industrial Lines- Kyoto Station Photography
Ryan Huey '24 Wai Lee Michael Ho '24 California Henge Photography
14 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
Isabelly Duarte '23 Soumaya Photography
Me, The Dog Here I stand, alone again
I'm a fool
Everyone loses a friend
I'm a dog
Everything, everything, everything's alright
I'll do whatever it is that you want
Everything, everything, everything's not fine
I'm your slave
I just wanna be a part of this
You're my everything I'll do anything
I'm a fool
that you say
I'm a dog I'll do whatever it is that you want
Just please don't leave me all alone
I'm your slave
I can't do anything
You're my everything
on my own
I'll do anything
I'm all alone
that you say
I'm on my own I'm on my own
Here I stand, alone again Everyone loses a friend
Just say the word and my soul shall be healed
Everything everything, everything's alright
My only wish is that this could be real
Everything everything, everything's not fine
one last night
I just wanna be a part of this
one more day I pray that you could stay
Scan the QR code to listen to the song Me, The Dog performed by AJ's band crunek.
Antonio "AJ" Arevalo '23
WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 15
Focus on Research Leads to College Success By Christopher McKittrick
A two-year AP Capstone academic research project is paying huge dividends for SJND students, preparing them well for college and graduate school success. 16 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
SJND librarian and AP Capstone teacher Mallory Cornett with research students (l to r) Ashley Carreno '24, Dasan Aguilera '24, Kosi Amuzie '24, and Miranda Massie '24. Students in the program choose their own topics to research.
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xploitation of people in developing countries. Performance-enhancing drugs in baseball. Missing Indigenous women. Artificial Intelligence. These critical issues of the day are central to the Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School Advanced Placement Capstone program – a selective course of study that allows students to engage in a research-driven, skill-building environment to develop competencies that are essential for college success. The AP Capstone program is the College Board's diploma program and consists of two courses – AP Seminar, the prerequisite foundational course, and AP Research. The courses are standards-based, project- and discussion-based, and, most importantly, intentionally driven by the students who choose the subjects they study and research. SJND alumni attest to the impact that the AP Capstone program has as they have continued to pursue their education in college. "Out of all of my coursework at SJND, it was definitely the program that set me up the best for what is expected of me now in university," shares Heidi Manes '22, who is attending the University of Washington where she studies informatics and archaeological science. The AP Seminar course is open to juniors and seniors and AP Research is open to seniors who have completed AP Seminar. The program is intended to complement a student's other AP courses, and a student can achieve an AP Capstone diploma by completing four AP courses before taking AP Seminar and AP Research. The program is overseen by Mallory Cornett, MLIS, who also serves as the SJND's Miller Library director and online accelerated learning coordinator. Cornett, part of the SJND faculty for 10 years, is a longtime advocate of student-centered learning and explains the AP Capstone program as an ideal method for SJND students to excel at university-level academics. "The AP Capstone courses are meant to be completed in conjunction with a topic that a student is really passionate about, like biomedicine, engineering, or social justice," she explains. "Most of our students have gone on to study in college what they studied in their research here." WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 17
I
n AP Seminar, students question and explore real-world topics and synthesize multiple perspectives by developing skills in information literacy, media literacy, evaluating sources, and debating issues. "I loved it because it was the first class that gave me the opportunity to explore and work on whatever we wanted," says Christopher Moore '23, who is attending the University of Oregon and majoring in children's behavioral health, a brand-new program at the institution. "They gave us the tools and we used them to research and learn about whatever we wanted."
“Students are bringing information to the course, and we are finding out if it is credible, relevant, and useful for what they are studying.” In AP Capstone, Moore took the opportunity to research the self-perception of students with ADHD – how they looked at themselves academically and socially. "A big part of why I am going to this college to pursue a major that I love so much is because this course gave me the space to find something that I could really enjoy, which is developmental psychology." After completing SJND's AP Seminar, students may enroll in AP Research, a year-long course in which they investigate academic topics of their choice. Over the school year, students practice advanced research skills by critically examining sources from experts within their field of study and determining which research methods are the most ideal approach to their topics. "Instead of teaching content, we're teaching skills," says Cornett. "Students are bringing information to the course, and we are finding out if it is credible, relevant, and useful for what they are studying." Past student research topics have included: • Detention centers • Nutrition guidelines and obesity in America • Racial and economic disparities for AP students • Sanctuary cities • Gun violence • Disenfranchised voters While students work on their own projects in AP Research, the course encourages them to collaborate for support in improving their individual projects. "I liked how small the classes are, so you are able to get more detailed, personalized feedback," shares Myah White '22, who is majoring in pre-biology at the University of California, Santa Barbara. "You could read everybody's papers and offer peer edits."
