Crusader Connection September 2010

Vol. 4 No. 1RUSADERONNECTION

A publication dedicated to the Marian/Mater Dei Catholic High School Community

CC

ANNUAL REPORT ISSUE

HONOR ROLL OF DONORS

CIF CHAMPIONS!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

3 Message from the President4 The Annual Report10 Teacher Feature, Anamarie Anthony12 Student Honors13 Visual and Performing Arts Night14 Pay It Forward Honorees16 Graduation and College Acceptances18 Class of 2010 - Student Recognition22 Winter Sports23 Spring Sports24 Women’s Softball Championship25 Future Scientists of the Science Academy26 Alumni in the Spotlight, Mary Searcy Bixby28 Alumni News31 Admissions Process/Admissions Calendar G

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 3

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Rev. Peter McGuine (Chair)

Rev. Peter Escalante

Sr. Maria Paz Uribe

Mr. Steven Boudreau, Esq.

Ms. Linda Bugelli

Mr. Gordon Day ‘74

Mr. Tom Finch ‘82

Mr. Wade McKnight

Mr. Rene Olivo

Mr. Edward Spriggs

Mr. Thomas Clayton Beecher, Ex-Officio

Mr. George Milke, Ex-Officio

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

1615 Mater Dei DriveChula Vista, CA 91913

ph: 619.423.2121www.materdeicathol ic .org

The Crusader Connection is published two times per year by Mater Dei Catholic High School. Ev-ery effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of this publication. Please ac-cept our apologies for any errors or omissions and report them to John Rey at (619) 621-5705 or [email protected].

Director of Publications: John ReyGraphic Design/Photography: Nicole LimogesPrinter: Kings PrintingA special thank you to those who took the extra time to write/proof the articles.

Dear Students, Parents, Alumni and Friends,

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of our Marian/Mater Dei Catho-lic High School community. From its humble beginning with less than 100 students in classrooms on the grounds of St. Charles Parish in 1960, we have evolved into a school of nearly 700 students on our new, state-of-the-art, campus in Otay Ranch. There is much to celebrate for Crusaders from all decades and previous generations. And to mark the occa-sion, there will be numerous events throughout the year. We hope you will find the time to join us as we remember our success, embrace our traditions and set our sights on the goals and challenges of the next 50 years. With all the plans that are underway to celebrate our milestone, we can’t forget the anticipation of students and parents, teachers and coaches giving way to the excitement of the first days of school! It’s fascinating to see families coming to Mater Dei Catholic for the first time or returning after only a few months of summer. The opening days of each school year are filled with more hope than at almost any other time in our lives, but the key to tak-ing advantage of our hopes, is always the plan that we make to achieve them. Without a plan of action our hopes are never destined to be fulfilled. Each new school year brings an opportunity to begin again, to be given a fresh start, to reinvent ourselves and challenge our previous limitations. The campus even looks different each year. There are always subtle changes to help us establish a new beginning with fresh paint and landscaping, new desks and equipment, and of course new students, teachers and courses. All these changes are ways of setting the tone for those critical first steps, but the most important dimension is always that initial hope for something better that is carried through the doors as our students enter campus for their orientation. The first days of school are always ablaze with confidence. Crusader students are taking pride in their campus and in their ability to achieve their potential in the academic, athletic and spiritual challenges they will meet throughout the year. We are all aware that it won’t be easy. There is plenty of hard work to challenge us in the days, weeks and months that lie ahead. However, the spirit of our school during these opening days overwhelms all who open themselves up to the possibilities that a new school year provides. There is noth-ing to hold us back except the limits that we set on ourselves. With God’s help, we will learn to expand our limitations and experience the world in the fullest sense by using our gifts and talents as Our Lord meant them to be used. As parents, alumni and friends of Mater Dei Catholic, it is critical that you share in the mission of our existence. The purpose of Catholic education is to provide an academic setting where the teachings of Jesus are discussed, understood and acted upon. Our reason for being is to care for our students in a Christian atmosphere and encourage them to do the same when they are presented with opportunities to care for others. To “Love” as Jesus taught us, is the greatest commandment and therein lies our greatest challenge. We invite all of you to help us celebrate our 50 years of service to the community and also, to join with us on our journey throughout this new school year.

“Mary mother of God, Lead us to your Son Jesus”

Yours in Christ,

Thomas Clayton Beecher, President

FOUNDERS Roman Catholic Diocese of San DiegoALSAM Foundation Sam and Aline Skaggs Susie S. Balukoff Claudia S. Luttrell Don L. Skaggs Mark S. Skaggs

HERITAGE SOCIETY donations of $5,000 +Steven & Sue BoudreauChula Vista Public LibraryK. T. Charitable Organization Inc.LaRiviere Scholarship FundWalter & Maxine OtteMaria ‘81 & John RobertsSt. Rose of Lima Catholic ChurchStephen & Mary Birch Foundation, Inc.The Hugh and Hazel Darling Foundation

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE donations of $1,000 - $ 4,999Award Designers/ScriberManuel BanalesThomas BeecherCorpus Christi Catholic ParishRev. Peter M. EscalantePeter & Mary Ellen FerrantelliFrontera International, Inc.William & Elizabeth GerkenJames & Katherine GillcristCarlos & Marisol GomezDavid KassebaumRamon & Anna MadrigalIgnacio & Sheila MartinezPatricia McGregorBarbara ‘73 & Wade McKnightMcMahon Steel Company IncGeorge ‘72 & Jeanine Milke II ‘73Rene & Matilde OlivoEdward SpriggsSylvia Torrez

ValleyCrest Landscaping MaintenanceJeffrey & Lorrilee WellerWells Fargo Foundation - Educational Matching Gift Program

BLUE & GOLD CLUB donations of $400 - $999Fidel & Imelda Almazan Harold & Monica AndreoliMike & Kathryn AustinJorge & Laura ArredondoJody BalestrieriNoel & Catherine BishopLucila & Juan BrizRev. Robert Brocato ‘69Rebecca & Kevin BrownJoseph & Gloria BrunnerLinda BugelliDiane & David CanedoRamiro & Maria-Amelia CardenasMichael & Wendy CareyMargaret & Salvatore ChiappeBeatriz ChoiKaren Chudy ‘68Pedro & Idalia DabdoubCesareo & Jacqueline FernandezThomas & Andrea FinchGuillermo Giandoni ‘68 (RET)Miguel & Maria GranadosErnesto & Elena GuilasHigher Values for YouthJon & Denise HighumHonda Dealers of San Diego CountyJorge A. HuinquezKings PrintingPhilip LebherzRobert & Cheryl LongVictor & Theresa LopezMarian Catholic Class of 1989Marie S. MendesGeorge & Virginia MilkeMills School WearDarren & Dolores NewellFrancisco ‘79 & Lorena PalacioTeresa Pappas ‘73Francisco & Diana Paredes

4 CRUSADER CONNECTION

Mario & Elsa QuinteroJohn & Mary RheinAdalberto & Gloria RoblesGilberto & Eneeth RoblesDavid & Sandra RodriguezAlfredo & Maria RuizMike & Boushra SalemViola Sanchez ‘81Steve & Kim SchattingerJorge & Maria SeptienGustavo & Araceli SlovinskyGregory & Dorothy SmythRomualdo & Carmelita UyRamon & Adriana VazquezJalil & Gloria WehberDulce Yarza

CRUSADER CLUB donations of $100 - $399ABC Charter Services, LLCCesar & Lorena AcostaEugene & Margarita AdamMaria Aguilar ‘80Yvette Albee ‘89Jerry & Merlinda AllenWalter & Jolene AndersenCresencia & Alberto AngelesAnamaria & Jim AnthonyCarl Arellano ‘77Amy Balelo

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10 2009-2010Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum

Scholarship FundStatement of Activity

Scholarship Fund Balance: as of 7/1/2009 $126,304

Donations: from 7/1/2009 – 6/30/2010 $ 47,708

Interest Earned: $ 5,740

Distributions: ($10,000)(Scholarships for Johanna Rhein,

Robert Silva-Martinez, Alvin Almazan,

and Marie Elaine Guilas )

