Issuu

S P R I N G/S U M M E R 2026

The Magazine of Village Christan School

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

FINE ARTS FEATURE

ELEMENTARY SPOTLIGHT

SENIOR REFLECTION

Major Richard Dulce (2010) Mission Ready

Eisley Aust and Lleyton Simmons No Stage too Big

Young Gentlemen of Christ Club Attuned to Christ

Griffin Elmer (2026) Get Up

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SPRING SUMMER 2026 EDITOR

Paul Putignano CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Fontaina Funk PHOTOGRAPHERS

Matt Farias Selah Meyers CONTRIBUTORS

Tom Konjoyan DJ Jenkins Richard Dulce Griffin Elmer SPECIAL THANKS

Lindsay Gunn Carrie Post Melissa Cherella Michele Serna

Contents 06

Cover photo: Recent graduates Lleyton Simmons and Eisley Aust, both from the Class of 2026, perform during the 2026 annual auction and gala, “Stars and Stripes,” on April 25, 2026, at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank. The two lifers have grown up in the Fine Arts program and wrapped their careers with awards and a special opportunity to perform at the prestigious Jerry Herman Awards in May. Read more about the duo on page 18. 2

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Major Richard Dulce (2010) Mission Ready

SPIRITUAL LIFE UPDATE

EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT

ALUMNI FEATURE

GRADUATION RECAP

SENIOR REFLECTION

ELEMENTARY SPOTLIGHT

ATHLETICS UPDATE

FUNDRAISING UPDATE

God Is. NextGen STEM: Heart for the Next Generation Officer Daniel Velasquez (2005) Recall to Campus

FINE ARTS FEATURE

ELEMENTARY SPOTLIGHT

Eisley Aust and Lleyton Simmons No Stage too Big Young Gentlemen of Christ Club Attuned to Christ MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATE

House of Village

Celebrating the Class of 2026 Griffin Elmer (2026) Get Up Washington, D.C. A Trip 250 Years in the Making VCS Football | Set for a New Era The Next 75 Anniversary Campaign The Next Chapter IN EVERY ISSUE ...

ALUMNI UPDATES

Crusaders for Life

Every issue of Village Christian School’s magazine aims to capture empowering stories and exciting opportunities for our students and community. As we step into the next 75 years of God’s plan for VCS, valuable new programs and facilities are poised to transform the experience here on campus, as is the continued investment of our alumni. Village’s reach is profound, and as you’ll read in the following pages, the impact of this community’s care for and stewardship of students’ hearts and minds continues to reverberate through the generations.

IF YOU H AVE AN IDEA FOR A STORY OR PERSON TO BE FEATURED IN THE VILL AGE VOICE, PLEASE EM AIL CONNECT@VILL AGECHRISTI AN.ORG.

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IMPORTANT DATES | First Semester

2026-2027 12 &13 AUGUST

18 &19 AUGUST

5-10 OCTOBER

OUR ANNUAL KICK-OFF TO THE SCHOOL YEAR IS NOW TWO DAYS!

Meet the Teacher Night

Back to School

As enrollment continues to grow, our Middle and High School Meet the Teacher Night on Wednesday, August 12 and Elementary on Thursday, August 13 helped families have a more relaxed welcome-back experience.

The 2026-2027 school year kicked off with Middle School and High School students on Tuesday, August 18, while Elementary returned on Wednesday, August 19.

ONE OF THE BEST TIMES OF THE YEAR JUST GOT BETTER!

Homecoming Week

Spirit Week begins Monday, October 5; “Nonfire” will be on Thursday, October 8; and the Homecoming football game features a matchup against Valley Christian on Friday, October 9 at Glendale College. Join us for a new alumni-only event on campus on Saturday, October 10. Check out details on Page 45.

6 NOVEMBER

Crusader Golf Classic

For the second year in a row, we are back at the legendary Rose Bowl for an impactful day supporting Village at Brookside Golf Club. We hope you’ll join us on the course! Register now at birdease.com/ crusader.

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www.villagechristian.org STAY UP TO DATE

20 NOVEMBER

23-27 NOVEMBER

11 DECEMBER

21 DECEMBER TO

Elementary Grandparents Day

Thanksgiving Break

One of our favorite days of the year! It is always wonderful to be joined by our beloved grandparents and grand-friends for a heart-warming day with their Elementary students.

IN EVERYTHING, GIVE THANKS! Enjoy this wonderful week of rest and gratitude. We have much to be thankful for here at VCS.

Candlelight Christmas Celebration

Christmas Break

HALLELUJAH, CHRIST IS BORN! We are so blessed to celebrate the miracle of Jesus together as a community with this special night of performances, scripture, and fellowship on The Shield.