18 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
“We also get to watch students build confidence in communicating their research and informed positions to others.” Upon the completion of AP Research, students will have developed a body of work that includes their academic research, presentations, and oral defense. They can utilize these projects as a portfolio to demonstrate their skills in in-depth, university-level research. "It ends up being like a mini-thesis when they are done with it," explains Cornett. "We also get to watch students build confidence in communicating their research and informed positions to others." The benefits of the AP Capstone program are exponential – in each class, students engage in critical thinking. They learn how to examine a topic from multiple perspectives, develop and communicate informed positions, and apply their research and see where it fits within local communities and globally by examining the implications of their subjects.
“My critical thinking skills were significantly expanded because you are taught how to read academic journals and statistics and to ask questions to understand what things mean.” The development of non-research skills like confidence and learning how to become an advocate are also essential products of the AP Capstone program. "I have a very independent personality type and I think that the class teaches a lot about self-advocacy," adds Manes. "It was honestly the most realistic AP class in comparison to what college education would be like. My critical thinking skills were significantly expanded because you are taught how to read academic journals and statistics and to ask questions to understand what things mean. The research process is much more on par with academics in college."
AP Capstone Students Reflect on their Chosen Topics We asked four of our current AP Capstone students to tell us why they chose their particular topics of study. Here’s what they had to say:
"I chose baseball as my topic because baseball is my life. I have been involved in the sport whether it is being an active player or helping the teams with practice. When given the opportunity, I always find a way to incorporate baseball and I love to educate about the ups and downs of it." – Dasan Aguilera '24
"I chose to research Mexico and its corrupt government because of my family. Always hearing news about the Mexican government instilled a desire in me to understand the impact corruption can cause, most importantly, the role of presidents by allying with special interest groups like cartels." – Ashley Carreno '24
"As we've slowly made our way out from the pandemic, I’ve found a lot of peace and comfort in Tarot cards. I view Tarot less as a form of divination and more as a tool to draw out your intuition, reflect on your current situation, and find peace in where you are and where you're going. After giving readings to a couple of friends and seeing how much they enjoyed it, I decided to research the potential therapeutic benefits of Tarot for people my age. My hope is that tools like Tarot can be as helpful to other people as they have been to me." – Miranda Massie '24
"I chose to study the burgeoning West African music industry because of my Nigerian heritage and lifelong consumption of West African music. I thought it would be really fulfilling to formally analyze and research something that I see in my everyday life and ties back to where I come from. I really want to use my research to look at how the music industry in West Africa can be used as a resource to boost local economies." – Kosi Amuzie '24
WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 19
Support
Empowering their Future At SJND, our strength lies in our collective unity. United by a culture of giving, we guide our students toward a purposeful and rewarding journey. Together, we empower students to expand their perspectives and contribute to shaping the world around them. Your unwavering dedication to SJND's Annual Fund, special events, and scholarships paves the way for over 250 students to access essential tuition assistance. Your commitment resonates as a testament to the resilience and strength of our community. Your investment in SJND makes a bright future possible and fosters an environment where academic excellence, service, and wellness flourish. Your support goes beyond financial assistance; it instills confidence and nurtures the aspirations of our students, enabling them to dream boldly and strive for ambitious goals.
Every generous gift makes an impact across the spectrum of the SJND experience, addressing urgent operational priorities from maintenance to microscopes. Your contributions are not just about about today; they are an investment in the future, providing the resources necessary for our students to succeed. On behalf of the SJND Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and students, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our donors. May your love and support be reciprocated with blessings, abundance, and good health. To see the full list of supporters, please visit www.sjnd.org/honorroll or use our handy QR code. Blessings,
Lucy Lopez Director, Advancement
2022-2023
Revenue
Financial Report
Tuition and Fees
$6,754,072
Student Services
$199,845
Fiscal Year End: June 30, 2023
Revenue & Expense Summary Tuition and fees increased by 4% and annual contributions increased by 8% from the period ending June 30, 2022. Investment income in the endowment funds for Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School as well as the change in beneficial interest both posted gains to help SJND increase its overall income. The underlying investments of the funds are held in investment markets, which at times are volatile and can result in temporary significant unrealized gains or losses. Salaries and operational expenses increased 5% overall due to the increased cost to do business.
