FOCUSon Ursuline - Ursuline High School
Transcription
FOCUSon Ursuline - Ursuline High School
FOCUS on Ursuline Towoomba, Australia Sydney, Australia Kellyville, Australia Klagenfurt, Australia Salzburg, Belgium Vienna, Austria Mons, Belgium Ilheus, Brazil Paraisópolis, Brazil Resende, Brazil Ribeirão Preto, Brazil Rio De Janeiro, Brazil Salvador, Brazil Chiguayante, Chile Zagreb, Croatia Kutnά-Hora, Czech Republic Olomouc, Czech Republic Prague, Czech Republic Forest Gate, England Greenwich, England Ilford, England Westgate-On-Sea, England Wimbledon, England Amiens, France Arras, France Avallon, France Beaugency, France Paris, France Saint-Saulve, France Bayonne, France Digne Les Bains, France Grenoble, France Lyon, France Montauban, France Pau, France Caen, France Nantes, France Quimperlé, France Vannes, France Athens, Greece Maroussi, Greece Budapest, Hungary Dombovar, Hungary Győr, Hungary Kisvarda, Hungary Sopron, Hungary Jakarta, Indonesia Solo, Indonesia Papua, Indonesia Kotamobagu, Indonesia Capriolo, Italy Gorizia, Italy Sesto-Calende, Italy Puebla, Mexico Lima, Peru Kraków, Poland Poznań, Poland 175 Ursuline schools one world community Rokiciny, Poland Rybnik, Poland Siercza, Poland Wrocław, Poland Thiès, Senegal Bratislava, Slovakia Trnava, Slovakia Ljubljana, Slovenia Koper, Slovenia Johannesburg, South Africa Krugersdorp, South Africa Hualien, Taiwan Kaohsiung, Taiwan Bangkok, Thailand Chiangrai, Thailand Frontenac, Minnesota Dallas, Texas Kirkwood, Missouri New Orleans, Louisiana Springfield, Illinois New York City New Rochelle, New York Wilmington, Delaware Dedham, Massachusetts Waterville, Maine Great Falls, Montana Moscow, Idaho Santa Rosa, California Caracas, Venezuela URSULINE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2009 President’s Message Administration President/Principal Julie Carver 707-524-1130 ext. 113 jcarver@ursulinehs.org Vice Principal Caryn Inman 707-524-1130 ext. 119 cinman@ursulinehs.org Director of College Counseling Cyndi Niendorf 707-524-1130 ext. 120 cniendorf@ursulinehs.org Director of Finance Peter Kingston 707-524-1130 ext. 117 pkingston@ursulinehs.org Director of Advancement Margaux Hardy 707-524-1130 ext. 142 mhardy@ursulinehs.org Co-Directors of Admission Lisa Ormond 707-524-1130 ext. 115 lormond@ursulinehs.org Kathleen Kelly 707-524-1130 ext. 135 kkelly@ursulinehs.org Mission Effectiveness Sr. Francis Kearney 707-524-1130 ext. 116 sfkearney@ursulinehs.org Board of Trustees John Wehde* Brag Pighin Sue Goranson Joe McNeany President Vice President Treasurer Secretary David Beach Julie Carver Ex Officio Member Michael Cumbo* Carole Ellis Sr. Shirley Garibaldi, OSU Paige Mazzoni Debbie McGowan* Kim McNeany* Martin Reilley* Sr. Christine Van Swearingen, OSU Raven Wachtler * Retiring Board member Catholic Education, a Lighthouse and a Crossroads Julie Carver, President / Principal President/Principal Julie Carver made this formal address at the Baccalaureate Mass on Saturday, May 23, 2009. Graduates, Parents, Families, Bishop Walsh, Father Alvin, Faculty and Staff: As I was planning my speech last week, I received an e-mail to alumni from Father Jenkins, the President of the University of Notre Dame regarding President Obama’s visit. In his letter Fr. Jenkins referred to Catholic education as both a light house and a crossroads. I thought what a great idea for a graduation speech! Apparently, President Obama thought so too and structured his speech around this quote. Seems a bit unfair given that I actually earned my juris doctorate at Notre Dame and the school just gave the President one for free. Nevertheless, I think the metaphor has a strong value for our two schools. In the words of Father Jenkins, “As a lighthouse, we strive to stand apart and be different, illuminating issues with the moral and spiritual wisdom of the Catholic tradition. Yet, we must also be a crossroads through which pass people of many different perspectives, backgrounds, faiths, and cultures. At this crossroads, we must be a place where people of good will are received with charity, are able to speak, be heard, and engage in responsible and reasoned dialogue.” As a lighthouse, our schools uphold our traditions and the tenets of our founders, St. Angela Merici and John Henry Cardinal Newman. And our students act as a beacon for others. Ursuline’s theme for this year was “Shine” based on Matthew 5:16… “let your light shine before people in such a way that they will see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” The graduating class of 2009 has shined. Between Ursuline and Cardinal Newman our seniors have completed over 8,000 community service hours. During these hours you have served as role models and inspired thousands of other people. Imagine if your kindness touched one person per hourthat would be 8,000 people and a huge underestimation. At the crossroads, our students have engaged in responsible and reasoned dialogue, in the classroom, on retreats and in their communities. You have grappled with social justice issues in the classroom and have confronted them in your CBSL projects. As you leave Ursuline and Cardinal Newman behind, if I could give you one piece of advice that I wish I would have had-I would say to you “be open to change.” Very few decisions in life are permanent. Be willing to change your major, transfer schools and quit your first job and maybe even your second or third job. These are not failures; they are opportunities. I doubt that many of us in this room are doing what we thought we would as high school graduates. Who dreams of becoming a principal? A crazy person, that’s who! Graduates, I know you will continue to lead the way and also be open to differing opinions as you go on to one of the many wonderful colleges where you have been accepted. To complete the metaphor, follow the advice of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Do not follow where the path may lead. Go, instead, where there is no path and leave a trail.” Congratulations to the Class of 2009. Cover Story Contents 2........ Cover Story Ursulines Worldwide 6........ Serving Others Lima, Peru Serving Others at Home and Afar 9........ Our 2009 Graduates Graduates 22...... Amazing Students 31...... Ursuline Giving Amazing Students Ursuline Giving & Community Departments Student awards..........................8 A STUDENT’S PERSPECTive..........18 Admissions...............................20 Focus On Ursuline is published two times a year by Ursuline High School for alumnae, faculty/staff, parents, students, and community friends. We apologize for any unintentional errors and omissions found in this publication despite exhaustive efforts to be accurate and thorough. Graphic Design: Jesse Hilsenrad Ursuline High School 90 Ursuline Road Santa Rosa, CA. 95403 Main Phone: (707) 524-1130 Website: www.ursulinehs.org Printed by: Barlow Printing Publication Manager and Editor: Lisa Ormond Assistant Editor: Kathleen Kelly Story Contributors: Ursuline faculty, staff, students and alumnae Winter/Spring SPORTS..............24 Visual & Performing Arts.......28 ADVANCEMENT............................30 Mission Photographs: Ursuline photographer Tamara DeMello, Dirk Bietau, and Ursuline parents and students. Additional school images available at www.rpstudios.com and www.dirk.com. Cover: Ursuline student pictured—Adrianna Bertoli. Photo by Dirk Bietau—www.dirk.com. Please call (707) 524-1130 or e-mail advancement@ursulinehs.org to notify Ursuline of any distribution changes or needs. FOCUS on Ursuline is also available online at www.ursulinehs.org. Rachael Rochioli In the spirit of the gospels we challenge each student to seek knowledge, clarify values and act on convictions. 3 Ursuline Worldwide A View of the Ursuline Global Community By Researcher/Alumnae Volunteer Lerick Allen and Alumnae Outreach Luigi Fabiano Angela Merici founded the Company of St. Ursula in 1535 in Brescia, Italy and since that time Ursuline communities have spread to six continents. In 1991 there was a meeting of Ursuline groups in Rome, Italy in order to foster unity. Below is a list of Ursuline groups that attended. The list is likely not inclusive of all of the Ursuline groups and communities in the world, but you can see how diverse and encompassing the work of Ursuline Sisters is worldwide. Ursuline Groups Worldwide Companions of St. Angela, Bertsham Ursulines of Bruno, Saskatchewan Canadian Union of Ursulines, Québec Ursulines of the Chatham Union London, Ontario Ursulines of Prelate Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Ursuline Society Ursulines of Belleville, Belleville, Illinois Ursulines of Paola, Paola, Kentucky Ursulines of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky Ursulines of Mount St Joseph, Maple Mount, Kentucky Ursulines of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio Ursulines of Cleveland, Cleveland, Ohio Ursulines of Brown County, St Martin, Ohio Ursulines of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio Ursulines of Youngstown, Youngstown, Ohio Ursuline Franciscan Congregation, Mangalore Satyseva Sisters, Karnataka Calvarienberg-Ahrweiler, Ahrweiler Federation of German-speaking Ursulines, Duderstadt Brentwood Ursulines, Brentwood Ursuline Congregation of Tildonk, Brussels Ursulines of Hasselt, Hasselt Ursulines of Wavre-Notre-Dame, Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Waver Ursulines of Sigüenza, Sigüenza Ursulines of Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand Sisters of St. Charles du Puy, Le Puy Union Ste Angèle Mérici, Malet Union of Irish Ursulines, Cabinteely Company of St. Ursula, Federation of the Institute of St Angela Merici, Brescia Diocesan Company of St Ursula, Brescia Company of St. Angela Merici, Mantua Company of St. Ursula, Verona Ursulines of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Asola Religious of St. Ursula, Brescia Ursulines of the Sacred Heart of Mary, Breganze Ursuline Sisters of the Immaculate Virgin Mary, Gandino Ursulines of St. Charles, Milan Ursuline Sisters, of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus, Rome Ursulines of the Sacro Monte of Varallo, Rome *Ursulines of the Roman Union, Rome Ursuline Sisters, Daughters of Mary Immaculate, Verona Ursuline Sisters of Saint Jerome, Somasca Ursuline Sisters of the Holy Family, Syracuse Ursulines of Malta, Sliema Ursulines of Bergen, Bergen For more information about the Ursulines of the Roman Union visit their website at www.ursulines-ur.org. Ursuline High School in Santa Rosa, California is a member of the group known as the Ursulines of the Roman Union. The Roman Union was formed in 1900 at the behest of Pope Leo XIII with the goal of uniting the smaller Ursuline communities together for greater effectiveness. The headquarters of the Orsoline Unione Romana, as it is called in Italian, is the Generalate House in Rome. There are approximately 175 Ursuline schools worldwide in 29 countries. These schools range from nursery school through university level. Schools are just one area of involvement for Ursuline Sisters of the Roman Union, as they are doing good works in seven or more additional countries. In reading the school profiles that follow, you will notice differences but also commonalities that connect all Ursuline schools worldwide. The Latin phrase, “Serviam,” which means “I will serve” shines through as a universal mission of all schools. The Power of the Ursuline Website By Rene Hernandez, Technology Coordinator The Ursuline High School website was Ursuline Web Site Traffic created in 1995 by an Ursuline student. Over the years it has gone through several changes and appearances. It has become the number one place that parents, students, and prospective families find information about the school. The school’s website averages about 37,000 unique visitors every year with about 80% percent of those coming from the United States while 4 the other 20% originate from different locations around the world such as Canada, Europe, Africa, China, Russia, Brazil and Australia. A “unique visitor” refers to a person who visits a website more than once within a specified period of time. About 87,000 pages are viewed by these website visitors throughout the year. Google has been our “best friend” since it refers about 75% of our visitors. Keywords visitors use are Ursuline Sisters, Bay Area Crab Feed or just simply Ursuline High School. The top three most visited pages on Ursuline’s website are: School Calendar, President’s Weekly message and the Faculty and Staff directory. Our website is a powerful marketing tool and an important informational tool for the community. Ursuline Worldwide Ursuline School Profile Brescia House School, Bryanston, Republic of South Africa Founded: 1966 Current Enrollment: Approximately 800 Ages: 5-18, Primary, Middle and High School Fun facts: The school takes off August 9th, National Women’s Day, which honors women who fight for social justice. Alumnae are affectionately called Old Girls. Netball is a hugely popular sport. Netball is played by over 20 million people in more than 70 countries worldwide. It is the most popular women’s sport in Australia and New Zealand. Netball has its roots in basketball. There is no backboard, and the rules are different. The ball used is the size of a volleyball. This is netball—whoa! Administration Vision Brescia House School has a distinctive Catholic ethos, grounded in the Ursuline commitment to selfless and loving service of God and the community. We are proud to be a part of a worldwide Ursuline network of schools, which educates thousands of learners annually. These young people grow up not only to serve, but also to transform their communities in unique and visionary ways. Ms. M. Bothma - Principal of Brescia House School Our girls will need to have the ability to exercise judgment and responsibility; have an attitude for lifelong learning and show maximum flexibility and adaptability for the future. We encourage our girls to be positive risk-takers and have looked at the fears we face and the things that prevent us from reaching our true potential. Mrs. B. Nott - Principal of the High School Service “The greatest gift that girls of Brescia House can give to the community is their time … “ and Brescia House Serviam girls do a lot more than that. Collecting blankets, food, warm clothes and toys; visiting the SPCA, local schools and needy charities; and developing Primary School Girls a spirit of giving throughout the school. Brescia House girls are known for their generous hearts and the Serviam Club continues to grow in numbers, generosity and commitment. Extra-Murals Hockey, netball, tennis, squash, swimming, athletics, diving, spinning, fitness, outreach group, debating, public speaking, chess, drama, choir, marimbas, music centre with individual tuition in a variety of instruments, music ensemble, and more. Remembering Her Trip Across the World By Ursuline Sister Dianne Baumunk Visiting the Ursuline schools in South Africa right after apartheid ended was quite an experience. Our two large high schools in Bryanston and Krugersdorp looked very much like our schools anywhere else in the world with students seriously academic and service oriented. At the end of a long hall at Brescia House in Bryanston, was a life size plaster relief of St. Ursula and her companions created by six students from the school. It was striking to see students of the 21st century “rubbing shoulders” with martyrs of the early church. Both schools sported obvious security: high fences topped with barbed wire enclosing the campus, alarm systems and guard dogs patrolling even during the school day. This is a country that is no stranger to violence. Another striking feature of these schools was the pride with which the students wore uniforms. The Brescia House website states that “the uniform unites, the individual shines through.” Not only students, both government and private, but all sorts of choirs and groups proudly wear distinguishing garb. There is a powerful sense of “belonging.” North of South Africa in the rural country of Botswana, schools had much simpler structures minus the security measures. Only little wooden fences were needed to keep roving goats from eating flowers and trees. Elementary students eagerly greeted guests with songs and avid interest. It was common to see children gathered in the dirt under a tree for class or to see an assembly “hall” marked simply with rows of semi-circles of stones in the dirt. Ursuline Sisters teach reading and writing and also work in vocational schools there. With the Bushmen of Botswana, Sisters have set up a co-op store so sculptors earn a living selling their carvings. Life is much simpler in Botswana. Editor’s Note: Sister Dianne traveled to Africa in the summer of 1995 to visit Ursuline Sisters and their ministries. 5 Ursuline Worldwide Ursuline School Profile St. Angela’s School, Forest Gate, London Founded: 1862 Current Enrollment: Approximately 1,350 Ages: 11-18 Fun facts: In 2008, for her outstanding contributions to education, Delia Smith, the Head Teacher (principal), was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE), which was personally pinned and affixed onto her by Prince Charles. St. Angela’s School is a healthy eating school and they don’t have “any junk food!” Our School and Students Our motto of Serviam is at the heart of all that we do as a school. St. Angela’s is a focused, hard working and friendly Catholic school, aiming to provide every opportunity for our students to achieve their very best and to leave our school confident and independent young women, well equipped for higher education and life beyond. We are pushing the frontiers of education in every direction and have embraced new teaching and learning initiatives, allowing our students to learn at an accelerated rate. St. Angela’s school is special in many ways. St. Angela’s is a multi-ethnic, voluntary-aided Technology College in the London Borough of Newham, one of the most socioeconomically disadvantaged areas in the country. We are based in the heart of the east end of London. From the busy streets of Forest Gate, St Angela’s is a haven of beautiful gardens and peace. The school population reflects the Catholic population of the borough, which are largely Afro-Caribbean, African, Filipino and white. 