Have a very Merry Christmas! We are so thankful for this special opportunity to celebrate the birth of our Savior.

6 JANUARY

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A NOTE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL | TOM KONJOYAN

Two hundred and fifty years ago, our nation was born, starting with a declaration of independence and an idealistic vision of how our government should operate. For 76 of those 250 years (more than 30 percent), Village Christian has made its own declaration to share the love of Jesus with students and their families. I am proud to report that our motto “College-bound from Kindergarten, Christ-centered for life” is being lived out today as it was when we first began. In April, we had the opportunity to celebrate the milestone birthday of our country and the deeply held values of our school at 2026 annual auction and gala, “Stars and Stripes,” and our families generously supported Village’s ideals to ensure that every family can afford to send their students to our school and to bless our incredible teachers with a special bonus. Many of those in attendance at the gala were alumni. We are so blessed to see a consistent flow of legacy families at VCS as alumni continue to enroll their students here at Village. We are so thankful for their loyalty and their commitment to our mission. In fact, we have just launched a new outreach to our alumni to assist with reunions and help our graduates create the campus of the future for their kids, grandkids, and generations of students to come. In this edition, you will read more about Danielle (Cooper) Delgado (2007) and Merly (Barco) Long (2003), who are examples of the many alumni that are giving back and helping us continue to care for students.

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Our students are being honored for their innovation and their exhibition on the stage and athletic venues. In these pages, you will learn about students creating NextGen STEM classes and being nominated for theatre awards. As we celebrated our graduates this past May on the Field of Dreams, I was particularly proud of the Class of 2026, who excelled in school and served in our community.

We are so blessed to see a consistent flow of legacy families at VCS as alumni continue to enroll their students here at Village. Finally, we will highlight a new signature program at VCS coming to our Middle School in 2026-2027 school year. The “House of Village” system will create many new opportunities for leadership and broaden friendships across grades. Our signature offerings consistently produce creative, student-first initiatives that support student growth. And that’s just a snapshot of the tremendous things happening here at Village – with much more to discover in this issue. So, whether you are a current student, alumni, parent, grandparent, or friend of the community, we invite you to be a part of God’s continued ministry here at Village Christian School.

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SPOTLIGHT

ALUMNI : MAJOR RICHARD DULCE (2010)

Major Richard Dulce (2010) reflects on the impact Village Christian had on his life and service. 6

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AS OUR COUNTRY CELEBRATES ITS SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL, WE ARE PROUD TO FEATURE ONE OF OUR NOTABLE ALUMNI, WHO HAVE GONE ON TO SERVE IN THE MILITARY.

Systems Engineering at the United States Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, NY, after previous assignments at Fort Rucker, AL; Camp Humphreys, South Korea; and Fort Carson, CO.

One such alum is Major Richie Dulce, an active-duty Army Aviation Officer and Blackhawk Helicopter pilot, holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Management from USMA and a Master of Science in Engineering and Management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Dulce is a qualified Pilot in Command and Air Mission Commander in the UH-60L/M Blackhawk, and a graduate of Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) school, Air Assault school, and Joint Firepower Course.

Dulce was commissioned in 2014 and has accumulated over 12 years of service, including a forward deployment to Afghanistan from 2020-2021, where his unit played a vital role in the final withdrawal of coalition forces out of Afghanistan. He currently serves as an Instructor in the Department of

A recipient of the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal, he is married to his high school sweetheart, Madison, and they have two children together, Kaiden and Mia. And we couldn’t be prouder of this distinguished alum, who reflected on his time at VCS and the impact the school and its faculty and staff had on his life.

Alumni Spotlight

BY RICHARD DULCE

Class of 2010

Village played a huge role in shaping the person, the leader, and the believer that I am today. As a lifer, I spent more than 13 years of my life walking around the trademark outdoor corridors and breezeways of Village’s campus. Village created a safe, faith-based environment that allowed me to mature and grow without regrets. At every level, the staff and faculty genuinely cared about the students and dedicated themselves not just academically but also spiritually. There are countless aspects of Village that have made an impact on me, so I’ll share a few profound moments. In eighth grade, I went on a short, one-day field trip to Tijuana, Mexico with Mr. Dean Lagasse and a couple of other students. During the drive to and from Tijuana, I spent a lot of time talking to Mr. Lagasse, asking questions about faith and life. While serving in Tijuana, I truly realized how blessed I am and how meaningless