Contributions
$1,811,462
Investment Income and Beneficial Interest
$2,392,134
Total
$11,157,513
Expenses Personnel Costs
$6,936,381
Acacdemic Instruction and Admissions
$1,200,028
Student Activites
$893,882
General and Administrative
$410,081
Fundraising
$277,510
Total
20 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
$9,717,882
Dream Flight Success
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roving that when we come together there is no limit to what we can achieve, Dream Flight 2023 was an unforgettable success with a fantastic turnout and record-breaking generosity. On October 14, The Claremont Country Club Ballroom was filled with alumni, alumni parents, current parents, and friends of SJND from far and wide.
When the night came to a close, over $163,000 was raised in support of tuition assistance for SJND students. We are deeply grateful to the Kelly family (classes of '51, '76, '79, and '80) for their generous sponsorship of this beloved event. SJND was proud to present the 2023 Christi Marti Award for Outstanding Support at Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School to Mark Zimmerman '68. The Christi Matri Award honors individuals who through their service to SJND, have exemplified the values of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and the Brothers of Mary (Marianists), unifying our school community in the Spirit of family nurtured by Mary, the Mother of Christ. From the student Strings Club, pianists, vocalists, student keynote speaker Lauren Giovannoni '24, fantastic food and drink, live and silent auctions, and nightcaps on the terrace, this was truly an evening to remember. When the night came to a close, over $163,000 was raised in support of tuition assistance for SJND students. We thank the attendees, sponsors, donors, and volunteers whose support elevated this year’s gala into a resounding success. Thank you for enriching the lives of our students.
Dream Flight sponsor and SJND benefactor Kevin Kelly '79 sets a good example in the paddle raise for this year's event that brought in more than $163,000 for tuition assistance.
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New Weight and Fitness Room
e are thrilled to share the exciting news of a significant transformation within Kelly Gymnasium that promises to elevate the fitness and training experience for our students and employees. Thanks to the generous support of our dedicated community of benefactors, we are delighted to unveil the newly renovated weight room. This ambitious project was made possible through the unwavering commitment of The Carl Gellert and Celia Berta Gellert Foundation, The Jawad Education Foundation, The William G. Irwin Charity Foundation, and countless individuals who understand the profound impact that quality fitness facilities and equipment can have on the overall development and performance of our students and employees. The revitalized weight room is not just a physical space but a testament to our collective dedication to raising the bar at SJND.
Our recently opened new weight room is already getting plenty of use by SJND student athletes seeking to take their fitness to another level.
The enhanced fitness room boasts new exercise equipment, carefully selected to improve our physical education programming and cater to a variety of training needs. From new cardio machines to specialized strength training equipment, our students and employees now have access to resources designed to support the well-being and mental health of the school community. The addition of floor-to-ceiling windows provides vibrancy and sets the tone for an energizing and focused training atmosphere. As we look to the future, we remain grateful for the steadfast support of our donors. Thank you for playing a vital role in this journey of transformation. To support SJND's Raising the Bar initiative in honor of a student, coach, educator or alum, please contact Lucy Lopez at (510) 995-9456 or llopez@sjnd.org.
WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 21
Class Notes
1975
1968 1941 Mary Watty Stelzner is looking youthful and spry at 99 years old! She recently visited with Director of Advancement Lucy Lopez and Director of Alumni and Annual Giving Vicki Bargagliotti.
Mark Zimmerman received the Christi Matri Award at SJND's Dream Flight Gala in October. The Christi Matri Award was established in 2017 to honor an individual who through their service to SJND, has exemplified the values of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and the Brothers of Mary (Marianists), unifying our school community in the Spirit of family nurtured by Mary, the Mother of Christ.
