is published twice a year by: Ramona Convent Secondary School. 1701 W. Ramona Road Alhambra, California 91803 (626) 282-4151 (626) 281-0797 (fax) www.ramonaconvent.org
In an effort to reduce printing and mailing costs, we have eliminated the multiple copies of magazine mailed to each household. Please contact the Alumnae Office at 626-282-4151 ext. 135 if you would like to receive an extra copy or if you would prefer to receive your copy electronically.
Standard of Accuracy
We are committed to providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date information in all of our publications. However, unintentional errors may appear. As a result, we ask you to contact the Alumnae Office at 626-282-4151 ext. 135 in the event that there are any factual errors. We will correct these errors in the next publication. We appreciate the interests and concerns of our readers and welcome any assistance toward achieving our goals.
Ramona Convent is a welcoming Catholic college-preparatory high school for young women sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary and committed to excellence in education. Ramona’s graduates are empowered, resilient, socially conscious leaders well prepared to meet the challenges of life as contributive members of the global community.
A Ramona Graduate is a
A Woman of Faith
A Critical Thinker
An Effective Communicator
A Confident Leader
A Creative Problem Solver
Committed to Personal Growth
FULL DEVELOPMENT OF THE HUMAN PERSON
Cultivating and respecting the talents, abilities, and potential of each person, contributing to the development of all aspects of a person’s life.
EDUCATION IN THE FAITH
Creating an atmosphere that invites people to live, develop, and express their faith.
HOSPITALITY
Being a gracious, accepting, and welcoming presence for each person.
DEDICATION TO WOMEN AND CHILDREN
Seeing, understanding, and responding to the needs of women and children.
DEDICATION TO JUSTICE
Committing time, energy, and resources to the pursuit of right relationships of equality, justice, and solidarity.
SERVICE TO PEOPLE WHO ARE POOR OR MARGINALIZED
Reaching out and responding to people who are impoverished, abandoned, or living at the fringes of society.
COMMITMENT TO LIBERATING ACTION
Seeking with others the freedom needed to live life fully without oppression
LOVE FOR THE NAMES OF JESUS AND MARY
Embracing as guide, inspiration, and strength the persons and names of Jesus and Mary.
A Message from the President
Dear Friends,
“Since we tread along the same path, let us reach out a hand and help one another.”
(Blessed Marie Rose Durocher)
Around Ramona, we hear this quotation almost daily. Last fall, when hosting a group of potential students, I was pleased to hear one of our juniors quote it quite naturally, responding to a question about what help the girls receive if they are having difficulty in a class. After talking about teachers, study sessions and office hours, she said that the girls turn to each other: “Just as Blessed Marie Rose said: “Let us reach out a hand to help one another.” Lesson well learned!
Many are the examples of the girls reaching out to help their classmates through our Tiger Tutors or simply working together to finish a project. Their outreach does not stop here – our Book Buddies club reads to elementary school children, others tutor at elementary schools, while some of our athletes help coach younger children’s sports teams. This only scratches the surface of the many programs today’s students are engaged in locally and globally. They are absorbing and living out our SNJM charism and core values; they have daily reminders as they drive onto campus and see the banners aligning the driveway.
Our SNJM mission is becoming their mission and we invite you into our mission, too. We are justifiably proud of the work our Sisters and lay partners are doing here at Ramona and today, as always, we invite you to participate in our vision – for it is beyond those of us who are here daily. I invite you to continue to invest in our work. Thanks to your generosity this year, 167 young women are attending Ramona with tuition assistance; this translates to $1.4 million. Adding what has been awarded to the incoming Class of 2028 to the tuition assistance our current students have, we project the same need for next year. While foundations provide us with about 30% of these funds, the rest comes from generous individuals primarily you, our alums and alum parents. From the early days of our foundation, the Sisters of the Holy Names have worked to make a quality Catholic education available to the young women in the areas where our schools are located. Your support will continue to make this possible at Ramona. Please don’t disappoint a Tiger!