the material world is in respect to eternity. My conversations with Mr. Lagasse helped me reflect and process the emotions and feelings I was experiencing in that moment. When I came home that day, I reaffirmed my commitment to the Lord and Jesus Christ and understood what it meant to be filled with the Holy Spirit. I attribute my passion for life and unbridled positivity to that day. Village Athletics played a huge part in shaping who I am today. I grew up loving basketball. I tried out for the middle school basketball team and did not make the cut. I was devasted every time. I thought I was competitive enough to play during recess because the same people that are making the team, I could keep up with. That rejection allowed me to explore other sports like football and volleyball, where I ended up lettering in both sports, even playing volleyball at the collegiate club level at West Point. In addition to developing my resilience, competitive spirit, and commitment to fitness, Village Athletics introduced me to a couple of coaches who made a permanent impact on me. Coach Jeff Cortez, my Varsity Football coach, taught me to focus on “the controllables,” and not to get distracted by

things you cannot control. Every practice, he emphasized the importance of attitude and effort, two of his most important controllables. To this day, I tell my subordinates to focus on the controllables, especially their attitude and effort. Coach Eli Kreunen and Coach Dave Gardner, my Frosh Basketball Coach, taught me that sport is a conduit to teach and develop individual character.They both knew that none of the players on our team were going to make it pro, let alone varsity in two years. However, they knew that more important than winning a game was developing upstanding, respectable disciples of Christ. They ingrained in me that character matters and how important it is to live and lead honorably, a philosophy I carry with me to this day.

working with other students to accomplish a higher goal. By the time I was a senior, I was running for ASB president, started the Wreckin' Cru Club, and captain of the boys volleyball team. By cultivating my passion for leadership at Village, I was confident that going to West Point, our country’s premier leadership development institution, was where God wanted me to be and where I needed to be. The rest is history! I have had the privilege to be in a position of leadership ever since I graduated from Village — and have loved every part of being an Army officer and leader of our nation’s sons and daughters.

Village helped me realize that I was meant to be leader. I was shy in elementary and middle school. I was afraid to speak up in class or bring attention to myself. However, in high school, that all started to change. Through the student council/ associated student body I was able to build my confidence and realize that I enjoyed the planning and execution of events. I loved seeing a plan slowly come together and S P R I N G/S U M M E R 2 0 2 6 | 7

UPDATE

SPIRITUAL LIFE | GOD IS

LISTEN MORE: Check out chapel messages by listening to the Chapel Chats Podcast 8

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BY DJ JENKINS, MDIV

Spiritual Life Director

ANOTHER SCHOOL YEAR HAS COME TO A CONCLUSION, AND I FIND MYSELF REFLECTING THANKFULLY ON THE SPIRITUAL LIFE THEME FOR THE YEAR. Every year, we take our seven Essential Questions and select one to use for our Spiritual Life theme. For the 2025-2026 school year, the essential question we answered was, “Who is God?” In many ways, I think this could be the question we answer every year. Indeed, every time we open the Scriptures in our Bible classrooms, every time we listen to a message from God’s Word in chapel, and every time we pray in any class or Fine Arts event or Athletics competition, we are in some way asking and answering, “Who is God?” There is probably not a more important question for any of our students, or any of us, to answer. As theologian A.W. Tozer said in his famous work, The Knowledge of the Holy, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” In our modern world, that statement will seem like a incredulous to many. Doesn’t our academic acumen mean more? What about our earning power and wealth? What about our family heritage and cultural identity? What about my family honor? Aren’t my talents and my abilities the most important thing about me? And what about my social footprint with friends and my online presence? Or isn’t it of utmost importance my own plans for my life? After all, why am I in school and learning everything I am? Why do I need to bring my belief about God or not? How could that be the most important thing about me? I’d argue, based on Jesus’ own words in Luke 9:18-22, that Tozer is right. And it’s not merely what we think about God proper, but what we think about who Jesus is that is the most important

thing about us. In the famous Luke passage, Jesus has just performed one of his greatest and most public miracles; the Feeding of the five thousand. Luke clarifies in his number that there were 5,000 men present (9:14), which means there were probably more than 10,000 people when you include women and children. Truly, an amazing number of people for an ancient crowd. So many people got a chance to experience the blessings of Jesus as the miracle unfolded before their eyes and every single mouth was fed – with much left over (9:17)! But immediately after the miracle, Luke tells us Jesus was not concerned with their experience of His blessings and miracle; He was concerned about who the people believe He is: “Who do the crowds say that I am?” (Luke 9:18). Jesus wanted to know not how thankful people were or if they were really encouraged or if their lives are going to be different now that they have experienced His blessings. He wasn’t concerned with how this miracle was going to maximize their potential for their own futures. No, He wanted to know who the crowds thought He was. Why? Because experiencing the blessings of Jesus is not the same as experiencing Jesus Himself. Because knowing a taste of the goodness of Jesus is not the same as knowing Jesus. It’s not being close to Jesus or His blessings that matters most. It’s not being around a lot of other people who follow Jesus that matters most. It’s not going to a Christian school that matters most. It’s not being from a Christian family or from a Christian ethnic heritage that matters most. It’s not living a really moral life that matters most. It’s not maximizing your online presence or earning potential that matters most. It’s not what college you get into that matters most. And it’s not your personal talents and gifts that matter most. What Jesus wants to know from each of us is the question He asks the Twelve next, “But you, who do YOU say that I am?” (Luke 9:20; emphasis mine).

