RUSADER C

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

Vol. 4 No. 2

Memorial Mass September 8, 2011

AN H

AL

R ONO O D EP OF R
L RO
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E SU S T I RS

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

4 50th Anniversary Party The Annual Report Graduation

10 12 13 14 19 20 21 22 23 24

Class of 2011 - Student Recognition Womens Softball Championship Womens Basketball Champions

Mrs. Claudia Skaggs Luttrell

Visual & Performing Arts Night

Distinguished Alumni Award Induction

Alumni News./Alumni Calendar Admissions Calendar

GRADUATION

Message from the President

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Dear Friends,

1615 Mater Dei Drive Chula Vista, CA 91913 ph: 619.423.2121 w w w .materdeicatholic.org

Whenever we say goodbye to another senior class at Mater Dei Catholic it is done with the regret of losing part of the family that has made the school what it has become over the past four years. This feeling of loss extends to the mothers and fathers, grandparents and friends who have all shared the Crusader experience with our graduates. We will miss you all very deeply and we only hope that you will find your way back to us in the years ahead to renew your connection and the fellowship that we shared during these four years. The Class of 2011 will always be special to me and to our community. As President of Mater Dei Catholic I was also a freshman during those first hot days in August 2007. I first walked the halls at Mater Dei Catholic the same time that these graduates were taking their baby steps here. I shared a great deal of anxiety with them as we struck out together for an as yet uncharted future. Looking back on those days, and the time in between, I am reminded of the faces that walked through the gates of the new school for the first time. How full of wonder they were at the sight of a brand new campus that had not yet had a lesson taught, a game played, a dance held, or a student prayer or Mass. Those first few days we all shared the experience of breaking in this new home of the Crusaders. None of that would have been possible without the great sacrifices that were made by our parents to allow their students to attend Mater Dei Catholic. Mater Dei Catholic is not simply a place where parents drop off their kids to be educated. It is a living body that grows stronger with the care and nurturing that is given to it by all the members of the community. Dont get me wrong, there were certainly difficult days these past four years that the Class of 11 had to endure. Those days asked our students to grow up quicker than normal as they were forced to confront very difficult adult issues. However, in the final analysis, those times give way to a deep understanding that the fruits of our experience at Mater Dei Catholic will bear themselves fully in the hopes and dreams for the future as well as the warm memories that we carry from our past. It has been a blessing for me to share these four years with the students that have become the Class of 11. You should all look back in pride at what you have left behind. The traditions that will be carried on by countless Crusaders that follow you are the legacy that you have established. As a final lesson, that is not a bad outlook to carry with you into your life beyond Mater Dei Catholic. We will continue to pray Mary Mother of God, will Lead you to her Son Jesus! God Bless you all,

BOARD OF DI RECTORS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Rev. Peter McGuine (Chair) Rev. Peter Escalante Sr. Maria Paz Uribe Mr. Steven Boudreau, Esq. Ms. Linda Bugelli Mr. Gordon Day 74 Mr. Tom Finch 82 Mr. Wade McKnight Mr. Rene Olivo Mr. Edward Spriggs Mr. Thomas Clayton Beecher, Ex-Officio Mr. George Milke, Ex-Officio

The Crusader Connection is published two times per year by Mater Dei Catholic High School. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of this publication. Please accept our apologies for any errors or omissions and report them to John Rey at (619) 621-5705 or jrey@materdeicatholic.org. Director of Publications: John Rey Graphic Design/Photography: Nicole Limoges Printer: Kings Printing A special thank you to those who took the extra time to write/proof the articles.

Thomas Clayton Beecher President 3

MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

50

CELEBRATE

YEARS TO

What a way to finish off the 50th Anniversary year with over 250 alumni, parents and friends of Marian/Mater

the Fabulous 50th Anniversary Bash. A great party with Dei Catholic in attendance. The current faculty hosted food and beverages. It was a great evening for alumni and friends to get together and in many cases, classes

held mini reunions that evening. Music was provided The Shamrockers (Terry Daly 68) and The Brokenhearts (Raymond Wood 67) dueled it out. As the mu-

by DJ, Eddie Gates 80 and Crusader Alumni bands,

sic played, as the guests danced the night away next to Fatima Court at Mater Dei Catholic High School. A special thanks to the committee members who made 73 was the chair for the evenings event. She was asRaymond Wood 67, Adele Delgado 67, Patti Warner Thelin 72 Jeanine Murphy Milke 73, Chuck Wright

the evening such a success. Barbara Drossell McKnight sisted by her committee members, Patty Prescott 67,

74, Brenda Shaw 74, Allen Gates 77, Ali Carranza 89 and the MDCHS Parent Association President, Lorraine Allingham, mother of Thomas Allingham 11.