70% of school population are from ethnic minorities. School Activities Head Teacher Delia Smith is pinned by Prince Charles. There are many after school activities, including: several choirs, PE groups, homework club, chess club and more. During exams all departments run extra study support lessons for those taking exams after school, on Saturdays and also during the school holidays. The choirs from our school are very successful taking part in many competitions and performances. We are also involved in many sporting activities, often winning trophies for cheerleading, football, dance and cricket to name a few. The school has a very strong justice and peace group running many fundraising activities in both the main school and post 16. We have very talented public speakers winning competitions. Editor’s Note: Information for this profile was obtained from an e-mail correspondence between Luigi Fabiano and Chiara Evans, a lay minister at St Angela’s School. Traveling the Globe the Ursuline Way By Paige Mazzoni, Class of 1984 World traveler Paige Mazzoni (right) dances in a fountain on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées in Paris, France on Bastille Day, 1987. 6 The summer of 1987, between my junior and senior years in college, I went on a three week whirlwind tour of Europe with two girlfriends. My parents bought me my Eurorail pass and gave me a little money and the rest was up to me. To save money, I looked into staying at Ursuline convents in several countries. Sister Francis Kearney gave me a letter and the addresses of convents in Rome and Switzerland. I wrote letters ahead but had no dates or firm reservations. And we were off! We started out in Switzerland – first stop, Zurich. We stayed at the Ursuline convent. I went to the window, showed the letter from Sister Francis and was told that we could stay. The curfew was 12 midnight, we had a simple breakfast of coffee and bread, and we could not come home “rowdy.” We put our stuff down, knowing it was very safe, and proceeded to go out and enjoy Zurich. We came home to a safe, clean, warm bed. It was nice having nuns taking care of us. From Switzerland we rode the train, sometimes sleeping on it to save money and wove our way through Europe. Germany, Austria, Spain, France and then Italy. We had a wonderful time spending hours in museums, staring at art, sampling local food and going to concerts, operas and plays. In Italy, we again stayed in an Ursuline convent in Rome. No where else could you get a clean, safe lodging RIGHT next to the Spanish Steps for $10/night. In Rome, we got chocolate with our rolls in the morning. The trip was great and we all have memories for a lifetime. And the Ursulines made it all possible! Ursuline Worldwide Ursuline School Profile Colegio Santa Ursula, Lima, Peru Founded: 1936 Current Enrollment: Approximately 1,400 (Pre-School through High School) Ages: 3-18 Fun facts: The word Colegio means school and not college. German is the second language at the school; instruction begins at age 3. Many students go to Germany as exchange students, others graduate and attend German Universities. Handball is a popular school sport. arrived from Germany, including five in 1940 that miraculously survived a terrible fire aboard the ship Orazio off of the coast of Toulon, France. That disaster claimed 106 lives including 4 nuns from another order. The Ursuline Sisters and their way of educating were enthusiastically embraced by the people of Peru. Today, Lima is a city of over 7.5 million people and Colegio Santa Ursula with its nearly 1,400 students is a strong and vibrant presence. History In 1936 two German Ursulines, Mother Cáritas and Mother Gertrude arrived by ship to the port of Callao in Lima, answering the call to open a school. Within two months 3 more Ursulines arrived. There was some Arial view of Colegio Santa Ursula Campus hardship during this period because people were allowed to leave Germany with only 10 marks. The first school was set up in a rented house that was old, had no electricity, and was lacking furnishings for classrooms. The Peruvian and German community responded with the necessities, and the school began. The Mothers spoke to the 84 students in German, and it was awkward at first, but soon the language of love had created a communications bridge. The school grew, and two more rental houses were added, and the students soon numbered 274 by 1938. More and more Ursuline Sisters Service Colegio Santa Ursula has a direct relationship of solidarity with another Ursuline school, Colegio San Jose, which is located in the impoverished Miramar neighborhood of Lima. There are approximately 700 students at this school, ages 2-11 years old. Every month at Colegio Santa Ursula, students of participating age bring one kilo (2.2 pounds) of nonperishable food to school for collection. The types of food and amounts needed are predetermined at the beginning of the year, and the more common items are rice, cooking oil, and powdered milk. The gathering is then distributed to Colegio San Jose. Once a year the Big Collection happens where items in good condition that are no longer needed are collected at Colegio Santa Ursula and taken to Miramar. Students from Colegio Santa Ursula also share their skills with students at Colegio San Jose with an ongoing tutoring program, especially in the subject of mathematics. Finally, once a year the Colegio San Jose holds a Kermesse, which is kind of a school carnival and fundraiser. Colegio Santa Ursula has a booth at the Kermesse from which they sell cakes and cookies that have been made and donated by students and their families, with the proceeds going to Colegio San Jose. Fascinating Facts about Ursuline Schools Worldwide • St. Angela School in Bandung, Indonesia (K-12) is the Ursuline school with the most students: 3,484 (approximately). Countries with the Most Ursuline Schools • Italy has no Ursuline high schools, only elementary and middle schools. France 41 Indonesia 26 USA 13 Poland 11 • Many secondary schools in other countries use the term “college” or “university,” but in the United States we call them “high schools.” • In 1727 Ursuline Academy in New Orleans was founded by 12 Ursuline Sisters from France. It is the oldest continually-operating school for girls in the U.S. and is also the oldest Catholic school in the United States. • The oldest institution of learning for women in North America is the Ursuline monastery in Quebec, founded in 1639 by Ursuline Sisters. Today there is a historical museum and teaching center there. 7 Service Community Based Service Learning—Lives Touched, Lives Changed By Judi Greaney, CBSL Coordinator “If you want peace, work for justice.” The words of Pope Paul VI remind us that we are all called in some way to work for the common good. The Ursuline students in the Class of 2009 modeled and more fully realized this in a variety of ways over the past year. Our community can certainly be proud that this year seniors logged over 8,000 hours as they completed their projects. Community Based Service Learning (CBSL) witnessed extraordinary global service projects in India, Peru and Mexico. National service extended to the rebuilding of New Orleans and working with the children of military families in Alaska. But the true impact is immeasurable based upon the countless lives our girls affected. Locally, our students continued to establish a variety of enrichment programs and developed on going partnerships with our local elementary schools and junior highs. This year more students recognized and responded to the Catholic Social Teaching theme of Stewardship as evidenced by the emergence of local projects and actions that promote environmental sustainability. Because of these student originated and driven projects, Ursuline High School, in partnership with Cardinal Newman, Patchworks Farm and the Y.M.C.A., received a $39,100 grant from State Farm Insurance Companies. The installation of solar panels, establishing bee keeping and recycling programs were among those CBSL projects that were noteworthy among hundreds of other entries vying for this grant. New Orleans Service After raising money for their cross country trip, Seniors Alissa Geving and Alyssa Ramazzotti traveled to New Orleans in February for several days as part of their Senior Service Project. Working through the Catholic Charities organization both locally and in New Orleans, they planned their volunteer service efforts. One service activity they did was to help Hurricane Katrina victims repair and rebuild their houses. 8 Not only do our students actualize the words of Saint Angela, “We have a greater need to serve others than to be served,” but their service proves to be life changing as well. Sarah Bertero said, “Working in multiple clinics in India for three weeks changed my world view and further focused my career choice in medicine.” Rebecca Royston is convinced that her work with the poorest of the poor in Tumbiscatio, Mexico, “opened my eyes to the power of children and helped shape my future goal to becoming an elementary school teacher.” Katherine Robinson, Class of 2006, affirms her Ursuline service work in Namibia, Africa helped shape her future goals. “I now hope to go to law school and become a civil rights attorney. CBSL made it clear to me the most meaningful work is that which benefits not only me but others in the global community.” We live in a world of interconnectedness, rather than differences. Our Community Based Service Learning Program provides the means for our students to discover that in taking care of others lies the profound lesson that they are taking care of themselves. State Farm Grant (Left to right) Junior Nicole Pilar, Science Department Chair Lisa Quinn, President/ Principal Julie Carver and Junior Marjorie Broffman hold the symbolic grant check received from State Farm Insurance for CBSL projects that promote and develop environmental sustainability. Nicole Pilar designed a bee keeping project that involves organic gardening which will take place at Patchworks Farm. Marjorie Broffman is developing a project that teaches children about the importance of recycling and how to make practical use of recycled products. Marjorie will also be a core member of the local YMCA Youth Advisory Board. This board will act as a resource for YMCA programs, providing their knowledge, expertise and input related to environmental and other issues affecting children and youth. Service Science Serviam is Alive and Growing By Lisa Quinn, Science Teacher Senior Natalie Kidd meets a new “friend” at the Marine Mammal Center. So often through the years, students have asked me why they have to take science. Of course, the science teachers always remind them that science is all around them, and has an effect on everything they do. Oddly enough, more students are recognizing and realizing this true connection and taking action. This is becoming increasingly evident when we look at the ways that students are choosing to invest their time and energy in community service. Senior Sarah Bertero traveled to India this year to serve others, to build upon her passion for science, and to explore her desire to enter the healthcare field some day. She delivered donated medical equipment, received medical training, and worked as a member of a medical team in a mobile medical care clinic during her three week trip. Sarah’s work with the Doctor’s Goodwill Foundation (DGF), an organization that is dedicated to providing relief and medical care to those who need it, not only impacted the lives of the people she cared for, but also helped to confirm her desire to pursue a career in medicine. And after hearing about Sarah’s incredible experiences and the organization that she worked with, juniors Lindsey Hazlewood, Natasha Qabazard, and Stephanie Pires have signed on to participate in a DGF medical mission to the Dominican Republic this upcoming school year. Tina Beigelbeck and Natalie Kidd have also received training and worked as members of a medical team this year. However, their patients were seals and sea lions in a hospital in the Marin headlands. Tina’s love for animals and Natalie’s love for marine biology led them to the Marine Mammal Center, a nonprofit organization that rescues, rehabilitates and releases injured, sick and orphaned marine mammals that are found on the 600 miles of coastline between Mendocino and San Luis Obispo. Every week Tina and Natalie would work with the veterinarian staff and other volunteers to provide care and collect scientific information. This helps to increase our understanding of marine mammals, their health and their environment. This information can then be shared with others, so that more of us will appreciate these animals and understand how some of our decisions impact their lives. After hearing about the MMC, Shannon Babic, Jacci Conroy, and Ali Summers are hoping to replace Tina and Natalie after they depart for college. Even projects that don’t seem to have any relation to science sometimes wind up taking you there. Amy Sautter and Madeleine Diab wanted to empower the young women living at the Sierra Youth Center. The goal of this residential facility for teenagers with criminal histories is to introduce new skills and build self-esteem. Amy and Madeleine also wanted to improve the living environment, teach responsibility, and help rebuild the culinary program. The solution to this problem was to renovate a greenhouse and construct a sustainable garden. The garden was planted with donated and purchased fruit trees, vegetables, and herbs. Once harvested, the produce was used to create nutritious meals in the kitchen at the center or was sold to local restaurants. This resulted in a more beautiful living environment for the girls, income for their culinary program, produce for the kitchen at Sierra, and the opportunity for the girls to acquire gardening skills and a good work ethic. These are only a sample of the many projects this year that have enabled students to apply and expand their knowledge of the sciences. And next year, we will see even more as we have projects that will address nutrition, exercise, medicine and health care issues, animal care and treatment, recycling, sustainable agriculture and the importance of bees. Patchworks Farm is located behind Ursuline High School and operated by Noel Schmidt. The farm not only is a working farm growing food for the local community, but it also serves as an outdoor learning laboratory for students and adults alike, focusing on educating others about a sustainable future. 9 Service CBSL Senior Project of the Year Amazement Surrounds Senior CBSL Boards By Lisa Ormond, Admissions minute oral presentation of their project and audience questions followed. It was an incredible day and students and community alike were proud of their accomplishments and the significant impact their service had on the community. Nicole Kazemini presenting her project “Love is the Movement.” Winners Amelia Lincoln and Allison Zegarra (left to right). Teacher Rich Herrmann presents the plaque that has their names engraved on it which permanently is displayed in the administration building. Winner Proyecto Amistad (Project Friendship) Allison Zegarra & Amelia Lincoln On May 14, students from Ursuline and Cardinal Newman presented their Senior Community Based Service Learning (CBSL) projects to the Ursuline and general community. Both school campuses were a buzz with smiling, finely dressed seniors carrying binders, poster boards and PowerPoint presentations ready to explain details and revelations about their senior service projects. Each student provided a 10 Reflection on the Day “I think the Senior Board Presentations is a wonderful experience. Their (the students’) pride in doing such meaningful and productive work showed on each of their faces when they were making their presentations that day. This event is really the culmination of all the students’ hard work that has taken place in the last four years at their schools. All the senior projects were so diverse and so worthwhile— really incredible! Parent Norma Ramazzotti mother of Senior Alysa Ramazzotti Global Mural of Service Finalists Mission India Sarah Bertero Luz De Futuro Diana Gonzalez Border to Border GinaLisa Tamayo Kids of Tumbisatio Victoria Oswald and Rebecca Royston 10 This beautiful mural was designed by Ursuline parent Donnie Young with the help of her daughter Ellery. Donnie, Hospitality Representative for the Ursuline Parent Association and one of the key organizers of the Senior Boards event, said she wanted to make a sign for the event to thank the seniors for their service efforts. Teacher Jennifer Gray provided the 175 senior pictures, Donnie created the concept and did the assembling, and Ellery did the lettering and selected the quote for the mural. “I decided on a circle for the mural, because I was thinking community and about embracing these students which reminded me of a circle. It whisks off on the edges as if we’re letting them (the students) go, off into the world and they’re going to take what they learned here and impact other communities,” said Donnie. Class of 2009 A Proud Moment By Cyndi Niendorf, Director of College Counseling I would like to congratulate both the parents and students for their success in the college applications/admissions process. I know it was challenging at times. The Counseling Department enjoyed working with all of you, and we are extremely proud of our girls and their accomplishments. Below are a few exciting statistics about the Class of 2009 which show the results of these students' hard work of four years. • 100% of our graduates are going to college. • The Class of 2009 was accepted at 118 different institutions of higher learning of which 65 were out of state schools and three were International universities in England, Ireland and Scotland. • In the fall, this graduating class (74 students) will enroll at 39 different schools. 