What Jesus says matters most is what you and I believe about Him. Who do we say He is? If He’s just another religious leader, like the crowds said when they answered, “John the Baptist, Elijah, or one of the ancient prophets…” (9:19), then Jesus is just one potential option for your life alongside many others. If we say Jesus was a great moral teacher, then we can give or take what He says about life, and He doesn’t have much relevance for our complex, modern world in 2026. Or if we say Jesus is a creation of our own making, we can use Him to advance whatever personal agenda we want. But if we say, like Peter said, that Jesus is the One whom God has sent, the Messiah; if we say Jesus is Lord, the only way and truth and life (John 14:6); if we say He is risen, and the reigning victorious King over all creation, then it changes everything for our lives today, not to mention eternity. It means that when Jesus affirms we are to love our neighbor as ourselves (Luke 10:27-35), indeed, to even love our enemies (Luke 6:27), we don’t take those commands as options only for people who are like us or who are already favorable toward us. When Jesus commands, “Don’t store up for yourselves treasures on earth…” (Matthew 6:19), it means we recognize the point of our education and, indeed, our lives, is not to accumulate more and more wealth or more and more prestige. And when Jesus says, “If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34), we understand that being a follower of Jesus means a life of sacrificial service, not a pursuit of “me” and “getting mine,” like we are so often told on social media today. So, as we conclude our spiritual theme of “God is…”, Village Christian community, who do you say that Jesus is? I pray we all answer like Peter: “the Messiah sent from God” (Luke 9:20b) and we commit to living together in the wonderful reality of who Jesus is.

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VCS TODAY

EDUCATION UPDATE

Bronson Moore (2026) works with a student during a NextGen STEM session on water filtration in May 2026.

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The Class of 2026’s Bronson Moore and Luka Burger established NextGen STEM this year, providing five after-school workshops for Middle School students to dive deeper into STEM. S P R I N G/S U M M E R 2 0 2 6 | 11

FROM WATER FILTRATION TO HOMEMADE LAVA LAMPS AND EVEN ELEPHANT TOOTHPASTE, ROOM A3 PRODUCED SOMETHING INCREDIBLY SPECIAL THIS YEAR.

School Counselors to communicate with families, and they posted flyers to help further get the word out.

But it wasn’t just the projects students were working on; it was the heart behind them.

“It’s been really fun and nice,” says sixth grader and consistent NextGen STEM attendee Drew Culbertson. “They’re really great and actually represent real-life experience.”

And it could spark something that lasts long into the future. Graduating seniors Bronson Moore and Luka Burger, whose passion for business, STEM, and giving back not only provided Middle School students with an invaluable opportunity to explore scientific principles across five student-led after-school sessions, they could be the driving force behind an enduring series of STEM workshops at VCS and beyond. Not to mention career interest before students even enter High School. “STEM was always a challenging concept for us in Middle School, so we wanted to make it easier and help kids learn and have fun with it,” Moore says. “Hands-on especially,” adds Burger. “We noticed a lot of people get textbook learning, they read, but they don’t know the real science behind it. Eventually, they are going to graduate High School, and we want them to be ready for college and ready for life after college as well.” To achieve those goals, the duo began developing “NextGen STEM” in August 2025 and launched their first workshop in A3 in November. Students made lava lamps, learning about density and chemical reactions in the process. They started social media accounts to promote the workshops and share results, coordinated with the Middle

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In December, attendees built DIY flashlights with lessons on electricity and electrical flow.

Then came an invisible ink workshop in January and the tangible application of acidic-versus-base chemistry, before a fourth session making elephant toothpaste and a combination of chemistry and physics. “I’ve been to all of them,” says seventh grader Nalia Avetisyan of the NextGen sessions. “We can still have fun while learning. I think what I’m interested in will definitely use STEM a lot because I want to be a doctor.” The series wrapped on May 13 with a water filtration lab and Raising Cane’s, a donation Moore secured from a local franchisee.