Eileen Dunn '79 (left) and Maureen Dunn '75 are not only sisters, but have also been the owners of Done to Your Taste Catering and Events in Park City, Utah for more than 30 years. In that time, they have had the opportunity to provide services for the Olympics, US Ski & Snowboard, Sundance Film Festival, and more. This past summer, they had the opportunity to provide their services to President Joe Biden. Maureen details, "It has been an exhilarating experience and we are still at it. Anyone visiting Park City, look us up, we would love it!"
MILESTONES
1960 Kathleen Smith Hoie, Pat Fennelly Cronin, Kathy Bush Kenslow, and Maria "Nattie" Pinedo Dempsey (left to right) enjoyed an afternoon of lunch and friendship in Yountville, California.
1971 Bob Butler, current SJND Trustee, was inducted into the Bay Area Radio Hall of Fame on Saturday, October 14, at the beautiful Basque Cultural Center in South San Francisco. A Navy veteran, Butler served as a reporter for KCBS radio for more than 40 years.
1962 Arthur Walton, Mary Bush Leoni, and Charlie Fasso (left to right) had a mini reunion this year in Arizona.
22 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
Christopher Livingston '11 and his beautiful wife welcomed their son, Cyrus Alain.
Submit Class Notes Have news that you'd like to share with the SJND community? Let your classmates know what you're up to by submitting class notes to Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving Vicki Bargagliotti at vbargagliotti@sjnd.org.
Samantha Porter '12 and her husband Nick DeFerrari.
REUNIONS
Class of 1978 members gathered at the 1400 Club in Alameda on September 16 for their 45th reunion.
Walter Allen III Receives Award for Anti-Hate Work
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ío Hondo College Police Academy Director Walter Allen III '69 is one of nine leaders selected to receive the inaugural Huff Strategies – ACT Against Hate Alliance Outstanding Leadership Award, recognizing his more than four decades in law enforcement to combat prejudice throughout his life and storied career in law enforcement and local government. The first-ever Huff Strategies-AAHA Leadership Award was presented to Allen and eight others during an August 17 ceremony in Rowland Heights, California. Allen has fought against implicit bias throughout his personal life and career in law enforcement, which includes his tenure at the Río Hondo College Police Academy and across California’s criminal justice and correctional systems. Allen is humbled by the award. "I was surprised to learn of this recognition, but am honored to be named a recipient of this important award," he said. Allen has also served as a state-wide leader in law enforcement, with more than 46 years of experience in the field. He is the former California Youth Authority director and chief of the State Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Law Enforcement Office of Correctional Safety. He has participated on the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training and served as deputy commissioner for the Board of Parole Hearings. In addition to his law enforcement background, Allen is currently fulfilling a fifth term on the Covina City Council, including his fifth stint as Mayor of the City of Covina. He has also sat on numerous boards and currently holds positions on the Ettie Lee Youth and Family Services board and the League of California Cities Public Safety Committee. Source: California School News Report
Class of 1983 members celebrated
their 40th reunion on August 27 at Golden Gate Fields.
Class Reunions in 2024 The Office of Alumni Relations would love to work with Class Agents to help plan and promote your class reunion. The following classes will be celebrating milestone reunions in 2024: 1949, 1954, 1959, 1964, 1969, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009, 2014, and 2019. If you are interested in helping to plan your reunion, the Alumni Office is here to help and can provide you with a Reunion Planning Kit. To get your kit, please contact Director of Alumni Relations Vicki Bargagliotti, vbargagliotti@sjnd.org.
Golden Reunion Planning Hello Class of 1974! Your Golden Reunion will be happening in 2024. The Alumni Office is looking for class members to serve on the Reunion Committee. On the committee, you will work closely with the Alumni Office to plan a special and memorable celebration! If interested, please contact Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving Vicki Bargagliotti, vbargagliotti@sjnd.org. WINTER 2023 | UPDATE 23
IN MEMORIAM Michael Auran '61 Son of Phyllis Heritage Auran '38; Brother of Timothy Auran '63, Theresa Auran '65, Kathy Auran Wetzel '67, and Mary Auran Foye '73
Johnny Bejarano '81 Brother of Felicitas Bejarano '79, Daniel Bejarano '82, and Berta Alicia Bejarano '83
Natalie Aguilera '96 Named NAHC CEO
Kevin Haughian '76 Robert W. Kreitz '62 Thomas Mackey '55 Brother of Gerald Mackey '57
Marie Strebel Mason '44 Mother of James X. Mason '71 (dec.); Sister of Frank Strebel '38 (dec.) and Paul Strebel '40 (dec.)