CRUSADER CONNECTION

CELEBRATING

50

YEARS TOGETHER

MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

2010-2011
HERITAGE DONORS
Aramark Steven & Sue Boudreau City of Chula Vista Public Library LaRiviere Scholarship Fund Maria & John Roberts Stephen & Mary Birch Foundation, Inc. Ron & Betsy Vernetti Jeffrey & Lorrilee Weller

Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum Scholarship Fund Statement of Activity

Scholarship Fund Balance:
as of 7/1/2010

$126,304

Donations:
from 7/1/2010 6/30/2011

$ 47,708

Interest Earned:
BLUE & GOLD CLUB
Leopaldo & Ana Alcantara Cresencia & Alberto Angeles Anamaria & Jim Anthony Jorge & Laura Arredondo Jody Balestrieri Manuel Banales Janssen & Kimberly Barber Earl & Clarina Brandon Lucila & Juan Briz Richard & Mary Cain Helen Callow Diane & David Canedo Ramiro & Maria-Amelia Cardenas Pedro & Idalia Dabdoub Drew Auto Center Robert & Estela Egger Cesareo & Jacqueline Fernandez Thomas 82 & Andrea Finch Michael 74 & Renee Finch Carlos & Marisol Gomez Goodrich, Rohr Employees WillShare Club Charity Fund Miguel & Maria Granados Donald & Celia Henely Instant Mexico Auto Insurance Ruth Judge KOHLS Lane & Gaby Litke Victor & Theresa Lopez Mainly Mozart, Inc. Ignacio & Sheila Martinez Barbara 73 & Wade McKnight Arturo & Maricela Murillo Nelnet Business Solutions, Inc (FACTS)

$ 5,740 ($10,000)

Distributions:
as of 6/30/2011

Scholarship Fund Balance:

$169,752

The Annual Report 2010-2011

PRESIDENTS SOCIETY
Thomas C. Beecher Richard & Patricia Chavez Church of St. Theresa of the Infant Jesus Peter & Mary Ellen Ferrantelli Carole Finch William & Elizabeth Gerken James & Katherine Gillcrist Cesar & Rosa Jimenez David Kassebaum Kings Printing Emil & Rose Krejci William & Teressa Lyons Patricia McGregor George & Virginia Milke Walter & Maxine Otte Gilberto & Eneeth Robles Sue Mills Inc. Sylvia Torrez Toyota Chula Vista Wells Fargo Foundation - Educational Matching Gift Program YMNET

Francisco & Lorena Palacio Teresa A. Pappas 73 Mario & Elsa Quintero Araceli Rivera David & Sandra Rodriguez Jean M. Rubano Dennis & Fay Ryan Mike & Boushra Salem Viola Sanchez 81 Robert & Terri Sartor Chris Schnitzius Jorge & Maria Septien Gregory & Dorothy Smyth Robert Swan The Immaculata Parish Robert J. Trierweiler 71 Romualdo & Carmelita Uy Roy & Mary Vasquez Ramon & Adriana Vazquez Michael & Kellie Vogt Debbie A. Waynick Dulce R. Yarza

CRUSADER CONNECTION

CRUSADER CLUB

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

Juana & Horacio Aquilar Michael Islas Jerry Judge Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum Fr. Earl LaRiviere Thomas W. Otte John Pappas Katherine Rubano
MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

The Annual Report 2010-2011

7

Eugene & Margarita Adam Anonymous Jim Algert Fidel & Imelda Almazan Walter & Jolene Andersen Harold & Monica Andreoli Veronica 72 & Jeffrey Andreoli Jonathan & Nancy Atkinson Michael & Anita Barletta Cynthia Barman Ivan & Blanca Barrera Thomas Beecher Rafaela Belanich Blackies Trophies and Awards Arturo & Carmen Blancas Steven & Rosemary Brodbeck Rebecca & Kevin Brown Linda Bugelli Carolene Cabrera Virginia Calero-Velazquez California Candids/ Classic Photography Arthur Calvert Sr Jessie & Robin Campbell Michael & Wendy Carey Joseph & Eileen Carton Gerarda 82 & Marbel Castaneda Arturo & Eva Cesena Margaret & Salvatore Chiappe Barbara Christopher Karen Chudy 68 Class of 1989 James Cooney Corpus Christi Catholic Parish Richard & Mary Cota Terrence Daly 68 Gordon 74 & Terri Day Jorge & Ilse De La Garza Jesus & Flor Delgadillo Lidio & Regina Fernandes Carlos & Sandra Gage Salvador & Maribel Garcia Frank Garcia

Bienvenido & Sheila Go Martha Gracia Christina & Gerardo Guevara Evelito & Rosemarie Guzman Marie Hamilton Enrique & Berenice Hawley Margarita Hernandez Rosalia Hernandez Blanca Herrera Jon & Denise Highum Nancy L. Hittner Mary Hunt Jeffrey Isaacs Jesus & Sonia Jaquez Jesuit Community of San Diego Carlos & Mary Jimenez Danny & Shelley Kaiser James & Michele Kelley Robert Klee 81 Elizabeth La Costa Nita H. Largoza Jeffery & Mary Lewis David & Elisa Licht Michael Logue Richard & Monica Macie John & Madelin McAuslan Mel & Teresa McBroome Rev. Peter McGuine Sergio & Lydia Medina Pedro & Olga Mendoza Rev. Msgr. Dennis Mikulanis George & Jeanne Milke II Darren & Dolores Newell Marcus & Laura Nunez Terry Nolen-Rose Jose & Angelica Olazabal Terry & Lisa ORourke Paul & Corazon Ortiz Anthony & Christine Papapietro Mary C. Pappagianis 72 Benedicto & Ana Paradela Justo & Stella Pardo Francisco 79 & Diana 80 Paredes Richard & Joy Parrella Eduardo Pedrero

