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Graduation Program
2015 NOTRE DAME PREPARATORY COMMENCEMENT W E S T W O R L D O F S C O T T S D A L E PROCESSIONAL “Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1,” Sir Edward Elgar WELCOME Jerome Zander, Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs NATIONAL ANTHEM “Star Spangled Banner,” Francis Scott Key OPENING PRAYER Abby Lynn McCann, SGA Religious Coordinator PERSONAL REMARKS MaryBeth Mueller, Executive Director, Division of Education and Evangelization SENIOR SAINTS AWARDS Jerome Zander VALEDICTORY ADDRESS Nicholas Constantin Babu, Co-Valedictorian ACADEMIC AWARDS Tanya Bartlett, Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction VALEDICTORY ADDRESS Kelsey Walker Yurek, Co-Valedictorian PATRON SAINT AWARDS James M. Gmelich, Principal and Jerome Zander PRINCIPAL’S REMARKS James M. Gmelich MATER DEI AWARDS James M. Gmelich CONFERRAL OF DIPLOMAS MaryBeth Mueller, James M. Gmelich and Bruce Hermie, Dean of Students BENEDICTION Fr. Phil Evanstock, C.S.Sp. RECESSIONAL “Pomp and Circumstance March No. 4,” Sir Edward Elgar 1 SENIOR CLASS 2015 Cody Lee Aber University of Arizona Dean’s List Eric Alexander Balser Scottsdale Community College Brando Brembilla Undecided Hayley Ray Acord Columbia College Chicago Honor Roll Drama Club Vice President Scott Andrew Bankofier University of Arizona Ambassador Dean’s List Alexa Victoria Bruni Lake Forest College Dean’s List Honors Graduate SGA Officer Alexis Gabrielle Anthis Arizona State University Honor Roll Matthew Ryan Benter Arizona State University Luke Everett Carstens Bowdoin College Principal’s List Summa Graduate NHS Secretary SGA Officer Cole Andrew Babbitt University of Arizona Swim Team Captain Kylie Brown Best Bowdoin College Principal’s List, Summa Graduate NHS, President KAIROS Leader Lacrosse Team Captain National Merit Commended Scholar Alexander David Chapman University of Arizona Honor Roll Basketball Team Captain Nicholas Constantin Babu Temple University Principal’s List Summa Graduate NHS, Executive Secretary National Merit Commended Scholar Valedictorian Davis Matthew Bocks University of Arizona Honor Roll Mitchell Anthony Cordovana Northern Arizona University Dean’s List Kylie Rae Bafus University of San Diego Principal’s List Summa Graduate Tennis Team Captain Robert Thomas Brandt Arizona State University Honor Roll Riley Patricia Corona The College of William and Mary Principal’s List Summa Graduate 2 SENIOR CLASS 2015 John William Cranston Arizona State University Honor Roll Drew Christopher Dawson University of Arizona Nicholas DesMarais Washington University in St. Louis Principal’s List Summa Graduate Chess Team Captain NHS Executive Board Meagan Caroline Larsen Creamer University of Arizona Samantha Paige Day Boston University Dean’s List Summa Graduate Hope Kids Committee Ambassador Jacqueline Kay DeValeria Texas Christian University Principal’s List SGA Executive Board Daniela Cuellar Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Ambassador Nicholas Jose de la Vara Arizona State University Principal’s List Gil Alberto Diaz Baylor University Dean’s List Joseph Cunningham Texas Christian University Honor Roll Darby Elyse Deak Arizona State University Grant William Dietz University of Arizona Honor Roll Alan Joseph Daly Arizona State University Francesca Louise DeCastell College of the Holy Cross Dean’s List Summa Graduate Peer Minister KAIROS Leader Alyssa DiTroia Arizona State University Honor Roll John F. Daniels, IV Arizona State University Honor Roll Anastasia Maria Deffigos University of Arizona Dean’s List Summa Graduate Hope Kids Committee Sean Wrangell Doche Gonzaga University Dean’s List Soccer Team Captain 3 SENIOR CLASS 2015 Ryan Dean Douglas Creighton University Honor Roll Volleyball Team Captain Keegan Corley Franklin University of Arizona Honors College Dean’s List Margaret E. Gienko University of San Diego Honor Roll Cayla Marie Douglass Benedictine University Lauren Frantz University of Arizona Dean’s List Hope Kids Committee Margaret Girardin Seattle University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Cheer Team Captain Literary Magazine Editor Celia L. Dubauskas Boston University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Senior Class President Literary Magazine Secretary Ambassador Olivia Rose Fratantoni Arizona State University Aaron Matthew Gittings Arizona State University Sofia C. Esteves Loyola Marymount University Dean’s List Summa Graduate NHS, Executive Board NDP Tutoring Program Chair Jacob Patrick Gallagher University of Mary Honor Roll Football Team Captain Taylor Glovsky Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Shawn Patrick Finnerty Florida State University Dean’s List Grant Lee Gasser Baylor University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Boys Team Charity President Alexander John Gorzelany University of La Verne Honor Roll Daniel Francis University of Arizona Honor Roll Lacrosse Team Captain Leith K. Ghani University of Arizona Dean’s List Senior Class President NHS Officer Skylar Addison Goss Chapman University Dean’s List Honors Graduate SGA Executive Board NHS Officer 4 SENIOR CLASS 2015 Alea Michelle Gregg University of Arizona Honor Roll Hayley Anne Hoffman Baylor