Bishop Kevin Vann of the Diocese of Orange made a cameo appearance in Santa Margarita Catholic High School’s production of “Guys and Dolls.” Vann took the role seriously, attending practices and making every show. This was not Vann’s first performance in the Broadway classic. While a pastor in Illinois, Vann played the role of Nicely Nicely Johnson in a community theatre version of the musical. “After a couple of more serious months of ministry and decisions, I found that I still could sing, laugh, and yes, even dance a few steps,” Vann said. “This was a good chance for me to be with the students and have fun. It’s youth ministry.”
WINGS is published by the Office of Communications at SMCHS. For story ideas email the Office of Communications at pr@smhs.org or call us at 949-766-6000. You can also read more about Santa Margarita Catholic High School at www.smhs.org
PRESIDENT
CONTRIBUTORS
J. Andrew Sulick ’91 Raymond R. Dunne
Laurie Beach, Lori Gardner, Jaimee Lieske ’08, Chris Popovec ’11 Sean Zeitler ’01
ALUMNI RELATIONS
PHOTOGRAPHERS
PRINCIPAL
Lori Gardner EDITOR
Amanda Coronado ’98 DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
Teri Beauchamp
Robert Russell, Steve Wylie CLASS NOTES
www.smhs.org/classnote
Santa Margarita Catholic High School offers a college-preparatory education emphasizing the formation of the entire person. SMCHS strives to develop students who are people of faith, skilled lifelong learners, healthy individuals and involved citizens of our world. Students are empowered to grow spiritually, intellectually, socially and morally.
WINGS MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2016
FEATURES
8 CAMPUS CUISINE
Fresh fare keeps Eagles healthy
18 CLASS OF 2016
Graduation highlights
28 A TALE OF TEREZIN
Talon Theatre students
experience the power of art at a former Nazi concentration camp DEPARTMENTS 6 Around the Nest
10 Eagle Community 12 Philanthropy 20 Athletics 24 Creating Change 26 Campus Ministry 27 Arts 30 Faculty News 32 Class Notes ON THE COVER Photo mosaic featuring Class of 1991 senior class photos. This July, the class celebrates its 25th SMCHS reunion.
STAY CONNECTED Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/smchseagles and our alumni page at facebook.com/smchs
Follow us on Twitter @SMCHSEagles and @SMCHSAlumni Join us on Instagram @santamargaritaeagles Connect with us on www.linkedin.com/in/smchs
We love to hear from our alumni! Send us your job changes, new family additions, scholastic achievements, wedding announcements and other milestones to be printed in the class notes section of “Wings” magazine. Send us your submissions at www.smhs.org/classnote Please note: All class notes are subject to review and editing before publication. Notes are published in as timely a fashion as possible as space permits.
Your investment, large or small, plays a huge role in supporting the daily life of SMCHS students. Invest in the students of today, our leaders of tomorrow. Alumni, support the Eagle Fund and be a part of Project 1000 – 1000 Eagle alumni giving back.
Your gift to the Eagle Fund will assist with: •
Tuition Assistance
•
Teacher Development (Teacher Appreciation Fund)
•
Classroom Enhancements and Campus Upgrades
Give today: ONLINE: www.smhs.org/eaglefund PHONE:
949-766-6080
EMAIL:
advancement@smhs.org
LETTER FROM THE PRINCIPAL AND PRESIDENT Dear Santa Margarita Community, Santa Margarita Catholic High School is a school built on faith and tradition and the 2015-16 year saw a vibrant faith life and a year that added to the tradition of excellence that has been in place since 1987. A majority of seniors attended a Kairos retreat and all grade-level retreat programs were full. Each class continues the work of service through class level projects with Special Olympics (9), Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen (10) and group projects for juniors and seniors designed by the students. Our liturgies are strong affirmations of our Catholic faith and all programs are a testament to a hard working campus ministry staff. Santa Margarita remains one of the strongest academic schools. Over 1,100 AP and IB exams were administered this year and we had seven National Merit finalists. We increased our robotics classes and created a competitive team. For the first time we had a U.S. Presidential Scholar and our seniors were awarded over $47 million in college scholarships. The Class of 2016 is off to 128 different colleges and universities in 36 states and four countries. The athletic program continued to validate the many talented studentathletes we have on campus with CIF championships in girls track and field, girls swimming and girls soccer. Senior Grant Shoults was named the Orange County Male Athlete of the Year. The Pep Squad continued its winning ways by placing higher than ever in national competitions. In the arts, Santa Margarita students and faculty distinguished themselves with concerts at venues such as the Segerstrom Center for the Arts and with a remarkable performance of “Guys and Dolls.” The Visual Arts Department conducted the third annual Art Show to great acclaim. As always, at the heart of Santa Margarita is our charism, Caritas Christi, the love of Christ. Every student, faculty, staff member and family is called to be that love of Christ to one another and the world and in so doing they become the face of Christ to others. Thank you for your continued support of SMCHS and for being part of a family who can proudly say that Every Day is a Great Day to be an EAGLE! Caritas Christi,
Raymond R. Dunne, Principal
Dear SMCHS Family, Wow, it’s hard to believe that SMCHS just finished year 28! Where has the time gone? This was a year filled with more blessings than challenges, and for this we are grateful. We are also thankful for our talented students who continue to push “the Eagles” to new heights and to our faculty, staff and coaches who continue to inspire, educate and mentor. I am humbled and blessed to work with such an amazing group of educators and students. I’d like to reflect on a few highlights from the 2015-2016 school year: EAGLES EDGE Through the work of many top executives, business owners and entrepreneurs with strong connections to SMCHS and Orange County, we introduced Eagles Edge. Our hope is that this organization will become the way students, alumni, and the Santa Margarita community network and provide internships and employment opportunities for our Eagle community. Thus far, our students have grown through mentor programs, resume workshops and summer internship opportunities. PROJECT 1000 Our 9,720 alumni (including 2016 grads) are making the world a better place and the SM name a force for good in communities around this country. Project 1000 was launched in September 2015 with the longterm objective of reconnecting with 1000 alumni, reigniting the bond that binds all of us to SM, and encouraging donations toward the future of our alma mater. Visit www.smhs.org/alumni and reconnect with us. FAREWELL We say goodbye to two teachers/icons on campus with over 50 years of combined service to SMCHS. They have taught and inspired all 26 graduating classes in school history! Mrs. Alexander and Mrs. Moody, you will be missed and never forgotten! Both of these amazing women have truly left their mark of educational excellence and service on these 42 acres. I continue to be blessed and privileged to serve as president of SMCHS. My hope for all of our families is that we take time away from our daily routines to enjoy some much needed rest and relaxation with family and friends. Have a wonderful summer!
J. Andrew Sulick ’91, President
AROUND THE NEST
ROBOTICS TEAM SUCCESS
EAGLES BUILD HOPE IN UGANDA
SMbly Required, Santa Margarita’s robotics team, earned a trip to the 2016 FIRST Robotics Competition World Championship in St. Louis following a top-ranked performance at the San Diego Regional: FIRST Robotics Competition in March. At regionals, SMbly Required earned the Rookie All-Star Award and Matt Grob Innovation Award providing $10,000 for travel expenses to compete on the world stage. The team finished as the second-ranked rookie team in their division at the world competition and was given the opportunity to showcase their work to engineers and other professionals. A number of students served as ambassadors escorting high-ranking officials and top business executives around the tournament.
Water. The most critical ingredient for survival. Yet, in the developing world accessible, clean drinking water has become more and more scarce. Through the support and encouragement of local nonprofit, Wells of Life, the Santa Margarita Catholic High School community rallied together to build a life-saving well in rural Uganda providing access to clean, accessible drinking water for more than 1,000 people as well as hope. After faculty and staff successfully raised $3,000 at the school’s faculty/staff service retreat in February, students responded with a motivated effort and contributed $4,387 exceeding the total necessary to fund Santa Margarita’s second well for the people of rural Uganda. The additional funds will support the computer and science program at St. Theresa’s High School in Uganda. Info: www.wellsoflife.org
RECORD BREAKERS Coming off a banner year, Santa Margarita Catholic High School’s Pep Squad had yet another record-breaking season. Both the cheer and song programs brought home numerous trophies and achieved the school’s highest ever placements at UDA and UCA Nationals held in Florida. Varsity cheer took home third with song taking second in pom and fourth in jazz. Known as the “Super Bowl” of the cheer and dance world, UDA and UCA Nationals are highly competitive with only the nation’s best in attendance competing for the national title.
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DANCE CHAMPIONS Santa Margarita Catholic High School’s dance team had a terrific showing at the Contest of Champions Nationals in Florida. The team took home first in small jazz and extra small dance and second place in extra small lyrical, medium lyrical and medium contemporary. Not only did they win their division for small jazz, but also the top overall score over 49 competitive jazz routines.
U.S. PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR In May of 2016, David Bao ’16 was named a 2016 U.S. Presidential Scholar by Secretary of Education John King. Bao was the only student in Orange County to receive the honor this year and one of only seven in the state and 160 in the nation. He is the first student to win the award in the history of Santa Margarita. High school seniors are awarded this honor for a combination of outstanding academic achievement, artistic
excellence, leadership, citizenship, service and contributions to their school and community. Bao chose to recognize Santa Margarita Principal Ray Dunne, his AP Government teacher, as his most influential teacher. “David is one of the most intelligent and driven students I have had in my class over the years,” Dunne said. “This prestigious award is a great recognition of the outstanding young man he is.” At Santa Margarita, Bao was in the International Baccalaureate program, participated in the school’s Model United Nations program and was on the track and field team. He also was president of the Future Business Leaders of America Club this year and was named a National Merit Finalist and a National AP Scholar. He is a member of the Teen Leadership Council in his community of Ladera Ranch, tutors underprivileged students in the Santa Ana Unified School District and volunteers with Lion’s Heart community service group. His work also included organizing an all-girls math tournament and math field day for Santa Ana Unified. Bao and the other recipients were honored in Washington, D.C., June 19-21.
Presidential Scholar David Bao ’16 pictured with Principal and AP Government teacher Ray Dunne, his most influential teacher.
