November_2014

JULY 2014
MELISSA “MO” MARTIN ‘00 WINS THE WOMEN’S BRITISH OPEN ON JULY 13, 2014.
STORY ON PAGE 5
November 2014
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CREATING A LASTING LEGACY:
TWO NEW MEMBERS JOIN THE
ALVERNO LEGACY CIRLCE
Page 7
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STEM AT ALVERNO:
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT UPGRADES
Page 10
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Alumnae Magazine
ContentsAlverno Today 3
By: Cameron Werley-Gonzales
Assistant Head of School
Founders’ Day Rings in the New School Year 4
Melissa “Mo” Martin ‘00 Wins Women’s British Open 5
Alverno Legacy Circle Welcomes Two New Members: 7
Sarah O’Gara ‘64 and Robin McCarthy P’05
Classes of 1973 and 1974 Enjoy 40-Year Reunion 8
Class of 1964 Celebrates 50-Year Reunion 9
STEM at Alverno 10
Alumnae Proﬁle: Brett Wright ‘95 - Working For a Cause 11
Class of 1994 Celebrates 20-Year Reunion 12
Get In the Jaguar Spirit and Join Us! 13
To The Class of 2014, With Love 14
In Loving Memory 16 - 17
Save the Date!
“An Evening at Rio Carnaval” 18
PHOTOGRAPHS IN THE ALUMNAE MAGAZINE COURTESY OF BELLE ‘N BEAU PHOTOGRAPHY,
CAPRA PHOTOGRAPHY, AND MICHAEL COSTANTINO
Inquiries should be directed to:
Ofﬁce of Alumnae Relations
Summer L. Williams ‘95
Associate Director of Alumnae Relations
200 N. Michillinda Avenue
Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Phone: (626) 355-3463 ext. 232
Email: swilliams@alverno-hs.org
The Alumnae Magazine is published three times per year in
March (sent via email), July (in print) and
November (sent via email).
ADMINISTRATION
Julia V. Fanara, Head of School
Cameron Werley-Gonzales, Assistant Head of School
ALUMNAE COMMITTEE
Bridget Marshall ‘64
Terry Merlo Traver ‘65
Carol Winkler Handley ‘67
Ellen Behrens Hoffman ‘74
Diana Durr Phillippi ‘78
Elizabeth Oberreiter ‘84
Maria Ioele ‘88
Raina Martinez ‘88
Monica Taft ‘88
Evie Vasquez Gallardo ‘90, Alumnae Association President
Andrea Bertollini ‘91
Summer Douglass Williams ‘95
Lauren Capoccia ‘01
Susana Capra ‘04
Sara McCarthy ‘05
EDITOR
Wendy Finch-Burk, Director of Development and
Alumnae Relations
CONTENT EDITOR
Summer Douglass Williams ‘95, Associate Director of
Alumnae Relations
CONTRIBUTORS
Bridget Marshall ‘64
Terri Emme Lauerman ‘73
Ellen Behrens Hoffman ‘74
Sheila Anulao ‘94
Sara McCarthy ‘05, Director of Admissions and Public Relations
Cameron Werley-Gonzales, Assistant Head of School

November 2014 Page 3
Alverno Today
Dear Friends of Alverno,
Cameron Werley-Gonzales
Assistant Head of School
state of California. While women and girls make up just over 50% of the state population, only 24% of its scientists and engineers are
women. The 2014-15 school year brings several changes to campus that are indeed a response to this global and state-wide
campaign to break down the social and economic barriers that hinder the progress of women in STEM. Alverno has invested in a
rigorous science program to educate Alverno students with the latest technologies in education and best practices that prepare them
for collegiate courses and careers in these fields. You can read more about the amazing programs Alverno students are involved in
on page 10 of this issue.
This year is also the first official year of Alverno’s Early Admission Honors Program (EAHP) in STEM. The EAHP allows advanced
and gifted middle school-aged girls to bypass the remainder of their sixth, seventh, or eighth grade studies and enter the ninth grade
at a younger age. Alverno has been piloting this program for a decade to ensure that girls advancing academically at a younger age
can succeed not only at Alverno High School, but also at the university level. Our first graduate was Patty Ann Park ‘05. Patty went
on to graduate from Stanford University in 2009. Since Patty, several young scholars have walked through our doors and done
exceptionally well.
It was wonderful to see so many of the Class of 1964 at their 50-Year Reunion Celebration in September. The first graduates
from Alverno remind our current students of the incredible bond of sisterhood that is woven through all graduates, past and present.
Please make sure to stop by campus for our annual Networking Event on Tuesday, November 4 at 6:00 p.m. and for the
Candlelight Celebration on Wednesday, December 17 at 6:45 p.m. Both events are taking place in and around the Villa and we hope
you will join us! Mark your calendars in the New Year as well for our annual Gala, “An Evening at Rio Carnaval,” which is taking
place on Saturday, March 21 at the Pasadena Hilton.
I am looking forward to all of the upcoming events and I hope to see many of you as we ring in the holidays on
Alverno’s beautiful campus.
Blessings,
As we enter the holiday season, my prayer is that this issue of the Alverno High
School Alumnae Magazine finds you and your families happy and blessed.
The theme for this school year is “Stand Up, Stand Out”— encouraging the
Alverno Community to embrace justice issues, especially those regarding women, and to
“stand out” as an institution that empowers women to break barriers daily. Melissa “Mo”
Martin ‘00 stood out as she won the British Open in July of this year.
At the United Nations General Assembly in September of 2011, the United States
signed a new Declaration on Women’s Participation, and expressed its strategy and
commitment to “break down economic and political barriers that stand in the way of
women and girls” (Obama, September 21, 2011). In the wake of that message, in
December of 2012, the United States announced that one of the top priorities of the
nation was to increase the number of students receiving undergraduate degrees in
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) related fields by one million over the
next decade (Feder, December 18, 2012).
The national commitment to improving the education of women and girls in
STEM-related fields speaks to serious and persistent problems of gender inequality in the