University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Big Saints/Little Saints Board Hope Kids Committee Candace Johnson University of Kansas Richard R. Guerra Arizona State University KAIROS Leader Honor Roll Caroline Erin Hogan Chapman University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Mollie Kathryn Johnson University of Arizona Honor Roll SGA Executive Board KAIROS Leader Catherine C. Haugland Northern Arizona University Principal’s List Ambassador NHS Officer Scott Daniel Iobst University of Arizona Honor Roll NDP Robotics Team Lead Engineer Anne Elizabeth Kaiser University of Arizona Principal’s List Honors Graduate KAIROS Leader Ricardo Andres Hernandez Northern Arizona University Ross Frederick Ittel University of Arizona Honor Roll Dog Pound Leader Tara Anne Karanik Santa Clara University Principal’s List Summa Graduate NHS President SGA Officer Sydnee Avery Hertle Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Principal’s List Summa Graduate SGA Officer Hope Kids Committee NHS Executive Board Ranine Jaber Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Dean’s List Summa Graduate NHS Executive Board Ambassador Allyssa Lauren Kaschl Arizona State University Honor Roll KAIROS Leader Joseph Hildenbrandt University of Arizona Eugene James Marcotte IV Jackson University of Arizona Honor Roll Tennis Team Captain Adam G. Katafiasz Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Dean’s List Honors Graduate NDP Robotics Team President 5 SENIOR CLASS 2015 Arun Rajeev Kathuria University of Arizona, Honors College Principal’s List Summa Graduate Briana Latter University of Southern California Dean’s List Summa Graduate Ambassador Allison Marie Maguire Arizona State University Principal’s List Summa Graduate NHS Executive Board Big Saints/Little Saints Committee Hope Kids Committee SGA Officer James Frederick Kerr University of Michigan Principal’s List Summa Graduate NHS Officer Ambassador Hannah Lei Leibmann Texas Christian University Principal’s List Summa Graduate NHS Executive Board Hope Kids Chair SGA Officer Michelle Riley Mahoney University of Arizona Dean’s List Soccer Team Captain Bradley Edward Knowlton Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Honor Roll Eric Franzen LeVally Pacific University Dean’s List Summa Graduate Blood Drive, Co-President Alexander L. Manov University of Arizona Dean’s List Troy Thomas Kramer Pepperdine University Principal’s List Summa Graduate NHS President Skyler Madison Leyva Arizona State University Dean’s List SGA Officer Joseph James Marr University of Arizona KAIROS Leader Carly Jane Lambertus Fordham University Principal’s List Summa Graduate NHS Officer SGA Officer Krystin Theresa Lindemoen Baylor University Dean’s List Honors Graduate Blood Drive, Co-President Nicholas Lewis Mastro Arizona State University Soccer Team Captain Sabrina Naseem Lasater Texas Christian University Dean’s List Ambassador Austen Long Beloit College Honor Roll Jessica Taylor Mateo Arizona State University Dean’s List 6 SENIOR CLASS 2015 Hannah Marie Mattson Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Dean’s List Honors Graduate SGA Executive Board Dylan Robert James McCabe University of Arizona Dean’s List Summa Graduate NHS Officer Abby Lynn McCann Loyola University, Chicago Honor Roll SGA Executive Board KAIROS Leader Swim Team Captain Kyle Ryan McCune Creighton University Dean’s List Summa Graduate Megan Lee McFarland University of Arizona Dean’s List Camille Nicole Medeiros Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Principal’s List Summa Graduate SGA Executive Board Samantha Nicole Metli Creighton University Dean’s List Honors Graduate Creighton Burke Morfitt University of San Diego Principal’s List, Summa Graduate Ambassador, KAIROS Leader Football Team Captain National Football Foundation Scholar Athlete Award Natalie Marie Miller Long Island University, Post Honor Roll Shannon Munn University of Portland Dean’s List Alexander Joseph Minniti Arizona State University Grayson Beaux Naquin United States Military Academy Dean’s List Soccer Team Captain Ambassadors Peer Minister Charles Andrew Miscio University of Arizona Hockey Team Captain Robert Daniel Nisser, III University of Arizona Honor Roll Chandler Patrick Moore University of Louisiana at Lafayette Honor Roll Stephanie Tate Nyberg University of Southern California Principal’s List Summa Graduate Pom Team Captain Morgan Brittany Morano Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Principal’s List Soccer Team Captain KAIROS Leader Liam Timothy O’Donoghue Marquette University Ambassador 7 SENIOR CLASS 2015 Bailey Nicole Ostertag Colorado State University Christian Matthew Poweleit Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Dean’s List Amanda Jade Rief Arizona State University Dean’s List Honors Graduate Yearbook Editor Kayley Sue Palmer Creighton University Dean’s List Summa Graduate SGA Officer Kevin James Prenzno Northern Arizona University Dean’s List Michael Andrew Roarke Unversity of Arizona Dean’s List Raveer Pandya Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Honor Roll Ridge Anthony Ralston Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Dean’s List Veronica Claire Robbins Villanova University Principal’s List Summa Graduate SGA Officer NHS Officer Hope Kids Chairperson Elliott Kemmy Parker