Scholarship Fund Balance: as of 6/30/2010 $169,752

Michael & Anita BarlettaIvan & Blanca BarreraJoseph & Faith BaynesEduardo & Marisela BecerraStephen & Teresa BeckChristopher & Calle BehrPatricia BensanJohn & Mary Searcy ‘65 BixbyArturo & Carmen BlancasSteven & Rosemary BrodbeckDavid BusheyOscar & Elena CabreraRichard & Mary CainCalifornia Candids Grad. PhotographyRev. Msgr. Steven CallahanHelen CallowArthur Calvert SrPablo & Heriberta CarcanoPatrick Carmichael ‘67Alejandra Carranza ‘89Jaime & Irene CarrascoAntonio & Rosalva CarrilloJoseph & Eileen CartonCasa Divani, Inc.Gerarda ‘82 & Marbel CastanedaOscar & Dolores CeballosRudy Cesena ‘68Barbara ChristopherJames CooneyEstela Cortez EstradaAlejandro ‘69 & Rebecca CotaJeanne & Gary CoxGordon ‘74 & Terri DayW. Gregory Day ‘71Jorge & Ilse De La GarzaJesus & Flor DelgadilloRobert & Estela EggerSergio & Pilar FourzanDavid & Kristin FrancisCarlos & Sandra GageZurisaddi GalvezPaul & Elizabeth GanelinFrank GarciaSalvador & Maribel GarciaAllen ‘77 & Wendy Gates ‘75Edward ‘80 & Karina GatesDaniel & Noelea GilbertEsther GomezJulio & Claudia GuerraChristina ‘93 & Gerardo Guevara ‘93Albert ‘83 & Bridget HallorThomas & Sally HardinJohn HatfieldEnrique & Berenice HawleyStephen & Judie Heineman

Adrian Hernandez ‘89Rosalia HernandezBlanca HerreraNancy HittnerRocio ‘81 & John HodgesMonica HorvarthJesus & Sonia JaquezCarlos & Mary JimenezCesar & Rosa JimenezDelfino & Guadalupe JimenezRicardo & Darlene JimenezRuth JudgeMichael & Sherolyn ‘69 KelleherRichard & Ruth KellyRobert & Gerriss KlantRobert KleeEmil and Rose KrejciFrancisco & Leticia KuriGeorge KuzukianJeffery ‘69 & Mary LewisDavid & Elisa LichtWalter & Kelley LindstromGeraldo Loffredo ‘65Rev. Msgr. Edward LyngRichard & Monica MacieLiliana MadrazoSamuel MaeharaTerrence Mattis ‘77Raul & Karen MayorMel & Teresa McBroomeRev. Peter McGuineRev. Msgr. Dennis MikulanisAgustin & Alejandrina NavarroMarco & Laura NunezKathleen O’Neill-KenyonPaul & Corazon OrtizAnthony & Christine PapapietroBenedicto & Ana ParadelaMichael Parisi ‘70Oscar ‘67 & Linda ‘67 ParraEduardo PedreroOscar & Silvia PerezMary Petito ‘87Lorraine Pimentel ‘89Michael PinedaHarris Quesnell ‘64RCP Block & Brick, Inc.Edward & Elizabeth ReidyJohn ReyClaire RoachJesus ‘69 & Teresa RodriguezRoselle Rose ‘75Jean RubanoRubin Seeds, LLCIleana Salazar

Enrique & Maria SalcedoCarla Salvatierra ‘89Chris SchnitziusArthur & Leslie SchroederMichael SextonSocorro SifuentesSister Servants of the Blessed SacramentGregory Smyth ‘89Frank StingoJudith ‘81 & Michael StraussJeffrey ‘64 & Anne StuartOscar & Guadalupe SuarezMiguel & Matilde TamayoMarie TrentacostaRobert & Nancy TrometterRobert Trope ‘65James & Leanne TruittUnited Way of San Diego CountySergio & Marlene ValenzuelaCarlos Varela ‘89Jose & Kathy VargasRon & Betsy VernettiVWE, LLCMichael WallgrenJoy & Don WalshRobert & Linda WatsonWoody’s Auto CareGary ‘69 & Carol YoumansVictor & Gladys ZayasEleanor Zizka ‘65

FRIEND donations up to $99Dawn AdamsRobert & Meredith AlcockMichael ‘76 & Christine AlvaradoVeronica ‘72 & Jeffrey AndreoliMary Andrews ‘70Bay Cities ChiropracticJoelle BiedenbachTim & Barbara Biers


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10Memorial Gifts

The following names represent gifts made in memory of someone to our general scholarship fund. Memorial scholarship gifts can be made in any amount and are a great way to honor a family mem-ber or friend. The names of all of our memorial scholarship gifts will be displayed in our Annual Report each year.

Juana & Horacio AquilarMichael IslasJerry Judge

Dr. Estelle L. KassebaumFr. Earl LaRiviereThomas W. Otte

John Pappas Katherine Rubano

TUITION 6,785,007

OTHER FEES 715,932

AUXILIARY SERVICES 137,243

ATHLETICS 96,439

DEVELOPMENT & FUNDRAISING 1,486,320

INVESTMENTS 85,064

FACILITIES LEASING 287,372

TOTAL REVENUE $ 9,593,377

THE PER STUDENT GAP (@704 STUDENTS) $ 2,972 THE GAP BETWEEN TUITION & FEES INCOME AND TOTAL EXPENSES $ 2,092,438 TUITION & FEES COVER ONLY 78% OF EXPENSES

71%

15%

7.5%

3%1%

1%

1.5%

REVENUE


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8%

27%

4.5%

1%

2%

1.5%6%

50%

EXPENSE

SALARIES & BENEFITS 4,812,322

ADMIN/STUDENT/PTG/RECRUITING/MISC. 564,467

EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS & RESOURCES 130,866

ATHLETICS 209,733

AUXILIARY SERVICES 99,218

DEVELOPMENT 417,981

PLANT OPERATIONS/MAINTENANCE/RESERVE 2,626,563

DEBT SERVICE 732,227

TOTAL EXPENSE $ 9,593,377

STUDENTS APPROVED FOR TUITION ASSISTANCE 221 TOTAL TUITION ASSISTANCE GRANTED $815,276 AVERAGE PER STUDENT AWARD $3,689


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Rebekah VigilKristen WillichPeter Wraith ‘73Alejandro ZavalaZoological Society of San Diego

SPORTS PROGRAM SPONSORSAlma Coogan & Associates, IncHarold & Monica AndreoliFranklin & Shelli Ausler SrBlackies Trophies and AwardsBrigantine Family of RestaurantsRamiro BustamanteAlejandra CarranzaBarbara ChristopherCorpus Christi Catholic ParishDolce Vita Candy CompanyDrew Auto CenterWilliam & Elizabeth GerkenGil Q. Galloway, M.D., Inc.Goldfield StageEvelito & Rosemarie GuzmanDavid & Dawn HouillianInstant Mexico Auto InsuranceIntegroDanny & Shelley KaiserDavid KassebaumKings PrintingTerry LewisRaul & Karen MayorMDCHS Booster ClubGeorge & Virginia MilkeMy Health StopNelnet Business Solutions, Inc (FACTS)Oggi’s Eastlake IncPaving Stone of San DiegoPRIME SPORTSReagan Medical Management, IncSt. Charles Catholic SchoolValleyCrest Landscaping MaintenanceChristopher & Juanita WarnerWestern Hose Gasket CompanyX Flag FootballHerff Jones Yearbook TechYMNET

GOLF TOURNAMENT SPONSORSPala Band of Mission IndiansValleyCrest LandscapingA&M Team SalesGolfsmithMichael LoguePeter Girten ‘01Princell Family

TEE SPONSORSDavid KassebaumPropulsion Control Engineering – Matt Riley ‘80Gerken Family (Bill, Liz, Amy and Natalie ’00)RCP Block & Brick – Tom Finch ‘82Harbor Side Plumbing, Inc.ARAMARKTribal Vision – Carl Arellano ‘77PUMA – Tom Judge ‘78Ron VernettiBud and Gin MilkeCalifornia Fun Rides (ABC Charter Services, LLC)Corpus Christi Parish

AUCTION DONORSEastlake Country ClubChula Vista Golf CourseBonita Golf ClubBusalacchi RestaurantRubio’sOld GlobeHornblower Cruises and EventsPat & OscarsMaritime Museum of San DiegoMuseum of Contemporary Art, San DiegoMDCHS ASB StoreSan Diego ZooLa Quinta Inn, Mission ValleyThe Midway MuseumThe Fish MarketVivian Moreno FamilyCasa Divani “Fine Home Furnishings”William and Elizabeth Gerken

It is with gratitude that we make this year’s Annual Report public to our par-ents, alumni and friends. We realize that only through your generosity can we continue to provide an excellent Catholic education for tomorrow’s leaders.