Alumnae Magazine
F
ounder’s Day at Alverno took place on Friday, October 3 and it was a wonderful
day to celebrate the beginning of the school year for the entire Alverno
community. The day started with a Mass celebrating the “Blessing of the
Animals” where students were able to bring their pets from home to be blessed
Founders’ Day Rings in the New School Year
as part of the Liturgy.
After Mass, students were treated to special presentations given by Julia Fanara,
Head of School and alumnae who also work or have worked at Alverno: Sara McCarthy
‘05, Susana Capra ‘04, Summer L. Williams ‘95, Sue Behrens ‘78, and Terry Merlo Traver
‘65. The presentations touched on various topics including the history of the school, high
school experiences, and the 50-Year Reunion Celebration of the ﬁrst graduating class.
“The students always impress me with their enthusiasm, but they were really engaged and
enjoying this day,” said Terry Merlo Traver ‘65. “They were all interested in the history of
Alverno and proud to be a part of that history.”
Before the day ended, Alverno students participated in a service project to make
400 sack lunches that were taken to a homeless shelter in the area. “The service project
was a great way to end the day,” said Katharine Guerrero, Social Studies and Theology
teacher at Alverno. “There were a lot of elements that allowed this day to create a full
circle. The students were enlightened with the history of Alverno, they were able to share
their own testimonies of their time here and they were able to carry out our mission by
packing those lunches. Overall it was a wonderful day!”
Members of the Alverno community who brought their pets from home gathered for a picture following Mass.
Lisa Costantino ‘17
Nalani Moreno ‘17 and Amanda Pavon ‘17
Marisa Dragos ‘17 gets her dog blessed during Mass.

Mo Martin - Class of 2000
recalls the unique support and commitment the school provided her as a student and as an athlete.
“Alverno was very supportive and the school’s nurturing environment helped me catch up — and not only catch up, but
excel. I was allowed time to practice and to compete, which was really helpful to me,” she said. “After Alverno, I went on to UCLA
and was able to join the golf program there and compete academically, which opened the door to becoming a professional and
having the career I have today.”
As a female golfer, Mo has faced challenges and overcome some adversity. She is grateful to have put most of it behind her,
but credits the experiences she had growing up with helping her to do so.
“I got a lot of comments growing up, especially during high school, about being a female golfer. There would be individuals
who wouldn’t want to play with a female,” she said. “I think there is still a stigma attached to female golfers, but we are gaining a lot
M
Melissa “Mo” Martin ‘00
Wins Women’s British Open
elissa “Mo” Martin was the surprise winner at the Women’s British
Open at Royal Birkdale on Sunday, July 13, 2014.
Mo hit the best shot of her career when her three-wood
struck the pin on the par-five 18th hole at Royal Birkdale in Southport, England.
The ball settled only a few feet away from the hole to set up an eagle. An hour
later, she ended the day with an even-par 72 — winning the Women’s British Open
by one stroke.
Mo started playing golf at the age of four after her brother came home
with what she recalls as “a beautiful, glistening golf trophy.”
“He came home with a trophy and I just really wanted a trophy,” she
recalled. “So I started playing golf and fell in love with the game. It really came in
pieces how it happened.”
Once she fell in love with the sport, Mo’s drive was unstoppable. She
spent hours in her driveway, hitting countless balls under her father’s instruction
into a homemade net. She quickly started to collect trophies of her own,
including the most prestigious junior tournament of its time, the Junior World
Japan Cup, where she won her own “beautiful, glistening golf trophy” and got to
meet the Crown Prince of Japan.
By the time Mo started at Alverno as a freshman in 1996, she had already
won the Junior World Japan Cup and represented the United States there an
additional three times. Although Alverno didn’t have a golf team at the time, Mo
of momentum on the professional levels and I am hopeful that young women interested
in pursuing the sport, or any sport, will focus on their passions, desires, and different skill
sets. I think that when they do that, it won’t ever fail them.”
Linda Reffner, Alverno’s former Assistant Principal, recounts Mo as a student:
“She was an excellent student and worked on her golf game throughout high school,
but hardly ever on a course. When Melissa qualified for the CIF championship, she had
to be accompanied by a school official and so I became her coach. Mo didn’t win that
tournament, but I was extremely impressed by her focus and determination. Most high
school athletes who don’t receive a scholarship in their sport at college will give up, but
Mo talked her way into a walk-on spot at UCLA and earned a scholarship as a result. I
have followed her career and admired the progress she made, both at UCLA and on the
Futures Tour. She has had some impressive rounds in tournaments on the LPGA and after
the first round at the British Open, Alverno alumnae and teachers lit up Facebook.
Everyone was on the edge of their seats when she almost made an albatross on the final
hole. We are extremely proud of her and so happy that her hard work resulted in such a
great achievement!”
When her opponent’s shot came up short to tie her at Birkdale, she turned to her
caddie and said, “Is this real life?!” and it was. Ranked 99th in the world prior to this win,
Mo has been catapulted to a new level of athletic fame and certainly a new place in the
LPGA history books.
“Mo Martin is truly the person she wants to be - living the Alverno mission in her
daily life,” said Julia V. Fanara, Head of School. “We are proud of her accomplishments
and celebrate her success as we do for all of our students and alumnae. We look forward
to continuing to watch and support her growing career and this exciting new phase of
her life.”