STEM was always a challenging concept for us in Middle School, so we wanted to make it easier and help kids learn and have fun with it. “Luka and Bronson deserve all the credit in the world. They game-planned, and they had really strong thoughts on how they wanted these sessions to go,” says Entrepreneurialism and Global Leadership Concentration Dean Johnny Clark, who served as a mentor and advisor for NextGen STEM. “This is a perfect proof of concept, not just of

EGL, but also through a Christian lens and giving a giving-back lens and applying EGL concepts to a nonprofit. The two of these guys, they balance each other so beautifully.” That balance took the form of a split between business and science. Burger plans and runs the workshops as well as explaining the science behind it, while Bronson handles logistics, marketing, and the business side of things. “I have to do a lot of trial and error and make my own designs,” says Burger of the workshop plans and projects. “When I’m walking through the Middle School area, I’ll have kids come up to me and they say, ‘When’s the next STEM?’ It’s just really cool to see them so excited.” Despite the two graduating, NextGen STEM is poised to endure as they train rising seniors to take over the sessions next year. We’ve set out the blueprint, we have the curriculum, and they just have to follow it now,” Moore says. “We want to get a 501(c)(3) so that donations are tax-deductible. Then, we are thinking about expanding across Los Angeles to potentially one other school right now. We are still trying to figure out what is the best fit for us, but those are our ambitions and goals.” For now, though, the focus is on next year here at VCS. And during the fifth and final workshop this spring, Deion Lewis stood at the front of the class, looking on, learning to lead, and preparing to take over. It’s a challenge he’s ready for – for himself and for next year’s Middle School students. “Oh, absolutely,” he says, looking out over an excited group of 25 students – all of them eager to step into the next generation of STEM.

Luka Burger (2026) answers questions during a NextGen STEM lab on invisible ink in February 2026. S P R I N G/S U M M E R 2 0 2 6 | 13

SPOTLIGHT

ALUMNI | OFFICER DANIEL VELASQUEZ (2005)

Officer Daniel Velasquez (2005) is back on campus as a parent and to pour into the next generation.

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AS PASADENA POLICE OFFICER AND CLASS OF 2005 ALUMNUS DANIEL VELASQUEZ STROLLS THE VILLAGE CHRISTIAN CAMPUS, NEARLY EVERY CORNER TELLS A STORY. From his time in Room 2 to reminiscing about the “Lincoln Logs” playground and taekwondo on the Admin Field to even revisiting his painted tile behind B Hall, the VCS lifer takes it all in – and he hasn’t wasted any time giving back. “I didn’t know anything else but this,” Velasquez recalls. “I had a great experience, so naturally, now that I’m married with kids, I was like, ‘Hey, the same thing my dad did for me, I want to do for my kids.’ We have faith, so that’s a huge factor, but also the way the school is; it’s very family-oriented, and I love that.” In fact, life at Village is as family-oriented as it gets these days. His older brother and fellow lifer, Matthew (VCS Class of 2002), has his daughter at VCS, while Daniel's own children, Emilia (Grade 3) and Elijah (Grade 1), also roam the same hallways he once did. Even the same classrooms. Elijah spent last year in Kindergarten in Room 2. And that’s when Velasquez’s experience really started to come full circle in a very meaningful way, when he hosted a special demonstration reminiscent of one he experienced as an Elementary student. “When I was in Elementary, LAPD had a DARE program, and we had two officers come to our classroom and talk about the profession. I was inspired at that point [to go into law enforcement],” he says. “The appearance of it and talking about it resonated with me. Then you start learning, and it all evolves. That’s what planted the seed. They were so interactive with us.”

On April 16, 2026, he had the opportunity to do the same thing for current Village students, bringing his K9 unit to campus. “When we came here, I was like, ‘Hey, I really want to make it as memorable for them as it was for me,’” he says. “I’m hoping to maybe inspire one or more kids the same way that I was inspired because it’s a great profession. We’re out there to help people, protect the community, and interact with the community. There’s so much more to law enforcement than people realize. So for us, we want to have that positive impact.”

I’m hoping to maybe inspire one or more kids the same way that I was inspired because it’s a great profession.