ALL THAT JAZZ Life is a lot like jazz. It is best when you improvise. Under the direction of performing arts teacher Amanda Duncan, the Jazz Club at Santa Margarita is enjoying an exciting first year. The club is composed of twelve members who come together for club meetings with an instrument of their choice, ready to collaborate with fellow members and create new music. Students are taught to approach their music with style, expression and fun. When approached with creativity, jazz offers something to musicians that few other genres can. “The Jazz Club for me is just an escape from everything,” said George Tajonera ’17. “I really get to express myself when I play and it just gives me a lot of freedom with what I can do with my music.” In addition to reading sheet music, Duncan is encouraging her students to create their own sounds and feed off one another. The goal is to break away from the rigid guidelines of traditional performance and really let your imagination soar. “Jazz Club brings you into a whole different environment and new type of thinking,” said Daniel Yap ’16. “It lets you improvise and play what you think sounds good.” WINGS |
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AROUND THE NEST
KEEPING IT FRESH The fried chicken strips have been replaced with baked, breaded chicken tenders, the pizza made-over with wheat pita bread and the fries swapped with baked, crispy sweet potato fries. Santa Margarita Catholic High School has a new food service provider with a focus on fresh, whole foods for students, faculty and staff. The program provides nutritious, balanced meals using “real foods” prepared by professional chefs. Breakfast and afterschool snacks are offered in addition to lunch. “I trademarked the saying, ‘Every Child is my Child,’ and I will not feed your children anything that I wouldn’t feed my own,” said father of four Chef Azmin Ghahreman, founder of Sapphire at School which Santa Margarita began using beginning with the 2015-16 school year. “We have chefs in our kitchen who use knives and not box cutters.” That means sauces, salad dressings and soups are made from scratch, bread and muffins baked fresh each morning and the lemonade homemade.
OFFERING STUDENTS THE BEST Ghahreman, owner of the Laguna Beach high-end restaurant Sapphire Laguna, began Sapphire at School in 2007 in an effort to help children establish good eating habits and provide a healthy alternative to the standard institutional fast food fare in schools. “Combining my decades of culinary experience with my passion for improving childhood nutrition and health, I made it my mission to change the way children view food while broadening their minds and palates,” Ghahreman said. The company now serves more than 5,000 healthy meals daily to Pre-K through high school students in 11 public and private schools across Orange County. The program is overseen by doctors, dieticians, market trend experts, educators and students. The menu changes weekly, but items include offerings such as Thai chicken curry, beef stroganoff, chicken Caesar salad and a Caprese sandwich with homemade pesto. What you won’t find are trans fats, additives and preservatives as well as nuts to mitigate allergic reactions. All snacks and meals are ideally proportioned. “We wanted to offer our students the very best,” said Santa Margarita Vice President of Administration Lucretia Dominguez, who oversees staff and student dining. STUDENT REQUESTS AND FEEDBACK WELCOMED Seaweed imported from Korea used in miso soup, French chocolate and Sonoma cheeses – Ghahreman and his team take pride in the care they put into sourcing ingredients. The same local growers and suppliers that provide food to the chef’s award-winning restaurant are used. The walk-in refrigerator is chock-full of produce, most of it locally-sourced, with talk of eventually creating a Santa Margarita garden to serve farm-to-table cuisine. Meats come from Newport Meat Company, produce from California Produce and fresh fish from Santa Monica Seafood help to strengthen the local economy, shorten the supply chain and ensure freshness. Sapphire at School takes student feedback seriously with tweaks made to the menu based on what is selling and student requests. Gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan and low-sugar menu options are available as well as other accommodations for those with food allergies or other dietary needs. Allison Agbayani ’18 says the menu makeover has left her feeling more energized in class. Her favorite selections include the roasted turkey club and chicken Caesar salad as well as pita chips and hummus, watermelon and grapes for munching between classes. “When I eat healthier I feel more motivated to learn and I am more productive,” she said. “My grades are improving and I feel like the food has something to do with that.” 8 |
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MADE BY PROFESSIONAL CHEFS Menus are created by classically-trained chefs, reviewed by a dietician, and then approved by students’ taste buds.
PREPARED WITH WHOLE FOODS Recipes are made from whole foods and based on the Mediterranean food pyramid, relying on healthy whole grains, fresh vegetables, ripe fruit, lean meats, nutritious legumes, herbs and spices, and in spare amounts, sweets such as homemade cookies.
ORGANIC NATURAL BAKED FRESH INGREDIENTS EACH MORNING Sapphire at School offers organic, hormonefree low-fat regular and chocolate milk. Cheeses come from real milk and contain no emulsifiers. Only natural sweeteners like honey and agave are used. You won’t find any high fructose corn syrup.
MADE FROM SCRATCH All dressings, stocks and sauces are made from scratch and contain no preservatives or MSG. Beef and chicken are all natural and bacon, hotdogs and cured meats are nitrate free.
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Fruits and vegetables are bought directly from family farmers and meat and seafood from local providers to shorten the supply chain and ensure freshness.
Most of the food packaging is made from plant sugars. Drinking cups are made from PLA (polylactic acid), a natural plastic material stemming from Ingeo, which is made from plants instead of oil. It is 100 percent certified compostable and renewable.
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All breads and buns are made each morning by a local artisan baker in Santa Ana. Wholewheat flour is used with a special recipe, made specifically for Sapphire at School, which does not contain egg or dairy.
Tableware is made from a fiber material that is a blend of bagasse (sugar cane) and bamboo, which are sustainable.
MEET CHEF AZMIN GHAHREMAN Born in Iran and educated in Switzerland, Chef Azmin Ghahreman attended the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. He has served as the executive chef at 5-star resorts such as St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort and Spa, The Four Seasons Resorts, and is the owner of Sapphire Restaurant and Pantry as well as Sapphire at School. His passion for advancing the quality of food led him to help other restaurateurs and culinary businesses to help develop world-class establishments including resorts, cruise ships, country clubs and other fine dining establishments. Ghahreman has cooked for more than 40 kings, presidents and heads of state among them: President George W. Bush, President Bill Clinton, President Jimmy Carter, Vice President Joe Biden and past prime ministers of Singapore, Thailand and many other nations. He is a chef, sommelier, master mixologist and expert in global spices and cooking techniques. Ghahreman also partners with many different charities and public service opportunities including MaxLove Project, Miracles for Kids, Serra’s Pantry, The Children’s Hospital of Orange County and JDRF. WINGS |
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EAGLE COMMUNITY
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM “Most students have never interviewed and have never learned how to act in a professional office environment. It is important to get students engaged and interested in learning about these critical life skills that normal classes do not cover.” - Lori Hershorin, Attorney/Partner at Hershorin and Henry LLP A new program on campus is giving students an edge as they approach their college and professional careers. In its inaugural year, the Eagles Edge Club and Committee are working together to provide real-world opportunities for Santa Margarita Catholic High School students to develop life skills and succeed beyond the classroom. The Eagles Edge Committee – comprised of current and alumni parents, friends of SMCHS and Santa Margarita staff – was the vision of Santa Margarita President Andy Sulick ’91 along with current SMCHS parent Tanya Domier. The committee’s enthusiasm quickly caught the attention of Rachel Hershorin ’16 who established a student club to help carry out the goals of the Eagles Edge Committee. The joint effort includes organizing workshops led by Santa Margarita alumni, alumni parents and friends of SMCHS to provide professional development opportunities for Santa Margarita students. Workshop
topics have included money management, resume writing and college planning to name a few. Through the Eagles Edge workshops, students from every grade level are learning how to nail that interview for their dream job, financially plan for college and beyond and write that perfect resume that will catch the eye of prospective employers. Students are also receiving valuable networking opportunities with professionals who have the desire to hire talented Santa Margarita students and alumni for internships and jobs. “By having all of these talented business leaders provide tips for a successful future, they are putting us on the path to success,” Rachel Hershorin said. The committee has also established a website dedicated to job opportunities and internships available to the Eagle community. Visit the site at www.smhs.org/ebn for alumni opportunities and www.smhs.org/network for current student opportunities.
“Eagles Edge brings the wealth of resources of the SMCHS network directly to our Santa Margarita students and alumni,” Domier said. “Our committee is working hard to make sure that our Eagles have every edge both today and in the future.” Sulick hopes the foundation being laid this year will develop into a culture of Eagles helping Eagles achieve academic and professional success. “Life is about relationships and connections,” Sulick said. “The primary commitment of Eagles Edge is to assist in making these connections through internships and workshops that will prepare our students for today’s workforce.” With a number of workshops and club meetings completed in 2016, the Eagles Edge Club looks forward to a continued partnership with their mentors in the Eagles Edge Committee when the new school year kicks off in the fall of 2016.
EAGLES EDGE COMMITTEE MEMBERS Sean Basford, SMCHS Assistant Principal, Academics & Curriculum Sean Crafts ’92, Co-founder, Mavenlink Sherry Delaney-Deke, Managing Partner/CFO New Market Wealth Management Tanya Domier, CEO of Advantage Sales and Marketing Lori Gardner, SMCHS Director of Alumni Programs Dave Hanna, Owner, Hanna’s Restaurant Kent Hayden, CEO, South Coast Baking Todd Hesford ’91, Owner, Mission Viejo Auto Collision Said Hilal, President & CEO, Applied Medical Maureen McAndrews, Assistant to the SMCHS President Charlene Palmer, Founder, The Palmer Group Chris Popovec ’11, SMCHS Communications Coordinator Meghan Schinderle Clem ’01, Owner, Intertwined Events and Become Intertwined Andy Sulick ‘91, SMCHS President Samir Tall, CFO, Applied Medical Richard Tyson, Head of Global Operations, Janus
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Cartoon by John de Rosier used with permission from Times Union.
Sammer Darwazeh, SMCHS Activities Director
ALUMNI WINE AND WELCOME EVENTS The alumni office held two Wine and Welcome mixer events this past spring. The February event was hosted at the Avila family restaurant, an alumni family, at Avila’s El Ranchito Corona Del Mar. More than 30 alumni enjoyed delicious appetizers along with wine tasting generously provided by Kris Riggs ’98 of American Vines. The late April event was held at Prego Ristorante Irvine, owned by the Bedis, also an alumni family. Approximately 40 alumni gathered to reconnect as an Eagle family and “mangia” delicious Italian food and wine. Patrick Keane ’91 and Anthony Maltese ’08 walked away with some Santa Margarita swag to top of the night.