Alumnae Magazine
Alverno Legacy Circle
Take a leap of faith that including Alverno in your estate plans
will have a significant impact on the future of
students who attend your Alma Mater.
Create your legacy today!
Include Alverno High School in your
estate plans with a bequest.
You can secure the future of Alverno High School!
Current Members of the
Alverno Legacy Circle:
Anita Eberlen Cruver ‘69
Julia V. Fanara P ‘01,‘03,‘05
Head of School
Robin McCarthy P’05
Sarah O’Gara ‘64
Associate Director of Alumnae Relations
Wnew paint, desks, and fl oors to enhance the classrooms through the “Adopt-a-Classroom
Campaign.” You supported Phase One of the Master Plan with a gift to support the
beautification of the grounds and the new wrought iron gates and pillars on Michillinda
Avenue through the “Adopt-a-Pillar Campaign.” Most recently, you funded our financial
aid program through the “Adopt-a-Student Campaign,” which provides tuition assistance
for students in need. All of these fundraising campaigns have provided current students
at Alverno with an enhanced education and an improved facility for learning.
Alverno is looking to the future and we hope you will share in our excitement
as we continue our campus upgrades by raising funds to renovate the school library
through the “Adopt-the-Library Campaign.” Improvements to the library will provide
students with a state-of-the-art multi-media center where they will learn in a collegiate
atmosphere and have electronic access to libraries all over the country. Planned
renovations include:
• Updated technology and wireless access
• A language lab where students can practice their foreign language skills
• Contemporary furniture and new carpeting
• An outside area that will encourage students to use open spaces for learning
We hope you will participate in the “Adopt-the-Library Campaign” and support
the renovation of the Alverno High School library so students can continue being
educated with the latest technologies in a new and improved facility that will foster a
love of learning in a supportive environment.
The students at Alverno thank you for your continued support and we are
excited for alumnae and everyone in the Alverno community to see a new and improved
library facility on campus! If you would like to make your gift today, click here! If you
have any questions, please contact Summer L. Williams ‘95, Associate Director of
Alumnae Relations at (626) 355-3463 ext. 232 or at swilliams@alverno-hs.org.
“Adopt-the-Library Campaign” To Fund Renovations
ith great anticipation, Alverno students have witnessed the wonderful
improvements that have taken place over recent years, both inside and
outside of the classrooms, because of your support. You helped provide