80% of the students will attend four year schools and 20% will begin their education at a community college with plans to transfer to four year institutions. • Our students were awarded $1,170,176 in scholarships for the first year of college. Note: This represents scholarships offered from all schools where students were accepted including where they will enroll. Class Of 2009 Ursuline Graduates Were Accepted at the Following Colleges and Universities American University Arizona State University The University of Arizona The Art Institute of California -- Los Angeles Belmont Abbey College Beloit College Boise State University Boston College Boston University Butler University University of California at Berkeley University of California at Davis University of California at Irvine University of California at Los Angeles University of California at Merced University of California at Riverside University of California at San Diego University of California at Santa Barbara University of California at Santa Cruz California Lutheran University California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo California State University, Channel Islands California State University, Chico California State University, Dominguez Hills California State University, Fresno California State University, Fullerton California State University, Long Beach California State University, Los Angeles California State University, Monterey Bay California State University, Northridge California State University, Sacramento California State University, San Marcos Carroll College (Montana) Chaminade University of Honolulu Chapman University University of Colorado at Boulder Colorado State University Columbia College Cuesta College DePaul University Dominican University Eckerd College Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, San Diego Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, San Francisco Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Los Angeles Florida Atlantic University Florida International University Foothill College Fordham University Gonzaga University Hamline University University of Hawaii at Hilo University of Hawaii at Manoa Hawaii Pacific University Hofstra University Humboldt State University University of Idaho University of the Incarnate Word Indiana University at Bloomington University of Kansas Lewis & Clark College Linfield College Loyola Marymount University Loyola University New Orleans Marquette University University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Miami Michigan State University Minnesota State University, Mankato University of Minnesota, Morris Montana State University, Bozeman The University of Montana, Missoula Mount Holyoke College National University of Ireland, Galway University of Nevada, Las Vegas University of New Haven New York University University of North Alabama Northeastern University Notre Dame de Namur University Occidental College University of Oregon Pace University, New York City University of the Pacific Pepperdine University Pitzer College University of Portland Prescott College University of Puget Sound The American International University in London (Richmond) Saint Leo University Saint Mary’s College of California Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota Saint Vincent College San Diego State University University of San Diego San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology San Francisco State University University of San Francisco San Jose State University Santa Barbara City College Santa Clara University Santa Rosa Junior College Seattle University Smith College Sonoma State University Southern Oregon University Springfield College University of St. Andrews (Scotland) St. Edward’s University The University of Tampa The University of Texas, Austin Tulane University Vanguard University of Southern California Washington State University Westmont College Whitman College Willamette University 11 Class of 2009 Ursuline Graduates 2009 Senior Awards Sophia Aschow President’s Award for Educational Excellence Tina Beigelbeck Ursuline Award Ceremony Student Speaker Sr. Edmund Fallon Drama Award Ursuline Girl Award Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Bank of America Achievement Award – Social Science President’s Award for Educational Excellence Scholar Leadership Award Scholar Performing Arts – “Charley’s Aunt” Honors – Dance TA National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine Cal Grant Boston University Grant Boston University Supplemental University Grant Academic Competitiveness Grant Pell Grant New York University Liberal Studies Program Scholarship New York University J. Eckhouse Scholarship New York University Provost’s Grant New York University Grant University of Miami Founders Grant University of Miami Grants Sarah Bertero California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Bank of America Achievement Award – History President’s Award for Educational Excellence Press Democrat Youth Service Award Nominee – Health Sciences Honors – Public Speaking Honors – Campus Ministry 2009 CBSL Senior Project Finalist Press Democrat Point of View – Teen Life Essay Press Democrat Teen Faces National Ursuline Educational Service Student Recognition Renee Lee “Making a Difference” Award University of San Francisco Tuition Grant University of San Francisco Accepted with Distinction – Top 20% Seattle University Sullivan Leadership Award Nominee Seattle University Arrupe Scholarship Seattle University Grant University of Portland President’s Scholarship Dominican University Trustee Scholarship Dominican University Grant RMS Hospital Gujarat, India Certificate of Appreciation Vrajbhoomi International School, India Special Recognition Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship Adrianna Bertoli California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member President’s Award for Educational Excellence Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Esperanza Service Award Scholar Athlete – Soccer NBL All-League – First Team – Soccer Scholar Leadership Award Press Democrat Point of View – Teen Life Essay University of Oregon Dean’s Scholarship Jenna Bundesen Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Every Fifteen Minutes Recognition Honors – AP English 12 Lit/Comp Honors – Christian Life Styles St. Mary’s College Scholarship Academic Competitiveness Grant Pell Grant Cal Grant Caycee Cali Honors – Drawing Kerissa Catania Senior Athlete Award Nominee California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Stephanie Chau Scholar Athlete – Soccer Scholar Leadership Award Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member President’s Award for Educational Excellence University of Oregon Dean’s Scholarship Blair Copple California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Mary Peter Dresser Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Scholar Athlete – Golf NBL All-League – First Team – Golf Senior Athlete Award Nominee 12 2009 Senior Awards Ceremony President’s Award for Educational Excellence ABC 7 Top Scholars Nominee University of Puget Sound Trustee’s Scholarship Nina D’Argenzio Bank of America Achievement Award – Art President’s Award for Educational Achievement 2009 Principal’s Art Collection Award – “Still Life 2008” Honors – AP Studio Art Gabriela DeBenedetti California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Honors – Christian Life Styles President’s Volunteer Service Award, Gold Loyola Marymount University Scholarship North Coast Builders Exchange Scholarship Lindsay Ferrigno, Director of Catherine Del Casale California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member College Counseling Cyndi President’s Award for Educational Excellence Niendorf and Tina Beigelbeck Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award (left to right). Tina and Lindsay Highest Honors – AP Studio Art Honors – Psychology won the Sr. Edmund Fallon Cal Grant Drama Award. Chapman University Dean’s Scholarship Chapman Grant Academic Competitiveness Grant Pell Grant University of Santa Barbara New Freshman Scholarship University of California Grant Loyola Marymount University Achievement Award Loyola Marymount University Freshman Grant Fordham University Jogues Scholarship Hofstra University Presidential Scholarship Shelby DeMello California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Bank of America Achievement Award – Technology Press Democrat Youth Service Award Nominee – Mathematics/Technical Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Scholar Performing Arts – “High School Musical” Highest Honors – Photoshop 2 Honors – School Newspaper Honors – Public Speaking Presidential Youth Inauguration Conference Pell Grant Cal Grant Academic Competitiveness Grant University of California Irvine Grant University of California Davis Undergraduate Scholarship University of California Davis Campus Fee Grant Santa Clara University Grant Madeleine Diab Scholar Leadership Award Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member University of San Francisco Scholarship Saint Mary’s College Scholarship North Coast Builders Exchange Scholarship Akilah Douglas Pell Grant Academic Competitiveness Grant California State University Grant Angelina Duckett California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Press Democrat Youth Service Award Nominee – Arts Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Esperanza Service Award Scholar Athlete – Volleyball Honors – AP Studio Art Sr. Julie Donnelly Service Award Digital Photography Juried Exhibition 2nd Place Italian Catholic Federation Scholarship Zone of Focus Digital Photography 2nd Place Santa Rosa Photographers Society Award 2009 Principal’s Art Collection Award – “Choices” University of Portland Holy Cross Scholarship President’s Volunteer Service Award, Gold Andriana Duckworth Ursuline Girl Candidate Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Honors – Psychology National Ursuline Student Leadership Conference Representative University of San Francisco Grant Dominican University Dean’s Scholarship Dominican University Grant Kansas University Grant University of California Merced Dean’s Scholarship Class of 2009 Ursuline Graduates 2009 Senior Awards University of California Riverside Dean’s Scholarship President’s Volunteer Service Award, Bronze Samantha Estomba President’s Award for Educational Excellence Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Honors – Christian Life Styles Caitlin Feldman California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Scholar Athlete – Volleyball Senior Athlete Award Nominee Butler University Academic Scholarship Marquette University Ignatius/Magis Scholarship Beloit College Eaton Scholarship Hamline University Undergraduate Leadership Award (Left to right) 2009 Special Hamline University Trustee Scholarship Hamline University Grant Ceremonial Speakers: University of Minnesota Morris Associates Scholarship Salutatorian Christina Romeo, St. Mary’s University of Minnesota LaSallian Grant Co-Valedictorians Amelia St. Mary’s University of Minnesota Presidential Scholarship St. Mary’s University of Minnesota Grant Lincoln and Jane Reilley, and President’s Volunteer Service Award, Bronze Ursuline Award Ceremony Lindsay Ferrigno Senior Speaker Tina Sr. Edmund Fallon Drama Award California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Beigelbeck. Tina Beigelbeck Bank of America Achievement Award – Drama won the prestigious President’s Award for Educational Achievement Ursuline Girl Award for 2009. Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award CMEA Choir Award – Excellent Rating Scholar Leadership Award Scholar Performing Arts – “Charley’s Aunt” Highest Honors – Chorus Italian Catholic Federation Scholarship DeMeo Family Scholarship for Performing Arts New York University Provost’s Grant New York University Dean’s Grant New York University J. Eckhouse Scholarship Pace University President’s Scholarship Pace University Grant University of California Santa Barbara Freshman Scholarship University of Oregon Dean’s Scholarship Southern Oregon Western Undergraduate Exchange Scholarship University of Portland Holy Cross Scholarship University of Pacific President’s Scholarship President’s Volunteer Service Award, Gold Christa Gallagher 2009 Principal’s Art Collection Award – “Seeing Small Insects” Honors – Design Ursuline Girl Candidate Sr. Julie Donnelly Service Award California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Bank of America Achievement Award – Communications Sr. Mary Peter Dresser Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Scholar Athlete – Lacrosse Scholar Athlete – Varsity Basketball Senior Athlete Award Nominee Honors – AP English 12 Lit/Comp Honors – Economics Wendy’s High School Heisman Award ABC 7 Top Scholars Nominee Cal Grant University of Oregon Nonresident Dean’s Scholarship Washington State University Cougar Academic Award University of California Berkeley Undergraduate Scholarship American Institute of Architects Redwood Empire Scholarship University of Idaho Scholarship Gonzaga University Scholarship Montana State University Scholarship Coca Cola Scholars Program Semi-finalist President’s Volunteer Service Award, Silver Andre Vicini Memorial Scholarship Helen Kellum Scholarship Alissa Geving California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award First Female & Youngest 360 Sprint Car Track Champion at Petaluma Speedway Civil War Sprint Car Series Rookie of the Year University of Oregon Scholarship University of Oregon Dean’s Scholarship Kimberly Gogas American Math Contest – Third Place UHS Bank of America Achievement Award – Foreign Language California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member President’s Award for Educational Excellence Honors – AP Latin Literature Sonoma County High Point Junior Hunter/Jumper Champion Diana Gonzalez 2009 CBSL Senior Project Finalist Bank of America Achievement Award – Family & Life Science President’s Award for Educational Achievement Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Highest Honors – Christian Life Styles Cal Grant Allyssa Hastings Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Honors – Academic English 12 Honors – Dance II Montana State University Academic Achievement Award University of Montana Leadership Achievement & Service Award A sea of 2009 graduation hats University of Oregon Academic Achievement Award Michigan State University Out-Of-State Achievement Award Sarah Jensen Vanguard University Scholarship Southern Oregon University Western Undergraduate Exchange Scholarship Nicole Kazemini Highest Honors – Photo 1-2 Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Most Improved Senior Scholarship Natalie Kidd Bank of America Achievement Award California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Mary Peter Dresser Honor Roll Award Highest Honors – Yearbook Honors – US Government President’s Award for Educational Excellence Press Democrat Youth Service Award Nominee – Ecology ABC 7 Top Scholars Nominee Every Fifteen Minutes Achievement American University Dean’s Scholarship Boston University Dean’s Scholarship University of Miami Dean’s Scholarship Northeastern University Dean’s Scholarship Yvonne Labbé Ursuline Girl Candidate California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Honors – Literature of Film Honors – AP English 12 Lit/Comp Cal Grant Italian Catholic Federation Scholarship Loyola New Orleans Scholarship Loyola New Orleans Grant Loyola New Orleans Campus Visit Tuition Credit Loyola New Orleans Cardoner Leadership Fellowship Asian Pacific Maria Elena Yuchengco Memorial Journalism Scholarship St. Edward’s University Scholarship St. Edward’s University Grant St. Edward’s University Donor Scholarship Seattle University Arrupe Scholarship Seattle University Grant University of San Francisco Grant University of the Incarnate Word Dean’s Scholarship University of the Incarnate Word Grant Notre Dame de Namur University Belmont Scholarship Sarah Langer California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Press Democrat Youth Service Award Nominee – Journalism/Media Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Honors – Christian Life Styles North Coast Builders Exchange Scholarship Amelia Lincoln Ursuline Girl Candidate AP Scholar Award UC Eligibility in the Local Context: Top 4% 2009 CBSL Senior Project of the Year Sr. Gabriel O’Connor Leadership Award California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Bank of America Plaque Winner Science & Math President’s Award for Educational Excellence Press Democrat Youth Service Award Nominee – Community Action Sr. Mary Peter Dresser Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Scholar Athlete – Soccer NBL All League – Second Team – Soccer Press Democrat All Empire NBL Scholar Athlete of the Year Senior Athlete Award Nominee Honors – AP English 12 Lit/Comp Honors – French IV 13 Class of 2009 Ursuline Graduates 2009 Senior Awards Honors – AP Calculus Honors – AP Physics Honors – US Government Press Democrat Teen Faces Girls Nation 2008 Representative from California Girls Nation Most Outstanding Senator Girls Nation Most Outstanding Senator Scholarship National Ursuline Educational Service Student Recognition Robert C. Byrd Scholarship - Semi-finalist Rotary Club of Santa Rosa Outstanding Student Award Berkeley Leadership Scholarship Finalist Jacqueline Madison