We hope that you will consider to support the students of Mater Dei Catholic High School in the upcoming year through one or more of the following ways:

Annual Crusade Sports Program Advertisements Alumni Golf Tournament Planned Giving Memorial Brick Program Scholarship Funds

PLEASE CONSIDER MAKING YOUR 2010-2011 ANNUAL CRUSADE GIFT WITH THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.


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In thanksgiving...

Robert & Christina BinkowskiSteve Brown ‘71Virginia Calero-VelazquezMichael & Carmen BuffaloeStephen CascioppoRaul & Clarissa CastilloMargo Clark ‘67Domonic Cruz ‘98Mark Daly ‘73Terry Daly ‘68Fran DerbyDonald & Barbara DeuelDalene DitommasoFelipe & Gabriela EncisoDick EshbachSergio & Anna FernandezEstela & Enrique GonzalezBrenda GroszLynn GuidiRobert & Lenore HaackErnesto & Elvigia HabanaJerry & Patti HayesMargarita HernandezSara Hice ‘89Mazen & Karmen HindiDonald HowardAngel & Maria Luisa HuinquezMary Ann IacomettiRonald JamesFrances & Frank JohnsonEdgar & Catalina KingBill KinneyRev. Msgr. Raymond KirkStan & Janet KozlowskiJ. LeavertonMichael LogueCynthia Luis-WellsMARS FoodservicesJames ‘78 & Bernadette ‘80 MartinezTed & Elizabeth MatrangaEd MooreClara Murray ‘65Jonathan OakmanSalvador & Martha OlivaresWilliam & Martha OstranderMike & Julia PadillaFrancisco & Irma PadresGerardo & Silvia PedrozaKevin ‘74 & Theresa PikeElena PlazolaQuest DiagnosticsTanya RamirezSenen RamiroJose & Amaya RebollarGuadalupe RiosJames & Lilia RitchieAbel & Araceli RiveraAlfredo & Veronica RodriguezHugo Roji ‘88Lilly RosaWilliam & Marilyn RossChristopher & Pilar ShultzSharon SmithKevin SmithGerald SperrazzoSt. Didacus SchoolMichael StephensonGary Swarberg ‘71TargetSteven TraversUnited Way California Capital RegionHomero & Ana Maria ValdespinoFernando & Ramona ValenzuelaRoy & Mary Vasquez

Harold and Virginia AndreoliJohn G. Appel, Jr.Steve AshcraftRev. Msgr. John E. BaerThomas A. BalestrieriManuel BanalesCharlotte V. BeecherNoli A. BensanJack BlakelyStephen CallowAlfonso CasillasHenry and Joan ChudyDulin and Virginia CoveyFred D’Acquisto, Sr.Dick and Ronnie DrosselBeatrice Mary DunhamToni Dunham FamousRay and Loretta EckesMary A. EndsleyMarvin FinchJeanette and Bud GallagherMarty R. GarciaValentine and Annabel GerkenAlicia GiandoniManuel and Piedad GonzalezTom Harkness ‘74Ana Luisa HerreraRon Hillsbery

Barbara J. HodgesCarlos Daniel JimenezJerry JudgeRosa KaloyanDr. Estelle L. KassebaumMr. and Mrs. Louis KassebaumTeresa KayachanianThe Kohrman-Weller FamilyEd & Helen KostelnikEdward F. KuzukianRev. Leo LanphierRev. Earl W. LaRiviereThomas LopezJon-Jon LunaPat MacCarthyJoseph F. McGregorAbilio (Abel) MendesG. G. MoranJose and Cesarea MorenoBill and Mary MurphyVery Rev. J. Walsh MurrayJohn W. NovobilskyThomas Walter Otte ‘77Francisco and Elvira PadresCristina O. ParedesRev. John Pejza, OSAJohn R. PerezThomas Petrone, Jr.

Joe Raef ‘74Jose Luis Rivas MarentesJoseph Ruiz RenteriaMr. and Mrs. Lawrence RheinAgustin RojasTeresa H. RojasEsperanza C. RojasJoe L. RojasTeresita Rojas HernandezKatherine Ann RubanoOtila SalazarAndy SanchezLuis Sanchez-CortezRommel Schroeder YarzaMr. and Mrs. Fred SchweihoferMary P. Slovinsky-RocheJohn “Sully” SullivanJames P. TollefsonSabel TolosaPete TorrezRose TorrezLeon TuttleVictims of AbortionMr. and Mrs. Harvey Westrick, Sr.Belen D. YapLeonardo D. Yap

How to give: Garden of RemembranceOn August 21, 2010, a Memorial Mass was held in Marian Chapel on the campus of Mater Dei Catholic High School to commemorate the loss of loved ones. An installation of Memo-rial Bricks has been placed behind the Marian Chapel. The Memorial Brick Program has become a popular way for our donors to support the mission of our school. All donations of $400 or more to the Annual Crusade will be eligible to participate in the Memorial Brick Program. One way to participate in the Memorial Brick Program is by making a pledge of $20/month for 20 months. We hope it will be a meaning-ful way for our community to gather in prayer each year to remember some-one that has influenced their lives.

Please feel free to contact John Rey, CPA with any questions at (619) 621-5705 or at [email protected]. Thank you for your continued support of Mater Dei Catholic High School.


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T e a c h e r L e a d e r s h i p

MDCHS: What keeps you motivated as you begin each school year?AA: My motivation for the coming school year begins at the end of the previous year. I spend the end of the school year reflecting on what went well and what I want to accomplish in the upcoming school year. I spend some time during the summer working on ways to create a more positive, dynamic and successful experience for my students and the teachers I work with. My school year always begins with a hopeful vision because I know God has a plan. I spend time in prayer listening to what God’s plan is. The real task is participating in God’s plan to the best of my ability and being ready and willing to work diligently.

MDCHS: How would you describe our Crusader students?AA: Crusader students first and foremost are lovable. That is why so many people say that we are a family at MDCHS. They are down to earth kids who want a nurturing and faith-filled environment. They love being challenged to work hard. Sometimes they resist challenge, but deep down they know it is good for them. Our students are also very courageous. Like most students in high school, they strive to discover who they are. As they grow and mature, they begin to recognize their abilities and talents. With each accomplishment, we are all given the opportunity to celebrate their achievements. I see much dignity in our students, particularly in the way they treat one another.

MDCHS: What do you like most about teaching?AA: I love teaching in a Catholic school. I love hearing students say, “I never thought about that before”… “I understand”… “What I learned has made a huge difference in the way I live my life.” I love telling student stories that help them visual-ize truth and hope. The best part of teaching is watching students turn words into action that help them grow in loving relationship with themselves, others and God.

MDCHS: How would you describe the spirituality at Mater Dei? AA: As a school named for the Blessed Mother, I have watched our community grow in a faithful relationship with Christ. Mary continues to lead us to her Son, Jesus. God has blessed our community with comfort when we have mourned, gener-osity when we were in need and daily doses of grace and mercy. As Mary has been our Blessed Mother, God our Father has

Anamaria Anthony was born and raised in San Diego, California where she graduated from Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Parish School (OLSH) and Academy of Our Lady of Peace. She earned a BA in Sociology and Religious Studies, and an MA in Practical Theology from University of San Diego. She is married with three children; Rachel 21, John 11 and Joseph 10. The 2010-2011 school year is her 18th year teaching at Marian/Mater Dei Catholic High School. Mrs. Anthony is the Theology depart-ment chair, Service Coordinator, Senior Moderator and Senior Portfolio chairperson.

“Our life is a tapestry of Catholic faith and education, sports, music, and lessons learned.”

Mrs.Anamaria Anthony


cultivated a family of believers that shares in a growing relation-ship with His Son. Once we engage in the relationship aspect of our faith life, I think everyone grows spiritually.

MDCHS: Why do you think so many alumni come back to visit you each year? AA: Our alumni come back to visit all of us because they want to express their gratitude. They are still connected to us. We believed in them when they were in high school and they are honoring themselves and our community when they return to visit. They do this by sharing their accomplishments and their struggles. When we move away from home and get perspec-tive on our life, coming home reaffirms who we are. They are Crusaders coming home to say, “Thank you. I am who you said I was capable of being.”

MDCHS: Is there one student who stands out throughout your teaching career?AA: There are hundreds of students who stand out. Some I re-member because they struggled to succeed, others because they made it look so easy. Each student has been unique. They have all taught me how to teach and they have reminded me why I teach. I know I have learned far more from them then they have from me.

MDCHS: What has been your greatest challenge in your career?AA: My husband says I am never satisfied with the way I teach. I am always looking for current material and innovative ways to present what I need to teach. Life is dynamic and so is faith life. I believe the classroom experience must reflect that so that stu-dents can engage in a dynamic faith life.