SARAH O’GARA ‘64 AND ROBIN MCCARTHY P‘05 EMBRACE
THE FUTURE OF ALVERNO HIGH SCHOOL
Alverno Legacy Cirlce Welcomes Two New Members
Robin McCarthy P‘05
Sarah on one of her volunteer
service trips to maintain the beauty
of the forest in the Jarbidge
Wilderness near the Utah and Idaho
borders in Nevada.
Sara and Robin McCarthy enjoy
some Mother/Daughter time at a
recent event for the Santa Anita
Race Track.
weekend celebration to
commemorate their 50-Year
Reunion. As part of the
festivities, Alverno recognized
her as one of the newest
members of the Alverno Legacy
Circle.
Her decision to include
Alverno in her estate plans
with a bequest is the result of
deciding how formative her high
school experience was and how
it influenced her life in many
recently joined her
classmates in a
ways. “Recently, I revised my trust, which got me thinking not
only about my family, but also about the institutions and causes
that are important to me,” she said. “Alverno immediately came
to mind as the life-formative experience that led to a satisfying
career and a fulfilling personal life.”
High school memories came back to Sarah while she
visited Alverno’s campus during her reunion. She recalled special
times with friends saying, “I loved the camaraderie among my
classmates who rode the bus from Monrovia. Over those four
years, we shared laughter, profound thoughts, and awkward
growing pains.” She cherishes those memories because they
made her the person she is today.
Sarah also recalled being a member of the school
newspaper. “Working on La Tilma with Sister Catherine was a
laboratory for so many life skills: working collaboratively, writing
concisely, and delivering a product on time and without
errors (mostly).”
Campus tours given
at the 50th Reunion were a
time of reflection for the Class
of 1964 and Sarah recognized
the changes and the
similarities. “Time bent and
came full circle, but these
young women and Alverno are
not in the same place. While
the challenges are 50 years
apart, the values that shape all
of us have not changed.”
If you would like more information about including Alverno in your estate plans,
please contact Wendy Finch-Burk in the Development Office at
(626) 355-3463 ext. 227 OR AT wfinch@alverno-hs.org.
obin McCarthy P‘05
has been a member
of the Alverno
community for many
R
for my daughter and for that I am grateful!”
Robin mentioned that it was important to her for Sara
to receive the benefit of an all-girls education. She wanted her
to have more opportunities to be involved and the ability to
explore as many options as the male counterparts during that
time. “I believe that single sex education builds strong,
determined, and better educated young women. Sara visited
several local high schools, and with her friends got into the
concept of visiting days,” she said. “After all those visits, she
determined she only wanted to apply to one school - Alverno.
She loved it so much, she even participated in two
visiting days. Ironically, now she organizes the visiting days for
Alverno as the Director of Admissions.”
As a past parent, Robin continues to support Alverno
by attending events and supporting the renovation of the
campus in preparation for the Master Plan.
years and recently added
Alverno to her estate plans.
When asked why she chose
to make a bequest to Alverno,
she replied, “Alverno holds a
special place in my heart due
to the many gifts they have
given Sara (Class of 2005),
from a fine education and
quality learning, to friendships
and bonds built. The motto to
empower women holds true
“Alverno has a great campus,
and I enjoy being a part of all
the changes that are taking
place,” she said. “When I came
there recently, it was the girls
who have remained the same.
You see them huddled
together, laughing, and sharing
special friendships - like time
hasn’t passed since the day
Sara graduated.”

Alumnae Magazine
Members from the Classes of 1973 and 1974 enjoy an evening at Matt Denny’s Restaurant
and Alehouse in Arcadia to celebrate their 40-Year Reunion.
Celebration Time!
CLASSES OF 1973 AND 1974 ENJOY 40-YEAR REUNION
By: Terri Emme Lauerman ‘73 and Ellen Behrens Hoffman ‘74
n Saturday, September 13, the Class of 1973
teamed up with the Class of 1974, for a 40-
Year Reunion. The classes gathered on theOpatio at Matt Denny’s Restaurant, owned by Matt
McSweeny, younger brother of Debbie McSweeny
Polchow ‘73 and Dana McSweeny Roberts ‘74. When
the party started at 4:00 p.m., the temperature in
Arcadia was at least 100 degrees, but it didn’t wilt
the spirits of the alumnae who came to catch up
and reminisce! It was a lively group of about 70
people, and the festivities continued well into the
night. “It was a brilliant idea to combine the classes,”
said Paula Stechel Briggs ‘73.
Alumnae gathered around the large
composite graduation portraits, remembering what
we all looked like 40 years ago. Vintage Alverno
uniforms were displayed on a clothesline, and
yearbooks were available to peruse. A tasteful tribute
honored those who have passed on, and we shared
our memories of them. All agreed it was a good time,
and there was talk of getting together again in ﬁve
years, or perhaps even sooner! “It was a perfect
sized group, where one could actually sit down and
catch up with classmates,” said Terri Emme
Lauerman ‘73. “The venue was lovely and I look
forward to the next reunion.”
Thanks to the Alverno Alumnae Ofﬁce,
alumnae won prizes that consisted of fun Alverno
merchandise. You can be sure the winners will
proudly wear their Alverno t-shirts and cooking
aprons, while drinking coffee out of Alverno mugs! A
donation box collected money to be donated to the
newly formed “Friends of the Villa,” an organization dedicated to preserving that beloved historic building.
Live entertainment by Steve Vargas and Danny Hesse on acoustic guitars, provided the perfect background to our gathering.
Their repertoire appropriately consisted of favorites from the 1970’s. When they played “In My Life,” by the Beatles, many of us joined
in singing, and remembering our graduation day, when we stood on the terrace in cap and gown, singing that song. Later in the
evening, those who remembered the words, belted out a lively version of our Alma Mater.
For more information about the next reunion, please contact Ellen Behrens Hoffman ‘74 at ehoffman929@gmail.com.