University of San Diego Dean’s List Honors Graduate Swim & Dive Team Captain Ashley Arden Ray Savannah College of Art and Design Jacqueline Kimberley Robles University of Arizona Honor Roll Ciara Rose Petronzio The University of Alabama Dean’s List Summa Graduate Golf Team Co-captain John Charles Reardon University of Alabama Dean’s List Shauna Kaitlyn Rocha University of Arizona Principal’s List Summa Graduate NHS Executive Board Ambassador Peer Minister Emily Ann Phillips Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Principal’s List, Summa Graduate Ambassadors, Executive Board Hope Kids Committee, NHS Officer Basketball Team Captain National Merit Commended Scholar Anna Belle Reilly Wagner College Honor Roll Lacrosse Team Captain Matthew David Rosellini Arizona State University Dean’s List SGA Officer NDP Robotics Team Vice President 8 SENIOR CLASS 2015 Madeline Catherine Russell University of California, Los Angeles Honor Roll Michael Moran Schimanski Arizona State University Honor Roll Gennaro Silvestro University of Arizona Mitchell Pomeroy Russell Southern Methodist University Dean’s List Christopher John Scott University of Mary KAIROS Rector Cameron Elizabeth Sims University of Arizona Habib Emmanuel Sabbagh University of California, San Diego Principal’s List Summa Graduate SGA Executive Board William Stephen Seamans Gonzaga University Honor Roll Samantha Maris Singer Southern Methodist University Dean’s List Drake Joseph Sadosky Beloit College Principal’s List Summa Graduate Meredith Hannah Shuhandler Northern Arizona University Cole Powell Skelpsa University of Arizona Honor Roll Brandt Michael Sapp University of Arizona Anthony Paul Siller The Catholic University of America Honor Roll SGA Officer Brenden Anthony Smith Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Principal’s List Summa Graduate KAIROS Leader Jack Richard Savage Regis University Olivia Ventura Silva Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Yearbook Editor National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Jenna Katherine Snittjer Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Swim Team Captain 9 SENIOR CLASS 2015 Nicole Sodhi University of Arizona Honor Roll Ambassador Victoria Leigh Svorinic University of Arizona Honor Roll Maxwell Randolph Taylor University of Arizona Dean’s List SGA Student Body President Ambassador Robert Blake Steckner University of Arizona Honor Roll Ryan Jay Swanger Southern Methodist University Dean’s List Hockey Team Captain Lacrosse Team Captain Emily McKinley Temple Azusa Pacific University Honor Roll Ambassador HopeKids Committee KAIROS Leader Dana Robert Steinwall Cornell University Principal’s List Yearbook Editor Isabella Anne Sydenham Barrett, The Honors College Arizona State University Principal’s List Summa Graduate KAIROS Leader Daniel Carlos Teran Bucknell University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Soccer Team Captain Peer Minister KAIROS Leader Colleen Ann Sullivan Arizona State University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Julia Ann Taffuri University of Massachusetts, Amherst Dean’s List Soccer Team Captain Bianca Jade Torres Seattle University Dean’s List Madeline Faith Summers Arizona State University Honor Roll Spencer Tawes Arizona State University Honor Roll Olivia Leigh Twiford Loyola Marymount University Dean’s List Honors Graduate SGA Executive Board Shane Michael Susic Northern Arizona University Dean’s List Football Team Captain Brandon Nicholas Taylor Barrett, The Honors College Arizona State University Dean’s List SGA Executive Board Ambassador 10 John Patrick Valley Arizona State University Honor Roll SENIOR CLASS 2015 Andres Paul Vehr University of Arizona Dean’s List Jacob John Williams University of Arizona Honor Roll Nicholas Marion Violi University of Arizona Edmund Winston Wong Creighton University Principal’s List Summa Graduate NHS, Co-Coordinator of Tutoring Peer Minister National Merit Commended Scholar Alyssa Marie Wagner Arizona State University Honor Roll Ryan Christopher Wood University of Arizona Dean’s List Elizabeth Marie Walker University of Arizona Dean’s List KAIROS Leader Bobbi Nikole Whisler Creighton University Principal’s List Summa Graduate Brendan Christopher White University of Michigan Principal’s List Summa Graduate KAIROS Leader Hockey Team Captain Football Team Captain Kelsey Walker Yurek Georgetown University Principal’s List Summa Graduate The Seraphim & Perspective Editor Lacrosse Team Captain Ambassador Executive Board Valedictorian Samuel Charles Zillwood University of Arizona Honor Roll Zachary John Zucchini University of Arizona Honor Roll Peer Minister *Principal’s List, Dean’s List & Honor Roll are based on cumulative GPA 11 COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES C L A S S O F 2 0 1 5 A C C E P TA N C E S Arcadia University Arizona State University Auburn University Azusa Pacific University Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University Baylor University Beloit College Benedictine College Boston College Boston University Bowdoin College Bucknell University California Lutheran University California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo California State Polytechnic University, Pomona Chapman University Clemson University College of Charleston