Sincerely,
Sister Kathleen Callaway, SNJM President
Patty Lepe ‘79 Chair
Arthur Dominguez Vice Chair
Janice Burrill ‘75
Sr. Kathleen Callaway, SNJM
Mary Rose Colonna Caras ‘80
Michelle Del Rio ‘99
Kathleen Garvey
Cynthia Jarvis
Sr. Miriam Malone, SNJM ‘63
Marla Provencio ‘74
Felix Nuñez
Jennifer Siu ‘77
Linda Reilly Swick ‘76
Dennis M. Harley
Tom McKernan
Hon. Patricia Schnegg
Oppenheim ‘70
A Message from the Principal
Dear Ramona Community,
Helping others is a moral obligation and we believe the exploration of a variety of causes can ignite a personal interest among our students. When they are actively introduced to a particular need, it helps the student understand the purpose for service. The spirit of the Sisters of the Holy Names reminds us all that, as a school community, we can promote and foster solidarity among people worldwide. As Principal, I am responsible for standing with my student body and raising awareness about pressing global issues, advocating for human rights, promoting social justice, and supporting marginalized communities. Participation in our Global Solidarity Week (March 25 - March 29, see pages 8 & 9), allowed students to stand with those who are disregarded or oppressed and advocate for a more just, equitable, and sustainable world. It reminds us of the interconnectedness of all people and the importance of working together to address shared global challenges.
Our students participated in a week of service-related events to kick off Global Solidarity: a school-wide blood drive and an understanding of how a blood drive can have a worldwide impact. Our students and staff also had the opportunity to pause and reflect in the Holy Family Room. They deliberated on their sacred self and their impact upon communities they are committed to serving within their daily lives, an activity called Sacred Stillness. A hunger banquet was offered to show solidarity with our SNJM Sisters in Lesotho by purchasing a hunger meal. Students received a bowl of rice and beans, emulating the 1.1 billion people who live on $1 per day and rely on grains and beans as their primary food source. All profits were donated to our Lesotho Drive. Then, there was Service Thursday, where the entire community went away from campus and performed various service acts. Whether going to Dockweiler Beach, L.A. Regional Food Bank, Ronald McDonald House, City of Hope, St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store, or many other locations, it was a day of meaningful purpose, thought, and continuous commitment to service.
Mother Teresa once said, “Love cannot remain by itself — it has no meaning. Love has to be put into action, and that action is service.” I am committed to celebrating all acts of service our student body generates. We must never forget that our acts of service make a difference in an ever-changing world.
Sincerely,
José Alberto Chavarría Principal
Sr. Kathleen Callaway, SNJM President
José Alberto Chavarría Principal
Halina Szymanski Associate Principal for Curriculum and Faculty Development
Elena Margallo Director of Business Office
J-Term Expands Student Horizons
Ramona’s students were excited to return from Winter Break for a new two-week enrichment program called J-Term, which is short for January term. They took a brief pause from traditional coursework to explore topics to which they may have yet to be introduced. Some students traveled to the East Coast on a school-led college tour, visiting the University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, Columbia University, George Washington University, and many other universities. A different group of students took a long weekend to travel to San Francisco for a government simulation conference run exclusively by undergraduates at Harvard College. Some seniors went to work every day as interns at various places like the Metro, dental offices, USC, and a veterinary clinic. Students that remained on campus took classes such as Financial Literacy, Hiking, Cooking, Architecture, Poetry, Arabic, ASL, Music, Dance Conditioning, Flag Football, Robotics, Badminton, and more. The CPR certification course certified over 90 students, and the Survival Skills course even culminated with an overnight backpacking trip of 25 students and three adventurous faculty members! Ramona Faculty and alumnae shared their enthusiasm and expertise in different areas. It was wonderful for our faculty as they could share
George Washington University College Tour
Clockwise from top left: CPR Certification, Architecture, Cooking, Gourmet Lab, and Harvard Model Congress
Spring Musical The Drowsy Chaperone
We are happy to welcome Mrs. Cynthia Cales who comes to Ramona from Alverno Heights Academy. This year she is teaching 9th grade English, directed our Fall play “Lost in Yonkers” and has shared her creativity and boundless energy and expertise with our students as they together bring “The Drowsy Chaperone” to life.
Welcome to the Ramona community! Please tell us a little about yourself.
I grew up in Northern California and attended CSU Sacramento and earned a BA in Theatre Arts. While participating in Sacramento's community theatre, I directed my first shows which were original works by local playwrights. I moved to Chicago in the late 80s to become involved in social and volunteer work in the inner city. I later earned my Masters in Theatre and Dance at Cal State L.A.
What motivated you to work with high school students?
In my 20's, after helping in an after school program, I became interested in teaching theater as a full time job. I have always loved the honesty and energy of teenagers. They keep us young..... well, at least on the inside!
You teach 9th grade English and direct our Fall and Spring productions. How does classroom teaching transition to directing students who will perform in front of an audience?
Some days the transitions are seamless. Along with my wonderful colleague Ms. Clavin, I incorporate speech and performance into my English classes as the students study great literary works, including Shakespeare's plays. The students make it all worth it, whether they are learning in class or performing as a character in the show.
Our spring production is a musical The Drowsy Chaperone. Please tell us about it.