Left to Right: Devin Bedi '05, Alex Vom Steeg '04 and John Minardi '98
Left to Right: Patrick Keane '91, John McKeehan '91 and SMCHS football coach Lenny Vandermade
Left to Right: Necole Abboud '08, Travis Smith '02 and Anthony Maltese '08
Cartoon by John de Rosier used with permission from Times Union.
ALUMNI COUNCIL GROWING EAGLE CONNECTION A new and growing council at Santa Margarita is working to build and strengthen lifetime connections between alumni and their alma mater while supporting the goals and mission of the school. The group meets quarterly to help foster community within the Eagle alumni family and future eagles. The council supports school programs, alumni events and The Eagle Fund, the school’s annual giving program. Alumni Council President Meg Harty Tennant ’01 has led the group to a second successful year. The council is divided into four subcommittees that are focused on social, networking, philanthropy and outreach opportunities. New programs have included Wine and Welcome events, a Summer Splash Alumni Family Pool Party, participation in Special Olympics events, establishing the Eagle Business Network (www.smhs.org/ebn) and continued support of the annual fund through fundraising efforts. We are
blessed to have a wonderful council and are thankful for their dedication to SMCHS: Sara Simmons Brakke ’91, John Byszewski ’91, Jason Giardini ’91, John McKeehan ’91, Shane Mielke ’91, Andy Sulick ’91, Tracy Scheil Garcia ’92, Joleen Austin Bassett ’95, Brian Meihaus ’96 Brianne Wedertz Burke ’98, Scott Feyka ’98, Dani DiLoretta Kelly ’00,
Bryan Kretzmer ’00, Steve Luxenberg ’00, Alicia Sayles ’00, Alycia Fitzpatrick Beresford ’01, Chad Kurthy ’01, Meg Harty Tennant ’01 (President), Chris Ferraro Jr. ’02, Katie McCurdy ’02, Jenna Scherman Shott ’02, Maggie DeLain ’04, Emma DeLain ’07, Necole Abboud ’08, Jaimee Lieske ’08, Brandon Blanchard ’10, Shannon Maloney ’11 and Chris Popovec ’11.
Alumni council members at a recent meeting. Pictured left to right: Andy Sulick ’91, Maggie DeLain ’04, John Byszewski ’91, Emma DeLain ’07, Steve Luxenberg ’00, Katie McCurdy ’02, Chris Popovec ’11, Meg Harty Tennant ’01, Tracy Scheil Garcia ’92, Shane Mielke ’91, Brandon Blanchard ’10, Necole Abboud ’08, Chris Ferraro Jr. ’02 and Brian Meihaus ’96.
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PHILANTHROPY
MONICA FURMAN
SMCHS 2016 nominee for Catholic Woman of the Year “To whom much is given, much is required.” This guiding principle from St. Luke is how Monica Furman lives her life. She gives of herself in so many ways, but values the gift of volunteering above all. “We are stewards of our treasure,” Monica says. “However, treasure can come and go, but we can always give of our time.” The gift of a generous heart was instilled in her at a young age after seeing the many hardships her parents handled with grace. Her mother did whatever she could to assist others in need often gathering items from their own home to help. She vividly recalls the time when she inadvertently found out her mother temporarily relied upon food stamps to feed their family following the untimely death of her father. Yet, her mother continued to give to others with Monica now carrying on that legacy. Providing students with tuition assistance for Catholic education has always held a special place in Monica’s heart. She and her husband Chris worked hard to put themselves through school and value their Catholic education. They have generously given to Santa Margarita’s tuition assistance fund as well as other Catholic schools in the Diocese of Orange. While her daughter, Caroline Furman’14, was a student at SMCHS, Monica co-chaired the school’s 25th anniversary gala in 2012 and assisted with Santa Margarita’s 12th Man fundraiser to support the football program. Chris served on the Consultative School Board as well as the Finance Committee, and undoubtedly Monica was his silent partner on those committees. The Furmans continue to support Santa Margarita despite no longer having children in high school. “It’s our obligation to take the baton that was passed on to us by others who started Santa Margarita, people like Randy and Claudia Redwitz who inspire me to do more,” Monica says.
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Monica Furman supports orphans in South Africa through Acres of Love.
As a cancer survivor, Monica also supports organizations including the Jessie Rees Foundation, which works to ensure
parents, we want “toAsshow our children that we have responsibilities, first to God and then to others.” - Monica Furman
every child fighting cancer has the support to Never Ever Give Up (NEGU), and has donated her time to Children’s Hospital of Orange County serving on the gala committee over the years. “For me, not to give back to others battling cancer after I was spared would be unthinkable.” Her love for children goes much wider than those here close to home. Monica is involved with Acres of Love, for which she and her husband co-sponsor a
“Forever Home,” providing a home to orphaned children in South Africa. She recently returned from a trip to South Africa where she volunteered with children afflicted with HIV/AIDS. The mission of Acres of Love is to ensure these children are not only cared for but are prepared to become community leaders. By attending private schools, many go on to trade schools and universities. “As parents, we want to show our children that we have responsibilities,” she says. “First to God and then to others.” Matt, Emily and Caroline have definitely followed in their parents footsteps. It is for this dedication to others that Monica was selected as Santa Margarita’s nominee for Catholic Charities of Orange County Woman of the Year. “Monica is extremely gracious and caring,” says SMCHS President Andy Sulick. “She and Chris have made so much possible for this school and countless other organizations.”
RANDY REDWITZ
SMCHS 2016 nominee for Catholic Man of the Year
Randy Redwitz addresses the Santa Margarita community at the blessing of the Eagle Athletic Center.
A graduate of St. Catherine of Sienna Elementary, Servite High School and St. John’s Seminary College, Randy Redwitz values Catholic education and has spent much of his life supporting it. As school founders, both Randy and Claudia Redwitz were instrumental in establishing SMCHS graciously giving of their time, talents and treasure to create a school where students could grow in their faith and become more complete human beings. Four of the couple’s five children – Penny ’91, Eric ’92, Rob ’95 and Chad ’97 – are Santa Margarita Catholic High School graduates with their daughter, Jennie ’89, attending Cornelia Connelly High School prior to Santa Margarita opening its doors in 1987. “I believe passionately in Catholic education,” Randy says. “SMCHS gives students a quality of education and an aptitude in maturity that is bar none. Of equal or more importance, Santa Margarita provides students the ability to learn and practice their faith daily. The richer the experience a younger person has in putting their Catholic faith into action – whether in the classroom, theatre, on the athletic field, at a social event or during a service activity
Randy Redwitz tours the athletic center prior to its opening with now retired Bishop Tod Brown.
– the stronger their faith becomes.” From 1990 to 2010, Randy served as Santa Margarita’s business manager and has since provided his expertise and guidance as a financial consultant. Always striving to push the school forward, he worked to maintain the school’s fiscal health and allowed Santa Margarita to grow by securing funding to finance campus projects including the school’s Aquatic Center, Eagle Athletic Center and Academic Services Center. Both Claudia and Randy also serve on the Santa Margarita’s Consultative School Board. On Fridays in the fall, Randy can be found under the lights on the football field as a member of the chain gang, which has been together since the school’s opening. With a passion for providing Catholic education to students in need, the couple established the Redwitz Family Scholarship providing tuition assistance to four students each year. They feel so strongly about providing an exceptional SMCHS educational experience that they have included a bequest for the school in their estate plans. “God alone has given me certain talents and I firmly believe He wants me to use
those talents not for the betterment of me, but for the betterment of others,” Randy says. In other areas of service and outreach, Randy supports St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church and The Parish School; serves on the Diocesan Consultative School Board as well as the Finance Commission assisting with the renovation of the Christ Cathedral; provides service to the sick and poor through the Order of Malta of which he is a vested knight; and is the chief executive officer of the Caritas Corporation, a nonprofit providing affordable housing to low-income families and individuals through mobile home communities. It is for this servant leadership and more that Randy was selected as Santa Margarita’s nominee for Catholic Man of the Year. “Randy has tirelessly and selflessly given of his time, treasure and talent,” says SMCHS President Andy Sulick. “He has been a humble servant leader for the school, the Diocese of Orange and the Catholic Church. He and Claudia lead others to do good for the world through a simple yet strong example.” WINGS |
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PHILANTHROPY
Eagle Classic Golf Tournament
Makes History Santa Margarita Catholic High School’s annual Eagle Classic Golf Tournament achieved historic success this year doubling the number of participants and funds raised for the school. The March event was held at the Coto de Caza Golf & Racquet Club with 220 golfers covering both the north and south courses. Following the tournament, 300 guests enjoyed dinner at the club. The tournament raised a total of $180,554, making it a $100,999 increase in profit from last year’s event. Golfers had the opportunity to purchase auction items and participate in the newly added helicopter ball drop, which sold more than 6,239 golf balls for a chance to win $5,000. Jake Carroll ’19 led the way for Santa Margarita students, selling 450 golf balls. All of the profits from the tournament benefit the athletic teams and other student programs of Santa Margarita. This year, 22 Santa Margarita sports teams and programs participated. On the course, John Buckles, Steve Beuerlein, Chris Morrow and Jeff Fischbeck shot a tournament best 52 on the north course and Al Lapena, Tim Hardy, Brian Harnetiaux and Derrick Umemoto shot a 52 on the south course taking top honors. This communitybuilding event was made possible by the many booster parents, families and friends that gave of their time, talent and treasure to ensure a successful and profitable event. This event was further made possible by the sponsors, underwriters, donors and golfers who pledged their support to the students and programs of SMCHS.
Save the date THE 2017 EAGLE CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT MARCH 27, 2017
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Winning south course team, left to right: Derrick Umemoto, Tim Hardy, Brian Harnetiaux, Al Lapena
Winning north course team, left to right: Chris Morrow, John Buckles, Jeff Fischbeck, Steve Beuerlein
Mary and Bob Baker, helicopter ball drop winners
Eemil Selanne ’15, hockey coach Craig Johnson, Mike Ameel, Teemu Selanne
Bryan Kretzmer ’00 and John Byszewski ’91
Thank you to our sponsors: TOURNAMENT SPONSORS Security First Corp.