Gerardo & Silvia Pedroza Oscar & Silvia Perez Mary L. Petito 87 Harris Quesnell 64 Charles & Michelle Ratcliff RCP Block & Brick, Inc. Edward & Elizabeth Reidy Gary Reneau 73 John Rey Hugo Roji 88 Adalberto & Gloria Robles Ignacio & Sandra Romo Alfredo & Maria Ruiz Joshua & Heidi Runyan Ileana E. Salazar Enrique & Maria Salcedo Carla Salvatierra 89 Alan G. Sanford 80 Samuel & Krelia Scaife Arthur & Leslie Schroeder Michael F. Sexton Sister Servants of the Blessed Sacrament Gustavo & Araceli Slovinsky Gregory Smyth 89 St. John of the Cross Parish St. Johns Church and School Frank Stingo Oscar & Guadalupe Suarez Marie Trentacosta Robert & Nancy Trometter Efrain & Lucilla Valdez ValleyCrest Landscaping Maintenance Jose & Kathy Vargas

REVENUE
1% 6% 1% 2% 7% 5%

The Annual Report 2010-2011

78%

TUITION OTHER FEES AUXILIARY SERVICES ATHLETICS DEVELOPMENT & FUNDRAISING INVESTMENTS FACILITIES LEASING TOTAL REVENUE

6,622,563 608,079 141,521 72,171 526,694 62,860 440,700 $ 8,474,587

THE PER STUDENT GAP (@684 STUDENTS) $ 1.819 THE GAP BETWEEN TUITION & FEES INCOME AND TOTAL EXPENSES $ 1,243,945 TUITION & FEES COVER ONLY 85% OF EXPENSES

CRUSADER CONNECTION

EXPENSE
3%

23%

59% 4% 1% 2% 1%

7%

SALARIES & BENEFITS ADMIN/STUDENT/PTG/RECRUITING/MISC. EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS & RESOURCES ATHLETICS AUXILIARY SERVICES DEVELOPMENT PLANT OPERATIONS/MAINTENANCE/RESERVE DEBT REDUCTION TOTAL EXPENSE

4,976,192 580,549 102,602 178,915 100,697 341,172 1,910,502 238,958 $ 8,474,587

230 $915,000 $3,978

STUDENTS APPROVED FOR TUITION ASSISTANCE TOTAL TUITION ASSISTANCE GRANTED AVERAGE PER STUDENT AWARD

MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

The Annual Report 2010-2011

9

Marco & Silvia Villar Carlos & Erika Villegas Michael Wallgren Gary 69 & Carol Youmans Eleanor A. Zizka 65

FRIEND
Cesar & Lorena Acosta Yvette Albee 89 Robert & Meredith Alcock Mary L. Andrews 70 Mike & Kathryn Austin Amy Balelo Joelle Biedenbach Joseph & Gloria Brunner Lily Caesar Alejandra Carranza 89 Benjamin & Martha Castorena Margo Clark Floquet 67 Alejandro 69 & Rebecca Cota Domonic Cruz 98 Edward & Jacqueline De Roche Fran A. Derby Guadalupe Escalante Sergio & Pilar Fourzan Pat Garcia Lilia Garcia-Roe Nancy Gillcrist Martha E. Gomez Martha Gracia Marie Elaine Guilas Robert & Lenore Haack Patrick J. Haggerty Jr. Albert & Lee Halff Thomas & Sally Hardin George Kuzukian James & Mary Lancaster Reinette Levine Patricia Maier Ernesto & Mariela Martinez Agustin & Alejandrina Navarro Martha S. Ostrander Steven 79 & Evette Otte Michael Parisi 70 Lorraine Pimentel 89 John & Mary Rhein Guadalupe Rios Alfredo & Ana Rodriguez Lilly R. Rosa Roselle Rose Jorge Sanchez Taffy Seales Sempra Energy Socorro Sifuentes Sharon K. Smith Rev. Nemesio Sungcad

Miguel & Matilde Tamayo Target James & Leanne Truitt United Way California Capital Region Sergio & Marlene Valenzuela Carlos Varela 89 Roy G. Vasquez Joy & Don Walsh Jalil & Gloria Wehber Peter Wraith 73 Dan & Toddy Yeats

TEE SPONSORS

SPORTS PROGRAM SPONSORS

Jonathon & Nancy Atkinson Blackies Trophies and Awards Barbara Christopher Corpus Christi Catholic Parish Drew Auto Center William & Elizabeth Gerken Instant Mexico Auto Insurance Danny & Shelley Kaiser David Kassebaum Nita H. Largoza Mainly Mozart, Inc. George & Virginia Milke Nelnet Business Solutions, Inc (FACTS) St. Johns Church and School Toyota Chula Vista

ABC Charter Services, LLC Aramark Corpus Christi Parish Richard Cota The Gerken Family Jesuit Community of San Diego JH Cohn LLP Kings Printing The Princell Family RCP Block and Brick Simon Wong Engineering St. John of the Cross Parish St. Rose of Lima Parish Valley Crest Landscaping Betsy & Ron Vernetti YMNET, Inc. In Memory of Bill Youmans, Class of 1960

AUCTION DONATIONS
Bradford Renaissance Portraits Bonita Golf Club Robert Colgrove Jorge Cornejo Eastlake Country Club Carmen & Robert Garcia MDCHS ASB Store Michael Logue Mt. Woodson Golf Club Murder Mystery Cafe Gil Pimentel The Princell Family Princess Pub and Grille Salt Creek Golf Club Seales Family Valley Crest Landscaping

The Annual Report 2010-2011

GOLF TOURNAMENT SPONSORS

Valley Crest Landscape Princell Family Michael Logue Jeff & Marci Guzman

It is with gratitude that we make this years Annual Report public to our parents, alumni and friends. We realize that only through your generosity can we continue to provide an excellent Catholic education for tomorrows leaders. We hope that you will consider to support the students of Mater Dei Catholic High School in the upcoming year through one or more of the following ways: Annual Crusade Crusader Golf Tournament Memorial Brick Program Sports Program Advertisements Planned Giving Scholarship Funds

In thanksgiving...