Velasquez and his fellow officers connected with students, demonstrated how they work alongside their canine companions in the field, and created impactful memories for students and teachers alike. “Having the opportunity for alum and Pasadena Police Officer Daniel Velasquez, along with his K9 team, to visit our Kindy classes was a gift to our VCS community,” says Elementary Principal Jeff Maljian. “Our students, and adults as well, were captivated by the amazing talents and skills of the K9s. Undoubtedly, the students were also inspired by the high level of training demonstrated by Officer Velasquez and his colleagues, and I’m sure many are imagining themselves one day serving as police officers in this capacity. Most importantly, having Officer Velasquez return to our school demonstrates his desire to come full circle and give back to the VCS teachers and staff who poured into his life as a student.” However, the road back to Village wasn’t easy. After graduating from VCS, the member of the 2003 CIF Southern Section division championship football team explored opportunities in the military before deciding to attend College of the Canyons, where he studied administration of justice.

Top: Officer Daniel Valesquez (2005) prepares to demonstrate his Pasadena Police Department K9 unit’s abilities alongside his fellow officers on April 16, 2026, at VCS. Bottom: Officer Daniel Velasquez (2005) points to the tile he painted as a student at Village Christian School. The tile can still be seen behind B Hall today.

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Officer Daniel Valesquez (2005) prepares to demonstrate his Pasadena Police Department K9 unit’s abilities alongside his fellow officers on April 16, 2026, at VCS.

He took courses in report writing, procedures, and evidence collection, while continuing to work toward his ultimate goal of a career in law enforcement.

community safe, and people don’t realize it also helps keep suspects safe. When you deploy a K9, it can be safer than using potentially deadly force in those situations.”

“This is what I wanted to do,” says Velasquez, who is also approaching 10 years of marriage with his wife, Karina. “I was still mission-focused on that and trying to make myself a better candidate because I knew it was very competitive.”

However, when Monrovia eliminated its K9 unit because of budget cuts, he was back to square one.

At 20 years and six months old, he entered Rio Hondo Police Academy in Whittier so he would be eligible for hiring as soon as he turned 21 – the minimum age to become a police officer. It didn’t take long for him to be recruited, and in 2007, he was hired by the Monrovia Police Department. The goal was K9. “Nothing else drew me in,” he says, having worked patrol, narcotics, gangs, and detectives. “Having a K9 helps keep officers safe, it helps keep the

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In 2016, he was hired by the City of Pasadena, and after three years on patrol, he was selected for their K9 unit. “Initially, I was bummed that I didn’t get the spot I had applied for before Pasadena, but now that I’m here, hindsight is 20/20. I just wasn’t meant to go there. I was meant to come to Pasadena and have these experiences,” he says. The same holds true for having his family back at Village, and those experiences now include connecting with the current generation of Crusaders. “Officer Velasquez’s visit was such an impactful and meaningful experience

for our students,” says Kindergarten teacher Joy Bagasao. “They were engaged, inspired, and excited to see a VCS alum return to invest in the next generation. It was also so fun to see these beautiful dogs that God created be used for such a positive purpose – helping serve and protect our communities. Opportunities like this remind students of the power of service, community, and the difference they can make.” After the special K9 demonstration, he returned to campus in May as a guest reader for Emilia’s class during Camp Read-A-Lot before celebrating his niece, Harper, at her Fifth Grade Culmination ceremony on the Field of Dreams. “It’s a good thing – 100 percent. It’s great, more than good,” Velasquez says. “Not that I didn’t think I’d come back here; I just didn’t know it would be like this. It’s full circle. Having my kids come here is pretty wild. I’m happy that I’m able to do it; that we’re able to have our kids come here. I think everything kind of works out for a reason. I think it’s faith. Things are meant to be.”

Officer Valesquez reads to second-grade students during Camp Read-A-Lot on May 22, 2026.

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FEATURE

FINE ARTS | EISLEY AUST AND LLEYTON SIMMONS

No Stage Too Big 18

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The lights kicked on. The music started. The performance begins – one last time. The Class of 2026’s Eisley Aust and Lleyton Simmons, among some of the best talent in Southern California, took the stage at the Jerry Herman Awards for the second time in their high school careers, capping illustrious careers at Village Christian as nominees for Best Actress and Actor, respectively. And both lifers represented the school and the Fine Arts Department with utmost class and skill in their final mainstage performance before graduating – testament to their hard work and experience in craft that had been home since Elementary.