Wendy’s Restaurants
EAGLE SPONSORS The Buckles Family LUX Bus EcoForce Solutions O’Connell Landscape Maintenance The Hayden Family The Shulman Hodges & Bastian LLP table, a sponsor
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The Lutterloh Family
Shulman Hodges & Bastian LLP
PACIFIC LIFE FOUNDATION EDUCATION GRANT Since 2001, generous Santa Margarita families at Pacific Life have helped Santa Margarita Catholic High School receive the Pacific Life Foundation 3T’s of Education grant. This program awards grants to schools where there are concentrations of children or grandchildren of Pacific Life employees. Grants can be designated to help fund teacher training, technology and textbooks. Over the past 15 years, Santa Margarita has been fortunate enough to use the grants for performing arts teacher training, interactive whiteboards, graphic design software and more. This year, the SMCHS robotics program was selected by the Santa Margarita administration to receive the $5,500 grant. Funds will be used for new computers that will provide faster software and allow students to receive real-world engineering experience. We hope that all of our Pacific Life families and grandparents will once again come together and nominate Santa Margarita for the 3T’s of Education grant in 2016-2017. The process is made easy through the Pacific Life Foundation and the generosity to the school is a blessing.
Principal Ray Dunne accepts the Pacific Life Foundation 3T's of Education grant from SMCHS parents and Pacific Life employees (left to right) Michael Long, Tina Kennedy and Patrick Ryan.
JOIN US FOR THE 8th ANNUAL SARAH DEMILLE 5K MEMORIAL RUN/WALK Saturday, July 23 Santa Margarita Catholic High School Proceeds from the race will benefit the Sarah DeMille ’05 Memorial Scholarship at Santa Margarita Catholic High School. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 6:30am-7:55am: Check-in for all 5K runners 8:00am: Elite/high school run begins (to enter this run, you must be able to complete in under 24 minutes). Virtual run ends and begins 8:30am: General runners/open run/walk 8:45am: Fun run begins – 10 and under 9:00am: Pancake breakfast begins 9:45am: Awards
REGISTRATION AND SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION: www.smhs.org/sarahdemille WINGS |
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ALUMNI SNAPSHOT
ALUMNI RETURN TO SHARE AND INSPIRE Twenty-two alumni returned to the nest in January to educate, inspire and mentor the Class of 2017 as part of the annual Alumni Career Day. Students started the morning with a one-hour session with an alumni speaker working in a career they expressed an interest in. The students then headed to the Moiso Family Pavilion to hear from keynote speaker Sarah Walker Ollenburger ’96, who shared her experiences working as a hiring manager and enlightened students on how social media can both negatively and positively affect their professional careers.
Matt Steinbach ’05 and Chad Kurthy ’01
She encouraged students to use social media to “brand yourself” in a positive light by sharing all aspects of who you are from service to family and fun. Following Ollenburger’s inspiring words, students were given the opportunity to explore the alumni career day fair speaking one-on-one with alumni about their career and college paths. A lunch with President Andy Sulick ’91 and the alumni in attendance concluded the event. “We appreciate you being here and sharing your time,” Sulick said. “You are making the world a better place and it’s important our students see you on campus.”
Sarah Walker Ollenburger ’96
Melissa Beever Koupal ’97 and Nick Mauro ’97
CAREER DAY 2016 PARTICIPANTS Josh Mooney ’92, digital marketing executive Michael J. DeFries ’94, financial planning and analysis manager Megan Clark Lindsay ’94, educator Chris Abbamonto ’96, energy efficiency and sustainability Brad Byszewski ’96, attorney Sarah Walker Ollenburger ’96, brand specialist Melissa Beever Koupal ’97, legal, mortgage origination/servicing Nick Mauro ’97, import compliance manager David Stifter ’97, real estate Scott Feyka ’98, electrical engineer Jarlath Curran ’98, attorney
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Lisa Mann ’99, marketing Dr. Lauren Kent Davis ’00, family medicine physician Steve Luxenberg ’00, film producer Alycia Fitzpatrick Beresford ’01, principal Meghan Schinderle Clem ’01, event planning/social media Chad Kurthy ’01, firefighter Chris Ferraro Jr. ’02, insurance representative Matt Steinbach ’05, law enforcement Liza Smith Koepke ’07, optometrist David Mastrovich ’10, business development Johnny Whichard ’10, interactive producer
then&now
GRADUATES
CLASS OF 1991:
216
FACULTY
CLASS OF 2016:
424
BUILDINGS 1991:
11
2016:
15
New additions include the Eagle Athletic Center, Academic Services Center/Eagle TV Studio, Eagle Dome, and the SMCHS Aquatic Center featuring an Olympic-sized pool.
BOOKS IN THE BORCHARD LIBRARY 1991 over
30,000
A glimpse at the transformation that has taken place since the school's first graduation in 1991.
2016
approximately
10,000
Plus 32 networked computers with multimedia databases
1991:
68
2016:
118
ATHLETIC ACCOLADES 1991 2016 (since the school's opening)
0
1st CIF title in 1993
60 CIF titles 5 State titles 81 Individual/relay CIF titles
CLUBS/ACTIVITIES
1991:
23
2016:
85
2016:
63
ART CLASSES
1991:
15
Let's celebrate 25 years! CLASS OF 1991 REUNION SATURDAY, JULY 30, 2016
5:00PM – 10:00PM • Laguna Cliffs Marriott, Dana Point
REUNION WEEKEND EVENTS Saturday, July 30
School tour and breakfast 9:00AM-11:00AM RSVP to alumni@smhs.org if you will be attending or have questions
Sunday, July 31
Angels baseball game vs Boston Red Sox – first pitch, 12:35PM Game ticket and voucher for hot dog and soda is $22 each RSVP to alumni@smhs.org Questions, email alumni@smhs.org or call 949-766-6080
We look forward to celebrating with you! Reunion tickets can be purchased at www.smhs.org/25year
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Congratulations Class of 2016
CLASS OF 2016 BY THE NUMBERS 2,223 college acceptances $47.3 million in scholarship offers 424 members of the class 161 CSF lifetime members 128 colleges and universities that graduates will attend 102 National Honor Society members 100 percent of graduates performed community service
99 percent of graduates continuing their education at the college level
92 International Baccalaureate courses graduates
53 International Baccalaureate full-diploma graduates
41 student-athletes to compete at the collegiate level 89 AP Scholars 36 states and four countries graduates will be attending college in 28 student-artists to continue their arts education at the
collegiate level
7 National Merit Finalists 3 National Merit Scholars 3 CIF team championships 3 in 5 graduates have a cumulative GPA of a 3.5 and higher
TOP OF THE CLASS KARINA SANCHEZ – Valedictorian, 4.92 GPA, Stanford University ABIGAIL JACKSON – Valedictorian, 4.92 GPA, USC MEGHAN POTH – Salutatorian, 4.88 GPA, Dartmouth College
2016 CLASS GIFT A tile mosaic hangs outside the Academic Services Center.
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2016 CARITAS AWARD RECIPIENT MICHAELA GALVIN - New York University The Caritas Award recognizes a student who best exemplifies the school charism of “Caritas Christi,” the love of Christ.
CLASS OF 2016 SWEATSHIRT PHOTO
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EAGLE ATHLETICS
EAGLES BRING IT HOME Santa Margarita Catholic High School athletics soared in the 2015-16 school year with accolades including team and individual championships, the acclaimed girls soccer program earning the No. 1 national ranking by USA Today, the CIF Commissioners Cup on the girls’ side, awarded to the top program in the CIF 569-member Southern Section, as well as national records shattered and the crowning of both a CIF, OC Register and Orange County Athletic Directors Association Player of the Year. Winning streaks continued with the girls swim team clinching their 17th consecutive league title, girls tennis their 10th consecutive league title and boys tennis their fifth consecutive league title. The boys lacrosse team made history bringing home the program’s first league championship. With the conclusion of the 2015-2016 school year, Santa Margarita athletics now lays claim to 48 CIF Players of the Year, 60 CIF championships, 193 league championships, five state championships and 81 individual and relay championships. 2015-2016 CIF CHAMPIONSHIPS Girls Soccer CIF-SS Division 1 Girls Track and Field CIF-SS Division 3 Girls Swim CIF-SS Division 1
2015-2016 TRINITY LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS Girls Volleyball Girls Golf Girls Swimming and Diving Girls Tennis Boys Tennis Boys Lacrosse
2015-2016 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Girls Soccer SoCal Regional Champions Division 1
2015-2016 INDIVIDUAL EVENT CIF CHAMPIONS TRACK AND FIELD Lauren Drysch ’17: 400 Meter (56.80) Kate Thomas ’17: Pole Vault (12 feet, 3 inches)
Grant Shoults ’16: 500 Freestyle (4:12.87, National High School Record) Samantha Shelton ’18: 200 Freestyle (1:45.06) Samantha Shelton ’18: 100 Butterfly (53.72) Mackenzie Degn ’19, Marriott Hoffmann ’18, Jeni Griffin ’17 and Samantha Shelton ’18: 4 x 50 Freestyle Relay (1:34.02) Mackenzie Degn ’19, Emily Boggess ’16, Bela Patino ’18 and Samantha Shelton ’18: 4 x 100 Freestyle Relay (3:24.38)
2015-2016 ATHLETES OF THE YEAR Natalie Kennedy ’16: CIF Player of the Year Grant Shoults ’16: OC Register Boys Player of the Year, Orange County Athletic Directors Association Male Athlete of the Year, OC Register Boys Swimmer of the Year Samantha Shelton ’18: OC Register Girls Swimmer of the Year 2015-16 COACH OF THE YEAR Chuck Morales, Girls Soccer: California Coaches Association Southern Girls Soccer Coach of the Year, All-CIF Girls Soccer Division 1 Coach of the Year
Three CIF championships in 2016 – girls varsity soccer, girls varsity swimming and diving and girls track and field – secured the CIF Commissioners Cup for girls' athletics at SMCHS. National record-shattering performances helped Grant Shoults '16 win OC Register and OC Athletic Directors Association Player of the Year awards.