PLEASE CONSIDER MAKING YOUR 2011-2012 ANNUAL CRUSADE GIFT AND RETURN IT IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.

10

CRUSADER CONNECTION

Garden of Remembrance
always in our hearts
Harold and Virginia Andreoli John G. Appel, Jr. Steve Ashcraft Rev. Msgr. John E. Baer Thomas A. Balestrieri Manuel Banales Charlotte V. Beecher Noli A. Bensan Jack Blakely Stephen Callow Connie and Joe Canedo Joseph A. Canedo Rev. Ben Carrier Alfonso Casillas Henry and Joan Chudy Dulin and Virginia Covey Fred DAcquisto, Sr. Gerardo and Severina De Mesa Dick and Ronnie Drossel Beatrice Mary Dunham Toni Dunham Famous Ray and Loretta Eckes Mary A. Endsley Marvin Finch Jeanette and Bud Gallagher Marty R. Garcia Valentine and Annabel Gerken Alicia Giandoni Manuel and Piedad Gonzalez Tom Harkness 64 Ana Luisa Herrera Ron Hillsbery Barbara J. Hodges Carlos Daniel Jimenez Jerry Judge Rosa Kaloyan Dr. Estelle L. Kassebaum Mr. and Mrs. Louis Kassebaum Teresa Kayachanian Bobby Keyes The Kohrman-Weller Family Ed & Helen Kostelnik Edward F. Kuzukian Rev. Leo Lanphier Rev. Earl W. LaRiviere Christine Marie LaRiviere Thomas Lopez Jon-Jon Luna Pat MacCarthy Marian Class of 1989 Marians Founding Parents 64-66 Joseph F. McGregor Abilio (Abel) Mendes G. G. Moran Jose and Cesarea Moreno Bill and Mary Murphy Very Rev. J. Walsh Murray John W. Novobilsky Thomas Walter Otte 77 Francisco and Elvira Padres Cristina O. Paredes Rev. John Pejza, OSA John R. Perez Thomas Petrone, Jr. Dale Powers Dominic and Helena Pretzie Joe Raef 74 Jose Luis Rivas Marentes Joseph Ruiz Renteria Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Rhein Agustin Rojas Teresa H. Rojas Esperanza C. Rojas Joe L. Rojas Teresita Rojas Hernandez Katherine Ann Rubano Otila Salazar Andy Sanchez Luis Sanchez-Cortez Rommel Schroeder Yarza Mr. and Mrs. Fred Schweihofer Wilfred and Amelia Searcy Sisters of Mercy Mary P. Slovinsky-Roche John Sully Sullivan Luis Jorge Tere Buster and Mildred Lee Thrasher James P. Tollefson Sabel Tolosa Pete Torrez Rose Torrez Leon Tuttle Victims of Abortion Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Westrick, Sr. Belen D. Yap Leonardo D. Yap

How to give

On August 27, 2011, a Memorial Mass was held in Marian Chapel on the campus of Mater Dei Catholic High School to commemorate the loss of loved ones. An installation of Memorial Bricks has been placed behind the Marian Chapel. The Memorial Brick Program has become a popular way for our donors to support the mission of our school. All donations of $400 or more to the Annual Crusade will be eligible to participate in the Memorial Brick Program. One way to participate in the Memorial Brick Program is by making a pledge of $20/month for 20 months. We hope it will be a meaningful way for our community to gather in prayer each year to remember someone that has influenced their lives. Please feel free to contact John Rey, CPA with any questions at (619) 621-5705 or at jrey@materdeicatholic.org. Thank you for your continued support of Mater Dei Catholic High School.

MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

The Annual Report 2010-2011

11

CongratulationsClass of 2011

The 2011 Bacclaureate Mass was held in the Immaculata Church on the University of San Diego campus, Thursday, June 9.

12

CRUSADER CONNECTION

COMMENCEMENT

Mrs. Claudia Skaggs Luttrell

Claudia S. Luttrell is President of the Skaggs Foundation for Research as well as the Skaggs Institute for Research. A native of Salt Lake City she is a graduate of the University of Utah, as well as founder and former CEO of Meadowlands Veterinary Hospital. An accomplished equestrian, she is the holder of two U S National titles. Mrs. Luttrell is active on numerous boards including the Grants Committee of The Alsam Foundation, the University of Utah Hospital Board of Trustees and College of Pharmacy Advisory Council, as well as The Roman Catholic and Community Charities in the Diocese of Salt Lake City. In addition she serves on the National Advisory Council and the Educational Resource Development Council for Health Sciences at the University of Utah. Mrs. Luttrell has been the recipient of two Honorary Doctorates, one from The Scripps Research Institute here in LaJolla and the second from the University of Utah. She is also the proud mother of two wonderful children, Jenny and Dallas.