Drowsy pays homage to the epic musicals of the 1920's and 30's and celebrates the fans that love them. Winner of five Tony Awards, including best original score, the musical begins with the Woman in the Chair who puts on her favorite record, a cast recording of a fictitious 1928 musical. The musical comes to life in her New York apartment. Mix in two lovers on the eve of their wedding, a best man, a desperate theatre producer, a not so bright chorus girl, two gangsters posing as pastry chefs, an intoxicated chaperone, an aviatrix and you have the ingredients evening of fun entertainment. Since late January, our students (and two young men from Cathedral High School) have been working diligently after school four days a week to bring this show to life. We hope our production brings joy and laughter to all who come.
Holy Week Activities/Global Solidarity Week
In preparation for Easter, Ramona’s Theology Department initiated a four day series of events that involved the students, entitled Global Solidarity Week.
Monday: Blood Drive - Ramona students and adults donated blood so that others may live and heal.
Tuesday: Sacred Stillness - The Holy Family Room was prepared as a “sacred space” inviting the Ramona community to enjoy a time of stillness and quiet. Our “Sacred Stillness” day was an opportunity to slow down and tune out the “noise” of life that can be a huge distraction.
Wednesday: Witness to Poverty - A Hunger Banquet was part of lunch time and consisted of rice and beans, staple foods to many people in our world. Students were asked to fast from their favorite foods and experience the foods that remind us that many in our world are hungry and starving.
Thursday: Service Thursday - Students and adults left campus on Thursday and traveled to a variety of sites to offer service thereby demonstrating to the students that the impact of helping others can change our hearts. Jesus says, “Whatever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters, you do to me” (Matthew 25:40).
While Ramona has offered Service Thursday for quite a few years to upper classmen, this year all grades were able to participate at off-campus sites.
Freshman
Dockweiler Beach for beach cleanup
Sophomores and Juniors
Various locations:
St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store, Catholic Charities - Brownson House
St. Camillus - Angel Interfaith Network
St. Francis Center
Ronald McDonald House Los Angeles
St. Peter - Order of Malta
City of Hope - Garden of Hope, Catholic Charities - San Juan Diego Center
Student sorted donations, filled hygiene packs, and helped out as needed.
Seniors
LA Regional Food Bank
Students packed boxes of food for the underserved.
We have earned PLATINUM DISTINCTION, which is the highest Honor Roll distinction offered by the College Board. The AP® School Honor Roll recognizes schools that have done outstanding work to welcome more students into AP courses and support them on the path to college success.
The AP® School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness. Ramona has also been recognized with the AP Access Award, which honors schools that encourage more low-income and underprivileged minority students to take AP courses.
Currently, we offer 15 AP courses, including the two-year AP Capstone Diploma program. AP Capstone’s two-course sequence focuses on inquiry, research and writing skills with the foundational class, AP Seminar, and ends with a defended research project in AP Research.
During the 2022-2023 school year, 81% of our seniors took at least one AP exam. 66% of the 81%, scored a three or higher on at least one AP exam. 25% of seniors took five or more AP exams!
Winter and Spring Athletics Updates
The winter season brought many successes for both sports. Soccer and basketball played over 20 games this season and both teams demonstrated how resilient and gifted they are. This year, basketball came in first place in the Santa Fe League with a perfect league record. They played Santa Paula High School in the quarterfinals. It was a close back and forth game and, although it was not the result we wanted, it was a great season. Over the holiday break we hosted our first basketball tournament. It was a great success (we won) and the community enjoyed attending. Soccer finished in 3rd place for the Camino Real League. We went on to play Mark Keppel and lost by a goal. It was 90 minutes of a very exciting game. Both teams are already looking forward to the next season.
Presently in the spring season, softball is currently in 3rd place in the Camino Real League. We moved into a new league this season and the team is making Ramona proud by demonstrating their determination and love for the game. They are hopeful of catching a playoff spot once again this season. Track hit the ground running. With league finals at the end of April, the team is ready to show off all the strength, power, and speed they have gained throughout the season. Swim is currently in 2nd place for the Del Rey League. They are making their strides in the pool and are getting ready for league finals at the end of the month. All spring sports will finish at the end of April and we hope to share news in May of where the teams will be competing for the postseason.
JV Basketball
Softball
Soccer
Varsity Basketball
Swim
Track
Ramona Robotics Wins Imagery Award
On March 15 - 17, 2024, Ramona’s Robotics team completed their highly competitive season at the LA Regional competition. Ramona Rampage played 11 matches against other teams and placed 24th overall out of 60 teams! At the end of the competition, the team won the 2024 Imagery Award through their strong spirit and amazing presentation. The Imagery Award focuses not only on the imagery of the robot, but also the team itself including the following:
The team's emphasis on attractiveness in engineering and remarkable visual aesthetic integration of machine and team appearance.