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Photo: Max Tuerk/San Diego Chargers. AJ Cruz/Miami Dolphins. Photo illustration: SMCHS Communications.
2015-2016 INDIVIDUAL EVENT CIF CHAMPIONS SWIMMING Grant Shoults ’16: 200 Freestyle (1:33.26, National High School Record)
FISHER PREPARES FOR BIG GAINS Preparation for the 2016 football season is underway at Santa Margarita Catholic High School with Richard Fisher as the school’s head Coach Fisher varsity football coach. Over the past several months, Fisher has been working with returning football players. “I want to get the Santa Margarita football program back to a position of prominence,” he said. “My coaches are teaching our players hard work and accountability as they learn to win in our new system.” His philosophy comes from coaching at the college level, where
he experienced great success before being selected as Santa Margarita’s coach in January. Fisher served as the wide receivers coach at the University of Nebraska for four years ending with the 2014 season. While at Nebraska, Fisher’s receivers set 11 school records and produced an all-conference wide receiver three out of his four years coaching the group. Two of Fisher’s standouts, Quincy Enunwa of the New York Jets and Kenny Bell of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, set numerous individual receiving records. Fisher also has experience heading up a high school program serving as the head football coach at The Rivers School, an independent school in Massachusetts, from 2008-2011. At Rivers, he led the Red Wings to
their first undefeated season since 1915 and the first Independent School League Championship and bowl appearance in school history. Fisher also had assistant coaching positions at Idaho, Oklahoma State and his alma mater, Colorado, where he was part of the 1990 national championship team as a student-athlete and three consecutive Big Eight Conference championship teams (1989-1991). “With the quality of teams in this area, coaching in the Trinity League is similar to coaching in college,” Fisher said. “I wanted the opportunity to run my own program again and to be head coach at Santa Margarita was something that would have been hard to pass up.”
EAGLES
Photo: Max Tuerk/San Diego Chargers. AJ Cruz/Miami Dolphins. Photo illustration: SMCHS Communications.
JOIN THE LEAGUE
NFL Team: San Diego Chargers Drafted in 3rd round, 66th overall pick
NFL Team: Miami Dolphins (free agent)
Position: Center
Height: 5’9’’
Height: 6’5’’
Years in Play: Rookie
Years in Play: Signed with the Chicago Bears in 2015; one season for the LA KISS (arena football)
College: USC
College: Brown University
“Max is the toughest and hardest working football player I have ever seen or coached.”
“AJ has stayed focused on his dream. His faith, hard work and determination have gotten him to where he is and I couldn’t be more proud to have been a small part of his journey."
Weight: 298 Age: 22
- Jerry Holloway, coach, SMCHS freshman football offensive and defensive line
Position: Wide Receiver Weight:195 Age: 25
- John Byszewski ’91, coach, SMCHS varsity football assistant defensive line
BROTHERS CONTINUE TO SOAR
Klay Thompson ’08 – SMCHS senior yearbook photo
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During his senior year, Trayce began to solely focus on baseball though DeBusk said he likely could have been a Division 1 basketball recruit. The Thompson brothers work ethic stems from parents Mychal, a two-time Laker champion, and Julie, who was once a college volleyball star. From Klay’s 41-point playoff performance and recent apprearance in the 2016 NBA Finals to Trayce’s recent game-winning home runs – the Thompson brothers are providing enough highlight reels to light up California from Los Angeles to Oakland. “I’m really proud of him,” Klay told ESPN of his brother who was traded to the Dodgers in December from the Chicago White Sox after spending seven years in the White Sox minor league system before making his major league debut last August. “Getting to the major leagues is a grind and it takes discipline and dedication. So to see him pursuing his dream and living it out to the fullest makes me incredibly happy for him.” Trayce told ESPN Klay has been a constant source of inspiration. “I’m inspired by him because of his mentality,” he said. “He’s never scared of the moment. He’s never scared to fail.”
Trayce Thompson ’09 – SMCHS senior yearbook photo
Photo: Beau Hossler/Fred Haskins Commission. Amy LeTourneu/Northwestern University Girls Softball. Klay Thompson/Golden State Warriors. Trace Thompson/Los Angeles Dodgers.
From the days of nailing 3-pointers and hitting home runs at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, there was very little doubt that brothers Klay Thompson ’08 and Trayce Thompson ’09 were destined for professional success. Fast forward to 2016 with the rising of two professional stars on the court and diamond: legendary NBA 3-point playoff record holder Klay of the Golden State Warriors 2015 championship team and rookie outfielder Trayce, who was recently brought up to the starting lineup of the Los Angeles Dodgers making a name for himself as a top home run hitter. “Klay was more reserved in his personality, but thrived in the sports arena always pushing himself to be the best. He was a leader and his personal stats not as important to him as winning as a team was,” said Head Girls Basketball Coach Craig DeBusk, who coached both Klay and Trayce as an assistant coach of the historic 2008 Santa Margarita state championship boys basketball team. “Younger Thompson was more outgoing, but always stayed focused on school and sports. He balanced school, baseball and basketball.”
BEAU HOSSLER ’13 The University of Texas junior golfer Beau Hossler ’13 had an unprecedented year on the golf course coming away with the 2016 Fred Haskins Award, presented annually to the most outstanding collegiate golfer in the nation. The recipient of the esteemed award, considered the Heisman Trophy of college golf, is selected by peers,
Photo: Beau Hossler/Fred Haskins Commission. Amy LeTourneu/Northwestern University Girls Softball. Klay Thompson/Golden State Warriors. Trace Thompson/Los Angeles Dodgers.
AMY LETOURNEAU ’11 Amy Letourneau ’11 ends her Northwestern softball career on a high note playing in the NCAA Division 1 women’s softball tournament, the road to the Women’s College World Series. “I would argue that Amy Letourneau is the best softball player that has played for Santa Margarita,” said SMCHS Softball Coach John Fitzpatrick.” As good as she was during her four years here, she is an even better person.” Letourneau, known for being a spin pitcher and using her movements to get outs, pitched 179.1 innings this past season, two times as many as any other pitcher on the team. Not only was she a powerhouse on the mound, she ranked third in batting (.325) and belted 15 home runs in her final season tallying 44 home runs in her career. The 2016 season was closed out with plenty accolades including first-team All-Big Ten, secondteam all-region National Fastpitch Coaches Association, third team College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) Academic All-American, and
coaches and the media with golf pros including Phil Mickelson, Ben Crenshaw and Tiger Woods among the list of previous recipients. “Once I won a couple of tournaments, I started realizing the importance of the award – how special it would be not only for me, but my school and my family, everybody who I represent,” Hossler said at a press conference. Hossler completed his junior year with five wins – the third most in a single season in UT history – and had two runner-up finishes. He concluded the season posting 11 top-10 finishes in 12 events and shot 29 of his 37 rounds at or under par. “Beau is blessed with incredible physical ability but he’s also extremely intelligent,” said Texas Longhorns Men’s Golf Head Coach John Fields in a statement. “He also puts the work in – there is no possible way that he could have achieved this type of success without an incredible work ethic. I see that every day, whether it’s in school or golf.” Hossler and his team went all the way to the NCAA finals. Unfortunately, he suffered a shoulder injury in the semi-final round and was unable to compete in the
finals against Oregon where the team lost in extra holes. In the semifinals, Hossler met up with his former Santa Margarita teammate Andrew Levitt ’12, now playing for USC. “Watching Beau and Andrew compete against each other in the NCAA semi-finals brought back lots of memories of their epic SM duels,” said Santa Margarita Boys Head Golf Coach Chuck Morales. “I’m so proud of Beau for his courage and Andrew for his persistence.” Hossler, who was originally expected to turn pro this summer, will be spending the summer recovering following what he has said is minor surgery on his shoulder but remains confident he will make a full recovery. “I’m very, very optimistic about what’s to come,” he told “Golfweek.”
HOSSLER’S 2016 ACCOLADES: Fred Haskins Award Recipient PING First Team All-American The Ben Hogan Award Finalist Big 12 Player of the Year Jack Nicklaus Award Semifinalist All-Big 12 First Team Golfweek All-American, First Team
the Big Ten RBI Title with 29 in league play. Letourneau pitched her way to the NCAA Athens Regional tournament only to be knocked out by Oklahoma State in late May. She graduated with a degree in economics and a post-baccalaureate certificate in finance.
Brian Finneran ’94
BRIAN FINNERAN ’94 Today you can find retired Atlanta Falcon Brian Finneran ’94 on 680 The Fan, Atlanta’s sports radio station, doing what he loves best: talking sports. This spring, Finneran was courtside with his alma mater, Villanova, color commentating the NCAA Final Four national championship game for TruTV when Villanova won the game against North Carolina with a three-point buzzer beater. “I played 12 years in the NFL, four years at Villanova and four years at SMCHS and this was the best sports moment of my life,” he said.