A few years ago, Mrs. Luttrell spoke on behalf of her parents, Sam and Aline Skaggs, at the celebratory opening of Mater Dei. While they were unable to be at this years graduation, they share with the students their excitement and pride in educational accomplishment, which is exactly why they built Mater Dei. Mrs. Luttrells father started in business at a very young age, by sweeping floors in his fathers store in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah. At the age of 26, Mr. Skaggs stepped forward to run the 8 stores left to him. Before his retirement in 1995, he took those 8 stores, and turned them into the third largest food and drug store chain worldwide, with stores all across the U.S. While the list of her fathers accomplishments is extensive, so is his record of quiet philanthropy towards many causes that span the globe, touching the lives of so many people. From medical research and pharmacy schools to help prevent and cure disease; to safe housing and relief services for the poor and disadvantaged; to educational opportunities via schools and scholarships, like Mater Dei and sister school, Juan Diego. The importance of education is foun-

dational. It opens the mind, bridges understanding and creates unending possibilities. It is our hope that your experiences at Mater Dei have enriched the students, both educationally and spiritually, and will continue to springboard educational pursuits and a recognition of the difference you can make not only in your life, but in the lives of so many others. As she spoke, Mrs. Luttrell told the students to have passion for life, love, learning, and what you choose to do. To shape change and be involved. Experience the world, and open your heart and mind to the richness of its diversity. View yourself as a caretaker to the environment and the sciences. And as a caregiver, demonstrate compassionate understanding, and never, never lose sight of humanity. have purpose in what you do, why you do it, and how you do it. Care to make a difference in the lives of others, those that love you and those that depend on you. Stand up for yourself and your convictions. Let your voice be heard, and be the voice of those that cannot speak. Believe in yourself, and in others. Chase your dreams with conviction. Worry about the future but embrace and live in the present.
13

MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

L o o k i n g

t o

t h e

f u t u r e

Jessica Baumgardner

UC Santa Barbara UC Santa Barbara

Jessica will attend UC Santa Barbara and will major in psychology and sociology. She woud like to be a clinical psychologist that specializes in teenagers and young adults. Jessica would eventually like to open up her own practice or become a criminal profiler for law enforcement. Jessica was a member of the volleyball, basketball and track teams. She was an active member of the Ambassador for Christ Corps and was on the Commission of Publicity for ASB.

Claudio Gage

UCSD UCSD

Jessica said she will miss two things. The first is how tight-knit the community of the student population and the second is how nice the teachers are to the students. The teachers cared about my success and took the time to get to know me as a person. She felt as though her classes taught her the importance of putting Christ first and by doing this, she developed a strong sense of justice. She feels at peace helping people with their problems and plans on using her talents to help people. Ariel will be attending the University of San Diego where she received $20,000 per year in scholarships. She will study business administration and would like to attend culinary school. Her dream is to someday open her own pastry shop. Ariel participated in Drama, was a member of Yearbook, Campus Ministry, Ambassador for Christ Corps and Steel Drum Band. Ariel said she will miss the family like atmosphere most which was created by the close relationships amongst teachers and students.

Claudio Gage will attend Earl Warren College at UCSD. He plans to study Human Biology and would like to become a doctor or study health administration. Claudio was a member of the Water Polo, Wrestling and Swimming Teams. He was a member of Hispanic and Ecology Club and was also an Ambassador for Christ. A few things Claudio will miss about Mater Dei are the happy welcomes of Bob and the strong and great relationships with classmates and faculty. Before Mater Dei, Claudio said he had never received a Catholic Education. His experience at Mater Dei has changed him and made his faith grow in every area. Mater Dei has helped him realize that God places an essential and positive influence in every aspect of your life. Recognition of this can help you achieve your potential as a Catholic.
CRUSADER CONNECTION

University of San Diego

Ariel believes that Mater Dei helped her to become a stronger Catholic and helped her to regain her faith. She feels her stronger hold on her faith will help guide her in future decisions and lead her in the right direction.
14

Ariel Cabrera

letting your voice be heard

University of Alabama University of Alabama

Michael is attending University of Alabama on a full room, board and tuition scholarship worth approximately $130,000K. He plans to major in Aerospace Engineering and minor in Computer Science. Michael would like to build something that can fly so he hopes to possibly work for Boeing or NASA. He was a member of the Varsity Baseball Team for 3 years and was in the guitar club. Michael said he will miss his teachers and classmates. Everyone at Mater Dei is so genuine. So many great people. He feels he has learned how his faith applied to every part of his life in practical ways. Michael has also learned how faith can guide him through tough times.

Michael Carton

Samantha Baxley

SDSU SDSU Andrew Thein

Andrew will attend San Diego State and plans to study physics. He would like to become an anesthesiologist or pediatrician in the future. Andrew was a member of the swim team, water polo team, drama club, ecology club and an Eagle Scout. Andrew says he will miss the sense of community and the caring teachers. He feels that Mater Dei strengthened his relationship with God through classes, retreats and service.
MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

UC Davis
Samantha will attend UC Davis where she will study Biomedical Sciences. She hopes to pursue a career as a trauma physician and possibly join Doctors Without Borders or Red Cross. She was a member of the Science Academy and the Cinematography club. Sam says she will miss her friends and the teachers most as she goes off to college. She feels that Mater Dei has taught her that although God does love us and takes care of us, we also must take the initative to take care of ourselves. The strong foundation in faith that she gained at Mater Dei will help her to remain trustful in God throughout her life.
15

D e m o n s t r a t i n g

i n t e g r i t y

USF Allison Castaneda

Allison is attending USF with a $9,000 scholarship. She was also accepted to USD, Cal State Long Beach and SDSU. Allison is undecided in her major but would like to study something in science. Allison has been involved as a dancer for 10 years and plans to continue dancing in college. She was also a member of ASB, CSF, NHS and an Ambassador for Christ. When asked what she will miss about Mater Dei, she said she will miss not seeing friends and teachers every day. Although change is hard, Mater Dei has taught her to trust in God, especially during tough times.