Nominated for Best Actress and Best Actor at the Jerry Herman Awards, the Class of 2026’s Eisley Aust and Lleyton Simmons capped their theatre careers among SoCal’s best. S P R I N G/S U M M E R 2 0 2 6 | 19

“That is a very scary situation going into one room with the best of every High School, and these two could totally do it,” says Director of Fine Arts Natalie Taylor. After two days of rehearsals, the duo joined fellow Best Actor and Actress nominees on stage at the Ricardo Montalban Theatre on May 4 for the most prestigious award show in the area, and a qualifier for the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, The Jimmy Awards, in New York. “It was honestly the most fun I have ever had,” Simmons says. “It was so fun to work with people that love this and want to do this as a career. Everyone was so talented, and we picked it up so fast.” While neither came home with hardware, both left more confident and empowered than ever before. “It still feels like a giant accomplishment,” says Aust, the granddaughter of Marla Rust (VCS Class of 1974) and daughter of Tina Rust (VCS Class of 1996). “To know all the people around you are just as excited makes it feel less like a competition, and more like a great opportunity that you all get to share together. Everyone there was really kind and encouraging to each other, and it didn’t really feel like we were fighting with each other – more just fighting for each other to have a special moment on stage.” In fact, they did more than have a special moment, they turned heads. Simmons even came away with interest and contact information from Kenny Ortega, longtime Hollywood choreographer and the director of such movies as the first three Descendants films, High School Musical, Hocus Pocus, and Newsies. Fitting, since Village’s production of Newsies in 2022 was the show that galvanized Simmons’ love for musical theatre, he says.

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Watching them help others be the best version of themselves is really a testament to the kind of kids they are and an example of their selflessness that will carry on longer than any void possibly could.

in The Sound of Music and later as a dancing Newsie in Newsies. She has a natural confidence onstage and a spark that makes audiences want to watch her,” he continues. “Both are incredibly gifted young performers, and it was exciting to witness the early stages of what I believe are very bright futures.”

“The people that were seniors that year were super inviting, and I was very close to them,” Simmons recalls. “[Thom] Babbes kind of took me under his wing a little bit, and he made that super special to me, especially because I wasn’t supposed to be in that show because I was in middle school.”

She hasn’t missed an opportunity since.

Babbes, the former VCS Director of Theatre Arts hand-picked Newsies as his farewell show before moving to South Carolina. But it wasn’t his only experience with Simmons – or Aust. “It was a joy directing both Lleyton Simmons and Eisley Aust during their middle school years at Village Christian School. Even at that age, both showed remarkable talent, professionalism, and tremendous potential,” Babbes says. “Lleyton stood out immediately with his incredible instincts as a performer. Casting him as Young Clyde Barrow in Bonnie and Clyde was an easy decision, and it was rewarding to watch him grow in confidence and skill while working alongside high school performers. His performances as Friedrich in The Sound of Music and Les in Newsies showcased exceptional timing, strong vocals, and impressive dance ability — he consistently delivered polished, memorable performances. “Eisley brought wonderful energy, charm, and stage presence to every rehearsal and performance. I especially enjoyed working with her as Louisa

While Simmons says Newsies galvanized his love for musical theatre, Aust, on the other hand, became enraptured the moment she stepped on stage in Seussical Jr. as a kindergartener.

FAITHFUL ARTISTRY

Over the years, Aust was in 20 plays and musicals, three Black Box Theatre shows, and seemingly innumerable concerts, showcases, and other performances as a member of choir, V Cappella, Dance Company, Worship Band, and more. “I’m really glad I got to train in musical theatre at a place that so heavily focuses on turning our eyes to Jesus in the midst of doing secular work,” Aust says. “Constantly saying, ‘Where's God's truth in this world?’ ‘How does this represent God's love on earth?’ ‘How does this not represent how God wants us to live?’ has taught me so much about the way I want to interact with art and the way I want to portray characters because God really is moving through every story. I'm able to ask those questions on my own now in a world where I might not necessarily be getting that fed to me.” Simmons, meanwhile, was in 15 mainstage productions at Village, starting in fifth grade as Aladdin in “Disney’s Aladdin, Jr.” Though in different casts, Aust was, fittingly, Jasmine. Right: Lleyton Simmons, left, and Eisley Aust pose during the Elementary Fine Arts Academy’s production of “Aladdin Jr.” in 2018.

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Captions here

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Lleyton Simmons and Eisley Aust perform during High School Theatre Arts’ “Crazy for You” in March 2026.

TRAILBLAZING EXAMPLES

“Eisley has been a leader since Elementary school,” Taylor says. “I'm sure Lleyton would say, ‘She's been keeping me in line since we were kids.’ Ha! She has always been a listener, a teachable student and a wonderful example to her peers and those younger than her. She has left a beautiful legacy of what can happen when you work really hard and dive head first into every opportunity you're given. “Lleyton will be our long lasting example of how cool it can be to be a boy in theatre, dance, and music,” she continues. “He has never been afraid to stand out in a crowd, being one of very few boys in our department. As we raise up more boys, Lleyton will be an inspiration for most of them and has set a really great example of how to grow in your gifts.” In essence, both have grown up on the stage, immersing themselves in every aspect of the department. At Vocal Arts’ annual Coffeehouse Concert on May 23, 2026, the two were honored with special awards as the two longest-tenured members of choir – not missing a single year it was offered from Elementary through high school. “You get out of it what you put into it,” Aust says. “Village has a ton of opportunities, but you have to be willing to put yourself out there, to not be nervous or shy, and to ask your directors questions, because you really are working with some of the best.” She recalls playing Jo in High School Theatre Arts’ production of Little Women in 2025 as a role that was especially meaningful to her. “That show was an extreme blessing to me because I love the story personally,” she says. “That cast came together in a way, where we took the show into our own hands, which is something I haven't felt like we've done fully before.