MDCHS: What is your proudest achievement in your career? AA: Besides surviving all the papers, projects and portfolios I have graded, I am pleased to know that I have made a difference. It really isn’t a pride thing, it is more of a blessing. I am blessed because I know that because of what I teach, my relationship with God has grown and I get to share that will my students. I have been blessed with remarkable relationships with students, parents and teachers as a result of what I do for a living.

MDCHS: How do you view your legacy as a Crusader teacher?AA : I hope my legacy as a Crusader teacher is and will continue to be one of fidelity to building God’s kingdom. I believe with my whole being that is why we are all here. This is our mission as a Catholic school. I hope I have helped and will continue to cultivate commitment to understanding our faith and using it to live more fully in relationship with Christ and one another.

Outstanding m e n t o rv i s i o n a r yTeacher


SENIORS

Dianne AcevedoKendis BaranganRafael BlancoMariana BurkleLilia Covarrubias-AstorgaKacy EspinozaSergio FourzanDenisse GarciaMariana GomezMarie Elaine GuilasKarla JaramilloErickson JulveAlec KuzukianNora LeyvaAlicia LopezAlfredo Lucero-CanaanAndrea Lucero-CanaanJuan MoctezumaDiane-Leah MooreAndrea Navarro-GomezPaola OdriozolaDiana ParedesNerli Paredes RuvalcabaAlejandra Perez-MadrigalMaria Cassandra PimentelPaola PrietoYazmin RazonJohanna RheinEstela UribeCristina ValverdeMarto WinataMiranda Zora

JUNIORS

Jeffrey AlvarezJessica BaumgardnerSamantha BaxleyAriel CabreraValeria CardenasMichael Joseph CartonAlison CastanedaChelsea ChenelleDaniela CoronaNicholas DayClaudio GageDiego-Emilio Galan-HoffmanLuis GarciaKristin Nicole GonzalesElizabeth GonzalezChristine HillmannAnthony Jaquez-MorenoYin LiAndrea Martinez-CasillasValeria Martinez-FavelaJose Martinez-RebollarTheodore Matula Jr.Roberto Quijano-LunaMaryel QuinteroBrian RodriguezRicardo RosalesIsela RuizCarla SanchezDaniel SlovinskyMaria-Isabel StonehouseDavid TamborrellChristopher Weller

FRESHMEN

Aldo Avila-LoaizaRoberto AyonAlexander CainElizabeth CastilloSarah ColgroveAnnie CoxTaylor CruseRodrigo EugenioRobert GarciaAnaKaren Godinez-DuranAndre GomezMaci GuzmanMichaelAngelo HabanaSalvador Juarez-OchoaLuz LafonLuz LopezPaloma Lopez GonzalezAlexandria LucateroJorge Martinez-GonzalezIrene MorenoMarco NunezSalvador OlivaresAera Isabelle PalaganasFabiola PenaCourtney PrincellKari SchattingerRichard SomogyiJohn StraussKaitlyn TassielloFernando ValenzuelaAndi VilaboyAndrea WatsonManessa Zamingir

– a grade point average of 3.8 and above

SOP HOMORES

Maria AmayaJames ArriolaMariana BarreraAngela BeckMarie BelprezLeslie Bustillo-MorenoEdith CamargoKarla CastroTheresa ChiappeMallory DavenportFernando EchegarayKenny EspinozaCaleb GalvezJocelyn GarciaAlexa GarciaIlse Gutierrez-NunezThomas HahnAlexis HawleyVannia HernandezHollie KeeneCristina KelbaughStephanie LichtViviana Marchena-PompaHaley MendozaAna MoctezumaBrandon NguyenTeresa PadillaFrancisco PalacioEva Mariana Perez-CecenasAngela ReyesAlejandro RoblesNina Riana SalazarPaola TorresBrianna TruffaThomas Wright

STUDENT HONORSFIRST HONORS

T H E S E C O N D A N N U A L

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS NIGHT

On May 14th, the Visual and Performing Arts Department presented the Second Annual VAPA Night in the Kassabaum Theater. There was an array of artwork including graphic de-sign, ceramics and Art I creations. The gallery displayed at least one piece of work from each student involved in the arts, which represented the efforts of over 200 students. The night continued with the Drama Class and Choral Group perform-ing an array of musical numbers and demostrated the strengths of the drama department with their opening performance. In an effort to promote cross-curricular education, frosh English teacher and department chair, Michelle Brooks, stepped in and had her young poets give an interpretation of some of the art pieces. Following the performance, each department selected a few stand-out students to receive awards for the year. As the Visual and Performing Arts Department continues to grow, the hard work and talents of the Visual and Performing artists will continue to make an impact on our community.



The Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum Scholarship Recipients for 2010-2011 were introduced to their mentors at The 2nd An-nual Pay It Forward Commencement and Luncheon that was held at the Town and Country Trellises Restaurant on August 21st. The Chair of the Pay It Forward Program, Uni Alumnus and daughter of Dr. Kassebaum, Nancy Trometter, is looking forward to this new school year. “I am thrilled to be heading up this program; it’s a perfect fit for my heart and in follow-ing my mother’s footsteps in order to make the world a better place. Looking over this year’s scholarship recipients’ appli-cations and their past service work, Michael Carton, Kenny Espinosa, Christine Hillman, Hollie Keene, Brandon Truffa and Isabella Stonehouse are more than ready for the challenge of the Pay It Forward Leadership Service Program.”

The Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum Memorial Scholarship was established in 2006 to carry on Dr. Kassebaum’s ministry by providing Catholic Education to students and helping them to realize their full potential. At Dr. Kassebaum’s request, The Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum Memorial Scholarship was estab-lished immediately following her death in 2006. It was Dr. Kassebaum’s wish that her friend and colleague, Steven Bou-dreau, lead the effort. Chairman of the Kassebaum Scholar-ship since its inception, Steven recently stated that, “Estelle was a champion for Catholic Education and this scholarship program helps to carry on her ministry of service and love.” Each year, students are selected for the scholarship based on their academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and com-mitment to their Christian call through service to others.

The Memorial Scholarship’s Pay It Forward Program was in-stituted in 2009 as a means by which to further Dr. Kasse-baum’s vision to help rise up the next generation of Catho-lic leaders. This has been accomplished by challenging each

scholarship recipient to excel in devotion and service to God, their school, community, and family through the execution of a leadership service project. With the inception of the Pay It Forward Leadership Service Program, all scholarship recipi-ents not only receive their awarded scholarship, but employ their individual resourcefulness and enthusiasm to further the goals of the Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum Memorial Scholarship by creatively using an additional grant of $500.00 to help to make a difference at Mater Dei Catholic High School, im-prove the community, or promote their Christian Call.

During a recent visit to San Diego, Nancy Trometter, daughter of Dr. Kassebaum, stated that, “Mom reflected her love for our Blessed Mother, Mary, and her Son, Jesus, in her daily actions. She believed that small acts of kindness performed by our youth would help to make the world a better place.” The Pay It Forward Program embodies the spirit of giving promoted by Dr. Kassebaum and each act of kindness extended to another does make the difference.

Robbie Silva-Martinez worked with the elderly and kept their spirits up with good company.

Elaine Guilas worked on a project through Tec Brothers, the official national organization of the Catholic Hierarchy in Tanzania. The money will be sent to Karatu’s Emdarofta School to help better the school ’s condi-tions for the children.


A passionate and forward thinking educator, administrator, and mentor who loved her students, Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum was recognized nationally for her innovative and far reaching contributions to Catholic Secondary Education in San Diego, California for over 35 years. In 2005, she became the first President of Marian/Mater DeiCatholic High School. Her faith-filled leadership and abilities in capital development enabled her to secure the funding for the construction of Mater Dei and facilitate the transi-tion from Marian Catholic to Mater Dei Catholic High School. Dr. Kassebaum passed from this life to join her Lord and Savior on January 24, 2006. She was 68.

In her passing, Dr. Kassebaum left a brightly lit torch of life and love for us to follow. We are all challenged to pick up and carry the torch and, through small acts of kindness daily, continue to espouse the values she lived by for God’s Greater Glory. Through gifts generously donated by family, colleagues, and friends, the Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum Scholarship Fund continues to grow and has become the largest fund of its kind in the Diocese of San Diego. The need is still great and the work continues. Please help make the difference by supporting Dr. Kassebaum’s Memorial Scholarship Program – your support truly does help make the difference! Donations can be sent to The Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum Memorial Scholarship, c/o Mr. John Rey, Vice President of School Ad-vancement, Mater Dei Catholic High School, 1615 Mater Dei Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91913-3953.