Sheldon W. McNamee '47 Rodney (RJ) Pimentel '16 Brother of Christopher Pimentel '18
Marjorie Rankin Ryan '49 Mother of Pattie Ryan DiFraia '73 and James Ryan '74 (dec.); and Mother-in-Law of Christopher DiFraia '72
Leontine "Tina" Soublet '75 Sister of Morris Soublet, Jr. '62, Richard Soublet '65, Prudence Soublet Killingsworth '66, Margie Soublet '67, Bruce Soublet, Bryon Soublet, and Brian Soublet; Aunt of Robert Snowden '90, Richard Soublet II '00, Vincent Killingsworth '97, and Vanneasha Soublet '18
Cecelia Theis '83 Marguerite Wilson '71 Twin of Magdalene Wilson '71, Sister of Mark Wilson '73, Veronica Wilson '75, and Christine Wilson Behrens '69
FACULTY/STAFF Nita White Former secretary of Notre Dame Academy
Address Correction? If this edition of Update is addressed to your child who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, notify SJND at (510) 995-9452 with the new address. 24 UPDATE | WINTER 2023
N
ative American Health Center (NAHC) has named Natalie Aguilera '96 (Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma) as the organization's new chief executive officer. Aguilera began her new duties on November 1. She has dedicated over 18 years to NAHC, previously serving as the chief administrative officer. With a Bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley and a Master's in Public Administration from Syracuse University, Aguilera brings extensive experience and a profound understanding of the local community to this role. She follows in the footsteps of her grandmother, Alice Carnes, who worked tirelessly for the Native community and was instrumental in establishing the Intertribal Friendship House (IFH) in 1955. Aguilera has led significant initiatives, including launching the Seven Generations Scholarship Fund, through which NAHC has expanded its commitment to the future wellness, healing, and success of the Native American community. With a strategic vision, she has also accelerated NAHC's expansion into housing development. In 2024, NAHC will own 36 affordable housing units above their 7 Directions clinic, and the new 3050 International Boulevard building that NAHC is breaking ground on in early 2024 will feature expanded dental services, a cultural community center, and an additional 76 units of affordable housing. "The projects we've been working on will help NAHC grow and further support our community members by expanding access to care and addressing the most pressing social determinants of health, including housing. The intersection of healthcare and housing is critical, and we are committed to ensuring affordable housing is available to our community members here in the Bay Area," said Aguilera. Aguilera looks back on her SJND education with appreciation. "Saint Joseph Notre Dame is an exceptional school," she says. "I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to attend, so much so that we have sent our oldest son (Dasan), who is in the class of 2024. SJND's diversity is unmatched. I felt so welcomed by the rich diverse student body, and I enjoyed the creative learning environments provided by my teachers that lent so much to my learning and development." Aguilera's work and advocacy extends to the statewide and national levels. She is an active leader and serves as a board member with the California Consortium for Urban Indian Health (CCUIH), as well as a leader with the National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH). "When I started here 18 years ago, I never envisioned that this was where I would be. I'm grateful and excited for the opportunity to carry forward the legacy of Martin (Waukazoo, former CEO) and the profound work he initiated over the past 40 years," said Aguilera.
Looking Back
Now That's Vintage
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ombing through our archives, we came across these athletics logos that go back at least as far as the 1950s. Planes then were not as sophisticated as today, but these fun representations portray our Pilots advancing, meeting any challenges that came their way. A review of many Notre Dame yearbooks in our collection failed to produce any representations of the Falcon logo for girls sports, though athletics were certainly part of the ND experience for our students. If any of you have ND Falcons or additional vintage SJND Pilot logos, we’d love to see them. Please send them to us at communications@sjnd.org.
Upcoming Events 1011 Chestnut Street, Alameda, CA 94501
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Feb. 10, 2024 Diocese of Oakland Kristina Taylor Science Fair Kelly Gymnasium
Feb. 29 - Mar. 3, 2024 Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical Malonga Casquelord Center for the Arts
Mar. 15, 2024 Day of Giving