College of the Holy Cross College of William and Mary Colorado School of Mines Colorado State University Columbia College Chicago Concordia College Connecticut College Cornell University Creighton University DePaul University DePauw University Drexel University Elon University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Emory University Fairfield University Florida State University Fordham University Fort Lewis College Franciscan University of Steubenville Franklin and Marshall College Georgetown University Gonzaga University Grand Canyon University Grinnell College Gustavus Adolphus College Hampshire College High Point University Hofstra University Hope College Indiana University at Bloomington Iowa State University Lake Forest College Lehigh University Long Island University, Post Louisiana State University Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Chicago Loyola University New Orleans Marquette University Menlo College Mercer University Miami University Montana State University, Bozeman Muhlenberg College Northeastern University Northern Arizona University Norwich University Oak Hills Christian College Occidental College Ohio University Oregon State University Pepperdine University Purdue University Quinnipiac University Regis University Rockhurst University Saint Joseph’s University Saint Louis University Samford University San Diego State University San Jose State University Santa Clara University Santa Fe University of Art and Design Sarah Lawrence College Savannah College of Art and Design Scottsdale Community College Seattle University Sewanee: The University of the South Simpson College Southern Methodist University St. Edward’s University St. Olaf College Syracuse University Temple University Texas A&M University Texas Christian University The Art Institute of Phoenix The Catholic University of America The College of Wooster 12 The Ohio State University The University of Alabama The University of Georgia The University of Iowa Tufts University Tulane University United States Military Academy University of Arizona University of California, Davis University of California, Irvine University of California, Los Angeles University of California, San Diego University of Central Florida University of Cincinnati University of Colorado at Boulder University of Colorado at Denver University of Connecticut University of Dallas University of Denver University of Florida University of Kansas University of La Verne University of Louisiana University of Mary University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Mississippi University of North Carolina at Wilmington University of Northern Colorado University of Pittsburgh University of Portland University of Puget Sound University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of Southern California University of St. Mary University of the Pacific University of Washington Villanova University Virginia Commonwealth University Wagner College Washington State University Washington University in St. Louis Wesleyan University Western Washington University Xavier University PAT R O N S A I N T AWA R D S ST. KATHERINE DREXEL AWARD FOR LEADERSHIP - BRENDAN CHRISTOPHER WHITE Citation written by Mary Lou Lachvayder When I was asked to present this award, I was not surprised at all by the outstanding leader who would be receiving it. This young person exemplifies all that the St. Katherine Drexel Award for Leadership is intended to honor. St. Katherine Drexel was a woman born with many gifts, talents and privileges. Despite those gifts, she chose to live with humility, grace and the heart of service that is shared by the person who receives this award today, Brendan Christopher White. Brendan lives his life committed to being a person of quality who brings joy to those around him, finding humor in most situations, with a constantly infectious grin on his face. This is a reflection of his positive outlook and attitude. Because of Brendan’s grace, humility, faith and humor, others instinctively want to follow him. He always says yes to whatever job needs to be done. I have seen so many times that people step up their expectations for themselves because of Brendan’s example. People want to understand what motivates him and to discover how they can have the joy, success and grace that he has. He’s one of the most detail-oriented leaders I have ever seen. He consistently makes sure that every single thing is taken care of to give people the best possible experience they can possibly have in any area that he’s responsible for. He worries because he is concerned. He cares so deeply about doing things right. One of his true gifts is motivating others, enabling and empowering others to grow in leadership and to learn more about how to live lives of faith, joy and love. He has no problem, no hesitation, standing up for the difficult right instead of falling for the easy wrong. That is a true leader. He is not only a leader here at school but also one outside of school. His younger brother sees him so much as a role model that he proudly dressed as him this last Halloween. When he was rector for Kairos this year, he stopped in every day to be sure he was fulfilling every possible responsibility--and with complete humility he checked as often with past rectors. So I will