– Katherine Gillcrist, Roy Pearson, Nancy Trometter Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum Memorial Scholarship Board

Johanna Rhein (left) worked as a leader for an 8th grade retreat.

Alvin Almazan (right) worked in the Kassebaum Theater making improve-

ments for the future actors and actresses.

The 2010 Scholarship Winners, left to right, Brandon Truffa, Michael Carton, Dave Kassebaum, Katherine Gillcrest, Christine Hillman, Hollie Keene and Isabella Stonehouse. Not pictured: Kenny Espinosa


CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES

The 2010 Bacclaureate Mass was held in the Immaculata Church on the University of San Diego campus, Thursday, June 10.


COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES

Arizona State UniversityArt InstituteAsuza Pacific UniversityAve Maria University Boston CollegeCal LutheranCalifornia State University, Dominguez HillsCalifornia State University, FresnoCalifornia State University, FullertonCalifornia State University, HumboltCalifornia State University, Long BeachCalifornia State University, Los AngelesCalifornia State University, Monterey BayCalifornia State University, NorthridgeCalifornia State University, Cal Poly PamonaCalifornia State University, San Luis ObispoCalifornia State University, SacramentoCalifornia State University, San DiegoCalifornia State University, San FranciscoCalifornia State University, San MarcosCalifornia State University, StanislausCanisius CollegeCatholic University of AmericaCETYS UniversityChapman UniversityChestnut Hill University

Concordia UniversityCreighton UniversityDrexel UniversityEmbry-Riddle Aeronautical UniversityFIDMFordham UniversityFort Louis CollegeHawaii Pacific UniversityITT TechLe Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts InstituteLoyola of ChicagoManhattan CollegeMarymount CollegeMt. St. Mary’s CollegeNew School of Architecture & Design New York UniversityNorthern Arizona UniversityPenn State UniversityPepperdine UniversityPoint Loma Nazarene UniversityPurdue UniversityRocky Mountain CollegeRutgers UniversitySt. John’s Fisher CollegeSt. John’s UniversitySt. Louis UniversitySt. Mary’s College of CaliforniaSterling CollegeSyracuse UniversityTEC, MexicoTecnologico de MonterreyTexas Christian UniversityUDEM, MexicoUniversity of California, BerkeleyUniversity of California, DavisUniversity of California, Irvine

University of California, Los AngelesUniversity of California, MercedUniversity of California, RiversideUniversity of California, San DiegoUniversity of California, Santa BarbaraUniversity of DallasUniversity of New MexicoUniversity of Nevada Las VegasUniversity of Nevada RenoUniversity of the PacificUniversity of San DiegoUniversity of San FranciscoUniversidad del Valle de MexicoUniversidad AnahuacUniversidad de MonterreyUniversidad Autonoma de Nuevo LeonUniversidad de las Americas PueblaWest Virginia UniversityWhittier College

The Class of 2010

Robbie will be attending Creighton University, where he received the Presi-dential Scholarship. He is unsure of his major but would like to study Liberal Arts, as well as medicine. Robbie played baseball and basketball for all four years. He was also a member of the Ambas-sador for Christ Corps and Campus Ministery. Last year, Robbie was the recipient of the “Pay It Forward” Dr. Kassebaum scholarship and plans to fo-cus his career in helping people in some way.

After attending Mater Dei, Robbie feels his faith has grown and helped him develop into the person he is today. He will miss the opportunities that Mater Dei has offered him through Masses and time in the chapel. Robbie knows that after his faith-filled experience at Mater Dei, he has become a more con-fident person and is ready to take on the real world out there.


Jacob will be attending Whittier College in Los Angeles with a Football and Aca-demic Scholarship including the Whittier Presidential Scholarship. He plans to study Broadcasting and hopes to work someday for ESPN as a Sports Broadcaster, specializ-ing as a football and baseball analyst. One of Jacob’s favorite things about Mater Dei was the good atmosphere where he felt he was always surrounded by friends. Spiritually, he feels he has grown more Christ-like in his experience at Mater Dei and plans to carry that with him as he makes a positive impact on all he encounters.

Johanna will be attending Rutgers University next year in New Brunswick on a scholarship. She also received scholarship offers from Syracuse University, Boston University, St. John’s, St. John’s Fisher, Canisius and Ford-ham University. She chose Rutgers, as she was accepted in the Pre-Dentistry Honors Program. Johanna eventually would like to run her own office as an Orthodontist. Jo-hanna was very active on campus. She was a member of the cross country and track teams, played basketball, served as the Executive President for the ASB and a member of Am-bassador for Christ Corps and Campus Min-istry. She also received such honors as being on the National Honor Society, CSF and was named the Valedictorian of the Senior Class. Johanna is excited about her future but is sad to leave Mater Dei, which she thinks of as a second family. Mater Dei has taught her that faith will always help her make hard decisions and help her through hard times. She is very thankful for the faith-filled education and family that Mater Dei has provided.

T H E F U T U R E I S Y O U R S

WHITTER COLLEGEWHITTER COLLEGE

CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY

RUTGERS UNIVERSITYRUTGERS UNIVERSITY

Jacob Coogan

Johanna Rhein

CREIGHTON UNIVERSITYRobbie Silva-Martinez


Mariana will be attending UCLA this year where she received the Alumni Scholarship called the Bunche Scholarship. She plans to major in Neuro-biology with a minor in Spanish and Politics. When she finishes, Mariana would like to continue on to Medical School for her Ph. D. Her career aspirations include becoming a Neurosurgeon, while working in the lab at the same time. She has read about a new career in genetics where there is a way to help babies that are showing developmental difficulty while in the womb. She would like to be on the team to help reverse those symp-toms. Mariana was very involved on campus. She was part of the yearbook, played volleyball and ran track. She loves the closeness of the Mater Dei community and feels that is what she will miss the most. As for faith life, Mariana realized how close science and faith go hand in hand and the wonders of what God has created for us all here on earth.

Miranda will be attending the University of California, Santa Barbara where she plans to major in Global/Inter-national Studies and foreign languages. Miranda currently speaks five languages and is hoping to speak eight by the time she graduates college. Her career goal is to become an interpreter in an organization such as the UN that helps refugees, creating world peace. She would also like to pursue a career as a foreign language teacher. Miranda was a member of the surf club and worked closely with the Catholic Charities Christmas gift-wrapping for refu-gees. She also enjoyed helping orient a group of refugees to the American High School life, which has help inspire her career aspirations. Miranda will miss attending Mass every week and praying each class period. She loved the faith life that Mater Dei instilled in her and she plans to carry that into the future.

Sergio will be attending the University of San Diego this year on a full soccer scholarship. He plans to study Psychology and Business, while pursuing his life-long dream of becoming a pro-fessional soccer player. While Sergio was a member of the soccer team at Mater Dei, they captured their first ever State Champi-onship. He has also been very involved in ASB and joined many clubs in his free time. Sergio said he will miss the closeness and family atmosphere on campus as he leaves for college. He always felt like it was home on campus and believes that Mater Dei cre-ates a unique experience that he will carry with him forever.

Mariana Gomez

UCLAUCLA

Sergio Lopez

USDUSD

p u r s u i n g t h e g o a l s

Miranda ZouraUCSBUCSB


Alvin will be attending San Diego State University next year where he will pursue a degree in Kinisiol-ogy and Pre-Physical Therapy with a minor in Mu-sic or Drama. Alvin was very active on campus in all the drama productions, was a member of the Choir, sang and played guitar for all the liturgies and was a member of the Steel Drum Band. Alvin believes that the best part of Mater Dei was the supportive atmostphere on campus and will miss having that as he continues on to college. Also, Alvin feels the re-treats that he attended really made an impact on his life, helping realize that the Lord walks with us and guides us throughout our life.

Paola will be attending UC Berkeley in the fall on a full academic scholarship. She was also selected to attend St. Mary’s College of California with a full academic scholar-ship, but ultimately decided to become a Cal Bear. Paola plans to study Molecular and Cell Biology, Cell Develop-ment and Neurobiology with a minor in Psychology. She hopes to pursue Neuropsychological research in Cognitive Sciences. Paola was very involved on campus with Campus Ministry, a member of the Ambassador for Christ Corps, Science Academy, Yearbook, the Hispanic Alliance Club, French Club, Crusaders for a Cure and Invisible Children Club. Paola said she will miss the beautiful campus and the family she built here at Mater Dei the most as she heads off to college. Some of her most memorable moments on cam-pus have been her missionary work and the campus retreats. She feels that Mater Dei has taught her to find herself by serving God and helping others. Paola plans to carry on her mission to serve others and make a difference in everything she does in the future.