Nick Day

Valeria Cardenas

Nick will attend USD where he received the USD Grant and Science Academy Partnership Scholarship. He will study Biology and Environmental Science with hopes to work in the biotech industry or in sustainable forest management. He is also interested in a forensic sciences career. Nick was the ASB Executive president his senior year, but also involved in the Ambassador for Christ Corps, Wrestling and the Science Academy. Nick had an internship at USD in the Science Department during summer his junior year. When asked what he will miss about Mater Dei, he said he will miss the community and family feel among teachers and students. His faith has made him a stronger, independent, determined and driven individual. Knowing that he can put all things in Gods hands and let Him control the consequence has allowed him to entrust things to Him. Valeria will attend Marquette University and plans to double major in Theology and Athletic Training. She hopes to become a physical therapist and also work as a youth minister. Valeria was a member of Ambassador for Christ Corps, Campus ministry, Track & Field, Cross Country and JV soccer. Valeria will miss the people most at Mater Dei. Teachers such as Mr. Wraith and Ms. Ditommaso became role models. The people on campus made me want to come to school every day. Mater Dei became my family. She feels that Mater Dei made her a strong person and prepared her for everything because of the strong faith life here. Mater Dei has taught me that God is always beside me in whatever I do.
CRUSADER CONNECTION

USD

Marquette University University

16

b e l i e v e

i n

y o u r s e l f

Raul Silva-Martinez

UC Irvine UC Irvine

Raul is attending University of California Irvine and will explore the Health Professions and Medical Field. He was a member of the varsity baseball team for all 4 years, played basketball for 3 years and an Ambassador for Christ Corps. Raul will miss wonderful people at Mater Dei who have pushed him to see the beauty within himself and who have helped him to realize his potential. He feels that Mater Dei has given him the invaluable vision and faith to understand that no matter where he goes in life or what he does, God is always with him.

Sarah Papapietro
Sarah is attending the University of New England and will study Athletic Training. She would like to eventually go into Sports Medicine and become a surgeon with her own practice. Sarah was a member of Cross Country and Soccer teams for 4 years, Track for 2 years, an Ambassador for Christ Corps member, involved in ASB and a Eucharistic Minister. Sarah will miss teachers, cookies in the cafeteria and structure of high school. She feels that the retreats and religion teachers have helped her to grow in her faith. She has been taught that faith is who she is and how she plans to live her life.

University of New England

Chris will attend UCSD and will study Molecular Biology as he prepares for Pre-Med Program. He would also like to find time to take journalism and philosophy courses. Chris hopes to be a Pediatric Oncologist. He was a member of the Science Academy, founder of cinematography club and participated in various graphic design elements of yearbook. Chris will miss the overwhelming ease of conversation and open attitude between teachers and students at Mater Dei. He feels this school has shown him the good that can be accomplished by placing faith in God and humanity.
17

Chris Weller

SDSU

MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

Chase your dreams with conviction

Christine Hillmann

Belmont University
Christine attends Belmont University in Nashville. She will study music business and would like to become a major label country recording artist. Her biggest goal is to be inducted into the Grand Ole Opry. Eventually, Christine would love to be able to open her own record label to help other aspiring musicians reach their goals, the same way she is trying to reach hers. Christine was an Executive Ambassador for her senior year and was a member of Campus ministry, cheerleading, NHS and CSF. Outside of Mater Dei, Christine has recorded two EPs of original music and has performed at country venues around San Diego County. Christine said she will miss her friends and teachers when she leaves Mater Dei. They have become like a family to her. During her time at Mater Dei, Christine has been able to watch her faith grow. One of the biggest things that she will take away from high school is that she was able to live out her faith with like-minded people who allowed her to blossom.

Maria Isabel Stonehouse

Cornell University
Maria will attend Cornell University on a partial scholarship. She will study urban planning and is undecided at this point on what direction she would like to go with her major. Isabel was a member of the Science Academy, Ambassador for Christ Corps and Campus Ministry. She also played volleyball, basketball, water polo and was a swimmer. Isabel said she will miss the community and the support that she received while at Mater Dei. She will miss all of the people and the memories made here. Isabel feels her faith has grown and been enforced as a result of the religion class opportunities to receive sacraments and the retreats.
18

UCSD Diego Galan Hoffman

Diego is attending UCSD where he will study Biomedical Engineering in hopes to become a doctor or engineer someday. He played Tennis and Soccer and was part of state champion Soccer team during his sophomore year. He was also an Ambassador for Christ Corps, campus minister and senior class Vice president. When asked what he will miss the most at Mater Dei, he said all of his friends and family-like atmosphere at MDCHS. Mater Dei helped him to practice in his daily life what he was learning in his faith classes.
CRUSADER CONNECTION

t h e

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS NIGHT

Last Spring, Mater Deis more artistic side took its opportunity to shine in the limelight during the Third Annual Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Night. VAPA Night is a student run event that is a culmination of the hard work of over 350 of our more creative Crusaders. As parents and arts enthusiasts entered the lobby turned gallery, they were greeted by student Ambassadors and shown into the theatre. With students performing in dance, guitar, drama, and choir, the love of the arts at Mater Dei was palpable. These young Crusaders brought down the house. The show was MCd by Mater Dei seniors, Gabriel Ramirez and Jessica Baumgardner whose witty commentary throughout the night kept the full house on their toes! Immediately after the performances, everyone flooded back out into the lobby, which had been transformed into a gallery space that held over 400 works from Art, Ceramics and Graphic Design. As parents and friends looked at the works, they were invited to enjoy light refreshments provided by the students while spending time in the gallery with VAPA teachers and students who were on hand to talk about the exciting things happening in the Arts at Mater Dei. Events like VAPA Night truly show the buy-in that our students and parents have. This event was set up and run by students from the first piece of artwork that was hung to the last light that was turned off that night with teachers on hand strictly as facilitators. Arts programs, such as the one at Mater Dei, create a deep and meaningful appreciation for the Arts not just at the high school level, but as our young adults venture out into society as well. We hope to see you this spring at the Fourth Annual VAPA Night so that you can be a part of the arts at Mater Dei Catholic!