simply close by saying that with his graduation, we have the loss of one of the most gifted, special, joyful, faith-filled leaders I have ever had the privilege to know and love, but our loss is the world’s gain as I am certain that he will be as influential in every aspect of his life. It is with great pride that I present the St. Katherine Drexel Award for Leadership to a person dedicated to being a leader, a role model and an example on the field, in the classroom, in faith and on the ice: Brendan White. ST. AUGUSTINE AWARD FOR PROMISE AND GROWTH - ABBY LYNN MCCANN Citation written by Beverly Fraser at the Awards Assembly It is my honor to present the 2015 St. Augustine Award for Promise and Growth to Abby Lynn McCann. This years’ recipient has shown tremendous growth over the past four years. As a freshman, we saw a quiet, hardworking student who was dedicated to SGA by giving time and energy on a regular basis. I was privileged to get to know Abby last year when we both attended Kairos 4. Her positive, kind way of approaching all tasks was obvious from the start. But then this once quiet young lady made her senior year memorable by taking risks and growing into a strong and competent woman who is able to lead and have others follow. She has stepped out and assumed several leadership positions during her senior year. She began this year on the SGA executive board as co-religious coordinator. You hear here quiet voice several times a week as she leads us in morning prayer with prayers she writes herself. She spends time preparing and praying the Spirit will give her the words to make our day better and to strengthen each of us as we face the challenges that lie ahead. Who would have expected that this quiet, shy freshman would be praying over the PA system? She has been a member of the NDP swim team and is this year’s captain. A captain must exhibit integrity as well as determination while encouraging and guiding the team members. This requires confidence in herself and the ability to encourage each team member to always strive to excel. She does this with grace and ensures that each team member’s dignity is honored. She stepped out of her comfort zone by becoming the first female rector of Kairos here at NDP, a milestone that will always be hers. To be an effective rector requires hours of time, patience, commitment. It requires leading a team and a retreat in a way that serves all, and it requires a strong sense of self and a confidence that demonstrates why this year’s St. Augustine Award for Promise and Growth is presented to Abby McCann. 13 PAT R O N S A I N T AWA R D S ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI AWARD FOR DISCIPLESHIP - OLIVIA LEIGH TWIFORD Citation written by Dr. Adam Thome In 2009 and 2012, I was blessed with the opportunity to visit the Umbria region of Italy and saw the towns of Assisi and Spoleto. Besides the spiritual exaltation of seeing and stepping on the same steps as Francis while in Assisi, in Spoleto, I walked in the sacred forest, felt his presence and saw a small unassuming cave where Francis would meditate for hours, days and weeks at a time, where monks would often bring him food. This year’s recipient of the St. Francis of Assisi Award has inspired me with the same Franciscan humility, selflessness and gentleness of voice that calms the inner stirrings of any mind so blessed to be engaged in conversation with her. She has led, like St. Francis, by gnostic example, unwavering compassion and a gentle kindness as comforting as the voice that speaks it. Francis left us with the charge of preaching the gospel at all times--and only when necessary using words. This year’s recipient does exactly this by her very being. There is great joy in knowing coming days will have such a selfless, yet glowing beacon of light. May we all be blinded by the perpetually glowing light of Olivia Twiford. ST. THOMAS AQUINAS AWARD FOR SCHOLARSHIP - MORGAN BRITTANY MORANO Citation written by Maribelle Salazar This year’s recipient of the St. Thomas Aquinas Award for Scholarship, Morgan Morano, truly embodies the spirit of St. Thomas Aquinas and the model student he himself was from a very early age. My interpretation of a model student is quite simple. In summary, it is one who is respectful of their instructor, classmates and school rules, tries their best, and applies themselves in everything they attempt. They would rather notice than be noticed, want to help when they see another student struggling, and ask for help when they are struggling. I would say a model student is any student who cares wholeheartedly and does the best they can in each and every way. This student is one of the hardest working students I have ever met. She has natural discipline, leads by example, and this, in turn, motivates others around her to also be successful. She is a model student because she takes advantage of all of the opportunities afforded to her, and she truly values the education she has received. A teammate describes her as “a very genuine, hard working and positive friend.” One of my favorite memories of this year was watching her and her teammates receive their championship soccer trophy and then celebrating it with everyone who had come out to support them…a very proud NDP moment for sure. Lastly, this student is fully engaged in life, achieves her personal best every single day and in every way possible. I feel honored to have met her, and I’m grateful to honor her today with this outstanding award because no one has earned it more than Morgan Morano. 