Sergio will be attending San Diego State University in the fall, where he will major in Accounting and Finance. Sergio was a dominant swimmer and water polo player, receiving League MVP honors for both sports. He was also a finalist in the CIF swim finals both his junior and senior year. Sergio plans to ma-jor in business and hopes to run his own swim academy some day. He feels that the greatest part of Mater Dei’s campus is the dedication of the teachers to the students in their hopes of suc-ceeding at everything they attempt. Sergio’s faith has grown and helped him stay focused throughout the years with the retreats, masses and religion courses.

Paola Odriozola

Alvin Almazan

b u i l d i n g t h e d r e a m s

UC BerkeleyUC Berkeley

SDSUSDSU

Sergio FourzanSDSUSDSU


e m b r a c i n g t h e f u t u r e

Alicia will be attending UC Davis in the fall where she plans on majoring in Environmental Science. Her plan is to study alternative energy, focusing on solar energy or sustainable ur-ban planning. She wants to assist businesses in making their practices more earth friendly and less wasteful. Alicia was a member of the Ambassador for Christ Corps, ran track and cross country, was a member of Campus Ministry and the In-visible Children Club. She will miss the one-on-one teacher help that she received at Mater Dei, but will carry on the faith that she built through the faithful community that she embraced on campus.

Patrick will be attending San Diego State University this fall, but passed up offers to TCU, Pacific Uni-versity and USD. He plans to major in Psychology/Sociology and hopes to be able to work with at-risk students within the Juvenile Detention Centers or counsel families and teens. Patrick was a member of the football team, the National Honor Society and was honored by the CIF as an outstanding Student/Athlete. Patrick feels the faith-life here at Mater Dei Catholic has helped to shape his values and beliefs, which he will carry with him for the rest of his life. Patrick said he will miss the close family atmosphere of the campus as he goes off to college.

Wendy TamayoUniv. Nevada-Reno

Alicia Lopez

Wendy will be attending the University of Nevada, Reno on a full softball scholarship this fall. She plans to major in Physiology, Human Development and Social Work. Her main goal is to work with at-risk kids and kids that are in need. Wendy was a member of the CIF Championship softball team her senior year, where she assisted her team with 2 home runs in the final game. She also played basketball all four years and helped them capture the State title her junior year. Wendy feels she has really grown as a per-son here at Mater Dei Catholic, spiritually and academically through all the faith-filled classes, helpful teachers and small community. She believes that without being a part of this community, she wouldn’t be the driven person she is today.

UC DavisUC Davis

Patrick Mayor

SDSUSDSU


GIRLS BASKETBALL

BOYS BASKETBALL

BOYS SOCCER

GIRLS SOCCER

WRESTLING

winter sports 2009-2010

The defending California Div IV CIF Champions and the Mesa League Champion Lady Crusader Basketball Team captured the league championship once again. The post-sea-son play brought the girls into the semi-final game against Bishops, where they lost a tough fight to end their season. The girls were led by two new freshmen Brittani Lusain and Alexandria Young. Sophomore Cardedra Evans and seniors, Tatiana Tobe and Wendy Tamayo, created a force of defen-sive power and offensive strength. Junior center Carina Erb and sophomore power forward Ocean Escalanti also assisted in making the Lady Crusaders competitive in every game they played.

Boys basketball was under the new direction of Coach Kenny Caesar and his new staff this past season. The play of seniors Robert Silva-Martinez, Denny Kremer and Patrick Mayor pushed the Crusaders in tough competitive play throughout the season. The team made it into the Division CIF Playoffs but they lost a tough opening round game to Coronado on their home court.

The defending SOCAL and CIF Div IV Boys Soccer Team was led by All Mesa League 1st Team senior forward Sergio Lopez and junior keeper Luis Ayala. The team finished second in the tough Mesa league and then lost a double overtime CIF Semi-final match to finish the season. The team demonstrated deep talent within the sophomore and freshman classes and will be a team to watch next season. Sergio Lopez led the team this year as the captain and will continue his soccer career with a full athletic scholarship to the University of San Diego.

The Girls Soccer Team was led into the CIF playoffs by 1st Team All Mesa League senior Camile Alvardo and 2nd Team All Mesa League Senior Michelle Centrullo. The Lady Crusaders put up a good fight through the end, but lost a tough game to Escondio Charter in the first round.

The Wrestling Team continues to grow in popularity and this past year three Crusader Wrestlers medaled in CIF. Ju-nior Daniel Montes received 2nd Team Mesa League hon-ors and finished 5th in CIF Div IV Finals. Junior Claudio Gage, medaled with 4th place in CIF and Efren Roman, medaled in 3rd Place in CIF. Mater Dei was honored this year to host the Division IV Finals on our campus which was a great benefit to our wrestling program. Also this past year, MDCHS hosted the first CIF Sanctioned Girls Dual Wrestling match where our Lady Crusaders were led by Jackie Bennett ’11.

LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

SPRING SPORTS


The Boys Golf team finished second in the tough Mesa League with senior Cesar Ybarra winning 1st Team All League honors and junior Spencer Princell taking team medalist honors and receiving an at large berth in the CIF finals.

The Boys Tennis team, under the watchful eye of husband and wife coaches, David and Lea Borck, played competitively in the Mesa League and finished the season in the middle of the pack. The team was led by seniors Juan Hernandez and Samuel Acosta.

This was the best season ever for the Crusader Swim Team; re-writing the Crusader record book. The team was led by senior Sergio Fourzan and junior Giselle Suarez who both advanced to the CIF Finals. Sergio excelled in the 200 Individual Medley and Giselle in the 100 Backstroke. Two relay times for the boys qualified for CIF playoffs for the first time in Crusader history.

The team continues to grow in size each year and with that comes better players and better competition. This year the team led by San Diego High School Sports Association Scholar-Athlete of the Year Johanna Rhein ’10 and other seniors like Camile Alvarado, Cesar Lopez, Mariana Gomez and Bernan-do Sandoval. The team held its own in dual meets and had several players move on to Metro Conference and CIF Finals.

MEN’S GOLF

MEN’S TENNIS

SWIMMING

TRACK

MEN’S VOLLEYBALLThe Boys Volleyball team was led by seniors Jose Bramblia and Richard Hernandez. With additional support from junior Jose Martinez and sophomores Mitch Travers and Thomas-Scott Wright the team received an at large berth to CIF playoffs where they lost a tough match Tri-City Christian.

A perennial contender, the Crusader Baseball Team finished second in the Mesa League and received a #3 seed in the Div IV CIF playoffs. Led by seniors Sergio Valenzuela, who received 2nd Team All Mesa League, Christian Castro, Denny Kremer, Robert Silva-Martinez and Miguel Hernandez the team final-ly lost to Coronado (CIF Champs) in the semi-finals. Junior Franciso Salas received 1st Team All Mesa League honors.

BASEBALL

2010


The 2010 season began with eternal hope that as time progressed the vision of winning a CIF Championship would became a reality. The Lady Crusaders opened up strong at home and as they began their tournament schedule, the team began to mature as they went undefeated in the La Jolla Country Day Tournament. League was a good test for the team and built the character that they would need heading into the CIF Playoffs. The first playoff run began and the team remained strong going 6-1 with the only loss coming to Christian High School in the semi-finals. Sweet revenge was on their side, as they would take back that game and clench the CIF Championship that they had been working so hard for all year. The 2010 Lady Crusaders won the first CIF Title since 1987. Congratulations to the 2010 Lady Crusaders as they won the first CIF Title since 1987 at Marian.

2010CHAMPIONS

CIF SOFTBALL

As a college preparatory high school, our main academic goal is to prepare students for the challenging rigors of higher education. Mater Dei Catholic provides a curriculum in which students can investigate a broad educational spectrum. Students are required to take a full load of seven courses per semester. Required and elective course offerings come from the following areas: Theology, English, Mathematics, Social Science, Science, World Language, Physical Education, Visual and Performing Arts, Speech. Gradu-ates will have taken all required course work for admission to the University of California system.

Advanced Placement & HonorsMater Dei also offers a four year Honors Program with a total of 13 courses and an Advanced Placement Program with 11 courses. Honors courses challenge the student to think more analytically; to be creative and to immerse themselves in new and different ideas and issues.