The team's theme aligned with the FIRST Core Values.
The team's theme was original which was articulated by team representatives.
The team's theme resonated with the objectives, character, and the history of the team.
The Los Angeles Regional is a high-energy, high-tech spectator sporting event where teams, professionals and young people together solve an engineering design problem in an intense and competitive way. We are so proud of what our team accomplished and learned throughout the season!
Earlier in the month, Ramona Rampage competed in the FIRST Robotics Competition in Port Hueneme where they were able to fine
Ramona Welcomes the Class of 2028
On Sunday, February 25th, the Holy Family Room on campus was filled to capacity with future Tigers and their “remarkable women” which included mothers, aunts, sisters, and grandmothers, as guests of our Ramona Ambassadors and their AMAZING moms. After several months of planning the big event, the “Time for Tea with Tigers-to-be” theme was perfectly carried out with beautiful pastel and floral décor embellishing the room. The guests walked through a flower-lined path to a blossoming balloon arch at the entrance.
Table centerpieces were created and set up by tea party committee members. Parents and students arrived early Sunday morning to assemble the delicious menu that consisted of chocolate covered strawberries, biscuits, scones, fresh fruit parfaits, and tea sandwiches. Once the food was ready, a cadre of servers, dressed in black with flower crowns, zipped around the room pouring tea and waiting on guests.
All in attendance also enjoyed a beautiful miniperformance by our Chamber Singers led by Ms. Ruth Ballenger, Music Director. Ramona senior and featured speaker, Kera Chang ’24, spoke eloquently about her love for Ramona as she has “blossomed” through high school. Everyone enjoyed taking a moment to capture the essence of the event in a photo booth provided by Ramona parent Mrs. Jennifer Schweitzer, owner of Jens PartyVibes.
Before guests departed, Mrs. Nathalie Zuletta, Family Alliance Lead, shared a closing reflection about what it means to be part of the Ramona Family and how she’s witnessed her daughters grow into young leaders.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Veronica Puente-Smith '79, Cynthia Vasquez ’82, and Veronica Fernandez '00 for planning and preparing this event along with student ambassadors and their “remarkable” moms. President Sister Kathleen Callaway, Principal Mr. Alberto Chavarria, Associate Principal Mrs. Halina Szymanski, and student and parent volunteers eloquently shared their love for Ramona and helped make this day a huge success!
The excitement that carried over from this event continued to grow until the moment the applicants received their decision letter, golden acceptance tube, and celebratory email. The class of 2028 was welcomed back on Thursday, March 7, for the annual Welcome Night Rose Ceremony. Upon arrival, members of the Admissions and Marketing Team, Administrators, Student & Parent Ambassadors, and Tiger Mascot congratulated
each student with cheers, smiles, and big hugs before each student and their guests headed into our gymnasium. The décor was colorful and joyful, the roses were beautiful, and the personalized cookies created by Ramona alumna Leann Kraft ‘23 were absolutely adorable and delicious, and the positive energy was palpable.
Guests were wowed with special gifts at the door, in particular their own personal Ramona Tiger lawn sign. Ramona Family Alliance and the Ramona Advancement Department had tables full of “Ramona Swag” such as t-shirts, mugs, cups, and more available for purchase. CKW School Uniforms also set up a pop up shop where uniforms, sweatshirts, and additional spirit attire were available for families. Mrs. Veronica Puente-Smith, Director of Admissions and Ramona alumna shared “It was truly emotional and humbling to once again experience this long-standing tradition that celebrated our amazing Class of 2028.”
We look forward to welcoming new Tigers and their families back on campus in May for an Ice Cream Social hosted by our Administrators and student Ambassadors.
Our Makerspace and Geometry Make A Perfect Partnership
Ms. Lee’s Geometry students spent a week in the Makerspace where they crafted kites while applying their knowledge of quadrilaterals acquired in class. They carefully measured angles and lengths, applying geometric principles to calculate the area of their kites. They also faced the creative challenge of selecting suitable materials to make the kite fly. At the end of the week, students moved outdoors to test their creations and earn a little extra credit. The experience was both educational and quite enjoyable as they explored various materials and used different tools to construct their kites.