14 PAT R O N S A I N T AWA R D S BLESSED MOTHER THERESA AWARD FOR SERVICE/JUSTICE - ANNE ELIZABETH KAISER Citation written by Tracey Heisler The Blessed Mother Teresa Service Award is given to a student who demonstrates selfless love and compassion for others by serving the needs of the poor and the poor in spirit. Mother Teresa inspires us all to find a way to translate our spiritual beliefs into action in the world. In her book A Simple Path, she says, “The greatest disease in the West today is not TB or leprosy; it is being unwanted, unloved, and uncared for. We can cure physical diseases with medicine, but the only cure for loneliness, despair, and hopelessness is love. There are many in the world who are dying for a piece of bread, but there are many more dying for a little love. The poverty in the West is a different kind of poverty -- it is not only a poverty of loneliness but also of spirituality. There’s a hunger for love, as there is a hunger for God.” This year’s recipient has demonstrated a commitment to feeding the physical and spiritual hunger in our world by serving with love and compassion in her school, her church and her local community. She has gone well above and well beyond our school’s service requirements by serving in two local churches, as a school ambassador, and has volunteered her time and talents at Frosh Night Out and Hope Kids Day all four years, American Cancer Society, American Red Cross, Heritage for Blind, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Special Olympics, St. Mary’s Food Bank, Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos … and the list goes on. I count myself lucky to have gotten to know this young lady quite well over the past three year. She works hard; she overlooks the flaws in others, and she refuses to give up under pressure. As a Kairos leader, she models the kind of faith, compassion and maturity that is altogether uncommon among teenagers. She is rarely without a smile; she befriends everyone, and I have never heard a word of negativity come out of her mouth. I am confident that long after she leaves Notre Dame Prep, Christ’s love will continue to shine through her to everyone she meets. 15 VA L E D I C T O R Y C I TATAT I O N NICHOLAS CONSTANTIN BABU Citation written by David Lamb I had the pleasure of teaching your first co-valedictorian as a sophomore in AP World History. Like his classmates, he was quite nervous to begin. I will always remember the shock effect that came with the first test, as students received the lowest grades they had ever received on a test: C’s, D’s and even F’s. While some students would panic at this point, others realized they had to step up their game. It soon became obvious that few students push themselves to excel academically the way your co-valedictorian does. What was special, though, was his desire not to just do well on tests, but to actually understand and learn from the material that we studied. There were times, however, when his intensity did worry me. As tests approached, his ability to understand humor, and to separate sarcasm from actual instruction, faded. He had entered his “Test Zone,” and he was not coming out until the test was done. Of course, he did quite well. He had the respect and admiration of his classmates, and they would seek his help as they completed their studies. This pursuit of academic excellence has continued, which is why he is here today. In addition to academics, this young man has contributed to the athletic life of NDP by playing on the soccer team. He is not the sort of person to be driven by his ego; he would never see himself as greater than his teammates or his team. Rather, his dedication to excellence would show through, as well as his commitment to his team. As teachers, we want to know that the people in front of us have taken responsibility for their own actions; this young man does. As teachers we want to know the people sitting in front of us are engaged: that they are as committed to their learning as we are to teaching them. This young man is. As teachers, we want to know that our graduates are ready to take on the world even if the world is not yet ready to take on them. Once again, this young man is. Ladies and gentlemen, please help me welcome your first co-valedictorian, Nicholas Constantin Babu. 16 VA L E D I C T O R Y C I TATAT I O N KELSEY WALKER YUREK Citation written by Elizabeth Roper Kelsey Yurek is the type of young woman who “dots the ‘i’s and crosses the‘t’s” – she is attentive to detail, well-versed, and thorough in all she does, and has the tact and grace to advise others to do so, as well. Kelsey has the amazing ability to not only strive for the best for herself but also for others. She does this as a student: responsible with her own work and seeking a full understanding of the material, while also collaborating with her peers and assisting them. Kelsey also teaches faith formation classes at her parish of St. Bernard of Clairvaux, and she has been improving educational efforts in our community with the Phoenix