Specific Honors courses are: For Freshmen: English, World Cultures, Algebra, Biology For Sophomores: English, Chemistry, Geometry For Juniors: English, Pre-Calculus, Spanish, French For Seniors: All are devoted to AP courses.Advanced Placement courses are college level courses taught by specially certified instructors using college textbooks andgiving college level exams. According to the College Board, freshmen do not take these courses. However, honors levelcourse work is a substantial proportion for the rigors of Advanced Placement.

Specific Advanced Placement courses are: For Sophomores: European History For Juniors: Spanish Language, Calculus, Physics, U.S. History For Seniors: French Language, Spanish Literature, English Literature, American Government, Environmental Science

Mater Dei Catholic High School and USD have a partnership in which oustanding juniors from our Academy of Science work during the summer, of their junior year in research labs at USD with renowned scientists on cutting edge subjects. This past summer four current seniors worked for USD and were paid for their services. Senior Nick Day worked with Professor Marjorie Patrick in identifying and characterizing ion transport mechanisms of aquatic organisms. Senior Barbara Elenbaas worked with Professor Nathalie Reyns and studied the impacts of temperature and salinity on the dispersal of marine organisms. Senior Isabel Stonehouse worked with Professor David De Haan and explored the formation of smog haze particles and why gases are absorbed by these particles. Senior Chris Weller worked with Professor Terry Bird and studied the regulation of gene expression in bacteria. Graduating senior Paola Odriozola worked for the Scripps Reseach Institute studying the physiology of cells.

FUTURE SCIENTISTSThe Academy of Science

Advanced Placement Courses

Nick Day and Sam Baxley assisting the Leonardo Di Vinci Elementary School students with an experiment from the Science Academy.



ALUMNI

SPOTLIGHT

CLASS OF1965

MDCHS: What do you remember most about the spirit of your class at Marian?Mrs. Bixby: I remember the laughter and pure zest for living. Our class was lucky enough to share a time in history filled with pos-sibilities. Our country was engaged in a social revolution and we were all right in the middle of it. There was music, excitement and a new hopefulness. We were united in daring to dream of wondrous things to come. We also shared in national tragedy and sadness, but in spite of that we believed we would make a positive impact on the world.

MDCHS: What do you remember most about your experience at Marian?Mrs. Bixby: Our academic time in class was generally comfortable and friendly. I remember our teachers. At that time we were “co-institutional”, but not “co-educational”. That’s how we explained what is now known as single gender classrooms. The boys had class in one side of the building and the girls in the other. I think this was much easier on the girls than the boys. The Sisters of Mercy were kind and seemed to enjoy teaching. After classes we all came together and shared in extra curricular activities we all remember with fondness. We loved Father Lanphier and enjoyed participating in the many musicals and plays he directed. Sports, pep-rallies, dances in the library, it was all glorious.

MDCHS: What is the importance of Catholic education?Mrs. Bixby: My time at Marian High School was foundational. I think that most of us took Catholic education for granted during those high school years. For many of us, that was all we knew. My appreciation grew as I pursued further education and ultimately a career in Catholic education. I was accepted to the University of San Diego, College for Women and spent many years working on undergraduate and graduate studies. I became a Catholic School teacher and later a Principal in our Catholic Schools. The most im-portant lesson I learned was the meaning of ministry. I never con-sidered that whatever life’s work I chose would be anything other than that of service and mission. Many years later, when I took a fateful leap into public education and came to be the founder of three reform minded charter schools, I fully realized that what I was doing was ministering in a special way to students and families who needed what I first found at Marian High. That was a sense of con-fidence, a willingness to be challenged, and openness to learning. Our religious education was taught across the curriculum. Values had meaning because we saw their application in history, language, science and all our academic subjects. Catholic education is impor-tant because it supports us in being faith-filled, life long learners who share meaning with others.

I N T H E

MARY SEARCY BIXBY


MDCHS: Since you graduated from Marian, what career op-portunities have you had?Mrs. Bixby: I am humbled by the opportunities I have been giv-en. I am sure I wasn’t the best or the brightest, but I was always willing to take a chance and I was blessed with opportunity. I had many opportunities in teaching. As supervisor of student teachers for the University of San Diego, School of Education I had the opportunity to observe new teachers in five different dis-tricts. I considered what I saw and carried that with me as I ac-cepted a position with San Diego Unified School District. There I was assigned as Administrator of the educational portion of a large federal grant. In collaboration with San Diego Community College, The Boys and Girls Club, Private Industry Council and Children’s Hospital we set about creating a program centered on recovering students at risk. Our work was noticed and very soon I was approached by a representative of the Greater San Diego Chamber of Commerce Business Roundtable for Education. They introduced a new idea to me – charter schools. Before I knew it we were named the 28th charter school in the State of California and were on our way to years of building, lobbying, and generally creating a whole new movement which in time in-spired the nation. Opportunity it seems is around every corner.

MDCHS: How much has education played in your career and life in general?Mrs. Bixby: Education has been my life’s work. I have spent many hours in the classroom, but I have learned that the greatest lessons have come to me from unexpected places. My own chil-dren, practioners, that is, people who actually do what we learn about in classrooms, also seniors who have been where I am – professionally or personally. They have an insight that should never be ignored.

MDCHS: How much has your faith played in your career and life to this point in your life?Mrs. Bixby: My faith has always been totally integrated in both personal and professional life. I am an active, practicing Catholic and everyone knows it. It is part of who I am and I have found that people who are faith-filled or not, respect it and understand that it doesn’t mean I am perfect, or lack humor, or judge them needlessly. It does mean however, that I try to do the right thing. I tell it like I see it, and if I can help, I will. I have grown in my faith as I have grown in every other way. Privately, I’d say my faith is something extra I have going for me. It has seen me through good times and bad.

MDCHS: What would you say is your proudest accomplish-ment so far in your career?Mrs. Bixby: I would have to say starting three schools from the bottom up. We didn’t even have Post-its when we began. Now

we serve over 4000 students a year and this year graduated over 500 students. We operate store fronts in most of San Diego’s premier malls and are starting schools in San Bernardino. Stu-dents have an opportunity to study and work. Everyday we have the chance to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of young people and their families. It’s every teacher’s dream to start their own school. Now I work training the people who operate these schools. I love working with them because they are vibrant, bold, highly professional and filled with a desire to make a difference.

MDCHS: In your personal life?Mrs. Bixby: I have been married over 40 years and my husband and I have three extraordinary children. They are all professional people with interesting careers. More importantly, they are hon-est, honorable individuals who are great fun. They are patient like their father and bold like their mother. We enjoy our chil-dren and look forward to our family celebrations. My parents helped us balance family and career. We are eternally grateful to them.

MDCHS: As a member of the Class of 1965 Crusaders at Marian, is there any advice that you would give to current Crusaders at Mater Dei Catholic?Mrs. Bixby: I believe that one must have a passion for their work. Often an individual has to choose to reach out and take a chance. Sometimes you are successful and sometimes you aren’t. But, each time you learn and become better prepared for the next great opportunity. Leadership is not positional. It is a choice that faces us everyday and success is most often met when an individual dares to move to action when others can’t or won’t. It isn’t easy. There are always people who resist change and fear losing something they value – whether it’s effective or not. A combination of passion and prayer has always worked for me. Passion doesn’t mean you just go off and do things. Prayerful meditation and consideration open you to others who share wis-dom and help set direction. –Mary Searcy Bixby

To theCrusaders

Veterens Memorial Dedication

ALUMNI NEWSDear fellow Crusaders,

Fall is here and it is the 50th Anniversary since the beginning of Marian High School and the Crusader legacy. In celebration of the Year of the Crusader there are several events scheduled throughout this coming school year to help celebrate the beginning of Marian High School . You will see a schedule of these events in this edition of the Crusader Connection. I hope many of you will be able to attend some, if not all, of these events.

This past spring two children of Crusader Alumni, Lindsey Finch and Nick Conlin, were awarded $2000 scholarships to attend Mater Dei Catholic during their freshman year. Lindsey Finch‘14 is the daughter of Tom Finch ’82 . Nick Conlin ’14 is the son of Jim Conlin ’81 and Lisa Cruse Conlin ’79. These were the first Crusader Alumni scholarships awarded. The Crusader Alumni As-sociation would like to award scholarships each year to the children of Crusader Alumni. This can only happen with your generous contributions to the Crusader Alumni Scholarship Fund. You can go to the MDCHS web site and provide an online gift to support our alumni scholarship. These donations are tax deductible . Donating to this worthy cause is a great way to finish off this calendar year. Again, please review the upcoming 50th Anniversary celebration events listed below. We hope to see many of you there!