CLASS OF 1964 CELEBRATES 50-YEAR REUNION
he words of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons song ran through my head when I think of the 50th High School Reunion
for the Class of 1964. Back in 1960, young girls entered Alverno Heights Academy as the first class to be educated by the
Sisters of St. Francis. Flash forward 50 years and 48 women gathered for a weekend full of festivities and reminiscing.T
Bridget Marshall welcomes Sarah O’Gara to the
50-Year Reunion Celebration.
(Left to Right) Jim Devine, Polita Danahey Huff, and Libbi
Toscano share a toast at the Alverno 50th Reunion.
(Left to Right) Susan Lerner McAdam, Marsha Andersen Fenton,
Justine Smith Lorehn, Susan Robustelli Shaheen, and Mary Glasscock Mulvaney
(Left to Right) Judith Kaye, Marcia Wemple Bell, and Cynthia Moss Vance
“Oh, What a Night!”
The fun began on Friday evening as alumnae from out of town checked in
to the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Monrovia while others joined them for dinner and
drinks at the restaurant in the hotel. On Saturday, alumnae descended on the grounds
of Alverno High School for an amazing experience. They came together by car and limo
to the Villa (Oh yes, there was a stretch). There were squeals of joy, laughter, and hugs
going around as well as a special guest appearance by Mrs. Kaye (mother of Judy Kaye
‘64), who had been our “Food Service Director” when we were students. Mrs. Kaye is
96-years-old and wanted to come to this reunion to see “her girls.” Thank you Mrs.
Kaye, we sure enjoyed seeing you again.
Mass was held on the grounds of the Villa with the San Gabriel Mountains as
a backdrop. A beautiful late afternoon prevailed and the Mass was even more special
because Father Michael Higgins presided (brother of Eileen Higgins Richards ‘64). It
was a beautiful Liturgy filled with great sentiment. Father Mike wanted us to remember
that we were the pioneers and the first in many ways... the first class to attend Alverno
and the first class to graduate on the Terrace. As part of the celebration, we graduated
again. Each member of the Class of 1964 was presented with a Golden Diploma,
handed out by Julia V. Fanara, Head of School. Somehow, that “graduation” seemed
even more meaningful with 50 years of happy memories behind us.
Following Mass, the alumnae enjoyed a wonderful evening with dinner on the
Villa Terrace, catered by Andrea Bertollini ‘91. With the wonderful wine that Libbi
By: Bridget Marshall ‘64, Class Representative
Toscano ‘64 found in Tuscany at the
Villa Collazzi, we toasted with our
motto: “Nothing great was ever
accomplished without enthusiasm!”
As the sun went down on the
beautiful Villa del Sol d’ Oro, the
Class of 1964 hoped they have
once again set a tradition in motion
for each class as they approach
their 50-Year Reunion Celebration.
Susan Walker Elwell and Marchael
Merrel Bayne

Alumnae Magazine
STEM at Alverno
(Left to Right) Michelle Lam ‘15, Kate Samaniego ‘18, and Melody
Wu ‘18 make a solution as part of a SEAL Team project at Alverno.
of specialized learning experiences to prepare them for collegiate
courses and careers in these fields. Alverno is one of only a few high
schools that is currently involved in a research project with Caltech. The
goal of the research is to develop inexpensive, renewable,
carbon-free energy sources. “This is important research to discover
inexpensive, abundant, metal oxide semiconductors that can split water
into hydrogen and oxygen using sunlight. The hydrogen fuel can then
be stored and transported for use in future fuel cell vehicles, and to
generate electricity at night or on cloudy days,” says Monica Barsever,
AP and Honors Teacher in Biology, Environmental Science, and Physics.
“We are working closely with two Caltech scientists who visit Alverno
once a week to mentor the Solar Energy Activity Laboratory Team (SEAL).
The team will present their research results at Caltech.”
In addition to the research project with Caltech, Alverno
students have the opportunity to be members of a Computer Science
class and Robotics Team as well. They are learning programming in the
Computer Science class and competing with other schools on
robotics teams. They are attending local competitions where they are
exposed to other advancements in technology and can showcase their
work as well. “Robotics is the application of science and technology in
Engineering. Learning how to program, design and build robots teaches
Alverno’s Science Department is embracing the fields of
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) by
offering students the opportunity to be involved in a variety
students 21st century skills that are vital to a career in this field,” said Ms. Barsever.
Alverno students are also involved in a pond and native plants project. The AP Environmental Science class is working on
this as a year-long learning experience. The class began by studying pond ecosystems and nutrient cycles to understand the science
behind the aquaponics system. Students visited with Professor Catanese, a consultant from Pasadena City College (PCC), who heads
up the Aquaponics program at PCC. The Science Department received a grant from the Sierra Madre Rotary Club to help fund the
project. A portion of the proceeds from last year’s Gala supported updates to the science labs over the summer including new eye
wash stations for both science classrooms.
(Left to Right) Emily Zepeda ‘15, Ariana Vasquez ‘15, Emma Cavender
‘16, Cailen Rodriguez ‘15, Lauren Hirschmann ‘15, Christina Vagenas ‘15,
Micaela Harris ‘15, and Emily Allen ‘15 visit the Aquarium of the Pacific
to learn about building aquatic systems in preparation for the Villa Pond
Project.
Alverno SEAL team member Victoria Chen ‘18 learns about system
instrumentation during a recent visit to the Caltech SEAL
laboratory.