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CREATING CHANGE
PURPOSE PASTRIES “You have to do something with all of this food you are baking!” These were the words of recent graduate Kaitlin Sandell’s mother five years ago. At that time, Kaitlin Sandell ’16 was an eighth-grader at St. John’s Episcopal School who had a passion for baking but had yet to realize how her talents in the kitchen could impact the lives of others. With the help of Co-President Bridget Callahan ’16, Sandell has since created and maintained a club at Santa Margarita that continues to fill hearts and stomachs with joy. In 2012, Sandell and Callahan established Santa Margarita’s Purpose Pastries Club. The efforts of this club – which includes baking cookies, pastries and other treats – brighten the days of
senior residents at Atria Del Sol. For the past four years, Sandell, Callahan and fellow Purpose Pastries Club members have taken their baked goods to the Mission Viejo assisted living facility as a way to interact with the residents sharing conversations and stories with the hope of creating new friendships and memories. “When I was younger and my family would visit my grandfather at his home, I would see other elderly residents around and couldn’t help but notice that they looked very lonely,” Sandell said. “I love to bake, so I thought incorporating that with talking to seniors and playing games with them is something that could have a lasting impact.” Although the freshman dorms won’t allow Sandell to continue to bake at the high frequency she is used to, she plans to continue her passion of brightening the lives of others at the The University of Alabama. The work of Purpose Pastries will continue with Olivia Dochterman ’18 ready to take the lead come the fall. Members of the Purpose Pastries Club celebrate a 100th birthday. Picture left ot right: Kaitlin Sandell ’16, Peyton Ziemer ’16, Kathryn Luher ’16, and Bridget Callahan ’16
Gathered around a patient’s recliner at Grand View Manor assisted living facility, they started singing “You are My Sunshine” acapella. The unresponsive woman began to mouth the words and cracked a smile. “It was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had,” said Julia Smith ’16 who began a ministry with fellow Santa Margarita Catholic High School musicians to visit with and perform for patients in retirement homes and hospice care, many whom are not expected to live longer than six months. “It felt like we did something. We made a difference.” Smith began the group about a year and a half ago after her mother’s co-worker at CareChoices mentioned the need for volunteer musicians to bring comfort and joy to patients in hospice care. The young saxophone player and singer, who also enjoys playing the ukulele and was involved in Santa Margarita’s Talon Theatre program, was quick to oblige coordinating a group of Santa Margarita musicians from the school band, The Eagle Regiment. The group of 14 students, who call themselves Grace Notes, have made a handful of visits to local hospice care facilities served by CareChoices with more visits planned. Smith typically plays the ukulele and sings with other students singing and playing instruments including the sax, trombone, piano, flute and ukulele. All of the volunteers with CareChoices undergo training on the specific needs related to working with hospice patients. Many are unresponsive. Some abrasive. And, of course, there is always the possibility of having to cope after a patient has passed on. 24 |
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“They might not respond,” Smith said. “You might feel silly. They are still people. When raising an infant you talk to them and they can’t talk back. Communication and attention is an important part of being human.” The repertoire of Grace Notes includes a little of everything, from oldies and jazz to classical etudes and seasonal Christmas carols. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” is a favorite and the group is always willing to take requests. “When you listen to a song it often brings you back to when you first heard it,” Smith said. “Music creates an emotional connection a lot of other things can’t do.” Although Smith is headed to college at The George Washington University this fall, Grace Notes will continue under the leadership of John Prentice ’17. Julia Smith ’16
Photo: Julia Smith/Jeff Gritchen, The OC Register
GRACE NOTES
PEACEMAKERS CLUB Santa Margarita's Peacemakers Club is spreading cheer on campus through flowers, hugs and encouraging notes. The club, in its second year, was started by Shannon Pierson ’16 and Charlotte Driscoll ’16. Through random acts of kindness, the student club hopes to ease stress and brighten people’s days. With students taking on more and feeling the strain of today’s teens, campus clubs devoted to spreading joy through random acts of kindness are becoming more common, according to the website DailyGood. In January, students hosted the second annual Free Hugs Day, part of National Hug Day with members of the Peacemakers Club and other participating students wearing “Free Hugs” signs ready to provide a squeeze and words of encouragement to anyone in need. “I think sometimes teenagers deal with a lot of stress,” said Kathryn Luher ’16, a two-year member of the club. “It’s really nice to hear someone say, ‘Hey, I appreciate you’ or ‘How are you doing?’ The signs start a conversation with people you might not otherwise talk to.”
The Peacemakers Club has also hosted a few Flower Fridays with students handing out beautiful blooms along with a compliment, and last year club members peppered school lockers with paper hearts inked with motivational phrases. “It’s important to do little things to make people smile and alleviate stress and pressure,” Driscoll said. “It’s also super important to remind the people in our lives why we like having them there.” Camille Manese ’16 contributed to this report.
Club member Bianca Tatum ’17 said the club’s efforts are helping to celebrate kindness. “A hug can make your day,” Tatum said. “It (hugs) brings a smile to your face.” John Tanner ’16 discovered his passion for taekwondo at only five years old and, like many younger boys, had high hopes of becoming a ninja. But what started as a childhood activity, soon turned into a way of life. As he grew up and continued practicing, Tanner’s family and friends began to recognize the courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit that taekwondo had instilled in him. Now as a third degree black belt, Tanner shares his love of taekwondo through a service project that is making a difference in the lives of local children. Invited by his longtime taekwondo master, Sergio Cardenas, Tanner was asked to work as a lead instructor for a taekwondo camp run by GRIP.
Photo: Julia Smith/Jeff Gritchen, The OC Register
JOHN TANNER '16
The Gang Reduction Intervention Partnership, or GRIP program, was initiated in 2008 by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office in conjunction with the Orange County Sherriff’s Department. The goal of the program is to provide after-school activities and foster supportive relationships with mentors for at-risk youth of San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente in order to discourage them from joining local gangs. The children served by the program range from bullies, victims of bullying as well as those with aggression disorders, poor attendance records and low grades. The GRIP taekwondo camp takes place over the summer and runs two separate four-week sessions. During those two sessions, Tanner works with students to help them earn a yellow belt. “Rather than competing against a team like in most sports, they only have to compete with themselves,” said Tanner, who will attend USC in the fall. “The yellow belt gives them something to work towards and earning it gives them a new-found sense of confidence.” Now three years into working with the GRIP program, Tanner has watched dozens of students make a change for the better due to the self-discipline and respect they learn in taekwondo. These teachings translate over to behavior in the classroom with many of the children showing improved test scores, attendance, self-esteem and self-control. “I hope that these kids achieve a sense of selfempowerment so that they are able to make their own path in life,” Tanner said.
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CAMPUS MINISTRY
GENUINE AND AUTHENTIC RETREATS OFFERED TO YOUTH While the students at Santa Margarita Catholic High School are no strangers to retreats, Assistant Director of Campus Ministry, Francis Cabildo, is making a point to share these experiences with a younger crowd. At the start of the school year, Cabildo was approached by several local feeder schools to assist with coordinating retreats, primarily for the middle school grades. Each school chose a different central theme or message for their retreat, but all followed a similar format to SMCHS retreats. Together with several Santa Margarita retreat leaders, Cabildo visited St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School, Mission Basilica School and hosted St. Junipero Serra Catholic School on the SMCHS campus. After a few ice-breaker games and songs to start the day, the Santa Margarita leaders take turns speaking about personal experiences and the struggles of growing up. Small group discussions also give the middle school students the opportunity to share their thoughts. Stress from school, parents separating,
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questioning their faith; even though they may be a few years a part in age, the students and leaders can still relate to one another. “The most important aspect of these retreats is authenticity,” Cabildo said. “The kids need to know that you’re being genuine and authentic with them and that you truly care about what you’re speaking on.” The retreats have been well-received by participating schools, many of whom have reached out to express their gratitude with thank you notes for Cabildo and his retreat leaders. Cabildo will continue the youth retreats next school year and hopes to expand to more schools and grade levels. “At the end of the day, I just hope that all of the students have an encounter with God, whether it’s strengthening their relationship or just starting out,” Cabildo said. “And as they leave, I hope they know that they are loved by God and that there is always a community around them that cares for them.”
EAGLE ARTS
PASSION FOR PERCUSSION The director of percussion at Santa Margarita since 2014, Amanda Duncan’s passion for music recently took her to the birthplace of the steel drum, known in the music world as the steel pan. Duncan visited Port-of-Spain on the Caribbean island of Trinidad earlier this year for Panorama, the ultimate steel pan competition and a highlight of the two-day Carnival celebration prior to the beginning of the Lenten season, the Trinidadian version of Mardi Gras. Once an instrument mainly for the lower classes and gangs, steel pans have since become an instrument of pride in Trinidad. “There’s so much beautiful music out there in the world, of all kinds of styles and genres, but at the end of the day the steel pan is just more fun to play,” said Duncan, a professional percussionist who can play just about any instrument in the percussion family. “There is something indescribable about the instrument that has me hooked. I can’t explain it. Part of it is the tone – pan has such a magical sound. People are drawn to it.” In the final round of the Panorama competition, Duncan performed with the PCS Nitrogen Silver Stars Steel Orchestra, a band of around 100 steel pan musicians under the direction of internationallyrenowned pannist Liam Teague. The orchestra placed seventh out of 10 bands in the large band category, considered the top ten steel drum bands in world. “It’s like the Super Bowl of steel drums,” Duncan said. “I’ve played pan for 12 years but by far the best way for me to learn was to visit the country and immerse myself in the culture firsthand. Performing on finals night was by far the greatest musical experience of my life.” Duncan’s travels have impacted her classroom teachings as she has started to incorporate the Trinidadian rote style of learning, a memorization technique based on repetition and listening. The style differs from the American approach and offers a break from reading sheet music. Always striving to introduce her students to a variety of world music styles, she has also traveled to Brazil to study music and culture. Perla Shaheen '16 contributed to this report.
Performing arts teacher Amanda Duncan traveled to the birthplace of pan bringing home its magic to her students.
Steel pans emerged in Trinidad in the 1930s. Metal objects including car parts, paint pots, garbage cans, oil drums and cookie tins were originally used as percussion instruments, but at some point they began to be tuned. The roots of drums in the country of Trinidad and Tobago can be traced to the 1700s when West African slaves worked on plantations. Music was their only link back to Africa. The elite classes were notorious for setting specific rules and hours for African drumming fearful the drums would incite the slaves to rebel and that perhaps they were sending rhythmic messages. Rhythmic elements of African drumming can be heard throughout the evolution of steel drums. Today the drum is constructed from the bottom of a 55 gallon oil barrel, sunk down in a concave fashion, and tuned with precision. Hammered into the shiny metal surface of the steel pan is a series of dents. Each one creates a different note, subtly different from the ones around it, according to their position and size. Source: NPR , Idaho State University, BBC WINGS |
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The Art of Hope The arts connect students to lives lost during the Holocaust
“It was profound. The single greatest educational theatre experience in
my career. What struck me the most was how art, writing and music were such a critical part of the journey of the children of Terezin and the courageous role teachers played by encouraging the children to record their experiences. Terezin is the supreme example of the healing and transformative power of artistic expression.” – Amy Luskey-Barth, SMCHS Director of Theatre Arts ABOVE Evan Meeks ’16 participates in a musical choir exercise where, one by one, students were tapped on the shoulder and then fell slowly to the floor, symbolizing the people who died in the concentration camp or who were taken away by transport. The singing continued.