Archdiocesan Christian Service Award
Each year the Department of Catholic Schools, in conjunction with Archbishop Gomez, sponsors a Christian Service Mass and awards ceremony. On this occasion, they recognize a senior from each high school who has been outstanding in the number of hours he or she has devoted to helping others. The type of service is as varied as the students themselves, but the hallmark is consistent service over three or four years. On March 12, each student was recognized and received a medal, which our awardee, Camila Nuevo, will wear proudly at graduation. Camila has amassed 825.5 hours during her time here at Ramona. She has devoted about 40% of her hours volunteering at the Universal Community Health Center. She also gave 85 hours to the citizenship project that was formed to help immigrants in their preparation to take their citizenship test, as well as being a leader at the freshmen retreats. In addition to Camila’s parents, Sister Kathleen, Mr. Chavarria, and Ms. Herrera attended the ceremony.
Mother/Daughter Arts & Crafts Brunch - March 23, 2024
A new event was added this year that enabled moms and daughters to spend some fun and creative time together - the Mother Daughter Arts & Crafts Brunch. Judging from the excited chatter and happy faces, as well as the wide variety of
SNJM Province Assembly Makes Plans for a Positive Future
In mid-April, the Sisters of the Holy Names (our US-Ontario Province) gathered for three days for a Province Assembly. Approximately 150 met in person, while another 125 “zoomed in” for all or part of the meeting. It had been several years since we had been able to get together to discuss where we have been and where we are going as a province and as a congregation. It was also a welcome opportunity to re-connect with one another in person and to celebrate together.
An important part of the Assembly related to our sponsored works – specifically our six high schools: Ramona, Holy Names High School (Oakland), St. Mary’s Academy (Portland, OR), Holy Names Academy (Seattle), Academy of the Holy Names (Albany, NY), and Academy of the Holy Names (Tampa). Despite being almost 135 years old, Ramona is the youngest of these distinguished schools; the oldest being St. Mary’s in Portland (1859). The Sisters had the opportunity to hear from a panel of six students, each representing her own school. While the actual panel discussion had been prerecorded, the girls appeared on zoom to answer questions from the Sisters after the video presentation.
The students had been asked to reflect on their own stories, how they were unfolding and their hopes for the future, as well as how their respective communities have shaped them to the persons they are today. Another question related to their faith and its influence on their personal decisions and what they wish more people understood about the challenges, hopes, and dreams of their generation.
Ramona was proudly represented by our Junior Class President and founder of our Folklorico Dance Club, Valeria Torres ’25. When she and the other five girls met informally before the actual recording, they found they had lots in common attending a Holy Names School – and this is what we want. It will be up to the young women we are educating today to carry our mission, our charism, and our core values into the world as they continue to make positive contributions to their communities and to the global community.
Valeria Torres ‘25
Danielle Cendejas believes in the value of staying connected. In addition to leading Gonzaga University’s Alumni and Friends LA Chapter and serving on their Board of Regents, you can also find her here at Ramona supporting our alumnae engagement events as a member of our Alumnae Advisory Board. For the past ten years she has generously given her time and counsel as the Alumnae Department has developed new ways to reach out to our graduates.
What educational direction did you pursue after Ramona?
During my junior year at Ramona, my dad watched the NCAA Basketball Tournament and discovered a small Catholic University in Washington State. That summer, during a family vacation to the Pacific Northwest, we visited Spokane, WA, to tour Gonzaga University. I was accepted early action and received a Leadership Scholarship. Gonzaga opened pathways of opportunity for me, and the Jesuit education I received opened my mind to new possibilities. I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Political Science and a minor in Applied Communications. I also participated in the Gonzaga in Florence study abroad program in my junior year. I was an active student leader on campus and served in the Student Senate, as a Student Ambassador, and the Gonzaga University Young Democrats President.
Political Strategist is an interesting choice of careers. What led you to that path?
The most important advice I received as a student was to find your passion and get someone to pay you for it. At Ramona, I participated in Harvard Model Congress while studying U.S. History, and I developed a passion for American Politics. In college, I was the student speaker at a rally for Vice President Al Gore and I volunteered on dozens of political campaigns. Pursuing a career in politics requires persistence. We do big things on small budgets. That meant my internships were unpaid, but the experience led to my first two paying jobs, first as a field coordinator on a Congressional Campaign and second as a district representative for the California State Senate Majority Leader. The most significant move in my career was when I was elected to represent Washington State as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 2004. I was selected to sit on stage during the keynote address delivered by then Illinois State Senator Barack Obama. Three years later, I moved to New Hampshire to work as a field organizer for Obama for America. The relationships I made on the campaign trail in 2008 opened doors for me to work on the inaugural committee and then join The Strategy Group, a political consulting firm that had crafted Obama’s direct mail advertising. I’ve worked my way from a project manager to a Senior Vice President and now a Partner. We’ve worked on hundreds of campaigns in California and throughout the country, helping elect a new generation of public servants.