Brett Wright ‘95 gives a tribute speech
to the most recent former chairman of
the VOF Board of Trustees in September
2014.
Brett Wright ‘95 - Working for a Cause
IUnion (ASU) and participated in many events. In college and in her career, Brett carried on her
passion and love of politics and government. “I have always been fascinated with the inner
workings of our democratic institutions and how change is affected. This interest started with
serving on the student government at Alverno,” she said.
Brett completed her undergraduate coursework at the University of Virginia in 2000
where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Foreign Affairs with a minor in French. She went on
to attend the Marshall-Wythe School of Law in Williamsburg, Virginia. She graduated with a
Juris Doctorate Degree in 2004 and began working at LeClair Ryan, P.C. as an Associate
Attorney. Brett represented real estate developers and provided legal advice in matters of land
use and real estate. In 2006, she was appointed to the Office of the Virginia Attorney General
as the Assistant Attorney General where she worked until 2013. During her tenure as the
Assistant Attorney General, she worked as the lead counsel for the Virginia Outdoors
Foundation (VOF), providing legal services for all aspects of agency functions. Brett worked
closely with the Board of Trustees and the Executive Director on policy and provided leadership
for the legal team at VOF.
When the time came to fill the position for Executive Director at VOF, Brett accepted
her current position with excitement about the future. The mission of VOF is to “promote the
preservation of open-space lands and to encourage private gifts of money, securities, land, or
other property to preserve the natural, scenic, historic, scientific, open-space, and recreational
areas of the Commonwealth.” The best part of her job she says, is the interaction with people
ALUMNAE PROFILE -
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Brett pictured with Governor Terry
McAuliffe at a reception celebrating Earth
Day at the Virginia Governor’s mansion in
April 2014.
n high school, Brett Wright ‘95 was very involved in student government and wanted to
make changes that would help the Alverno Student Body enjoy a fulfilling high school
experience. She was a member of the Executive Branch of the Alverno Student
who are all interested in preserving the environment for future generations. “Hearing about how individuals come to appreciate the
importance of saving open spaces to ensure a healthy natural environment for tomorrow is a story that I never tire of,” she said.
“Not only are the stories interesting themselves, but they represent a great
case study. Collectively, they tell the story of how environmentalism over the
last 40 years has moved from the fringes to the political center.”
Brett remembers Alverno
fondly and feels fortunate that she
was able to take advantage of her
education. “We had such a rich
community, filled with sincere,
well-intentioned people, and we had
endless opportunities for creative
expression,” she said. “That,
combined with the education we
received, made it relatively easy to
find our passions, test our mettle, and
work towards becoming our very
best selves.”
Brett also serves as the
Co-Class Representative for the Class
of 1995. If you would like to
re-connect, Brett can be reached via
email at bcellsworth@aol.com.

Alumnae Magazine
MILESTONES
(Left to Right) Top: Sheila Anulao, Jo-Anne Bustamante Camangian, Monica
Martin, Jen Upstill Tokaji Bottom: Michelle Plug-Gordin, Tiffany Flaherty
Baughman, Rosanne Endriga Yuson, Kim Guzman, and Laura Walsh
t has been 20 years since the Class of 1994 threw their white caps in the air on graduation day. Those 20 years have been
ﬁlled with other life milestones: further graduations, traveling, starting families, starting careers, following dreams, marriage,Ilosing loved ones, and everything in between.
It was a sunny afternoon when the ladies of 1994 met at the Montrose Bowling Alley for a family-friendly reunion. Some
of the alumnae traveled from as far away as Long Beach and San Diego to attend the reunion. Young children were kept busy with
either bowling or bouncing balls so the moms could chat. It is always fun to see friends from the past to reminisce and catch up on
current life events. Though we are thankful for social media that makes it easier for us to keep in touch, it was nice to see
everybody. True to the Alverno Alma Mater, ‘Memories twine around your name, friendships born to live always.’
For more information regarding future events and plans for the pending 25-Year Reunion, please contact Sheila Anulao
through Facebook or at sheilaac@sbcglobal.net.
The Class of 1994 celebrated with festive cupcakes to mark their
20-Year Reunion.
By: Sheila Anulao ‘94, Class Representative
SHOW YOUR JAGUAR PRIDE!
Embroidered Alverno Hoodie $35
Alverno Crewneck Sweatshirt $25
Alverno T-Shirt (Navy) $10
Alverno Tank Top (XL) $10
Alverno Silver License Plate Frame $10
Alverno Travel Mug $8
“Future Alverno Alumna” Bib $5
Alverno Ceramic Mug $5
Alverno Reusable Plastic Cup $5
Alverno Mouse Pad $5
Alverno Picture Frame $3
Alverno Beach Bag Cooler $3
Alverno Mirror $2
Alverno Water Bottle Holder $1
Alverno Car Decal $1
Class of 1994 Celebrates 20-Year Reunion
Contact Summer L. Williams ‘95, Associate Director of Alumnae Relations at (626) 355-3463 ext. 232 or by email at
swilliams@alverno-hs.org to order your Alverno gear today!