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In the Czech city of Terezin, a vibrant art community came to life during one of the most horrific events in history, the Holocaust. In March, a group of Santa Margarita Catholic High School students, led by Director of Theatre Arts Amy LuskeyBarth, traveled to Terezin for an immersive theatre experience put on by ISTA, an international theatre association bringing together young people, artists and teachers from different countries in different settings to experience, create and learn about theatre. The trip was part of a larger tour which included a visit to Shakespeare’s Globe theatre in London and a visit to Prague. During the four-day festival in Terezin, SMCHS students joined schools
from Russia, Turkey, Austria, Poland and Portugal to explore the city and study why even in the darkest of times, humans gravitate towards art as a powerful means of expression. During World War II, thousands of Jewish children were held captive in Terezin before being sent to concentration camps. The Nazis used the camp as a way to convince the world that the Jews were being cared for – a propaganda film was made, an opera performed and the artists were forced to create work that suggested a positive life. But behind the scenes the artists rebelled. Encouraged by their teachers to document their feelings and experiences during this time, the children left behind
thousands of paintings, drawings and poems, many of the pieces found under floorboards and hidden in walls. The ISTA festival brings high school students together to create their own art and performances influenced by the artwork of the Terezin children. Through theatre, the festival explores how art can help transcend our daily experiences, however painful they may be. Students began the experience by walking through the Terezin ghetto and studying the artwork that was left behind. They also had the opportunity to meet with Doris Grozdanovicova, one of the few Holocaust survivors from Terezin. “It is so important for us to feel history,” said Cameron Farmer ’17. “Studying it is not enough. Having the opportunity to create art out of such an emotional experience is something that I will never forget.” Through various exercises and performances, students immersed themselves in the city’s history and the profound human suffering that came with it. The finale of the festival called all the schools to collaborate to create an emotional original theatre
piece in multiple languages, inspired by their experience in Terezin. “The most beautiful part about this trip was that we created spectacular works of theatre in a place that is known for causing death, disease and depression,” said Samantha Drust ’16. “We stood up for the many lives that were lost in Terezin.” For Olivia Brown ’17, the trip brought mixed emotions. “Besides all the sadness and sorrow that I felt during my stay in Terezin, I also felt a sense of happiness and laughter when I connected with the other students from the different schools around the world,” she said. “To be able to interact with others that had the same interest in theatre or the arts as I did felt incredible.” Gabby Romero ’17 agreed. “Working alongside students from all over the world granted me an incredibly eye-opening experience that allowed me to see art from so many different perspectives,” she said. This trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life.”
ABOVE, LEFT TO RIGHT
ISTA students created a series of silent, imagined scenes depicting five significant events of a Holocaust prisoner’s life. It was performed by the entire group as a memorial to those who died in Terezin.
Terezin barracks, where Jewish prisoners lived and slept. Fifteen thousand children passed through the Terezin concentration camp. Approximately 90 percent of these children perished in death camps. Source: www.ushmm.org
Cemetery in Terezin SMCHS students with Terezin Holocaust survivor, Doris Grozdanovicova.
Students participate in a trust exercise, blindly moving slowly into an unfamiliar room. It was a powerful and visceral experience.
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FACULTY RETIREMENTS
MEREDITH MOODY Visual Arts Department Chair Photography Teacher Chair Visual Arts Department Talon Yearbook Advisor Photography Teacher Talon Yearbook Advisor Just as a yearbook encompasses the memories of school years past, longtime teacher, Meredith Moody, has 26 years’ worth as a teacher at Santa Margarita. Moody retired this June. As an alumni parent, visual arts department chair and yearbook advisor, she is a staple in the school’s history. “Meredith always commanded our visual arts department with a very compassionate voice, a collaborative vision and was always very supportive of each of us,” said Todd Robey, visual arts teacher. “It has been my honor and privilege to have known Meredith these past years as a friend, mentor and leader.” Moody’s enthusiasm for teaching photography and yearbook were “caught” by every student who entered her classroom. Having watched countless students walk through her door, she still remains close to alumni who graduated 20 or more years ago. As she moves on to retirement, art will still remain a central part of her life. 30 |
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How have you seen the visual arts department change over the years? The visual arts department has become larger and stronger, which makes it a better all-around experience for our students. As we’re being able to focus more on public shows of art, it makes the kids want to get more involved. What has it been like watching the yearbook evolve over the past 26 years? Going from cut and paste to all digital made a huge difference. Being digital is so much more efficient and improves the quality of the photos as well. Jostens, the school’s yearbook publisher, even created their own software to build yearbook pages, which is extremely user-friendly for students even allowing them to work on the yearbook on their tablets. What are some of your favorite memories of Santa Margarita? It doesn’t get better than walking into a classroom at Santa Margarita. You could be having the worst day and all of a sudden these kids walk in and they completely change your mood. I love the conversations we have. The other thing I love is that when I’m around
RSM and I run into a student, they’re not afraid to come up and say hello or ask how I’m doing. That means so much to me. What will you miss most about SMCHS? I think the thing I’ll miss the most is getting to know the students and then seeing what they go on to in the future; photographing athletes and then seeing them move on to college and professional sports, watching our artists mature and go on to big things. Years from now I can say I know that student and here’s what I know about them as a person. I will miss getting to know them. How will you spend your retirement? Painting! I believe that I was called to be a teacher, but I also think that I was given this ability to paint for a reason. I’ve always put it on the back burner and I don’t know what it means to bring it forward, but I know I have to find out. I love to paint the ocean and portraits of children. I’ve always felt like I have saltwater in my blood, so I can’t wait to spend my time painting at the beach.
LYN ALEXANDER IB Coordinator and Counselor
“Ever since I met Mrs. Alexander, all I’ve wanted to do is make her proud. To her, I owe my college acceptances and success at SMCHS.” - John Tanner '16
It was January 1997. After two years traveling the country and a trip to Canada to visit International Baccalaureate World Schools, writing a 400-plus page application, preparing for a formal site visit, and years spent training teachers and rewriting curriculum – Santa Margarita Catholic High School was officially designated an International Baccalaureate World School. “It was surreal,” said then AP Coordinator and English teacher Lyn Alexander, who championed the effort. “I couldn’t believe we had brought this program to our school.” IB is a rigorous two-year academic program taught at select schools around the world with students graduating with an internationallyrecognized diploma as well as the opportunity to earn college credits. Alexander retired this June after 28 years at SMCHS and 40 years in education. During her time at SMCHS, she served as English department chair, Advanced Placement coordinator, an English teacher and the IB coordinator since the program’s adoption. As the coordinator, Alexander oversaw the program and served as the school counselor for all IB full diploma students. Her door was always open and she was never too busy, despite all of her competing responsibilities, to help. In 1999, Santa Margarita awarded its first set of IB diplomas with nine students earning the prestigious degree. The program, now offering 28 courses, has since grown exponentially with 53 IB full diploma candidates in the Class of 2016 as well as 167 students graduating with individual IB courses. Students at
The original 400-plus page application that Lyn Alexander spearheaded and submitted in 1996.
Santa Margarita have the option to take IB courses without committing to the entire program. “There are countless numbers of IB students and their families who know all too well what a major role Lyn has played in their IB journey through Santa Margarita and into the college they wanted to attend,” said Principal Ray Dunne. “Thank you seems incomplete to cover all she has done and all she has been to the SMCHS community.” Why did you want to bring IB to Santa Margarita? I knew what both IB and SM stood for and that their mission statements mirrored each other. It’s not about regurgitating answers or taking multiple choice tests. It’s about applying knowledge and problem solving. Growing up, my family moved around the world, so I went to international schools including one in Australia. I was used to more open-ended learning that weaves subjects together and that’s what IB does.
What do you attribute the program’s growth to? It is how we really learn. There aren’t discrete subjects, but everything is interconnected. IB does what the brain does. It’s that integrated approach to learning connected by bigger ideas. Students take what they learn and move into action. How are you feeling about retirement? It’s bittersweet. Part of me is excited for all the traveling I am going to be able to do, but I am going to miss Santa Margarita, my second home and family. To see it grow, it’s like your child. The idea that you can be a part of these students’ journeys and get them ready for college is really energizing.
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CLASS NOTES
We LOVE to hear from our Eagle family. Send us your class note to be featured in WINGS magazine. Submit your information to www.smhs.org/classnote
1998
2000
Leasa Gouin Bitterlin ’98 and her husband Dane welcomed Elle Catherine on Aug. 27, 2015. Elle is adored by big sisters, Paige, 4, and Ava, 6.
Dani DiLoretta Kelly ’00, husband Ryan and daughter Domenica announced the birth of Joseph Robert on Feb. 2, 2016. Joey looks forward to being a SMCHS football player for the Class of 2034. Dani runs EssayAdvising, which provides personalized assistance for students navigating the college application process. There are special rates for SMCHS students. Please contact her at essayadvising@gmail.com
Katie Fenelli Saltron ’98 was married on July 11, 2015 to Armand Saltron in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico in the presence of family and dear friends. Her sisters, Amy Fenelli Ciftcikara ’94 and Karianne Fenelli Welch ’96, were Katie’s matrons of honor. Katie is a practicing attorney for the Fenelli Law Firm in Laguna Hills where she handles estate planning and trust administration. Katie, Armand and her two stepsons, Griffin, 16, and Morgan, 8, reside in Huntington Beach where they enjoy surfing and paddle boarding. Hillary Lamp ’98 and Jeff Tosi were married in Annapolis, Md. on June 6, 2015. The two have known each other since childhood in Cohasset, Mass. Hillary and her family moved to Coto de Caza right before high school and Hillary and Jeff lost touch until they reconnected via social media in 2009. Hillary then relocated to Maryland to be closer to Jeff. Jessica Leonard ’98 and Christina Ashley ’98 served as co-maids of honor at the wedding.
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Chad Kurthy ’01 married Cayla Peterson on May 8, 2015 at The Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Beach. Alumnus Richard Tantuvanich ’01 served as a groomsman and Brian Cox ’02 and Chad’s sister, Shannon Kurthy ’04, were there to help the couple celebrate their special day. Alumna Meghan Schinderle Clem ’01 (owner, Intertwined Events) helped the couple plan the perfect day and Steve Luxenberg ’00 (owner, Threaded Films) filmed the event.