Humane Society. Kelsey strives for her best and those around her as a teammate also; she has been a four-year member of her high school lacrosse teams, beginning at Weddington High School in North Carolina and the past three years here at NDP. The same focus and intensity Kelsey brings to the classroom she also brings to the field. (She was named an Academic All-American for Girls’ Lacrosse.) My first encounter of Kelsey at the athletic field was one day when the soccer teams were completing practice and girls’ lacrosse were beginning “captain’s pre-season workouts”. Kelsey was with a small group of players on the side of the field, stretching and limbering up, and although only a pre-season captains’ session, and simply stretching on the sideline, she had her “game face” on, with a focus and intensity that made me hesitant to greet her. But once I did say hello, Kelsey’s cheerful, exuberant smile greeted me. Kelsey’s willingness to contribute to the NDP community is evident in her service in National Honors Society, Ambassadors, and as editor of our school newspaper The Seraphim and co-editor of the literary magazine Perspective. Earlier this year, Kelsey attended a literary magazine and publications conference, and I happened to run into her when she returned to campus. It was well after school, and yet, Kelsey was brimming with enthusiasm and excitement, sharing the ideas and concepts shared. She was showing me pages of different literary magazines from various schools, explaining online versions, telling me how different schools gather contributions and the various ideas shared in the workshop. It is evident Kelsey has a passion to find a way to make things better, to improve and contribute, and it is not for her own benefit; it is for the benefit for others and for her contributions to be shared with others. Kelsey has contributed to others beyond the NDP community by improving the quality of life for patients with Alzheimer’s as well as coordinating efforts to support US troops overseas. In a few short months, Kelsey will relocate to our nation’s capital when she enrolls at Georgetown University. I am confident she will represent her family, her community and Notre Dame Preparatory with a degree of excellence and compassion for others throughout her career in Washington and beyond. Congratulations, Kelsey. 17 M AT E R D E I AWA R D S MATER DEI AWARD - EDMUND WINSTON WONG Citation written by Mary Margaret Reuben Edmond Wong is a role model in the classroom, always on point and committed to his learning. He has been a peer minister and a Kairos leader, gently guiding others on their paths towards God. He is a one-of-a-kind student, leader and peer. As a Kairos leader, he was continually supportive of the effects and struggles of other members of the team and the candidates. He is so quiet in his approach to helping others that sometimes people do not notice, except those for whom he is making a difference. He is a listener, never missing anything that is said or unsaid, and then in his humble and profound way this man of few words says some of the most profound things, exactly what you need to hear. He is so much more that the brilliant student that we all see; he has a gigantic heart, full of faith, compassion, empathy and love. He embodies determination and hard work, dedication and service. On Kairos, he was a gift to those who were intimidated to approach some of the more extroverted team members. Many of the candidates found him to be so approachable and a man they could depend on. His sense of humor is so much fun because it always surprises you. He is a truly good man and, despite his insistence, has often been the key to others finding the answers they are looking for. I consider it an honor and a privilege to have known this young man and to present this award to Edmund Wong. MATER DEI AWARD - EMILY ANN PHILLIPS Citation written by Christopher Johnson On the surface, this recipient of the 2015 Mater Dei Award is everything you would expect of one who is presented with this prestigious honor. She is an exemplary student who chooses challenging classes and is dedicated to not only academic excellence in the form of her GPA, but also to learning and making connections in and outside of the classroom. She competes as a three-sport athlete, where she was a standout player and team captain. She is a lead ambassador who is responsible for the training of others. She is a peer minister who is committed to her own spiritual life as will as the formation of others. She is the administration’s go-to person when a student is needed to be the face of Notre Dame Prep. But what truly sets this individual apart is her genuine humility. To define the Christian virtue of humility, I would like to paraphrase a quote from Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis: A truly humble man “…will not be a sort of person, who is always telling you that, of course, he is nobody… He will not be thinking about humility: he will not be thinking about himself at all.” I am honored present the Mater Dei Award to exactly that sort of humble and selfless person. Congratulations to Emily Phillips! 