California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Honors – US Government Esperanza Service Award Senior processional at Sonoma President’s Volunteer Service Award, Bronze Claire McGowan State University California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award St. Mary’s College Scholarship Cortney McIntosh Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Honors – Academic English 12 Dominican University Presidential Scholarship Dominican University Grant Pell Grant Meagan McNaughton Honors – Graphic Design Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award President’s Award for Educational Achievement Kirsten Memmer President’s Award for Educational Achievement Honors – Academic English 12 Honors – Faith Honors – Environmental Science Jennifer Meyer California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Excellence in Dance Award Outstanding Senior Athlete Scholar Athlete Swimming and Diving 2009 Empire Swimming Best 1 Meter Diving Press Democrat All Empire NBL Athlete of the Year Honors – Graphic Design Sonoma County Math Steeplechase Competition President’s Volunteer Service Award, Gold Sophia Molavi California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Honors – Photoshop 1 Global Young Leaders Conference – Budapest, Vienna and Prague Michelle Moorehead Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Colleen Mullen California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Mary Peter Dresser Honor Roll Award Highest Honors – Academic English 12 Highest Honors – Trig/Precalculus Highest Honors – Faith Highest Honors – US Government Highest Honors – Economics Honors – Chorus Honors – Physics CMEA Choir Award – Excellent Rating Dewey and Irene Baldocchi Memorial Scholarship Natalie Netter Senior Athlete Award Nominee Honors – Painting National Ursuline Student Leadership Conference Representative Constance Noonan Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Senior Athlete Award Nominee Scholar Athlete – Cross Country Scholar Athlete – Track CMEA Choir Award – Excellent Rating Placida Ordaz NBL – All League – First Team – Softball Arizona State University Grant Arizona State University University Grant (Left to right)Angelina Duckett Chaminade University Leadership Scholarship and Madeleine Diab inside St. Pell Grant Victoria Oswald Joseph’s Catholic Church at the 2009 CBSL Senior Project Finalist Baccalaureate Mass. Senior Athlete Award Nominee 14 Natalia Rabellino Highest Honors – Painting Alyssa Ramazzotti Bank of America Plaque Winner – Fine Arts President’s Award for Educational Achievement Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Four Year Music Award Highest Honors – Advanced Choir Honors – Spanish II CMEA Choir Award – Excellent Rating Scholar Performing Arts – “Charley’s Aunt” Scholar Performing Arts – “High School Musical” Scholar Leadership Award Every Fifteen Minutes Recognition Linfield College Grant Rachel Rapp Four year music award recipient California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Alyssa Ramazzotti with Honors – Yearbook Ursuline’s Choir Director Irish Dance World Championships 2009 Bethany Neese. Jane Reilley 2009 Ursuline High School Co-Valedictorian Ursuline Girl Candidate UC Eligibility in the Local Context: Top 4% Bank of America Plaque Winner – Liberal Arts California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Mary Peter Dresser Honor Roll Award Scholar Athlete – Golf Highest Honors – AP English 12 Lit/Comp Highest Honors – AP Latin Literature Honors – US Government National Merit Scholarship Letter of Commendation President’s Award for Educational Excellence Scholar Leadership Award Daughter’s of the American Revolution – Good Citizen Award Robert C. Byrd Scholarship – Semi-finalist University of California Los Angeles Scholarship Recognition Award University of California Davis Regent’s Scholarship Tulane University Presidential Scholarship Santa Clara University Family Scholarship Bryana Robles Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Christina Romeo 2009 Ursuline High School Salutatorian UC Eligibility in the Local Context: Top 4% Bank of America Achievement Award – Science California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member President’s Award for Educational Achievement Sr. Mary Peter Dresser Honor Roll Award Honors – French IV Honors – Faith Honors – US Government Honors – Economics Honors – Psychology Scholar Leadership Award ABC 7 Top Scholars Nominee University of the Pacific President’s Scholarship University of the Pacific Grant Alizah Rotman California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Press Democrat Youth Service Award Nominee – Athletics Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award NBL All League – Second Team – Cross Country Willamette University Scholarship Rebecca Royston California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award 2009 CBSL Senior Project Finalist University of California Santa Cruz Grant Dominican University Scholarship Santa Clara University Grant Most Improved Senior Scholarship Alexis Rubattino California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Mary Peter Dresser Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Scholar Athlete – Soccer NBL All League – Second Team – Soccer Highest Honors – Spanish III Honors – AP Calculus President/Principal Julie Carver Sonoma County Math Steeplechase Competition congratulates Shelby Demello at Santa Clara University Scholarship – Soccer Fresno State Scholarship – Soccer the Senior Awards ceremony. Notre Dame de Namur University Scholarship – Soccer Class of 2009 Ursuline Graduates 2009 Senior Awards Amy Sautter Bank of America Achievement Award Family & Life Science Erika Sorensen Bank of America Achievement Award – Computer Studies Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Highest Honors – Web Design 2 Lucy Stevenot California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member President’s Award for Educational Excellence Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Highest Honors – Latin III Honors Honors – Trig/Precalculus Honors – Faith Honors – Physics Honors – Economics President/Principal Julie University of the Pacific President’s Scholar Myrna Stevenot Carver congratulates Akilah California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Douglas at the 2009 graduation President’s Award for Educational Excellence ceremony. Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Honors – Latin III Honors Honors – Faith Gonzaga Dussault Scholarship Richmond American International University, London, Dean’s Scholarship Brittany Swelam California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Rotary Leadership Recognition GinaLisa Tamayo Scholar Athlete – Golf NBL All League – Second Team – Golf Bank of America Achievement Award – Music Press Democrat Youth Service Award Nominee English/Foreign Language/Education Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Honors – Advanced Choir CMEA Choir Award – Excellent Rating Soroptimist Violet Richardson Award 2009 CBSL Senior Project Finalist Susan Taylor Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Cal Grant Every Fifteen Minutes Recognition Boise State University Western Exchange Scholarship President’s Volunteer Service Award, Gold Christina Tognetti Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award NBL – Most Valuable Player – Soccer All Empire Player of the Year for Soccer St. Mary’s College Scholarship, Soccer St. Mary’s College Academic Scholarship Christine Trezise Ursuline 2009 graduates— California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member President’s Award for Educational Achievement joyous and playful. Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Scholar Leadership Award Highest Honors – Psychology Kayla Vann Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Valerie Vann Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Amanda Vannucchi Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Eckerd College Academic Achievement Scholarship University of Tampa Grant Hawaii Pacific University Scholarship Jocelyn Villavicencio California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Bank of America Achievement Award – Religious Studies Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Jennifer Meyer and Ursuline Scholar Leadership Honors – Creative Writing Dance teacher Gabriella Honors – Academic English 12 Thompson at the Senior Awards Honors – Spanish III Ceremony. Jennifer was the Cal Grant Dominican University Dean’s Scholarship recipient of the 2009 Dominican University Grant Outstanding Senior Athlete and Jenaca Voth the Excellence in Dance awards. Senior Athlete Award Nominee Honors – Dance II Amanda Wilcox Sr. Bernard Gleason Honor Roll Award Arizona State University Grant Arizona State University University Grant California State University Sacramento State Grant Pell Grant Ashley Wilkinson Highest Honors – Drawing Allison Zegarra 2009 CBSL Senior Project of the Year California Scholarship Federation – Lifetime Member Bank of America Achievement Award – English Press Democrat Youth Service Award Nominee – Agricultural/Vocational Sr. Mary Peter Dresser Honor Roll Award Scholar Athlete – Water Polo Scholar Leadership Award Scholar Performing Arts – “High School Musical” Highest Honors – Public Speaking Kohl’s Kids Who Care Nominee Press Democrat Point of View – Teen Life Essay National Ursuline Educational Service Student Recognition Lewis & Clark College Leadership & Service Scholarship Santa Clara University Grant Saint Mary’s College Honors at Entrance Scholarship Occidental College Achievement Scholarship Pitzer College Spring Diversity Program Girl Scout Gem of a Girl Runner Up Girl Scout Gold Award Prudential Spirit of Community Service, UHS Nominee President’s Volunteer Service Award, Gold Four Year Award Honorees—Congratulations Graduates! Seniors and Freshmen of Ursuline High School on Senior Award Ceremony day. 2009 Co-Valedictorians Jane Reilley and Amelia Lincoln 2009 Salutatorian Christina Romeo Ursuline Girl Award Tina Beigelbeck Ursuline Award Ceremony Senior Speaker Tina Beigelbeck Outstanding Senior Athlete Jennifer Meyer Excellence in Dance Jennifer Meyer Four year Music Award Alyssa Ramazzotti Sr. Edmund Fallon Drama Award Tina Beigelbeck and Lindsay Ferrigno Sr. Gabriel O’Connor Leadership Award Amelia Lincoln Sr. Julie Donnelly Service Award Andriana Duckworth and Sarah Germini 15 Class of 2009 A Generous Alum Resurrects Student Award In April, Alumnae Stacey Benoist-Herve reinstated the “Most Improved Student Award,” the award that she received herself when she graduated from Ursuline in 1978. “When I received this award, it made a huge impact on my life. It gave me the boost in confidence I needed to go on to accomplish many things in my life. I hope this award and cash gift will also do the same for someone else.” It is because of the generosity of community members like Stacey that we’re able to continue our mission of educating young women to “seek knowledge, clarify values and act on convictions.” For more information about Ursuline Scholarships, please contact Margaux Hardy, Director of Advancement, at mhardy@ursulinehs.org or (707) 524-1130 ext 142. “The Most Improved Student” award recipients for 2009. (Left to right) Winner Rebecca Royston, scholarship donator Stacey Benoist-Herve and Winner Nicole Kazemini. A Place Like No Other—A Graduation Reflection By Patricia Rota, Spanish Teacher Ursuline Spanish teacher Patricia Rota with the sophomore class council. I have just returned from graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2009. Although I didn’t know many of the seniors (it is my first year of teaching Spanish to mostly underclasswomen at Ursuline), I felt the familiar pride of walking with them and knowing we are launching young men and women who have received the best of education. I left my teaching position at Newman nine years ago. I had taught Spanish there for seven years and in leaving I did not know how difficult it was going to be to find this amazing learning environment anywhere else. Trying to find it in both Florida and California (in private and public schools) proved to be futile. In my search, I kept longing for that unique combination of academic excellence, genuine care, spiritual guidance and mostly a truly loving environment for students and teachers, a place where all felt secure enough to grow. The search led me back to where I knew it existed, to Ursuline. 16 This combination of “loving while educating” has been evident to me all year. Mostly, I witnessed it in the week of several events sequenced into such a clear message to our students. I saw how at the Mother/Daughter Brunch we could provide a ceremony of recognition and exaltation of this deep bond and of the passage of letting go. In the next few days we, as a school, experienced “Every 15 Minutes” together and the sobering reality and responsibility of this love for each other. This was followed by Holy Thursday and the “Washing of the Feet”—where along with the service of maintaining our lovely campus, the sophomore class actually washed each other’s feet. The culmination of this humble and symbolic act gave the week another deeply felt dimension of what we are to each other. Again, I couldn’t help but juxtapose the bounty of these events next to my prior experience at many other schools. There is such grace at Ursuline and Newman—and the students are what make this possible. They are so able and willing to receive, to ponder and to incorporate into their being what is being offered. Then, best of all, they manifest this into the world. There will always be a lingering sadness that all young people don’t seem to be given these possibilities. From what I have seen, young people everywhere seem to yearn for this full range of guidance in their lives. But for now, I am simply honored and grateful to be a part of this reality. Class of 2009 Recent Grad Moves to Ireland, Prepares for College in New Country By Caitlin Feldman, Class of 2009 So far, I have thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in the culture here and learning something new every day. I am not nervous about going to school here, because I feel like I have great community support (my family, friends, Ursuline) to give me the confidence to just keep challenging myself, and having fun while I do it. I feel like my past experiences have enabled me to go out into the world with confidence and to not be afraid of differences and instead embrace them! I’m very excited about attending the University in Galway. Last Friday, I went to have a tour and fell in love with the campus. Before this visit I was feeling somewhat apprehensive, because I hadn’t signed up for any classes or even heard from the college about orientation like all of my friends back in the U.S. In visiting the college I found out why. They take a three week test that is cumulative of their entire education for the most part. They take this test at the end of their final year of what would be equivalent to high school in the states. The students themselves apply to about four different Universities or various programs and don’t know if they’ve been accepted until early August. Then, depending purely on their test scores, they can go to what University they’ve been accepted to. So orientation and class registration isn’t until late August! I have also found that their programs are much different here. I am enrolled in the Bachelor of Science (undeclared) which means that the only classes I will take are science-based. My first year of college, I will take only science courses, no English, no electives, no extra math. Here, once you have chosen your major you stay just in that subject. I do have mixed feelings about this in that if you don’t know where you want to go it’s a little more difficult to just try a little of everything like in the U.S. In the States just about everyone takes similar classes their first two years, and that’s what I was expecting. But for someone like me who knew what she wanted to do, it’s great because you don’t have to take all those other classes that don’t really relate to your major. I get to jump right into what I’m interested in! Some might think that this model doesn’t provide as well of a rounded education, but others say you can learn more in depth information about a specific subject; so as of now, I feel that I will get a lot out of just focusing on my major. The Spirit of St. Angela Award The Spirit of St. Angela Award is given to the student in each grade level (9-11) who epitomizes the core values that form the mission and philosophy of all Ursuline Schools throughout the world. At each grade level, one student is voted upon by their peers from among the nominees as being the student who in the past year has most exemplified the Ursuline core values of respect, responsibility, self confidence, leadership, support, hard work, caring, service, vision and spirituality. Grade 9 Winner: Belden Long If someone would have told me five years ago that I was going to move from my small town in Northern Indiana, go to high school in California, and then go to college in Ireland, I probably would have laughed and walked away in disbelief. But all of this has happened! In moving to California, I feel like I finally broke free of my comfort bubble and began to realize that there is so much in the world worth seeing. The second I had the opportunity to move to Ireland, I jumped on it knowing that it would be a chance of a lifetime. I’m loving every moment here in Galway, Ireland— even getting caught in the rain! Nominees: Indigo Bannister Lauren Forsell Elizabeth Herman Kelsey Reilley Grade 10 Winner: Tina Traboulsi Nominees: Kimberly Curran Angeline Kelly Hanna Paulson Isabelle Straka Grade 11 Winner: Michelle Stone Nominees: Yasmin Almanaseer Allyson Beach Madelyne Trione Ellery Young 17 Ursuline Employee News Ursuline Honors Its Longtime Employees These faculty and staff have over 25 years of dedicated service to Ursuline High School and the Ursuline community. We thank them for their incredible commitment to our students. 