2001 Alycia Fitzpatrick Beresford ’01 and husband Evan welcomed Caleb William on Feb. 24, 2016. He weighed 7 pounds and 3 ounces.
Meg Harty Tennant ’01 and her husband Mike welcomed their second child, Connor Michael, on Sept. 1, 2015. Connor weighed 8 pounds, 14 ounces. Connor is extremely loved by his family, especially big sister Katie, 2.
2002 Michael Bean ’02 and Andrea Bardsley Bean ’02 are happy to announce they have a son named Dylan Arthur Bean, born Nov. 8, 2014.
Ryan Dunek ’02 graduated from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco with a B.A. in Animation and Visual Effects. He’s currently employed by PRANA, a premium lifestyle clothing company as an asset coordinator. Ryan also freelance designs t-shirts distributed by Orange County based sports companies. Ryan is married to Katie Van Keuren Dunek. They reside in Rancho Mission Viejo.
KRISSIE WARD MATUS ’02, mother of Izzie, 6, and Mary, 3, manages the Health Office at Mariners School. Krissie is involved in two organizations helping refugees. She is the volunteer social media coordinator with Carry the Future, an organization that has collected more than 10,000 baby carriers for refugees. Krissie and other volunteers will be delivering the carriers to Greece this summer as well as providing pediatric and maternal support to families in refugee camps. Krissie is also involved with a new local outreach group, Operation Refugee Child, which collects, delivers and distributes direct aid to children and moms in refugee camps. Chris Ferraro ’02 and Jessica Johnson Ferraro ’04 welcomed Charlotte James Ferraro on Feb. 8, 2016. Charlotte weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces and was 19.5 inches long.
Zachary Ohnemus ’03 received his master’s in psychology counseling in 2013. In August of 2015, Ohnemus married Skylar Olsen. The couple is now expecting their first child this spring.
2003
2004
Vanessa Rodriguez ’03 and Braunson Virjewere recently married after reconnecting several years following their graduation from the University of Southern California. Natasha Kalimada ’03 and Ryan Walker ’03 were wedding attendants. Rodriguez serves as press secretary to Los Angeles City Council President Herb J. Wesson Jr. She also serves as a counselor to the Board of Directors of Skid Row Housing Trust and is a member of the Los Angeles Advisory Council for Running Start, a national organization encouraging young women to run for political office and explore other policy making positions.
Amy Sayles Huffman ’04 married Hunter Huffman of Colorado Springs, Colo. on April 18, 2015 at San Francisco Solano Catholic Church in Rancho Santa Margarita. The wedding party included SMCHS graduates Alicia Sayles ’00 and Aubrey Ryan Davis ’04.
2005 Rebecca Dunek Graeber ’05 is a graduate of USC. Graeber received a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in accounting in 2009. She became a CPA with Deloitte and Touche in San Francisco to work with Deloitte in mergers and acquisitions. After six years with Deloitte, Becky returne to graduate school and graduated from Harvard Business School in May. She recently married Kurt Graeber, an investor with a private equity firm.
Elizabeth Cattern Murray ’05 and husband Jason welcomed a baby girl, Eleanor Grace, on March 30, 2015.
2006 William Hull ’06 married wife Nicole BernalCisneros in July 2014. They welcomed their first daughter, Amelia, in September 2015. Baby Amelia weighed 8 pounds, 14 ounces.
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CLASS NOTES
2008/2009
Kelly Murphy ’06 and Rees Simmons ’04 officially tied the knot on April 2, 2016 surrounded by their families and friends at the Coto de Caza Golf and Racquet Club. An estimated 30 alumni and some current SMCHS students were present at the celebration, from the 1991 graduating class all the way up to the 2019 graduating class.
ADRYELLA PEREZ ’09 hit the road running at the age of 5 telling her parents that she saw herself as an actress or maybe a school teacher one day. Fast forward to 2009 and Adryella found herself at Saddleback College in an acting class where she met actor Aldo Quintino (famous for his role as Nahuel in The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2). Aldo encouraged her to go to Los Angeles and meet his talent manager. Adryella was signed the next day. She landed her first role in just a few months on television in the show “90210” which alumnus RYAN EGGOLD ’02 had a regular role in. Today you can find Adryella as Penny Paulson on the Freeform network show “Baby Daddy” and on “Grandfathered” a FOX network show. Adryella is just wrapping up a project called “Fine Tuned” that is due out soon.
Michael McLain ’08 and Devon Luke McLain ’08 were married on June 19, 2015 at the Mission Basilica in San Juan Capistrano. The couple met at the end of their sophomore year at Santa Margarita and have been together for over 6 years. After graduating from the Air Force Academy in 2012, Michael went on to become an F-16 pilot. Devon and Michael are currently stationed overseas at Spangdahlem Air Force Base in Germany. Dante Luke ’10 (maid of honor), Alex McLain Leduc ’05, Dray Harris ’08, Erin Toohey ’08, Braxton Luke ’12, Bennett Luke ’16 and Michael Rommel ’08 were all part of the wedding party.
Taylor Campbell Lattuca ’08 and husband Shane welcomed 7-pound 11-ounce Joseph Anthony Lattuca on March 3, 2016. Stephen Sales ’08 and Alexa Elliott Sales ’08 were married on Nov. 21, 2015 in San Juan Capistrano. The couple met at SMCHS and have been together for over 8 years. Alexa graduated from the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC in May 2016. Stephen works as a senior clinical development manager at Applied Medical. Stephen’s sister, Katie Sales ’05, was the maid of honor and Stephen’s brother, Will Sales ’02, was the best man. Max Deatrick ’08, Jenni McCarthy ’08, Elise Pikula ’08 and Krista Hauk ’08 were also a part of the bridal party.
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We LOVE to hear from our Eagle family. Send us your class note to be featured in WINGS magazine. Submit your information to www.smhs.org/classnote
In Loving Memory “He will raise you up on Eagles Wings”
Santa Margarita would like to extend its deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the following members of the Eagle community. We will always hold you close to our hearts.
Johnni Macke ’08 is on assignment writing celebrity news for people.com. Johnni graduated from USC in 2012 with a BA in journalism. Johnni also writes for Teen.com, Hellogigles.com and was recently a photo editor for “Tiger Beat” magazine.
2012 Caroline Isaac ’12 and Samantha DeJohn ’15 met up to cheer on the Oregon Ducks and the TCU Horned Frogs in the Valero Alamo Bowl held in San Antonio.
2013 Matthew Meeks ’13, currently attending University of Minnesota, Carlson School of Management, has just finished an internship working behind the scenes on “Wicked” in New York City. After graduation, he hopes to pursue a career in stage management.
Hannah Brunner Winship ’07
Coach Joe Phillips Track and Field
2014 Former Eagle teammates, Griffin Canning ’14 (UCLA pitcher) and Nick Meyer ’15 (Cal Poly Pomona catcher), met up after a game this past February.
20 10 years
Alexandra Rupp ’13 had the opportunity to sing on stage with Placido Domingo at the opening evening of Chapman University’s Marybell and Sebastian P. Musco Center for the Arts in March 2016.
Garrett Williams ’14 is serving as the secretary-general of the 54th North American Invitational Model United Nations (NAIMUN LIV), Georgetown’s high school Model UN conference. NAIMUN is one of the largest, most well-run conferences on the high school circuit. NAIMUN truly combines a substantively challenging yet rewarding conference with various programming events that allow delegates to experience Washington, D.C.
years
CLASS OF 1996 REUNION
CLASS OF 2006 REUNION
SATURDAY JULY 30, 2016
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 8, 2016
The Island Hotel, Newport Beach
Dana Point Yacht Club, Dana Point
For ticket information visit:
For ticket information visit:
6pm–11pm
www.smhs.org/20year
6:30pm–11pm
www.smhs.org/10year WINGS |
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NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID SANTA MARGARITA CATHOLIC HS
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
UPCOMING EVENTS
Parents of Alumni: If this issue is addressed to your son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please direct them to update their information at www.smhs.org/alumnidirectory
JULY 23 30 30
Sarah DeMille 5K Memorial Run/Walk SMCHS Track and Field Class of 1991 25-Year Reunion 5:00pm Laguna Cliffs Marriott, Dana Point Class of 1996 20-Year Reunion 6:00pm Island Hotel, Newport Beach
AUGUST 13 12th Man Fundraiser & Alumni Dinner 5:00pm Moiso Family Pavilion 22 New Parent Welcome Dinner 5:00pm Moiso Family Pavilion and The Strader Grotto
SEPTEMBER 7 Welcome Mass & PTG Reception 8:30am Moiso Family Pavilion
OCTOBER 1 Blue and Gold-Under the Big Top 5:00pm Moiso Family Pavilion
8 Class of 2006 10-Year Reunion 6:30pm Dana Point Yacht Club
12 St. Margaret Mary Mass 8:30am Moiso Family Pavilion 16 Fall Open House 11:00am Moiso Family Pavilion 21 Homecoming & Tailgate Party 4:30pm Saddleback College 27- Talon Theatre Presents 30 "Our Town" Black Box Theatre
Make a difference today that will change the world tomorrow Your legacy is our future. You can make a difference today and provide for our next generation of Eagles by including SMCHS in your will. Gifts of bequests, charitable trusts, gifts of life insurance and retirement funds through your estate plan can provide long-term stability for Santa Margarita and also provide valuable tax and income benefits for you. To learn more about planned giving contact Laurie Beach, Sr. Director of Advancement, at (949) 766-6080 or beachl@smhs.org.
NOVEMBER 1 9
Alumni & Friends All Saints Day Remembrance Mass 8:30am Moiso Family Pavilion Grandparents & Special Friends Day Sacred Heart Chapel & Eagle Athletic Center Banquet Room
15 8th Grade Visit Day 8:45am SMCHS
DECEMBER 4 Performing Arts Christmas Production: “A Charlie Brown Christmas” 2:30pm and 6:30pm Moiso Family Pavilion 8 Feast of the Immaculate Conception Mass 8:30am Moiso Family Pavilion 21 Alumni Athletic Games TBA, SMCHS