If you’d like more information about the Crusader Alumni Association events and activities, please visit the MDCHS web site. You can also get information via our “Marian and Mater Dei Crusaders Alumni Association” page on Facebook. It’s a great time to get involved and continue the Crusader tradition.

Truly yours,

Carlos Varela ‘89President, Crusader Alumni Association

On Memorial Day, 2010 a Veterans Memorial was dedicated at MDCHS. The USD NROTC Color Guard presented the colors while Mater Dei Catholic junior Christine Hill-man sang the National Anthem. Deacon Marvin Threat, an ex Navy Corpsman and Vietnam Vet and past principal and teach at Marian spoke about the history of Memorial Day and the sacrifices of those who have given their lives for their country. He specifically acknowledged the sacrifice of LCPL Dennis Christi, USMC, Marian Class of 1965 and Spec 4 Ralph Israel, US Army, Marian Class of 1968 who gave their lives in service of their country and were killed in action in the Vietnam War. Members of both the Christi and Israel families, including Ralph Israel’s mom were in attendance.

LtCol Peter McGuine, Chaplain, US Air Force Reserve and Pastor of Santa Sophia Parish and President of the MDCHS Board of Directors blessed the memorial and Rey Venoli a member of the Navy Musicians Association played Taps.

A beautiful day filled with honor for those who have served and in memory of those who have fallen. God Bless the United States of America.


Ryan Barajas ’00 Graduated from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona in 2006. I have been the morning show producer for Magic Mornings with Jagger & Kristi on Magic 92.5 since 2007. I’ve have wanted to get involved in the radio industry since I was 14 and with the support from my family and friends, my dream has manifested. Make sure to have the students listen to MAGIC 92.5, San Diego’s Old School while in class, detention, lunch, etc.

Viviana Narvaez ‘03Alejandro Valenzuela ‘03 Viviana graduated in ‘07 from CETYS Universidad in Tijuana, with a BA in Psychology and married Alejandro that year also. “We’ve been together now for 9 years since our sophmore year at Marian. We have a 2 year old son and are living in Chula Vista.” Viviana just graduated from the Montessori Institute of San Diego class of ‘10 and Alejandro just started his own business at home -D’VAL chocolate & more!

Brian Enriquez ’04 I enlisted in the US Navy at the beginning of 2008 and finished Na-val Nuclear Power Training late 2009. I am currently stationed as an Nuclear Electrician’s Mate onboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, in Ev-erett, WA. I am married to Chantel Kay Enriquez since July 2009.

Mo Alcock ‘06Entering my senior year at UCLA with an Anthropology Major, B.S., and a pre-optometry focus. After graduation, I hope to attend the Southern California College of Optometry.

Bernardo Lara ’07 I am finishing my senior year at USD and in my fourth year of faith formation. Upon graduating from USD this coming spring, I will fol-low on my faith formation at one of the major seminaries before my ordination as a priest in the Diocese of San Diego.

Barbara Drossel McKnight ’73 Barbara and her husband Wade moved back to San Diego a couple of years ago and she has reconnected with her alma mater and she will be the Chairperson of the 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance on May 21, 2011 at Mater Dei Catholic. Barbara and Wade have three daughters and their daughter Erin recently got engaged.

To be featured in the next Crusader Connection, please email Bill Gerken at [email protected].

34th ANNUALGOLF TOURNAMENT

This year’s tournament will be on Sunday, November 14, 2010, at Salt Creek Golf Club. It will be a four person best ball scramble format with the shotgun start at 11 AM followed by an auction/dinner and awards ceremony. You can download the registration form on the school’s website at www.materdeicatholic.org

First Recipients of the Crusader

Alumni Scholarships:

Congratulations to Lindsey Finch ‘14 and Nick Conlin ‘14. These two incoming freshman of the Crusader Class of 2014 are the first recipients of the Crusader Alumni Scholarship. Lindsey is the daughter of Tom Finch ’82. Nick is the son of Lisa Cruse Conlin ’79 and Jim Conlin ’81. Each will receive a $2000 scholarship towards their tuition for their freshman year at Mater Dei Catholic.


ALUMNI NEWS


Crusader Hall of Fame Induction – Thursday, Sept 30, 2010 at 6:30 PM in the foyer of the Bosco Center (Gym)

50th Anniversary Homecoming Game and Post Game Party – Friday, Oct 1, 2010 after the homecoming football game.

Annual Crusader Golf Tournament – Sunday, November 14, 2010 at Salt Creek Golf Club 11:00 a.m. shotgun start.

Valentines Day Mass and Reception (to include renewal of vows for those married couples) – Saturday, February 12, 2011

Distinguished Alumni Induction Ceremony – Friday, March 25, 2011

50th Anniversary Party Celebration – Saturday, May 21, 2011

Class of 2011 Graduation – Friday, June 10, 2011 at 10 a.m. at the Crusader Stadium.

All Crusader Alumni are invited to attend

2010HALL OF FAME

50th AnniversaryCelebration

Events

This coming fall on Thursday, September 30, 2010, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bosco Gym foyer the following Cru-saders will be inducted into this year’s Hall of Fame class.

Mike Stockhalper ’77 and Wendy Modic ’85 will be in-ducted as individuals as well as Jim Grady ’73 who was not able to attend last year’s induction. Manny Silva will be inducted as the Coach inductee and the 1987 CIF Softball championship team will be inducted as the team. A special 50th Anniversary Team Inductee is the 1960/1961 Football Team from Marian.

Please join us for the ceremony as we celebrate the homecoming week festivities.

ALUMNI NEWS


8th Grade Visitation Day 1Tuesday, September 28, 20109:00 am - 11:45 amProspective 8th Grade StudentsBegins and ends in the Lima Center - Lunch included

8th Grade Visitation Day 2Tuesday, October 5, 20109:00 am - 11:45 amProspective 8th Grade StudentsBegins and ends in the Lima Center - Lunch included

8th Grade Visitation Day 3Thursday, October 14, 20109:00 am - 11:45 amProspective 8th Grade StudentsBegins and ends in the Lima Center - Lunch included

Open HouseSaturday, October 16, 201010:00 am - 12 Noon in the Lima Center All prospective families welcome

Prospective Parent Information NightWednesday, January 19, 20116:30 pm - 7:30 pm in the Lima CenterAll prospective families welcome

High School Placement Test Saturday, January 22, 20117:45 am - 11:30 am Test and Application Fee $50

Freshmen Interview NightThursday, February 3, 20114:30 pm - 8:00 pm in the De Paul CenterLetters of Acceptance will be mailed February 26, 2010 Freshmen Registration Night will take place on March 9 & 11, 2010

2010-2011 Admissions Process

Admissions Calendar

6 Steps to becoming a student at Mater Dei Catholic

1-Call or email Roy Vasquez, Admissions Office to get on our mailling list. (619) 423-2121 ext 106 or [email protected] our campus - Come to an Admissions Event, schedule a Personal Tour or schedule a Shadow Day. (to RSVP for an event, contact the Office of Admissions) 3-Complete an application (application fee $50)4-Take the High School Placement Test. (This test is only for applicants for 9th grade)5. Turn in Official Transcripts6. Interview - Parents and student meet with a member of MD faculty

RSVP’s are required for all of the following events. Please contact Roy Vasquez in the Admissions Office at (619) 423-2121 ext 106 or email [email protected]

Mater Dei Catholic High School1615 Mater Dei Drive

Chula Vista, CA 91913Phone 619.423.2121

www.materdeicatholic.org

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDSan Diego, CA

Permit No. 751

2010C a l e n d a r o f E v e n t sseptember november

decemberoctober

9 Back to School Night21 New Parent Meeting 6:30 p.m.28 8th Grade Visitation30 Crusader Hall of Fame Induction 6:30 p.m.

1 Homecoming Football Game2 Homecoming Dance5 8th Grade Visitation 26 Ambassador Induction 6:30 p.m.8 First Grading Period Ends9 Westwind Brass 7:00 p.m.14 8th Grade Visitation 316 OPEN HOUSE 10:00 a.m.19 Parent Meeting 6:30 p.m.29 Student “Walk-A-Thon”

5-6 Student Drama Production19 2nd Grading Period Ends20 Mainly Mozart 7:00 p.m.20 Girl’s Parochial Volleyball Tournament

3 Christmas Choral Concert 7:30 p.m.4 California Ballet “Nutcracker” 7:00 p.m.11 JV Parochial Football Championship20 Christmas Break Begins

For the most up to date ca l endar and s chedule , p l ease vi s i t www.mate r dei c athol i c .org.

Documents

Crusader Connection September 2010