33 Years Fran Osegueda 30 Years Cyndi Niendorf 29 Years Carol August Faculty and Staff Member of the Year-We Honor You Each year the Ursuline Faculty and Staff vote for the faculty member and staff member who “epitomize the core values that form the mission and philosophy of all Ursuline Institutions throughout the world.” Two individuals tied for the faculty of the year honor, Mike Kamplain and Kathy Snodgrass. Fellow employees said of Kathy: “She has created more meaningful liturgies, worked on Every Fifteen Minutes, does the Frosh overnight and she teaches too!” For Kathy’s inspired work on liturgies, Day of the Dead, sleepovers and so many other activities. Fellow employees said of Mike: “Mike has helped to develop the liturgy program and retreats. His leadership Congratulations and our heart felt thanks to these cherished members of our Ursuline family. The 2009 Senior Teacher Choice Award was presented to Alice Meyer. This award is given by the senior class to the teacher they feel was most inspirational and influential in their school years at Ursuline. Senior Award Speaker Tina Beigelbeck hugs winner teacher Alice Meyer after the award announcement. Please Take a Bow President/Principal Julie Carver was honored in the May issue of the North Bay Business Journal as an innovative North Bay leader in education. Others honored included 15 other university and college presidents, area superintendents and just three high school administrators. Congratulations Ms. Carver! 18 This year’s staff winner is Lisa Ormond, Co-Director of Admissions. Fellow employees said of Lisa: “Lisa has changed the culture. Her contacts, strategy and perseverance greatly benefit Ursuline in the wider community of Sonoma County. She has made a wonderful difference in recruiting and uniting the school and has involved the faculty in a very positive way.” Senior Teacher Choice Award 27 Years Luigi Fabiano 26 Years Caryn Inman Nancy Michnevich Lisa Quinn is extremely valuable to our school community.” Another said, “He is rooted in spirituality.” Lauren Frost receives her credential at a ceremony in early June. Ursuline and Cardinal Newman teacher Lauren Frost completed her single subject teaching credential this spring from Dominican University of California. Congratulations on your achievement Lauren! Ursuline Employee News The Counseling Department A Group of Lifelong Learners Last fall, Director of College Counseling Cyndi Niendorf attended the National Association for College Admissions Counselors Conference in Seattle for an update on Counselors Elfi Bailey, Molly trends in college Guerra and Carol August admissions. While in Seattle, she visited Seattle University and University of Washington. Emerson College, Bentley University, Clark University and Worchester Polytechnic Institute. Mrs. Niendorf also toured University of Victoria, Simon Fraser University, Emily Carr University and University of British Columbia this past year. In the spring, Mrs. Niendorf participated in a Boston area tour of colleges - including Simmons College, In addition, Ursuline counselors annually attend the University of California and California State University counselor workshops in addition to other workshops sponsored by College Board, ACT, and Financial Aid to stay current in their field. “Just as we guide our students about the importance of seeing a campus, these counselor trips expand our knowledge about colleges and universities outside California and help us make recommendations to our students. The opportunity to interact with a group of 50 college counselors from around the world is a rich, educational experience,” said Mrs. Niendorf. Catholic Congress Conference By Kathy Snodgrass, Campus Ministry Advisor I was privileged to attend this three day event where over 45,000 Catholics from around the country were in attendance. “Love unfolding...Igniting our Yes” was the theme of the 2009 Los Angeles Religious Education Congress (RSC) held at the Anaheim Convention Center. RSC Director of the Los Angeles Office of Religious Education Sr. Edith Prendergast said of the theme, “Love unfolding is the way of Jesus, calling his disciples to ‘come and see,’ calling us into deeper friendship and interconnection with Him and with all of life. This bond of oneness, this fastening of the spirit to God, sustains us on the path, generates and ignites a fresh energy, and propels us to give voice to our ‘yes’ anew.” The event started with Youth Day where 16,000 enthusiastic young people gathered for a celebration mass. During workshops, teenagers sang along to popular Catholic music and listened to dynamic speakers addressed such subjects as dating and peer pressure. On day two, the adult workshops began and over 300 choices of speakers were presented from such topics as faith and culture, Catholic women in the church, forming faith in teens, creating meaningful liturgies for teens, liturgical dance and social action. I am grateful to our President/Principal Julie Carver who has said “yes” to the many new ideas that we’ve been able to implement in Campus Ministry this past year. Most of the ideas were a direct result of the “fresh energy” that Sr. Prendergast spoke about and I myself experienced at the Congress gathering. At Ursuline’s liturgies for example, we have been able to improve the environment of the gym, the location of the celebrations and we’ve used technology during large prayer gatherings. The sound system was updated to enhance the overall experience. Also, we’ve worked closely with Ursuline’s Choir to create a lively but prayerful experience at all liturgies. It’s my hope that I’ll again attend this event next year, keeping my spiritual energies ignited for developing and directing future Campus Ministry activities. 2008-2009 Campus Ministry We Appreciate You Ursuline students, faculty and staff thank the following dedicated students and Campus Ministry Coordinator Kathy Snodgrass for their tireless efforts in our Liturgy Celebrations this year. All were beautiful, meaningful and wonderful! Bethany Codding Kimberely Curran Torina Giannetto Haily MacDonald Amanda Oseguera Tina Traboulsi Elizabeth Wang Savannah Clements Felicia Afuan Allyson Beach Jasmine DeMange Bailey Desmond AnneMarie Destruel Lauren Gibson Gianna Gonnella Kelsey Pighin Alexandra Robertson Rachael Rochioli Michelle Stone Madelyne Trione Olivia Turnross Ellery Young Tina Beigelbeck Sarah Bertrero Andriana Duckworth Caitlin Feldman Lindsay Ferrigno Sarah Germini Yvonne Labbé Amelia Lincoln Jennifer Meyer Jane Reilley Palm Burning Procession commemorating Ash Wednesday. Students, Staff and Faculty participate in a solemn procession that leads into the Ursuline gym. 19 Student Perspective Mother Daughter Brunch The Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference and Inauguration By Allyson Beach, Class of 2010 Savannah Clements, Class of 2011 The Mother Daughter Brunch was so much fun and a huge success! It seemed like all the girls enjoyed spending time with their moms and grandmas. The event began with a great welcoming talk from Mrs. Rota about her personal experiences with her daughters and about the special bond they share. Instead of a fashion show, this year the sophomore class decided to have karaoke. A couple of moms and daughters got up and sang together and it was really funny. I really like this event, because it provides a different way to bond with my mom and the rest of my classmates, and I enjoyed seeing everyone dressed up and having fun together. The Mother Daughter celebration is a special way to honor the bond between mother and daughter which there isn’t always time for in our busy lives. 20 The 2008 presidential race was an exciting chain of events to watch, but being there in the crowd on Inauguration Day, as a witness to history, was monumental. I was one of eight students from Ursuline and Cardinal Newman who attended the Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference. We began the week with talks from Lisa Ling, General Colin Powel, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Al Gore. Then Inauguration Day came. In the crowd of two million people, I could feel the energy and excitement of the surrounding American people: waving flags, cheering, laughing, standing close together. Throughout the morning and during President Obama’s acceptance speech, I could hear the elderly African American women, wrapped tight in their fur coats, weeping and see them hugging each other. I saw soldiers in uniform, children from schools, and students from college standing in awe. I saw firsthand the pride and happiness of the American public. I learned about the importance of patriotism, solidarity, camaraderie and the appreciation for the accomplishments of one another. I will always remember that day. Jacqueline Payne, Class of 2012 Hoards of people, long lines and the chilly wind biting at exposed skin were all a part of my experience at Barack Obama’s Presidential Inauguration. Surrounded by millions of people, I listened as Obama, the 44th President of the United States and the first African American president was sworn into office. Those who were watching this event from home did not feel the surge of energy that I did at this moment. Joyous screams filled the air and American flags were seen waving across the crowd of almost 1.6 million people. Meanwhile, a couple had climbed on top of an information booth to hold a sign that read: “I have a dream. Dreams come true.” This banner waving in the wind summed up my experience that day which made my trip life-changing. It was on this day I was proud to be an American. The World History Trials By Angeline Kelly, Class of 2011 All of the sophomores were really energized and a little nervous about the World History Trials. The night before the trials we practiced our lines and got our clothes ready – we were told we needed to look professional. The whole experience was one that I won’t forget. There was excitement in the air for all of the sophomores as we prepared for the trials. Mr. Herrmann made it really interesting and I couldn’t believe how much we all got into it! Seeing my classmates up on the witness stand and being cross- examined made this history lesson about the French Revolution come alive. Student Perspective A Grateful Senior Goodbye By Shelby DeMello, Class of 2009 Throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. – Mark Twain Today, as I reminisce about the four years at Ursuline, some of my most memorable experiences came through my involvement in the theater arts program. As a freshman, I was first and foremost a dancer having little experience in theater. Not only did Ursuline provide me opportunities to act, dance and sing onstage, but I also managed, participated in set design and choreographed offstage. These experiences connected me with lifetime friends, helped me build my confidence, and allowed me to broaden my horizons as a dancer. I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to experience new things, make new friends, and build my future. My Ursuline education prepared me well. I will attend UC Davis in the fall. To my fellow seniors, the support and love you have shared has inspired me to be a better person—thank you. Every Fifteen Minutes By Marjorie Broffman, Class of 2010 The whole experience didn’t really hit me until I was under the emergency blanket, hearing the fire truck race towards the car where my friend Kyle Decker and I were trapped. I had a million thoughts running through my head, but there was no time to focus on just one, and the only thing I could think about was the task at hand. The experience was one that I am so grateful I was able to experience. From the minute I walked into the room and had fake blood put all over my face, to the final stage of the process where I ended up sitting directly in front of my mom at my own funeral, the level of intensity of this process was extreme. every aspect of this event work. How every day this “situation” happens and many people are affected and not just families, but also those who have to deal with the injured and deceased. The message from the experience was that all of these people could be spared the pain and feelings of loss, if only people would think before getting into a car, and not make the decision to drink and drive. Though every person’s experience who was involved in this program was different, I believe I can say that the life of every individual who participated in the Every Fifteen Minutes was changed, including my own. Although people were able to view what each participant went through, nobody was able to see the amount of effort and time that it took to make Editor’s Note: The Every Fifteen Minutes Program is a realistic simulation designed to educate students about the dangers of drunk driving and distracted driving. Student Elections and Council By Belden Long, Class of 2012 This year, along with entering the wonderful new world of Ursuline sisterhood, came many exciting opportunities and one of those was Student Council. Many of us young, curious freshman at the bottom of the food chain, were eager to lead and have an active voice in our community. With creative posters, catchy slogans and entertaining speeches the freshman elections were a huge aspect to our year. Although there were limited positions available, everyone showed great sportsmanship. Through the elections, we were able to unite as a class. We got to know one another and began to see the many bright personalities of our fellow classmates. The Freshman Student Council was spirited, enthusiastic and responsible. You could always count on us to get our class pumped about trying to beat the seniors in crazy rally competitions. Leadership is one of the most admirable virtues and is an incredible opportunity offered to students at Ursuline. 21 Admissions Banner Year in Admissions—Looking Ahead By Lisa Ormond, Co-Director of Admissions The Freshman Class of 2013 will soon be upon the Ursuline campus, full of energy and excitement about their new school and community. It has been an incredible year in Admissions. Both Kathleen and I want to thank the administration, the Board of Trustees, the faculty and staff, and our Ursuline parents and students for making this a year to remember and for standing by our sides as we diligently worked to enroll girls at Ursuline High School. Our fantastic freshman! Ashley Rosenberg, Sinead Lafferty, Breanna Walsh and Sarah Wiggins (left to right). Over 70 freshmen students will walk through Ursuline’s halls on the first day of school and there’s reason to celebrate! A positive enrollment trend is in the making. The Admissions Department developed and implemented several new recruiting and marketing strategies this past year in an effort to reacquaint our general community about Ursuline and to invite them to visit campus. held three larger-scale open house events, and also hosted seven “mini” ones during the year with about 42 families joining us for those. The number of students who shadowed in 2008-2009 exploded with over 65 girls visiting on 14 different days. Also, Admissions made 15 classroom presentations with Link Crew girls to Catholic, charter and public schools throughout the school year. We’re looking forward to next year’s 2014 student recruitment. We ask that you please tell your friends, neighbors, business associates, and others about our wonderful school. Even with modern technologies, personal referrals and friendly conversation are still the best methods of bringing students and parents to campus. Please continue to help us in our efforts. Editor’s Note: The 2009-2010 Admissions Events Calendar is provided on the last page of the FOCUS. Feel free to share these dates (Preview Day, Open Houses, Placement Tests, etc.) with those you know. Thank you. Savannah Clements (Junior Class President and Link Crew leader) makes sure her “shadows” are comfortable on the Ursuline front porch. From October 2008 through July 2009, we were proactively telling others about Ursuline in many different ways. Starting with October’s Preview Day where 115 8th grade girls visited the campus until the final Parent Visitation Day in June, prospective students and parents were continuously guided around campus to learn more. Admissions Ursuline Girl Camps Sizzled during the Summer By Kathleen Kelly, Co-Director of Admissions Ursuline offered 14 unique camp experiences and fun for girls this summer on our campus. Over 200 girls spent a week on Ursuline’s school grounds participating in all types of cool summer fun. There was a camp for every girl and interest including: fencing, lacrosse, water polo, basketball, drama, Art and Dance from Around the World, Mind-BodySpirit camp for teen girls and more. Many students stayed for a morning and afternoon session and hung out in Brescia Courtyard for lunch and music. Caitlyn Crandall, Class of 2000, was back on campus running an engaging Drama Camp. Girls between the ages of 12 and 14 from many different areas of Sonoma County came together for fun and friendship. We are listening to the feedback from camp participants. Stay tuned for next summer’s camp offerings which may include an Extreme Adventure Camp for Girls! 