You were the keynote speaker at Gonzaga University’ s Multicultural Center’s 25 Anniversary celebration in May 2023 and you currently serve on Gonzaga’s Board of Regents. What changes have you seen in the twenty years since you graduated from college that have enabled you as a woman and a Latina to represent/participate in such high profile positions?
I am grateful for the education, friendships, and opportunities I gained from my Gonzaga experience and have enjoyed finding ways to give back. I’ve led the GU Alumni and Friends Los Angeles Chapter for nearly a decade, mentored students wanting to work in politics, and hired fellow Zags to work with me. I was part of a small group of alumni who initiated conversations to create an Alumni of Color affinity group. As Regents, we provide advice on the direction of the university and put our talents to work to help serve students’ needs. What I love about Gonzaga, besides our basketball teams, is our community. Our success on the basketball court has brought investment and growth on campus in facilities and programs, but the fundamental focus remains on the student experience. The notoriety has also helped increase the geographic and ethnic diversity represented on campus in both the student body and among the faculty and staff. I’m excited for this new role of service to Gonzaga and help advocate for students and families who have similar experiences as mine.
What did the “Ramona experience” teach you that has influenced your life?
Ramona provided me with the foundation needed to be a lifelong learner and a collaborative leader. The confidence gained from feeling prepared for college and career challenges gave me a deeper appreciation for the Ramona experience. It has also been amazing to connect with Ramona graduates who have dedicated their careers to public service as well. I believe Ramona truly inspires young women to care for the world around them and to make a difference. I’m grateful to the administration, faculty, staff, and benefactors for investing in the development of women for others.
You are an inspiration to our students! What insights would you share with them?
Be empowered! Chase your passions and embrace growth opportunities. The foundation you’ve been given at Ramona has helped prepare you for success. Have confidence that you belong in every room you are in and that your voice is needed where the decision making happens. As you achieve, bring the sisterhood along with you.
Danielle with her parents and niece.
RC Connect & Alumnifire
Join the RC Connect Challenge!
From The Alumnifire Team - Why They Started!
Alumni networks may be the most valuable things we have that we don't use. In fact, 9 out of 10 alumni tell us that they prefer to hire a fellow alum if given the choice, but this happens less that 4% of the time. That's a lot of doors nobody's opening.
Alumni networks surround us - from college and high school networks to employer and volunteer networks. Members of these networks want to help each but 99% of them are strangers. They're not connected to each other on social media or anywhere else. Reaching out shouldn't be a cold call.
Alumnifire is the first independent and organic digital networking platform powered directly by alumni. It engages members to open doors and create opportunities for one another in the real world and on their own terms.
At Ramona - Our Alumnae Challenge!
Ramona has partnered with Alumnifire to create RC Connect, a social media platform that is ONLY for members of the Ramona Alumnae community. RC Connect gives you the opportunity to personally connect with Ramona grads from all over the world. Ramona has just launched RC Connect as a way for alumnae to connect with other alumnae about jobs, careers, stories, and life. It is a safe and secure way to keep in touch with all generations of Ramona Tigers!
Update: we reached the 100 member milestone and a lucky alumna, Jordan Amper ’21, won a $100 Amazon gift card! Our next drawing will be at 250 members. To be eligible all you have to do is register on RC Connect. So, join RC Connect today It's easy, fun, and the best way to stay connected with the Ramona Community. Take a minute and check it out!
To register for RC Connect, scan the QR Code above or visit RamonaConvent.alumnifire.com
Lively, excited, boisterous, nostalgic...these words describe the alumnae who attended Happy Hour 2024 on Friday, March 1. We had many returning guests (and a lot of new ones) who enjoy making this event their “must attend” every year. The Junior Living Room was filled with alumnae representing the Classes of 2019 through 1962. The Class of 1999 used this as their 25th reunion event (picture on page 24). See you next year!
Homecoming 2024
March 2, 2024
The Homecoming Luncheon is our yearly gathering of alumnae and has been a Ramona tradition for over seventy years. While we acknowledge those classes celebrating significant reunions, all alumnae are invited to attend.
The Luncheon began with a Prayer Service, followed by the program and a very tasty lunch. Members of the Class of 1974, who were celebrating their 50th reunion, received pins commemorating the occasion. They will also be holding a separate event later in the year.
We were delighted that Marianna Tkach Gorris ‘50 and her daughter Georgia were able to join us as it is 74 years since Marianna graduated from Ramona.
Alumnae Weekend always occurs the first weekend in March.
All Ramona Alumnae are welcome!