GET IN THE
JAGUAR SPIRIT
AND JOIN US!
Alumnae and Community Networking Event
Tuesday - November 4, 2014
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Villa del Sol d’ Oro
Alverno Presents: “Steel Magnolias”
November 6, 7, and 8
7:00 p.m.
St. Rita O’Malley Hall
Tickets: $10 at the door and online
Alumnae Holiday Book Club
Tuesday - December 2, 2014
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Candlelight Celebration
Alumnae Choir
Wednesday - December 17, 2014
6:45 p.m.
Christmas Liturgy
Friday - December 19, 2014
11:30 a.m.
Alverno High School
Alumnae Committee Meeting
Tuesday - January 6, 2015
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Alverno High School Faculty Lounge
New Members Welcome
Reunion Schedule
Decade of the 1960s and 1970s
(1964 - 1979) - Saturday - June 27, 2015
Class of 1965 50th Reunion - Saturday - June 27, 2015
Decade of the 1980s (1980 - 1989) - Summer of 2016
Deja Vu Social with La Salle Alumni - Summer of 2017

Alumnae Magazine
Alumnae Bricks
Don’t miss the opportunity to have your name forever etched on Alverno’s campus. Purchase a brick for yourself or honor a
loved one. The cost of each brick is $100 ($75 is tax-deductible), or for a larger brick $150 ($125 is tax-deductible).
The money raised is used to fund the Alumnae Tuition Assistance Grant.
Mail completed form with a check payable to Alverno High School to:
Alverno High School - Alumnae Bricks
Attn: Business Office
200 N. Michillinda Ave
Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Alverno High School
Alumnae Brick Order Form
Yes, I would like to purchase _____ Alverno Alumnae Brick(s).
I have enclosed payment in the amount of $______ for my brick(s).
Name (As you would like it to appear on brick) _____________________________________________
Class ___________________
Address ____________________________________________________________________________
City ______________________________ State __________ Zip _________________
Mobile Phone _________________________ Email ________________________________________
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
To The Class of 2014, With Love
ith the Class of 2014
getting settled into their
first semester of college,Wthe Alumnae Committee wanted to
remind our newest alumnae that
everyone at Alverno is thinking about
them. Care packages were sent to the
alumnae and included items for college
survival and, most importantly, words of
encouragement for each alumna.
Some of the items included in
the packages this year were essentials
like an Alverno mirror, tissue packs,
loofahs, two kinds of hot tea, hot
chocolate, and popcorn. For the girls
who have a sweet tooth, we also
included some candy.
It is true that the first year of
college can be a trying time filled with
hours of homework and classes that
might seem endless, but we hope that
this care package added some sunshine
to their day!
COLLEGE CARE PACKAGES SHIPPED!

ALUMNAE WEDDINGS
The Villa on Alverno’s campus is a
timeless setting for weddings
and special events.
Overlooking acres of beautiful
landscaping, the Villa offers a festive
atmosphere with a picturesque
setting for your event.
Alumnae receive a substantial
discount on the rental fee when booking
the Villa for their own wedding.
For more information, please contact
in the Alumnae Ofﬁce at
swilliams@alverno-hs.org
or call (626) 355-3463 ext. 232.
Do You Have a Daughter in 7th or 8th Grade?
SHE IS INVITED TO DISCOVER HER EMPOWERING MOMENT
Visiting Days:
November 5
November 19
December 3
January 7
Open House:
Sunday, November 16
1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
RSVP to Sara McCarthy ‘05
Director of Admissions and Public Relations
smccarthy@alverno-hs.org
(626) 355-3463 ext. 235