22 Summer Camp welcome sign Girls practice their newly learned fencing skills. Admissions Link Crew Leaders Serve Ursuline in Many Ways By Alice Meyer, Link Coordinator and Ursuline faculty member As a Catholic school, a strong community is essential to our mission. The Link Crew leaders provide our new students with their first glimpse of what it means to be part of the Ursuline community. These students are an integral part of Ursuline High School and how we welcome girls to the Ursuline sisterhood. Link Crew consists of about twenty junior and senior students who are apt leaders and communicators. Ursuline’s Link Crew facilitates new Student Orientation and Preview Day. Throughout the year they also give presentations to middle school students, prospective families and community members; always with grace, pride and friendliness. These students represent Ursuline and have an important role as the “first face” students and parents see. Perhaps the truest testament to the Link Crew is that nearly fifty girls this year applied for just twenty 2009-2010 Link positions. Students usually apply for the same reason; because when they were new to Ursuline, it was a Link Crew leader who first made them feel welcomed and they want to give back. What freshmen Natalie Andrews said of the Link Crew really sums it up, “Their leadership really shined through when welcoming us to Ursuline. They’ve inspired me to be in the Link Crew when I become an upperclassman.” We offer wholehearted gratitude to the 20082009 Link Crew for a remarkable year, and for their commitment and contributions this past year. We congratulate and welcome the new 2009-2010 Link Crew members and look forward to working with them. 2009-2010 Link Crew and incoming freshman at the 2009 Welcome BBQ/Swim Party in May. Frosh Marissa Greenband, Link Kaitlyn Wright, Link Lindsey Hazlewood and Freshman Caitlin Hanson (left to right). 2008-2009 Link Crew Felicia Afuan Yasmin Almanaseer Tina Beigelbeck Adrianna Bertoli Sarah Bertolli Kayla Birney Marjorie Broffman Kristina Conophy Bailey Desmond Madeleine Diab Andriana Duckworth Paige Esposti Caitlin Feldman Chelsea Forman Paige Garzini Sarah Germini Chelsea Goldschmidt Allison Harf Amelia Lincoln Mariah Longo Katherine Peterson Stephanie Pires Natasha Qabazard Alyssa Ramazzotti Rachel Rapp Jane Reilley Rebecca Royston Rebecca Soracco Michelle Stone Madelyne Trione Allison Zegarra 2009-2010 Link Crew Felicia Afuan Jennifer Bipes Erin Clark Savannah Clements Bethany Codding Kim Curran Kara Groom Allison Harf Lindsey Hazlewood Alex Locey Dayna McDaniel Amanda Oseguera Stephanie Pires Amanda Pratt Natalie Qabazard Rachel Rubattino Laurel Sleigh Isabelle Straka Madelyne Trione Olivia Turnross Emily Weiss Kaitlyn Wright It’s all in the Family for the Class of 2013! We proudly welcome the young women listed below who make up Ursuline High School’s Class of 2013. For over 129 years Ursuline has been educating generations of girls; twenty six members of this exceptional group of young women follow a grandmother, mother or sister who graduated from Ursuline. Many life time friendships are sure to be developed as this group enters from twenty four different schools! We look forward to getting to know you and your families. AllysonAhlstrom Home Schooled Tica Anderson Windsor Middle School Alessandra Anton St. John’s Catholic School Arianna Barragan- Johnson St. Rose Catholic School Talia Baugnon St. Eugene’s Catholic School Katie Bipes St. Rose Catholic School Emily Bonfigli St. Eugene’s Catholic School Heidi Booth St. Eugene’s Catholic School Janene Borromeo St. Eugene’s Catholic School Amanda Broffman Twin Hills Middle School McKenna Brooks St. Rose Catholic School Jessie ButlerTwin Hills Middle School Kara Chandler St. Rose Catholic School Kayla Cogliano St. John’s Catholic School Tori Conte Guadalupe Private School Mariah Coogan Sonoma Country Day Audrey Dappen Robert Lewis Stevenson Middle School Shelby Darrall St. Helena Catholic School Shelby Deffterios St. Eugene’s Catholic School Andrea Duffy Sonoma Country Day Kyndall DuttonTwin Hills Middle School Melany Duty Windsor Middle School Morgan Edgar St. Eugene’s Catholic School Taylor Enzler St. Mary’s of the Angels Catholic School EllinoraFilice St. John’s Catholic School Maureen Flanagan St. Eugene’s Catholic School Amelia Ford Salmon Creek School Giulia Geary St. Rose Catholic School Rebecca Glasbrener Herbert Slater Middle School Marissa Greenband Santa Rosa Charter School Kelsey Greenwood Kenilworth Middle School Morgan Griswold Terra Groah Caitlin Hanson Logann Haworth Jacqueline Holtschult Zoe Horn Emily Knott Ashlee Krahne Sinead Lafferty Ashley LaFranchi Margaret Leinen Sarah Matossian Jordan Matteri Jazlyn McCoy-Loose Natasha Meier Chiara Nicastro Paige Nonella Madeline North Madison Ortega Emily Papale Julia Personeni Regina Pozzi Lana Procopenko Natalie Ramirez Caitlyn Rei Audrey Romano Ashley Rosenberg Marigrace Scrivanich Anna Smith Karen Somma Elizabeth Stogner Windsor Christian Academy Guadalupe Private School Santa Rosa Middle School St. John’s Catholic School St. Eugene’s Catholic School Mendocino Middle School Mark West Charter School Rincon Valley Middle School St. Rose Catholic School Healdsburg Middle School St. Eugene’s Catholic School St. Mary’s Catholic School St. John’s Catholic School Rincon Valley Middle School Washington School St. John’s Catholic School Willowside Middle School Windsor Middle School Twin Hills Middle School St. Eugene’s Catholic School Willowside Middle School St. Vincent de Paul School Willowside Middle School St. John’s Catholic School St. Rose Catholic School Rincon Valley Middle School St. Rose Catholic School Mark West Charter School Rincon Valley Middle School St. Rose Catholic School St. Rose Catholic School Alexandra Jean Kaela Breanna Kathryn Sarah Claire Jennifer Taylor Teague Trompeter Wall Walsh Walsh Wiggins Wilson Wittry Young St. John’s Catholic School Guadalupe Private School St. John’s Catholic School St. Rose Catholic School St. Rose Catholic School Rincon Valley Middle School St. John’s Catholic School St. Rose Catholic School St. Vincent de Paul School *Names in bold represent a student who is connected to a grandmother, mother or sister who is an Ursuline alumna. Note: this is the current list of students at the time of publication. Changes may occur prior to the start of the school year. The Freshman Class of 2013 and the 2009-2010 Link Crew pose for a group picture at the Welcome BBQ/ Swim Party held in May. 23 our amazing student athletes Accomplished Diver Leaves Her Mark By Jennifer Meyer, Class of 2009 I was a competitive gymnast for 11 years so diving was an easy transition for me. Competing for Ursuline’s diving team has been a huge highlight of my high school years. The strong support from my coaches and teammates from both Ursuline and Newman has made the experience better than I could have ever imagined. Having such great teammates to stick by you through the hard work and the fun really created what a high school sport was all about for me. Diving forces you to push past your fears and the lessons that I have learned from that will stay At North Coast Section Championships, with me for the rest of my life. Jennifer performs a back somersault, 2 My diving accomplishments: • • • • • • • • • • • • Ursuline’s Most Valuable Diver (2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009) Swimming & Diving Team Captain (2009) NCS Scholar Athlete (2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009) Qualified for North Coast Section (2006-2009) One of the Top 10 divers in Northern California Undefeated in North Bay League since Sophomore Year First Team All-Empire (2008) North Bay League Championships: 2nd Place (2006 and 2007) North Bay League Champion (2008 and 2009) 2009 Press Democrat’s “Athlete Of The Year” Ursuline’s “Outstanding Senior Athlete” award recipient Diving for UC Davis next year! Editor’s Note: This year Jennifer dove against 35 divers in Northern California to place 10th overall in North Coast Sectional competition. She captured incredible honors both in and out of the pool. She earned Ursuline’s prestigious Senior Award, “Outstanding Senior Athlete,” for her athletic and scholastic accomplishments. Congratulations Jennifer! 1/2 twists dive. Humbly Breaking Records Her Way By Michelle Stone, Class of 2010 The 2009 track season was a whirlwind for me. I started the season by breaking the Ursuline pole vault record with a jump of 10’7” at my first meet and from there continued to set higher bars (literally). Daniel Greinke and I set a co-ed team meet record at the Piner Gold Rush Relays, and I also broke the meet record at the Santa Rosa All City competition. I placed first at the North Coast Section (NCS) finals to qualify for the Meet of Champions in Berkeley, where I took second place and then headed down to Clovis to compete at the CIF State Track and Field Championship. The State meet was incredible, because the stadium was full of the energy of over 9,000 athletes, coaches and spectators. It was inspirational to see the other vaulters, but it was also amazing to watch the runners, jumpers and throwers, several of whom broke national records while I was there. At State, I qualified in the preliminaries to compete in the finals, where I jumped a personal best of 11’10” which tied me for seventh place. This vault ranks me first all-time in the Empire and fifth all-time in NCS. I have improved my vaulting by 28 inches since last season, and I only hope to progress more 24 next year. I have been fortunate to be able to compete in this amazing event, and I can’t believe the support I have received from the Ursuline and Newman community. Michelle vaulting to her personal best, Empire Record and Ursuline school record of 11’10” at the CIF State Track and Field Championship. Editor’s Note: Michelle’s seventh-place state finish was the best by a girl pole vaulter in Ursuline High School and Redwood Empire history. That a way Michelle! our amazing student athletes Lacrosse at Ursuline High School? That’s Right! Reflecting on the Inaugural Season - By Lauren Gibson, Class of 2010 Starting a new sport at Ursuline was not an easy task, especially since most girls had never held a lacrosse stick or seen a real game played before. In the spring of 2008, I started talking to friends about how it would be really fun if we could have a school team and many people were interested. I will never forget the first time I finally got a group of girls out to play catch. From there, I organized some more Lauren Gibson in a playful moment clinics and more girls started showing up. With the help of the Ursuline’s administration, our coach Steve Kozlowski, and many parents, Ursuline now has its own lacrosse team. Our spring season was a fun, exciting and memorable experience. Our team worked so hard to learn the basics of the game, and I was amazed at how much our team improved by the end of the season. The two games that we won were extremely rewarding. Our team was also awarded with the North Coast Scholastic Girls Lacrosse Championship Team Award for outstanding academic excellence. I am so grateful to all of the girls who took a chance to be apart of the lacrosse team. I have learned so much from all of my teammates and from this experience. Next year, we will be apart of MCAL league and I can’t wait to continue helping the lacrosse program develop. Editor’s Note: Lauren Gibson is the student who first had the vision and initiative to start the lacrosse team at Ursuline. Thank you Lauren for your efforts—the team, future teams and Ursuline High School commend you. Lacrosse has now become part of Ursuline’s athletic culture because of you. Those lacrosse girls sure have fun! Senior Goalie Natalie Netter Scholastic Honors for Lacrosse Team Way to Go Girls! The UHS Lacrosse team was awarded the North Coast Scholastic Girls Lacrosse Championship Team Award for 2009. This award is given to the top three teams in each division. Bears Lacrosse earned the award with a team grade point average of 3.46. We are proud of you girls! 25 Ursuline Winter/Spring Sports Softball By Mary Cooper, Coach The Varsity softball team concluded an outstanding 2009 season. They had a fourth place league finish with a 7 – 7 league record and 12 – 10 – 1 overall record in Division III. The Bears made their 10th North Coast Section appearance in the last 11 years losing to Drake 5-4. Seniors Placida Ordaz .415, Valerie Vann .362 and Kayla Vann led team hitting with a .361 batting average. The Bears pitching rotation of senior Kerissa Catania, sophomore Haily MacDonald and freshman Hailey Eisenhauer proved instrumental in the teams’ success. Placida Ordaz and Haily MacDonald were selected the NBL All league 1st Team and Valerie Vann and Hailey Eisenhauer were selected All League 2nd team. The Bears are looking forward to their 2010 season returning nine players to their roster and competing in their bi-annual softball tournament in Las Vegas. 26 Basketball By Jeff Paul, Coach The 2008-09 Bears Basketball season was a very special one. The girls worked extremely hard and very well together resulting in some incredible team accomplishments for Ursuline. The varsity, junior varsity and freshman all won North Bay League (NBL) titles. For the first time since 2004, the Bears varsity team won the League title. Also, for the first since 2004, the varsity Bears swept the Montgomery Vikings beating them at home in overtime and on their home court 64-60. The varsity team finished the season with a league record of 12-2 and an overall record of 19-10. Four players earned all league titles: Junior Tara Puccioni and Sophomore Jordan Henry were first team All-League selections and Senior Sarah Germini, Junior Ellery Young and Junior Bronte Sheahan received Honorable Mention selections. The Bears also had two of its members make the Press Democrat’s All-Redwood Empire team. Congratulations to Jordan Henry for being selected first team All-Redwood Empire and Tara Puccioni for her second team selection honor. The freshmen team finished the season strong with a 13-1 league and an overall record of 21-3. Both teams won NBL titles. The Bears basketball program is a young program with the varsity team only graduating one senior this year. Thank you Senior Sarah Germini for your great career as an Ursuline player, but also for serving as a great role model for younger players. Ursuline parents and basketball fans can look forward to next year and another exciting Bears basketball season, expecting the Bears to be the team to beat for the league title. In addition to the varsity team’s success, the junior varsity and freshmen teams enjoyed successful seasons as well. The junior varsity team finished with a league record of 13-1 and an overall record of 21-5. Lacrosse By Steve Kozlowski, Coach The inaugural season for the Bears Lacrosse team was a memorable one. The girls were able to punctuate the fun first season by earning the NCS Scholastic Championship Team Award. Remarkably, none of the 22 girls on the team had ever played lacrosse prior to that first early spring meeting and practice. Yet, they managed to grab two wins and gain respect of their opponents by the end of the season. What these girls did in this first season will always be remembered at Ursuline. In 2010, the team will join the MCAL which will be very challenging and competitive. I look forward to working with future Bear lacrosse players at Ursuline. Lacrosse is sure to become a part of the Ursuline tradition! Ursuline Winter/Spring Sports Swimming and Diving By Mark Hartman, Coach The Ursuline Bears Swim and Dive team took Special Recognition third place overall in the NBL this season. Awards Our league record was 6-2 and we finished a strong third at NBL League Championships, Most Valuable Swimmer only 51 points behind league champion Freshman Allison Straus Maria Carrillo High School. Jennifer Meyer was League Champion in diving and was an Most Valuable Diver automatic qualifier for the North Coast Section Senior Jennifer Meyer placing 10th overall. Anne Marie Destruel finished 2nd in the NBL championships in Most Improved Swimmer diving, and was also a competitor at the North Freshman Matilda Schroeter Coast Section meet. The swimmers were led by freshman standout Allison Straus who Most Improved Diver finished the season very strong at the NBL Junior Anne Marie Destruel championships with a 2nd place finish in the 100 free, and a 5th place finish in the 200 free. Senior Award Other double finalists for the Bears were Jenaca Voth juniors Allyson Beach and Alexandra Robertson, and freshman Mackenzie Carl. Also Coaches Award making strong swims and competing well Junior Allyson Beach, Freshman Jacqueline Payne at the League Championships were Chelsea and Freshman Mackenzie Carl Colnett, Kaitlin Daniels, Nora Schram, Jenaca Voth, and Jeanette Butler. Congratulations to all swimmers and divers for an outstanding season. We look forward to 2010 and the legitimate chance to compete for a league championship. Track and Field By Pat LaFortune, Coach A small but talented squad of track and field athletes completed a successful season. The league record (3 wins/4 losses) did not reflect their true success. Although short in numbers, the team had an outstanding attitude and work ethic. Pole Vaulter Michelle Stone highlighted the season. She was 1st at the NBL Finals, 1st at the Redwood Meet of Champions, 2nd at the Meet of Champions in Berkeley and 7th at the California State Meet in Clovis. Michelle also set the Ursuline pole vault record with a jump of 11’10”. Other athletes qualifying for the Redwood Meet of Champions were: Ali Nelson in the 100 and 200 meters, Michelle Milsap in the 100 meters, Megan McKeller and Madelyne Trione in the 300 meter hurdles, Julie Brookfield in the discus, and finally Jessica Blinman in the long jump. All of the above athletes are returning next year and with the addition of new Ursuline students, there’s no doubt the team will reach even greater heights in 2010. 