18 EXPECTED SCHOOLWIDE LEARNING RESULTS Notre Dame Preparatory’s motto, Confirmans Mentes Corpora et Animas, Strengthening Minds, Bodies and Souls, embodies our mission’s goal to educate the whole student. Successfully completing NDP’s rigorous course of study is but one requirement necessary for a student to receive a diploma. Prior to graduating, each student must demonstrate, through a formal interview before members of the teaching faculty and administration, a clear understanding of our school’s Expected Schoolwide Learning Results or ESLR. Rooted in NDP’s formation pillars, Reverence, Respect, and Responsibility, a student’s ESLR interview provides each student an opportunity to demonstrate not only understanding of the ESLRs, but also how each student has lived them out during the course of his or her career at NDP. A score of Exemplary, the highest level of ESLR achievement, is earned by individuals who have consistently demonstrated outstanding levels of achievement through service, leadership, character and involvement. THE STUDENTS LISTED BELOW ACHIEVED AN ESLR INTERVIEW SCORE OF EXEMPLARY: Nicholas Constantin Babu Davis Matthew Bocks Alexa Victoria Bruni Riley Patricia Corona Joseph Moore Cunningham Alan Joseph Daly Francesca Louise DeCastell Anatasia Maria Deffigos Jacqueline Kay DeValeria Celia Louise Dubauskas Lauren Michael Frantz Jacob Patrick Gallagher Margaret Anna Girardin Skylar Addison Goss Catherine Claire Haugland Sydnee Avery Hertle Hayley Anne Hoffman Anne Elizabeth Kaiser Tara Anne Karanik James Frederick Kerr Troy Thomas Kramer Carly Jane Lambertus Sabrina Naseem Lasater Briana Nicole Latter Hannah Marie Mattson Abby Lynn McCann Morgan Brittany Morano Creighton Burke Morfitt Bailey Nicole Ostertag Kayley Sue Palmer Ciara Rose Petronzio Veronica Claire Robbins Jacqueline Kimberley Robles Shauna Kaitlyn Rocha Habib Emmanuel Sabbagh Anthony Paul Siller Samantha Maris Singer Jenna Katherine Snittjer Isabella Anne Sydenham Brandon Nicholas Taylor Maxwell Randolph Taylor Daniel Carlos Teran Olivia Leigh Twiford Andres Paul Vehr Elizabeth Marie Walker Brendan Christopher White Edmund Winston Wong Ryan Christopher Wood Kelsey Walker Yurek 19 FA C U LT Y & S TA F F Martin Aber-Song, A.A. Mary Ellen Anderson, B.A., M.S. Cynthia Barberio, B.A. Monica Barrett, B.S., M.A. Tanya Bartlett, B.A., M.Ed. Shelley Baugh, A.A., B.A. Amy Beckis, B.A., M.A.T. Brenda Beers, B.A., M.A.T. Darlene Best, A.A.S., B.S.N., M.S.N. Kathleen Bradley, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Mike Brown, B.S., M.S. Cindi Buckner, Receptionist Deacon Carmene Carbone, A.A., B.S., M.A. Jan Carteaux, B.A., M.Ed. John Clay, Facilities/Maintenance Thomas Coast, B.A., M.A. Todd Covarrubias, B.A. Brooke Dauphinais, B.A. Christina Dehan, B.A., M.A. Terry Derry, B.A. Shannon DeVoy, B.S. Shelley Dinges, B.S. Spencer Dobbins, Facilities/Maintenance Daniella Equia, B.A., M.A. Harry Ertter, B.S. Father Phil Evanstock, B.A., M.Div, M.S. Brian Fischer, B.A. Leslie Flam, B.S., M.Ed. Sara Fox, B.A. Beverly Fraser, B.S., M.Ed. Leslie Gjerstad, B.A.Ed., M.A. James Gmelich, B.A., M.Ed. Laura Gonzalez, Facilities/Maintenance Frances Goudelis, B.A., M.F.A. Tracy Grenoble, B.A., A.A.S. Raquel Guevara, B.S., M.A. Shannon Guscetti, B.A. Robert Gwinn, B.A. Tracey Heisler, B.A. Tami Herchold, Receptionist Bruce Hermie, B.A. Carl Hess, B.A., M.A. Martin Hoehne-Sanchez, B.A., M.Div. David Jensen, B.S., M.Ed. Chris Johnson, B.A.Ed., M.A.Ed. Siiri Julian, B.A., M.A. John Kim, B.A., M.S.W. Jennifer Kiraly-Beers, B.F.A., M.F.A. Kelly Kubicki, B.A.E. Mary Lou Lachvayder, B.A. Warren Laffey, B.A., M.B.A., Ph.D David Lamb, B.A.E., B.A., M.A., M.A.Ed. Bob Lambie, B.S., M.S. Juby Luensmann, B.A., M.N.S. Erica MacDougall, B.A., M.S.C. Barbara Marrs, B.S. Sheila Martinez, B.S. Lauren McDonald, B.A., M.A. Susan McDonald, B.A., M.A. Ray Medhus, B.F.A., M.Ed. George Melchor, B.A. Caitlin Melnychenko, B.A. Sister Yolanda Mendoza, B.S., M.A. Bill Mueller, B.A., M.A., M.Div. Lyric Naquin, B.S.B.A., M.B.A. Charles Nguyen, B.S., M.Ed. Father John Parks, B.A., M.A. Robbie Penate, B.A. Jim Pepe, Bus Driver Katie Peyman, B.A. Stephen Porianda, B.A. Bob Powers, B.F.A. George Prelock, B.A. Jeffrey Raymond, B.S., M.A. 20 Lisa Renfree, B.S., R.N. Mercedes Renteria, Facilities/Maintenance Mary Margaret Reuben, B.A., M.A. Carmen Riedel, B.A., M.A. Melissa Riordan, B.A., M.S. Elizabeth Roper, B.A., M.S.Ed. Paul Rubsam, B.B.A., M.B.A. Matt Rylski, B.A. Maribelle Salazar, B.A., M.A. Noemi Santaella, B.S., M.A.Ed. Eric Shuler, B.A., M.M.S., Ph.D. Macs Soja, Business Manager Jo Solomon, Registrar Patrick Stover, B.A., M.A. Rebecca Strolic, B.A., M.Ed. Christopher Studenka, A.A., B.S. Kristin Sullivan, B.A., M.A. Leslie Swanson, B.S., M.A. Jeanne Taddeo, B.S. Ginny Temple, B.A. Adam Thomé, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Maureen Treadway, B.A., M.F.A. Oscar Varela, B.A. Debi Wells, Admissions Administrative Assistant Heather Weurding, B.S. Tom White, B.A., M.A.E. Bonnie Wilson, B.A. Ken Wilson, Facilities/Maintenance Clayton Winters, Facilities/Maintenance Cody Winters, Facilities/Maintenance Kandi Wojtysiak, B.S., M.A.Ed. Mary Jane Wright, B.A., M.Ed. Theresa Yehle, Assistant to the Principal Linda Yturralde, B.S., M.Ed. Jerry Zander, B.S.Ed., M.Ed. NOTRE DAME PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL 9701 E. BELL ROAD, SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85260 WWW.NDPSAINTS.ORG