t h i r d

a n n u a l

MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

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2011BACK TO BACK CIF SOFTBALL

CHAMPIONS

Last years Crusader team was clearly touched by an angel as it dedicated its season to the late Estelle Kassebaum, a longtime Principal/President at the school, and came through with a CIF championship. A similar scenario played out to the same conclusion this year as the team dedicated its season to the memory of assistant coach Perry Burgess, who died of a heart attack less than a month into the current season. We played that same afternoon, MDC coach Mike Centrullo said. Understandably, it was very difficult. This team has endured a lot this season, MDC athletic director Nicki Limoges said. The girls had a bucket made in honor of Perry, where he would have sat during the games. Also, on their home dugout, they have some flowers hanging on the fence next to his name. Perry was part of their family and the team dedicated this season to him. I know they all believed he helped them come together as a team and win the CIF championship. Mater Dei smashed sixth-seeded Del Norte, 10-0, in a five-inning run-rule game as the opening round of double-elimination play commenced on May 20. The Crusaders took it on the chin with a 10-0 run-rule loss to second-seeded Palo Verde Valley in the second round on May 21 but rebounded with four consecutive victories. Mater Dei downed fourth-seeded Francis Parker, 11-1, in a six-inning elimination game on May 24 to advance to the challenger bracket semifinal contest against fifth-seeded Valley Center on May 26. The Crusaders held on to edge the Jaguars, 9-8, to gain a rematch against Palo Verde in the evenings challenger bracket final. Mater Deis ensuing 6-3 win over Palo Verde catapulted the Chula Vista private school to the Division IV championship game. In reaching last years title contest, the Crusaders also defeated Palo Verde to get there. This year, Mater Dei met up against Madison, undefeated in 28 previous games on the season and at one point early on challenging the Barons for the coveted top section ranking. The Crusaders appeared to collectively say no problem, and seized the momentum when it mattered most. The Warhawks promptly pushed across three runs in the bottom of the first inning. Mater Dei tied the game with three runs of its own in the top of the third inning but Madison went back in front by a 6-3 score on the strength of a three-run uprising in the fifth inning. Trailing by three runs with three outs apparently remaining in their season, the Crusaders made one last stand. Skania Lemus delivered a RBI-single to help ignite the late inning rally after doubling in two runners earlier in the contest. Mikayla Conlin stroked two doubles and drove in two runs for Mater Dei, which made a winner out of Lopez-Portillo (13-4).
20 CRUSADER CONNECTION

WOMENS BASKETBALL

2010-2011

LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

The Mater Dei Catholic girls basketball team won the Mesa League title for the 3rd year in row. This continues their undefeated league play with a 30-0 record over the past three seasons. The girls team is tough to beat at home and currently have not lost a game in our home gym since Mater Dei Catholic opened 4

years ago. The team is built of young talent and only

lost one senior last season, Ocean Escalante. The Lady Crusaders won 19 games last year and fought a tough The Crusaders continue to play in very competitive battle with their final loss in the semi-final CIF game. tournaments out of the area and will face an even more competitive schedule this 2011-2012 season. Four girls received First Team All-League Honors last season. They are Sophomore Alexandria Young, Junior CardKandiss Barber.

edra Evans, Sophomore Brittani Lusain and Freshman

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To theCrusaders
Dear fellow Crusaders,

ALUMNI NEWS

What a great year to have been a Crusader. Fifty years of Crusader traditions were celebrated this past school year beginning in August 2010 with the Annual Memorial Mass and Blessing of the Pavers, then the Crusader Sports Hall of Fame Induction, Homecoming, Alumni Valentines Mass, the first Distinguished Crusader Award Ceremony and the grand finale was the Fabulous 50th Anniversary Bash in May 2011. I hope many of you were be able to attend some of these events. Another school year has started and the Crusader Alumni Association was able to provide scholarship help to six incoming students who are parents of Crusader Alumni: Yessenia Lugo (Ocean View Hills School) daughter of Sylvia Zuniga Lugo 79 Joshua Strauss (St. Didacus) son of Judith Garcia Strauss 81 Stephen Strauss (St. Didacus) son of Judith Garcia Strauss 81 Ricardo Alonzo Sanchez (Our Lady of Mt. Carmel) son of Azalea Banuelos Sanchez 82 Kristen Castaneda (St. Michael Academy) daughter of Gerarda Castaneda 82 Luis Cacho II (Chula Vista Learning Community Charter School) son of Luis Alejandro Cacho 86 It is only because of your generosity as Crusader Alumni that we are able to help with alumni scholarships to MDCHS. Please think about making a donation to the Crusader Alumni Association. You can make an online donation by going to the school web site. Homecoming is just around the corner with the 35th Annual Crusader Golf Tournament on Sunday, October 16 at Bonita Golf Course kicking off homecoming week. All alumni are invited to attend the Homecoming Week Mass on Wednesday, October 19 at 9:30 AM. On Thursday, October 21 the 4th class of inductees will be inducted into the Crusader Sports Hall of Fame. This years class of inductees into the Crusader Sports Hall of Fame are: Individuals: Bill Youmans 65, Robin Krall 79, Art Calvert 81, Sean Loomer 82, Alisa Eischen 83 and Team: 1988 Football Team 1st CIF Champion Football Team at Marian. The next night is homecoming and the Crusaders will take on Southwest High School at 7 PM followed by the annual Crusader Alumni Party in the gym. I hope many of you will be able to make some, if not all, of these homecoming week events. More info on each of these events is available on the school web site at www.materdeicatholic.org. The Alumni Association is here to support Crusader Alumni. If you would like to become more involved or have suggestions for the Alumni Association, please let me know. If youd like more information about the Crusader Alumni Association events and activities, please visit the MDCHS web site. You can also get information via our Marian and Mater Dei Crusaders Alumni Association page on Facebook. Its a great time to become involved and continue the Crusader tradition. Truly yours, Carlos Varela 89 President, Crusader Alumni Association