27 Ursuline Winter/Spring Sports Rosters Track and Field Swimming and Diving Lacrosse Ali Nelson Senior Britney Biagi Junior Erica Cunningham Junior Shay Lamb Junior Megan Mckellar* Junior Isobel Moellar* Junior Aliza Rothman Junior Michelle Stone* Junior Madelyne Trione* Junior Jessica Blinman Sophomore Julie Brookfield* Sophomore Jasmine Demange Sophomore Isabelle Straka* Sophomore Jen Tognettie Sophomore Michelle Millsap* Freshman Connie Noonan* Freshman Timber Price* Freshman Head Coach: Pat LaFortune Asst. Coach: John LaFortune Asst. Coach: Lynn Meister Asst. Coach: Elaine Cavalin Asst. Coach: Curtis Byrd Asst. Coach: Jen Clouse Asst. Coach: Rich Kingsboro Jennifer Meyer* Jenaca Voth Allyson Beach* Amy Bennett Chelsea Colnett* Kaitlin Daniels* Anne Marie Destruel* Allison Harf* Kelsey McCarthy Matilda Schroeter* Maeve Sheeran Olivia Turnross* Bethany Codding* Jessica Goldberg Marina McCormick Nora Peterson* Alex Robertson* Liz Wang* Caterina Balletto* Ariana Bates Jeanette Butler* MacKenzie Carl* Jacqueline Payne* Katelynne Rettig* Nora Schram* Laurel Sleigh* Allison Stauss Celja Uebel* Emily Vasallo* Christa Gallagher Sarah Germini* Natalie Netter Bryana Robles Yasmine Almanaseer* Jacqueline Balletto Chelsea Booth* Sydney Bradley Lauren Gibson* Lauren Hylbak* Ellery Young* Jennifer Bipes* Erin Clark* Torina Giannetto Jesse Skizewski* Lauren Vukicevich* Bea Chambers Theresa Mateo* Julia McKellar* Josie Statzer Senior Senior Junior Junior Junior Junior Junior Junior Junior Junior Junior Junior Sophomore Sophomore Sophomore Sophomore Sophomore Sophomore Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Senior Senior Senior Senior Junior Junior Junior Junior Junior Junior Junior Sophomore Sophomore Sophomore Sophomore Sophomore Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Head Coach: Steve Kozlowski Swimming Head Coach: Mark Hartman Swimming Asst. Coach: Jeff Scharfen Diving Head Coach: Cari Hogan Team Photos: Basketball, Lacrosse and Softball by Tamara Demello. Swimming and Diving; Track and Field by Dirk Bietau -- www.dirk.com * Designates Scholar Athlete, qualifying with a 3.5 GPA or higher during the season of their sport. 28 Ursuline Winter/Spring Sports Rosters Varsity Basketball JV Basketball JV Basketball Sarah Germini* Senior Ashley Ortiz Junior Tara Puccioni* Junior Bronte Sheahan Junior Ellery Young* Junior Ali Beazell Sophomore Jordan Henry* Sophomore Hailey MacDonald Sophomore Rachel Rubattino* Sophomore Belden Long* Freshman Head Coach: Jeff Paul Asst. Coach: Tom Corriveau Asst. Coach: Don Jensen Julie Brookfield* Sophomore Ashley Cook Sophomore Shay Lamb Sophomore Kim Singler Sophomore Liz Wang* Sophomore Hailey Eisenhauer Freshman Gianna Fistolera* Freshman Elissa Maloney* Freshman Helen Moses-Happ* Freshman Elisa Vargas Freshman Head Coach: Tom Corriveau Asst. Coach: Don Jensen Trisha Baluyut* Amy Bussell Avery Dutton* Lauren Forsell* Rilee Hakola Jenna Harrison* Taylor Lownes Theresa Mateo* Isobel Moeller* Nicole Ressio Maddy Thompson Softball Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Freshman Head Coach: Paul Hansen Asst. Coach: Kristy Lee Asst. Coach: Sally Hansen Marissa Shafer Junior Megan Badger Sophomore Hailey Eisenhauer Freshman Kayla Vann Senior Katie Wright Junior Elissa Maloney* Freshman Valerie Vann Senior Placida Ordaz Senior Lindsey Taylor* Sophomore Dayna McDaniel Sophomore Kerissa Catania Senior Ali Beazell Sophomore Head Coaches: Mary and Mark Cooper Asst. Coach: Joe Williams 29 Spring Visual and Performing Arts A Busy, Fun Spring for Visual and Performing Arts By Monica Bryant, Art Teacher and Lisa Ormond, Admissions Disney’s High School Musical -Song, Dance and Drama! Catching Air—the High School Musical cast. Lindsay Ferrigno (Sharpaye) and Tyler Bertolone (Ryan) perform magic. High School Musical dance couples show how it is done. Ursuline’s spring musical held in the transformed Ursuline Gym captured and wowed audiences during the weekends of March 26-28th and April 2 & 4. The play had two casts and all students shined. The hard work of the sound, set and staging crew also contributed incredibly to the success of this production. The production was directed by Lee Anne Wentz. Cardinal Newman’s school band played the musical score for the show and was led by music instructor Morris Acevedo. ROLE CAST A CAST B Troy Michael Larson Richard Dobbins Gabriella Elena Traboulsi Kristina Conophy Ryan Jordan Landeverde Tyler Bertolone Sharpaye Alyssa Ramazzotti* Lindsay Ferrigno Chad Hunter Scott Max Friedhaur Taylor Ella Goldschmidt* Shelby DeMello Zeke Dominic Herbert Dominic Herbert Kelsi Tina Traboulsi* Anna Taddei Mrs. Darbus Dahly McCormick* Allison Zegarra* Coach Bolton Connor Williams RJ Schwing Martha Shelby DeMello* Nicolette Molina Jack Scott Max Campana Nathan Glab Susan Samantha Coté Samantha Coté Jason Brandon Hatter Brandon Hatter Cathy Katelynne Rettig Katelynne Rettig Moderator Haley Wild-Sichi Haley Wild-Sichi Dancers Jocks, Skaterdudes Support Crew Morgan Connors* George Panoski Lauren Forsell* Jasmine DeMange Joevon Hatter Emily Gogas* Ariana Bates Dalton Bertolone Jordan LeBaudour *Designates Ursuline Scholar Performing Arts student, having a 3.5 GPA or higher during the production. Imagine That! During the month of March, Ursuline’s Brescia Hall was adorned with incredible student artwork. Art on view at this annual visual art exhibition included paintings, drawings, photographs, mixed media, and mixed media sculpture. About 84 Ursuline and Cardinal Newman students displayed their work. Participating art students Angelina Duckett and Randall Brown were awarded cash prizes for their art in area contests. Art on Display during the Imagine That! exhibit Photos by Ursuline photographer Tamara Demello 30 Spring Visual and Performing Arts Ursuline’s Choir Talent Beyond Belief The choir participated in the North Bay Choir Festival at Sonoma State University. Ursuline’s Choir, about 25 girls strong, rehearsed and performed three songs that displayed a variety of technical and emotional vocal work. The three were: Laudate Dominum, The Song in the Air, and A Red, Red, Rose. The choir received Superior and Excellent ratings for their performances. The choir received compliments of having the most “dynamic” sound among the groups competing that day. Ursuline’s Choir also sang and performed six numbers at the Spring Performing Arts Showcase, collaborating with student dancers on One and with 20 guitarists for the show finale, Imagine. Ursuline’s Choir is directed by Bethany Neese. Ursuline’s Choir in formal dress with Choir Director Bethany Neese Spring Performing Arts Showcase Sensational Evening Ursuline’s Choir at the Spring Performing Arts Show The Spring Performing Arts Showcase was an exciting new venture which highlighted the growth and culmination of the Visual and Performing Arts curriculum at both Ursuline and Cardinal Newman High Schools. Instead of holding separate dance and choir shows in the spring as was done in years past, this year Ursuline chose to combine all elements together to create a showcase featuring over 120 students from Ursuline and Cardinal Newman’s Performing Arts Programs. The Ursuline sponsored event, which was directed by Corey Lott and Gabrielle Thompson, was held in the main theater at the Wells Fargo Center on April 30. This spectacular show was truly an incredible collaboration of dance, choir, guitar and visual arts and was a friendly reminder just how talented our students really are! So, Show Me! ...and the Students Did Musical talent exploded on stage at this Cardinal Newman-Ursuline High School Arts Council sponsored event held on April 24 at the Wells Fargo Center. Audiences were treated to performances by Ursuline and Cardinal Newman students including classic rock, Mozart, pop and everything in between. One word to describe the evening—fantastic! Ursuline students strut their stuff. Photos by Ursuline photographer Tamara Demello 31 ADVANCEMENT Meet Ursuline’s Advancement Department By Margaux Hardy, Advancement Director Margaux Hardy, Advancement Director In November, Margaux Hardy stepped into the Director of Advancement role for Ursuline. Anyone who has worked with Margaux during the past six years at Ursuline, knows her love of the school, her relationships with the families and community and her tireless work ethic. Besides her experience at Ursuline with events and fundraising, Margaux also has an extensive background in Human Resources, community outreach and labor relations as well as grant writing. Margaux is grateful for the opportunity to lead the Advancement Department in a new era of fundraising and community building. Chrystie Prokopakis, Advancement Coordinator Chrystie Prokopakis joined the Advancement Team this past March. She comes from a professional background in customer service, sales and project management. She is an alumna, an alumnae parent, past President of the Alumnae Association and current Polenta Feed event leader. Her skills, knowledge and love for the school make her an asset to the Ursuline community. The Ursuline Advancement Department: Chrystie Prokopakis, Luigi Fabiano and Margaux Hardy (from left to right). Luigi Fabiano, Alumnae Outreach Luigi Fabiano has been with Ursuline High School since 1981 when he worked as the Head Counselor and taught 9th and 10th grade Religion. In 1996, Luigi suffered a stroke that affected his left side. After a short break, Luigi returned a to help guide the department until 2000 when he began working as the Alumnae Outreach Coordinator. Today, Luigi helps to organize class reunions, collect biographical sketches from Alumnae and organizes the Alumnae/Varsity games. The President’s Circle Fund—Ursuline’s Annual Fund Background...The President’s Circle Fund is the primary vehicle for supporting the school’s operating needs and raises unrestricted funds that support the many features that keep Ursuline extraordinary - including low student/faculty and counselor ratios, a full-time librarian, tuition assistance, educational curriculum, and our beautiful grounds. The President’s Circle Fund is an important way to show how much you value the excellent education, spiritual foundation, and the service and leadership opportunities Ursuline provides young women in our community. Why Give?...Tuition paid per student covers only a portion of the cost of educating each student. The President’s Circle Fund offers a tax deductible giving option to help supplement the $2,680 gap per student (2009-10 school year.) How Much Should I Give?...Gifts to the President’s Circle Fund vary. What matters most is participation. Each gift matters and every donor is valued. 32 Don’t Forget Matching Gift...Many companies offer a matching gifts program to support their employees’ philanthropy. Check with your company to see if this employee benefit is offered. It’s a simple way to double or even triple your personal donation. Make a Gift...One-time gifts or pledges are welcome. Gifts are accepted via check and credit card. For your convenience, payments can made through our secure online payment system on the Ursuline website at www.ursulinehs.org under the Ways of Giving tab. We also accept shares of stock. Stay Involved and Please Be Generous ...There are many ways to support Ursuline High School today and in the future. Such “ways” include attending events, games and performances and giving generously to our current campaigns including the President’s Circle Fund, the Capital Campaign and the Endowment Fund. To find out more about these and other ways of giving to Ursuline, please call Margaux Hardy, Advancement Director, at (707) 524-1130 x 142. ADVANCEMENT Ursuline Parent Association-Above and Beyond By Margaux Hardy, Advancement Director Ursuline has an amazing Parent’s Association (PA). These dedicated parents devote time and treasure in a successful effort to help support the fundraising and hospitality functions of the school. All current families are encouraged to attend meetings and get involved. They meet monthly on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Ursuline library. Nancy Rogers-Zegarra, 2008-2009 PA President said, “Our mission is to support the school as the faculty strives to empower our daughters to realize their full potential, pursue social justice, and provide leadership by responding to the needs of the community. Join the Parent Association and be a part of these very special years that we share with our daughters.” Ursuline wishes to thank the 2008-2009 Parent Association for a wonderful year. The unique dedication, talents, love and kindness given to Ursuline from the following board members is sincerely appreciated. President Nancy Rogers-Zegarra Vice-President Kathy Nulton Secretary Vicky Locey Hospitality Diane Bard, Chair Donnie Young, Chair Terri Balletto Suzy Ferrigno Barbara Netter Theresa Rochioli Parlimentarian/ Trustee Liason Historian/ Volunteer Coordinator Raven Wachtler Tamara DeMello Senior Rep Sophomore Rep Julie Bertoli Rebecca Langer Norma Ramazzotti Kim Sautter Wendy Tognetti Vicki Biddulph Jill Goldberg Becky Scrivanich Denise Steele Wendy Tigner Junior Rep Freshman Rep Suzanne Beach Laura Robertson Gail Wright Jane Weil Lynn Carl Denise Feldman Tracy Schriver Charlotte Straus Kathi Youngblood Dad’s Club Liaison Treasurer Debbie Connors Darrell Bertacco The Ursuline and Cardinal Newman Dad’s Club – A Social Club for Dads Why wait? Join now! The Dad's Club has grown over the past few years due to the outstanding efforts of Allan Henderson and the willingness of Dads in our community to get involved. This social organization is a “light-hearted, social club bringing Dads together from both schools to meet and enjoy each other’s company over a good meal, for the betterment of our kids.” These Dads have loads of fun, care about their children and community and give regularly. Not only do Dads of current students participate but several alumna Dads continue to enjoy this monthly club gathering. Last year Darrell Bertacco, father of Olivia UHS Class of 2011 and husband of Laurie Gutierrez Bertacco UHS Class of 1980, joined the UHS Parent’s Association and served as their representative. Gatherings are typically on the last Wednesday of each month and are hosted by various Dads. The menu changes to reflect each month for instance Oktoberfest and St. Patrick’s Day. Meals are followed by a short business meeting and a raffle. The cost to attend each meeting is $15$20 with all proceeds going directly to the students and the schools. This year, the Dad’s Club presented a check to both schools for $5,300! Ursuline’s portion of the money will be used to purchase a new anatomically correct model for health class and to build a barbeque pit in the covered eating area. Get involved with the UHS-CN Dad’s Club—it’s loads of fun for a good cause. Contact Ursuline’s Representative Darrell Bertacco at (707) 838-1590 or (707) 799-8568 for more information. The Dad’s Club presents a check for $5,300 to both schools at the last Dad’s Club event of 2008-2009 at Sapphire Hill Winery. Pictured (left to right in front)UHS President/ Principal Julie Carver, Dad's Club Reps Jeff Bertoli and Allan Henderson, CN President Mike Truesdell and Principal Graham Rutherford. 33 ADVANCEMENT Ursuline Crab Feed—Focusing on Food and Tradition! By Margaux Hardy, Advancement Director For the past 28 years, hundreds of volunteers have been making sure that Ursuline’s major annual fundraiser, the Crab Feed and Auction, is the finest and best offered anywhere. The Memories “My Mom & Dad started the Crab Feed with some other parents when my sister was at UHS in the early 80’s. They also started the Cardinal Newman Silent Auction (Big Event) with some other parents when I was at Cardinal Newman in 1979. I would come home from college to help cook the live crabs outside the kitchen and then stay for the dance in Brescia Hall. Over the years the crowd at the Crab Feed grew so large that we had to start using the huge cookers out at the wharf in Bodega. I took a few years off from helping out after college, but I’ve been there pretty much every year in some form helping out. My dad keeps saying he’s going to retire from the Crab Feed, but I’ll believe that when I see it," said Mike Nonella. Paul and Cookie Schaffer have been preparing the pasta, salads and appetizers for the Crab Feed for the past 26 years. The Schaffers, who own Paolo’s Ravioli Deli on 4th Street, return each year with friends and family to join in the fun and to support the school. They too began while their children were attending Ursuline and Cardinal Newman. They bring the right Italian flavor that compliments the fresh crab and wine selections served on both nights. For the past two years, Barbara and Frank Gonella of the Union Hotel have graciously prepared and donated fresh Clam Chowder and desserts for the Saturday night Gala. Barbara’s homemade desserts are to die for! And the clam chowder has been a huge hit on the cold January evenings and a perfect addition because the theme of the event is San Francisco. Many of our Ursuline families donated cases of wine to be served at the event. The outstanding generosity of these wineries is most appreciated. Thank you to Kendall Jackson, Balletto Vineyards, Chalk Hill Estates, Clos du Bois, Dry Creek Vineyard, Geyser Peak Winery, Murphy Goode, and Paradise Ridge for their donations. A special thank you to Eagle Distributing. The Crab Feed Steering Committee (including the # of years served) Auction Chairs Becky Scrivinich (1) Kathi Youngblood (1) Volunteer Coordinator Tamara DeMello (4) Decorations Chairs Diane Bard (2) Donnie Young (2) Wine Auction Committee Terrie Balletto (3) Debbie Connors (2) Maggie Martin (2) Kathi Youngblood (1) Beverage Chair and Master of Ceremonies Peter Singler (3) Crab Feed photos by Dirk Bietau -- www.dirk.com CRABFEED2009 34 Kitchen Chair Steve Chia (6) Wine Steward Peter Tonti (7) Event Floor Manager Chad and Benita Lamb (3) Parking UHS Dad’s Club (10) Wine Tasting Coordinator Tom Randolph (1) Graphic Designer Jacci Summers (3) Head Cashier & Registration Sue Fowler (5) Finance Debbie Connors (2) Head Bartender Lisa Boisclair (3) ADVANCEMENT