Class of 1974
Saturday, September 14, 2024
Contact: Gail Hall Gevorkian gailanng@cox.net
Class of 2003
Saturday, October 5, 2024
Contact: Tammie Velasquez tvcinder19@gmail.com
Class reunions are as diverse as the classes themselves! Many classes celebrate at a private home or local restaurant the weekend of Ramona's annual Alumnae Weekend celebration which is held the first weekend in March. Whatever your class chooses to do, it's a great way to reconnect with old friends!
If you need to stick to a budget or just want to take a walk down memory lane, consider having your reunion here at Ramona. The Holy Family Room, Junior Living Room, Pavilion/Fountain area or tent can accommodate different size groups. You will not have the time constraints or expense that renting a banquet room does. Some classes have celebrated by having a family picnic in Rose Heath.
In today’s busy world, it’s difficult to find the time to organize a reunion. We recommend using the Homecoming Luncheon as your reunion celebration day. Individual classes are seated together so you can just sit back and enjoy each other’s company! Organizing your reunion is the responsibility of the class itself. The Alumnae Office provides information, answers questions, makes catering recommendations, and happily connects you with other alumnae who have recently organized their own reunions.
This is how we can help your reunion be a successful one:
Provide the class list for your invitation outreach.
Advertise the date in Ramona Magazine, the alumnae e-newsletter, and on our website.
If you are having your reunion here on campus, we will do the room set-up and arrange for access to the campus.
For more information, please contact:
Kelsey Davidson ‘02, Alumnae & Special Events Manager (626) 282-4151 ext. 130 or kdavidson@ramonaconvent.org
Achieving Her Goal
Rebecca Sanchez King ‘14 has achieved her long-term goal of joining the Foreign Service and has been assigned to her first tour abroad.
It took over a year and half for her to complete the testing and application process to join the January 2024 Foreign Service Orientation class. On February 16th, she had her Flag Day (similar to a graduation) which is when she learned that her first assignment is in India. Once she completes her training, which includes learning Hindi, she will be posted to the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi.
“Ramona holds a very special place in my heart because it was at Ramona that I first realized and started working towards this dream of mine to become a diplomat. The 9th grade English teacher at the time (Mrs. Hopkins) had arranged a trip abroad to the United Kingdom that I went on when I was a freshman. When I returned, I realized that I wanted to travel and work abroad; a quick Google search led me to the U.S. Department of State's career page and I set my sights on joining ever since then.”
Rebecca gives credit to her school counselors and history teachers such as Mr. Chavarria, Mr. Gray and Ms. Platz who encouraged and gave her opportunities, resources, and skills that would benefit her on her journey.
Rebecca with her husband Tristan and parents Sandra and Alfredo at her Flag Day
Preston, son of Adam & Brittany Terrazas Salce ‘05
Commemorate Your Special Year with a Class Gift
Reunions affirm that the Ramona experience endures for a lifetime, and while buildings and teachers may change the values at Ramona remain constant. Reunions are also an opportunity to commemorate your Ramona experience with a reunion class gift through the Alumnae Scholarship Fund. Each reunion class sets ambitious dollar and participation goals to send a powerful message that your class is committed to the ongoing vibrancy of Ramona.
Reunion Giving Campaigns provide the opportunity for the entire class to honor their milestone year with a collective contribution to a single purpose. A scholarship fund can be established for your class, then classes are encouraged to share their Reunion Giving Campaign and inspire their classmates to join!
Reunion Giving Campaigns are led by volunteers who dedicate their time and talent to inspire their classmates. In this role, the Class Gift Leader will share why philanthropy to Ramona is an important part of their alumnae experience and will solicit gifts from classmates.
If you would like to be a Gift Leader for your class, please contact Kelsey Davidson kdavidson@ramonaconvent.org
Members of the Class of 1999 used Alumnae Weekend Happy Hour as their special get together.
Planned Giving is a Personal Approach to Giving
A gift in your will is a heartfelt way to support the causes and organizations that are close to your heart. It’s an easy way to support Ramona’s mission in the future without using any of your assets today. There are two special features that make this a popular type of gift:
1. Flexibility A gift in your will lets you balance your charitable goals with the future needs of your loved ones. Because you aren’t parting with assets today, you don’t have to worry about living expenses and future medical costs should you need the assets during your lifetime. Plus, you can change your mind at any time.
2. Versatility You can give a percentage of your estate to Ramona Secondary School. Most people can’t predict the exact size of their final estate; therefore, making a gift by using a percentage amount can be a more effective means of dividing it. This allows you to benefit loved ones and Ramona in proportion.