Crusader Alumni Calendar

35th Annual Crusader Golf Tournament
Sunday, Oct 16, 2011 at 1:15 PM Shotgun start at Bonita Golf Club. Four person best ball scramble format

Crusader Sports Hall of Fame Induction

Thursday, Oct 20, 2011 at 6:30 PM in the foyer of the Bosco Center.

Homecoming 2011
Friday, October 21, 2011 at 7:00 PM Football vs. Southwest High School followed by Alumni Post game party in the gym

Homecoming Week Mass for Alumni/Student Body

Wednesday, Oct 19, 2011 at 9:30 AM in the Bosco Center Gym.

Distinguished Crusader Award Presentation

Friday, March 16, 2012 at 6:30 PM in the foyer of the DePaul Center.

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CRUSADER CONNECTION

Distinguished Crusader
On Friday, March 25 in the DePaul Center at MDCHS the first recipients were presented with the Distinguished Crusader Award. This award is given to those individuals, both alumni and others who have demonstrated exceptional service to their faith, community and alma mater. The 2011 awardees were: Harris Quesnell, Crusader Class of 1964, retired Research Faculty from George Mason University who was involved in some of the leading edge protocols in the area of telecommunications. Harris has been an active supporter of Marian and Mater Dei Catholic High School. Sister Suzanne Soppe, Crusader Class of 1966, a Religious Sister of the Order of Sisters of Mercy. She has dedicated her life to our Lord through her service in both the secondary education and health education field. Fr. Robert Brocato, Crusader Class of 1969, is a diocesan priest in the Diocese of San Jose and is currently working in the Diocese of Montego Bay in Jamaica as part of a missionary collaboration with the Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers. Fr. Bobs mother, Florance Leighter and his brother Barry received the award in Fr. Bobs honor.

Award Induction
Judge Jesus Rodriguez, Crusader Class of 1969, has been a strong supporter of Marian and Mater Dei Catholic High School having served as the School Board president for many years and having sent two of his children to Marian. He served as the senior judge in the South Bay Court in San Diego and is now the Assistant District Attorney for the County of San Diego. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Egger, Sr., who without their foresight and love and dedication to their faith and beliefs, Marian Catholic High School would have never been built. They donated the land were Marian was built as well as the land where St. Charles Parish stands and the Egger Community Park. Their land donations became what are now known in the South Bay community as Egger Highlands. Walter and Marianne Egger, the son and daughter-in-law of the senior Eggers accepted the award on their behalf.

MATER DEI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

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Mater Dei Catholic High School 1615 Mater Dei Drive Chula Vista, CA 91913 Phone 619.423.2121 www.materdeicatholic.org

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID San Diego, CA Permit No. 751

Admissions Calendar
RSVPs are required for all of the following events. Please contact Roy Vasquez in the Admissions Office at (619) 423-2121 ext 106 or email rvasquez@materdeicatholic.org

8th Grade Visitation Day 1

Tuesday, September 27, 2011 9:00 am - 11:45 am Prospective 8th Grade Students Begins and ends in the Lima Center - Lunch included

Open House #1

Saturday, October 15, 2011 10:00 am - 12 Noon in the Lima Center All prospective families welcome

8th Grade Visitation Day 2

Open House #2

Tuesday, October 4, 2011 9:00 am - 11:45 am Prospective 8th Grade Students Begins and ends in the Lima Center - Lunch included

Saturday, January 7, 2012 10:00 am - 12 Noon in the Lima Center All prospective families welcome

8th Grade Visitation Day 3

Prospective Parent Information Night

Wednesday, January 18, 2012 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm in the Lima Center All prospective families welcome

Thursday, October 25, 2011 9:00 am - 11:45 am Prospective 8th Grade Students Begins and ends in the Lima Center - Lunch included

High School Placement Test

Saturday, January 21, 2012 7:45 am - 11:30 am Test and Application Fee $50

8th Grade Visitation Day 4

Tuesday, November 8, 2011 9:00 am - 11:45 am Prospective 8th Grade Students Begins and ends in the Lima Center - Lunch included

Freshmen Interview Night

Thursday, February 2, 2012 4:30 pm - 8:00 pm in the De Paul Center