Volunteers—Thank You! By Margaux Hardy, Advancement Director The Ursuline Spirit has inspired armies of volunteers to devote countless hours and resources to support our school. This vital tradition of service is upheld through the phenomenal efforts of our dedicated Parents and Students, Board of Trustees, Alumnae and Alumnae Families, Faculty, Staff and Community Partners. The faculty and staff of Ursuline High School nominated the following families and community partners for their outstanding volunteerism. A very special acknowledgement of gratitude to these wonderful helpers: Outstanding Community Partners The Union Hotel, Barbara and Frank Gonnella American Asphalt, Allan Henderson Michelle Marie’s Patisserie, Michelle and Doug DeFors Nonella Construction, Roy and Mike Nonella Paolo’s Ravioli Deli, Cookie and Paul Schaffer Patchwork Farms Noel Schmidt Eagle Distributing Mikey Head Outstanding Senior Parents Mona Duckworth – Golf Tournament Laurie and Billy Jensen – Crab Feed and Athletic Department Tamara DeMello – Ursuline Parent Association and Theater Arts Rebecca and Tom Langer – Ursuline Parent Association and Athletic Department Laurie Molavi – Advancement Jennifer McIntosh – Bingo Nancy Rogers-Zegarra – Ursuline Parent Association and Theater Arts Wendy Tognetti – Community Based Service Learning Norma Ramazzotti – Ursuline Parent Association & Theater Arts Martin and Beth Reilley – Ursuline Board of Trustees & Marketing Senior Parent Spotlight— The Jensen Family Laurie and Billy Jensen began supporting Ursuline in 2003 when their daughter Danielle began her freshman year. Since then the school has benefited greatly from their kind efforts. In addition to generously supporting our giving campaigns, Billy initiated, organized and financially supported many fundraisers for the Athletic Department including: the installation of the new gym floor in 2007, the purchase of the basketball shooting machine, and he served on the Steering Committee for the Golf Tournament. Laurie blessed us with her creativity and great organizing skills. For two years, she not only chaired the Crab Feed, she was also the Volunteer Coordinator and Decorations Chair. Ursuline is forever grateful for the efforts of the Jensen Family. Congratulations to their daughters Danielle, Class of 2007 and Sarah, Class of 2009. Special Acknowledgements The following people are recognized for their outstanding volunteerism and service to Ursuline High School. Class of 2010 Barbara Gonnella Diane Bard Donnie Young Carole and Wes Daniels Christine and Bill Nelson Mary Stone Karen and Vic Trione Class of 2011 Darrell Bertacco Debbie Connors Shayne Miller-Bogyo and Mike Bogyo Leslie DeMeo Jill Goldberg Annie Krzywicki Kim and Don Wallace Chad and Benita Lamb Class of 2012 Catherine and Tom Andrews Lisa Biagi Lynn and Tim Carl Penny Chambers Michelle and Doug DeFors Mary McCarthy Kathi Youngblood Jim Price Alumnae Department Lerick Allen Michelle Silveira-DeBenedetti, Class of 1978 Francis Forbes Patchett, Class of 1953 Sue Fowler, Class of 1983 Bette Johnson, Class of 1954 Marilyn Ward, Class of 1957 Barbara and Gienna Gonnella at the 2nd Annual Garden Party at the Union Hotel in Occidental. Crab Feed photos by Dirk Bietau -- www.dirk.com CRABFEED2009 35 ADVANCEMENT Buildings & Grounds Partnerships Behind the Scenes—Pat’s Angels By Pat Barry Ursuline Plant Manager We are extremely fortunate to benefit from the generosity of our community businesses. With the economy in turbulent times Ursuline needs help more than ever, and the generosity and kindness of these angels has been overwhelming. We are truly grateful for their presence and support. Allan Henderson, (American Asphalt and Cardinal Newman graduate of 1974), is always offering his assistance and resources to help our school. In addition to serving as the “Grand Pooh-Bah” and leader of the Dad’s Club, he and his crew fill pot holes when needed; slurry sealed our campus, coordinated and implemented the update of the covered eating area, paved the new dumpster area and he participates in many fundraising efforts. Allan’s daughter Kalin graduated in 2006 and is currently attending Arizona State University. Another one of our angels is Eric Anderson. Since 1998, Eric has helped set up the room for the Friday night Crab Feed. And every summer he has reset the locks on the freshman lockers. He started helping through the parent service hour program and continues to the support the school. His daughter Kelly graduated in 2001 and is now working as nurse in San Francisco. A third angel of our school is Mike Nonella (Nonella Construction and Cardinal Newman graduate of 1981). He has been helping our greater school community ever since high school. His father Roy Nonella was one of the originators of the Ursuline Crab Feed, and he and Mike continue to lead this tradition 28 years later. As well as his participation with the Crab Feed, Mike continues to help in so many other ways. “Mike always donates his time, resources and knowledge to whatever project he is part of. I know I can always call him for help. He is always a great resource for us,” said Pat. Mike’s daughter Paige will be starting her freshman year at Ursuline this fall. Ursuline’s Buildings and Grounds Team (left to right): Juan Cruz, Plant Manager Pat Barry, Antonio Aguilar, Jose Ochoa Sr., Jose Ochoa Jr. Ursuline Chapel Friends Needed Ursuline will be renovating the Chapel in the Administration Building and we need your help! We are forming a committee that will organize and support the fundraising efforts needed to create a place of worship and reflection for our school. If you’re interested in getting involved or have information that can help us with our project, please contact Margaux Hardy at (707) 524-1130 x 142 or e-mail mhardy@ursulinehs.org. Ursuline High School Chapel in the Main Office Building 36 Thank you for your generous support during the first four years of ... our best, The Cooperative Campaign. With your help we have accomplished: • 167% of our $2 million endowment goal • Construction of the Athletic and Convocation Center • Permanent off-street parking behind a newly landscaped berm along Ursuline Road • Measurable support for a new library ADVANCEMENT Ursuline Alumnae Association and Council The Ursuline Alumnae Association has been organizing and supporting the school through fundraising efforts for many years. They welcome all alumnae who would like to stay actively involved with the school and there are many opportunities to do so. We are currently in the process of reintroducing the Ursuline Alumnae Council and are looking for new members. This committee will meet to discuss the many possibilities of supporting the school and planning different alumnae activities and campaigns. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Chrystie Prokopakis at cprokopakis@ursulinehs.org or call (707) 524-1130 x 112. Alumnae Board, 2008-2010 President Melissa (Cambra) Morelli, Class of 2000 Co-Vice President Morgan (Beerbohm) Langlois, Class of 2000 Co-Vice President Meredith Crotty, Class of 2000 Secretary Lupita Fernandez, Class of 1992 Parliamentarian Nancy (Penitenti) Moran, Class of 1954 The Ursuline Garden Party—Supporting the Ursuline Endowment A Special Tribute and Thank You Garden Party Steering Committee (left to right): Advancement Director Margaux Hardy, Alumnae Board President Melissa Morelli, Garden Party Chair Mary Davison, Co- Director of Admissions Kathleen Kelly and Alumnae Board Vice-President Morgan Langlois. The ocean fog retires over the forested ridge and the rising sun warms the picturesque town of Occidental. It is morning and country muffins and desserts are already baking in their ovens. Fresh pasta dough is rolled out to become their famous homemade ravioli and local garden produce is delivered to their backdoor. Another day begins at the Union Hotel, as it has for more than a century…In 2008, Barbara and the Gonnellas invited the Ursuline Alumnae Association to hold a Garden Party and Plant Sale to support the Ursuline scholarship program in the Bocca Ballroom at their Union Hotel in Occidental. Not only do they open the doors of their family restaurant on a Saturday morning in March, they also donate the entire reception including champagne, juices, Barbara’s award winning pastries and more. Thank you Gonnellas! Class Reunions - Keeping In Touch SAVE THE DATE Class of 1959 50 Year Reunion Date: October 17, 2009 Time: 5:00 p.m. Location: Luther Burbank Art & Garden Center Contact: Lana (Santini) Hassett (707) 545-8247 lana1941@sbcglobal.net Class of 1961 Pre-50th Planning Contact: Janness Slaby (707) 874-9082 slaby@comcast.net Class of 1999 10 Year Reunion Date: September 19 Time: TBD Location: Hilton Hotel in Santa Rosa Contact: Erika Copenhaver eac8114@yahoo.com WHAT FUN WE HAD* Class of 1969 40 Year Reunion was held on August 15 at Pietrina Buttitta-Cargile’s home Class of 1979 30 Year Reunion was held on August 15 at Cardinal Newman High School Class of 1984 25 Year Reunion was held on August 1 at Cardinal Newman High School Class of 1989 20 Year Reunion Was held at the Fountain Grove Inn * send your reunion photos to Chrystie Prokopakis cprokopakis@ursulinehs.org we will include them in the Winter FOCUS and post on the Ursuline website! 37 ADVANCEMENT Alumnae Updates Thank you to all the alumnae who have maintained contact with the school over the years. We love to know how you’re doing and what is happening in your life. Send Luigi Fabiano, Alumnae Outreach Coordinator at lfabiano@ursulinehs.org your current information and bio. Don’t be shy! 1959 Katherine (Mascott) McNeill is both a professional artist and an inspirational writer. Her book, “Art by Faith,” is a personal story of how she overcame adversities in her life. She describes the book’s message as being “never give up on a dream: pursue it with all your heart and hard work. With faith in God, nothing is impossible.” 1979 Valina (Camilli) Dawson has been a member of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Department of Neurology since 1994. She is currently Professor of Neurology, Neuroscience and Physiology. Her research interests include examining models of stroke and Parkinson’s disease. Christine Mugridge is the co-author of “John Paul II: Development of a Theology of Communications.” Published by the Vatican publishing house, the book was presented to the public by Cardinal Georges Cottier (retired theologian of the Pontifical Household) at a symposium on February 4, 2009. Catholic Word will distribute the new book in English. 1984 Bronagh (O’Doherty) Maugg is the local executive vice president of the Association of Flight Attendants. A United Airlines flight attendant herself since 1990, Bronagh represents San Francisco-based members of the union and has been involved with planning and coordinating grievance schedules, political and media campaigns, and work actions (such as strikes). 1986 Trish (Merrill) Law is the Director of Alternative Education for the Windsor School District. She started work on her Doctorate degree this year. 1959 50th Anniversary October 9th, 2009 Family Night 38 1987 Tracie (Dunnicliff) McGinley lives in San Diego with her husband and four boys. She works part-time as a dental hygienist. Jacque Menard works in Benicia for Kiva Designs, a wholesaler/designer of luggage and performance travel gear. She will begin work on her Masters of Business Administration in July. Jacque lives in Vallejo with her daughter, Ra ‘Ya. 1989 Heather (Gallagher) Quinn lives in Idaho with her husband and children. Ru Scott is the owner/buyer of Punch clothing stores. Her first store opened in Sebastopol in 1997 and a second store in Santa Rosa followed two years later. In May 2008, she opened a men’s clothing store called “Shank.” Erin (Callahan) Sharp has an 11-year-old daughter who just finished fifth grade. 1992 Naomi McAuliffe received her degree from the New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and returned to Santa Rosa to do her residency in Family Medicine with Sutter/UCSF. Her focus is on women’s and child health. Naomi describes her medical career as both “a vocation and a passion,” and emphasizes the physician’s need to be a “true humanitarian.” Heidi Miersemann became engaged on December 31, 2008. 1993 Amanda (Delwiche) Hoese just opened her dental practice in Santa Rosa. Ann-Marie (Rosa) Webster and her husband Kevin (with their dog, Maggie) moved from Connecticut to Sebastopol in July 2008. She is currently teaching music at the Santa Rosa Junior College and at the Sonoma County Children’s Music School. Additionally, she offers private piano and voice lessons to both adults and children. 1994 Danielle Dezorzi has enjoyed more than 10 years of professional experience in the fields of Program Management, Process Design and Implementation, and Regional and Global Recruiting Management. She has worked for several Fortune 500 companies. 2009 1995 Elizabeth (Kinkade) Scott was posted to Altus Air Force Base in Oklahoma in November 2008 where she serves as an instructor pilot for the 58th Air Refueling Squadron. Elizabeth was featured in Altus AFB’s March 2009 tribute to Women’s History Month. 1996 Natasha (Klobas) Ruge married Captain Nathan Ruge, USMC (Cardinal Newman, 1996). They live in Stafford, VA. Denise Trione is currently the Operations and Hospitality Manager for Trione Vineyards and Winery. 1998 Alexa Delwiche works as a Systems Analyst for the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Amanda Dranginis married Dimitri Athanasiou on January 25, 2009. She graduated from UC Davis and UC Berkeley Law School and is currently a tax attorney for Fenwick and West in Mountain View. Anya Wingert received her Master’s Degree in Public Policy and will be entering the Foreign Service as a Junior Program Development Officer for the US Agency for International Development. 2000 Brooke Fitzgerald earned her BA in Economics/ Mathematics from the University of California at Santa Barbara. She is currently a student at the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University where she is pursuing concentrations in Marketing and Strategy. 2003 Christa Durand was one of three local sopranos featured in Project Applause’s elegant Santa Rosa concert event, “A Song for Summer.” Ashlee Henig is currently pursuing her Ph.D in Earth Science/Oceanography at Scripps Institute of Oceanography at UC San Diego. Her focus is on mid-ocean ridge complexes and seismology. 2004 Catherine Fabiano is working for the Peace Corps in Panama where she will complete her two-month orientation session. She is slowly but surely learning to understand the local dialect and has already assisted in several agricultural projects. 2006 Katherine Robinson and Sarah Wright spent their spring semester abroad through the Semester at Sea program. They visited 12 countries, including a return to Namibia where they had done their CBSL project in the summer of 2005. Sarah states: “This experience has not only greatly enriched our lives as individuals but has proven that Ursuline helps builds friendships that last a lifetime.” Calendar 2009-2010 Academic and Event Calendar August November 13 17 18 18 19 19 20 24 27 28 29 Freshman Orientation & Yearbook/ID Photos Sophomores & Juniors -- Yearbook/ID Photos First Day of School Seniors ID Photos - A-L after school Seniors ID Photos - M-Z after school 7:00 p.m. -- Freshman Parent Night 7:00 p.m. -- Sophomore Parent Night Ursuline/Cardinal Newman Service Fair 6:00 p.m. -- Welcome Dinner for Parents Welcome Dance Ursuline Alumnae Soccer Game 4 16 19 21 Fac Professional Dev/ Student Holiday 7:00 p.m. -- Senior Parent Night Patchworks Farm’s Celebration 7:00 p.m. -- Junior Parent Night 2 3 7 12-16 17 18 19 26 Homecoming Game Homecoming Dance 3:00 p.m. -- Prospective Parent Visitation 1st Quarter Exams Ursuline-Cardinal Newman Fun in the Fall Alumnae Sunday Mass & Lunch Student Shadow Day Preview Day for 8th Graders 1 11 a.m. -- Admissions Open House 4, 5, 6 Fall Drama Production 7 Polenta Fundraiser Dinner 9 Veteran’s Day Holiday, observed 11, 12, 14 Fall Drama Production 12 3:00 p.m. -- Prospective Parent Visitation 16 Student Shadow Day 19 6:30 p.m. -- Admissions Open House 20 Father/Daughter Dinner/Dance 25 Jog Holiday 26-29 Thanksgiving Holiday December 2 3:00 p.m. -- Prospective Parent Visitation 3 & 4 Dance Show 5 8:45 a.m. -- Admissions Placement Test 7 Student Shadow Day 9 Christmas Choir Concert 11-16 Semester Final Exams 17 Christmas Holiday Begins September October January 2010 6 9 11 12 18 24 25 29 & 30 School Resumes 8:45 a.m.-- Admissions Placement Test Student Shadow Day & Applications Due 3:00 p.m. -- Prospective Parent Visitation Martin Luther King, Jr. – Holiday 11 a.m. -- Admissions Open House/Brunch Student Shadow Day Ursuline Crab Feed UrsUline HigH scHool 90 Ursuline Road Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-524-1130 www.ursulinehs.org Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Permit #470 Santa Rosa, CA 95402 v i s i t o u r w e b s i t e at w w w. u r s u l i n e h s . o r G Sarah W Ursuline right & K atherine R obinson Alumnae Around the World Dr. Ch Sarah Wright (UC Davis), Class of 2006 Katherine Robinson (UC Berkeley), Class of 2006 Desert in Namibia, South Africa. Sarah & Katherine studied abroad for a period of 100 days aboard a cruise ship with 750 other students this past spring with the Semester at Sea program. Caitlin Feldman, Class of 2009 Shop Street in Galway, Ireland. Caitlin will attend the National University of Ireland, Galway this fall. Dr. Christine A. Mugridge, Class of 1979 St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, Rome, Italy Christine is an author, broadcast journalist, & founder of a religious/ educational non- profit organization, Sacred Arts Communications, working regularly in collaboration with the Vatican. an dm Caitlin Fel ristine A. Mu gridge