One Sentence Is All It Takes
Including Ramona in your future plans is easy, all it takes is one sentence. Contact Sister Kathleen Callaway at callaway@ramonaconvent.org or 626-282-4151 ext. 157 to request sample language you can use to include us in your will or living trust. If you’ve already made a gift to us in your future plans, please let us know so we can ensure your gift is used as you intend.
Those who have included Ramona in their will or living trust automatically become members of the Marie-Rose Legacy Society. Named in honor of Mother Marie-Rose Durocher, foundress Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, the Marie-Rose Legacy Society helps to ensure that young women will continue to benefit from the quality Catholic education offered at Ramona. Demonstrate your belief in tomorrow by making a Legacy Society gift that will help support Ramona for generations to come.
Information contained herein was accurate at the time of posting. This information is not intended as legal or tax advice. For such advice, please consult an attorney or tax advisor. Figures cited in any examples are for illustrative purposes only. References to tax rates include federal taxes only and are subject to change. State law may further impact your individual results.
In loving memory and thanksgiving of our
Ramona Alumnae who have gone before us.
Rose Coad Harris ‘35
Margery DuMoulin Olney ‘48
Sister Jacquelyn Slater, SNJM ‘49
Karen Boundy Crandall ‘52
Majorie Cousins Mitre ’52, sister of Sharon Cousins Rosemyre ’54 (RIP), and Dorothy Cousins Hall (pp) (RIP)
Mary Park Enos ’53, sister of Anne Park Kraemer ‘50
Suzanne Kolda Van Dyke ’54, sister of Mary Ann Kolda Irwin ’44 (RIP), Sr. Felice Marie Kolda, SNJM ’47 (RIP), Priscilla Kolda ’48 (RIP); aunt of Mary Suzanne Irwin Davis ‘73
Stephanie Bard Keely ‘67
Pamela Fowler Horton ‘70
Dixie Bonaparte Gleason ’73, sister of D’Anne Bonaparte Garcia ’67, Donna Bonapart Clow ’71 (RIP), Deidre Bonapart Stadler ’77 and Darlene Bonaparte ‘80
Gina Lotito Gorrell ’79, daughter of Nancy Giacomelli Lotito ’56; sister of Mary Ann Knight ’79, Diana Gorrell ’82; aunt of Kiley Kraft ’20 and Leann Kraft ‘23
Monica Eva Sanchez Collins ’81, sister of Dora Ann Sanchez-Mead ’71, Rebecca M. Sanchez ’75 and Barbara Sanchez (pp)
Nicole Shaw-McCoy ‘90
Aileen Fukasawa ‘01
Gerald Robert Barker, husband of Patricia Foley Barker ‘62
Bronwyn Brady ’72 (past pupil)
Maria Luisa Briseno, mother of Vanessa Briseno ‘98
Dolores Castro, grandmother of Veronica Bacio Fernandez ‘00
Eva Delgado, grandmother of Eddie Cortez (faculty)
Maria Concepcion Flores, mother of Angelica Flores Seager; grandmother of Ariceli Seager ‘19
Richard Gallegos (former faculty)
Conchita Gasendo, mother of Leah Gasendo ‘73
Jason Johansen, father of Yliana Johansen-Mendez ’02, Diana Johansen ’04 and Xochil Johansen ‘09
Ethel May Karnos (former staff,) mother of Kristine Karnos ‘81
Ralph Larsen, husband of Adrienne Airey Larsen ’59; brother-in-law of Mary Airey Engh ’44 (RIP) and Mary Lou Airey De La Hoz ‘49
Dora Linzan, mother of Nikole Mariona Sorensen ‘09
Pancho Boo Macalintal, father of Diana Macalintal ‘87
Gladys Manzanilla, mother of Lina Manzanilla Kramer ’82 and Nora Manzanilla ’84; grandmother of Dahlia Zamudio ‘25
Blanca Marin, mother of Ana Marin Bostick ‘83
Connie Navarro, mother of Rosario Perez Husak ‘77
Owen Perez, brother of Susan Perez Smith-McGlohin ’72; uncle of Tara Smith Martinez ‘98
Laura Rico, mother of Samantha Gallardo ‘00
Pedro Rueda, grandfather of April Figueroa ‘98
Sadie Tedros, mother of Janine Tedros Ghantous ‘81
Richard J. Ward, Jr., husband of Ann Salvaty Ward ’61; brother-in-law of Mary Kay Salvaty Allen ’64 and Jane Salvaty Kuhnmuench ‘67
Vicente Lee Yu, father of Elizabeth Yu ‘81
Alumnae, family, and friends are included in our daily prayers and our Book of Intentions in the Chapel.