Denita Ross P‘08
Mother of Savannah Ross ‘08
Sunrise: January 20, 1958
Sunset: August 27, 2014
“My mom is still my biggest inspiration. She was filled with
confidence and could win over anyone with stories from
her life. Thank you to everyone who has shown
their support.”
Dorothy Kelly P‘64, ‘70
Mother of Marcia Kelly Hudson ‘64 and
Sharon Kelly Spinnler ‘70
Sunrise: August 8, 1919
Sunset: September 10, 2014
Dorothy is survived by her children Marcia ‘64, Sharon ‘70,
Jim (La Salle - Class of 1966) and Bruce (La Salle - Class
of 1972), son and daughter-in-laws, sister Jane Hoban, and
eight grandchildren. Dorothy’s husband, Jim Kelly passed
away before her in April 1992. For 17 years, Dorothy worked
at Mater Dolorosa Retreat Center where she served as the
secretary to the Passionist Fathers.
She was never far from her children working there and she
made sure their education came first.
Page 16 Alumnae Magazine
In Loving Memory
Kristine “Kris” Reiser ‘81
Sunrise: July 13, 1963
Sunset: July 4, 2014
The Class of 1981 mourns the tragic loss of our beloved
classmate Kristine who served the public as Senior Family Law
Attorney with the California Superior Court. She handled
countless cases pro bono, and donated time to helping
abandoned animals. You can help us honor her memory by
caring for any creatures who need your love.
More at: goo.gl/aKsvwT
Jo Ann E. Douglass
P‘90, ‘95, and GP‘10
Mother of Janel Douglass Grobes ’90 and
Summer L. Douglass Williams ’95
Grandmother of Sage Alossi-Grobes ‘10
Sunrise: July 8, 1943
Sunset: August 14, 2014
JoAnn passed away after a three year battle with Pancreatic
Cancer. She is survived by her husband Roy, two daughters
Janel Douglass Grobes ‘90 and Summer Douglass Williams ‘95,
two sons-in-law, three grandchildren, and countless
cousins and friends.
“Heaven gained another beautiful angel. Thank you, mom, for
giving us life and for teaching us the importance of family. We
will miss your radiant smile and see you again one day. She will
be missed by everyone who knew and loved her.”

COMPASSIONATE RESCUE
Alan Unell
Global Director
e.aunell@compassionaterescue.org
t. 818.281.3867
www.compassionaterescue.org
In Loving Memory
Jan Garrigan ‘84
Sunrise: September 15, 1966
Sunset: October 2, 2014
Jan is survived by her mother, Ruth Garrigan and her three
sisters - Susan Garrigan, Judy Adams Ray ‘80, and Jill Toth David
‘82. Her father, Robert, passed away in 2002 and her older
brother, Steven, passed away earlier this year of the same Colon
Cancer that took Jan’s life. Jan is also survived by nine nieces
and nephews and one great niece, all of whom loved her
dearly. Jan loved the USC Trojans, Los Angeles Dodgers, and
trips to Disneyland.
Support Alverno
Through Amazon Smile
A
Here is how to sign up:
Use the Amazon Smile website to make all your purchases from
Amazon and a portion of your purchases will be donated to Alverno!
All you need to do is simply start your search at the Amazon Smile site
(http://smile.amazon.com) from the web browser on your computer or
mobile device and then proceed from there. You will enjoy the same
products, same prices, and same service. You may also want to add a
bookmark to AmazonSmile to make it even easier to return and start
your shopping at AmazonSmile. Thank you for supporting Alverno’s
fundraising efforts!
mazon has a program in which they give .5% of your
purchases to a charity of your choice. All you have to
do is select the charity you would like to support (Mt.
Lynne York Lang ‘64
Sunrise: October 17, 1946
Sunset: October 12, 2014
After graduation from Alverno, Lynne went on to earn a
Bachelors Degree, Teaching Credential, and Masters Degree.
She retired from LAUSD after 38 years in Elementary
Education. Lynne married Thomas Lang in 1979, and is the
mother of two daughters Elizabeth and Carolyn.
Diagnosed with stage IV Pancreatic Cancer in 2012, Lynne
fought a heroic battle, and never lost her determination to win,
with her bright eyes and mischievous smile.
Alverno High School/Alverno High School would be a great choice!)
and then bookmark your computer or mobile device to start at
Amazon Smile each time you shop at Amazon. It’s that easy!

Alumnae Magazine
17th Annual
Alverno High School Gala
SAVE THE DATE!
Saturday - March 21, 2015
Pasadena Hilton
168 S. Los Robles Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91101
Sit-Down Dinner
Live Entertainment
Live and Silent Auction
Tickets Go on Sale January 15, 2015
Alumnae Ticket Price: $80
Regular Ticket Price $100
Sponsorship Opportunities
Do you have an item you would like to donate to the auction at the Gala?
It is a wonderful way to support Alverno High School.
For more information, please contact Wendy Finch-Burk, Director of Development and Alumnae Relations
at (626) 355-3463 ext. 227 or wﬁnch@alverno-hs.org.
“AN EVENING AT RIO CARNAVAL”

November_2014

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