… Getting to sing lyrics on stage, like 'Sometimes when you dream, your dreams come true,’ they were all hitting home for me because that character is very relatable to me in her pursuit of her passion.” That passion and dedication was on full display at the Jerry Herman Awards – both times. Aust and Simmons previously performed as a large group during VCS Theatre Arts’ landmark Jerry Herman Awards performance of “Be Our Guest” from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at the Pantages Theatre in 2022, when the school took home the top prize of Best Production. GIFTED STEWARDSHIP

Mary Ann Hermansen, a mainstay in the Fine Arts Department for years, served as the Assistant Director and Choreographer for the show. “Eisley Aust is the perfect example of the balance between natural gifting and true stewardship,” Hermansen says. “She is a talented singer, dancer and actress but what makes her exceptional is that she is consistently cultivating those gifts through passionate hard work. One can count on Eisley to show up fully committed to every class and rehearsal. She is consistently prepared, memorized ahead of schedule and eager to improve from one rehearsal to the next. All of this is driven by her passionate love for the theater. It’s infectious. She continues: “Lleyton is a rare gem. While I could certainly speak to his discipline after watching his commitment to the Fine Arts program year after year, what truly sets him apart is his God-given gifting. His unique point of view, effortless sense of humor, laid back nature and enormous heart naturally infuses everything he creates, both on and off stage. What has always fascinated me about Lleyton is how

effortless his work appears. It almost seems as though he never has to labor for it - his talent flows so naturally. But beneath that ease is something even more remarkable: a willingness to explore, to take risks, to not always have the answers and to embrace being off balance in the creative process.” Both Jerry Herman Award performances serve as profound notches on their fine arts belts here at VCS. And both are shining examples of what the department aims to foster in students. “We want students to grow in confidence, in character, and in skill, so that whatever they choose to pursue outside of Village, they know, one, who they are in Christ; two, what they’re good at; and three, that they have excellent character,” Taylor says. That’s Aust and Simmons. And while their paths through VCS Fine Arts has concluded as students, it’s far from the last time the two will shine – on and off the stage. “They have been integral in bringing up and encouraging younger students to continue in their footsteps. They have been encouraging to younger students. They have worked well with younger students. They help their classmates,” says VCS Theatre Arts Director Kendall Lloyd. “Our theatre program is a community, and they have embraced that. Watching them help others be the best version of themselves is really a testament to the kind of kids they are and an example of their selflessness that, I think, will carry on longer than any void possibly could.” That goes for both the program and within Aust and Simmons, who have undoubtedly left their marks on VCS Fine Arts. “Blessed,” Simmons says. “It’s the Lord, not me. I just do it for His glory.”

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VCS TODAY

ELEMENTARY SPOTLIGHT

Started by new first grade teacher Cooper Barrick, the Young Gentlemen of Christ Club is impacting some of Village’s youngest students. Listen carefully, and amidst the hustle and bustle of the first grade playground – sounds of students playing, yelling to friends, and thumping of wiffle balls – you might hear the faint tune to “When the Saints Go Marching In.” The classic song has taken on new life this school year as a special adapted chant for first grade’s “The Young Gentlemen of Christ Club,” an impactful weekly gathering that is empowering students with etiquette lessons, life skills, and a heart for others at such an impressionable age. “We are young gentlemen of Christ, oh, we are young gentlemen of Christ. We show kindness, courage, and respect. I am a young gentleman of Christ,’” hums new first grade teacher Cooper Barrick, who started the club early in the school year “We have creeds, and we repeat 24

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them every meeting. The repetition, the song, it’s fun. The boys, they love singing it. We’ll just randomly be out at recess, on the playground, on field trips, and if it’s chaotic and crazy, and I need to reel them in, I just start singing it, and it reminds them, ‘Oh, I am a young gentlemen of Christ, and I need to show it.’” And they are definitely showing it. Seeing the potential to impart a heart for service and a care for others among his first graders, Barrick wanted to find a proactive way to create change – and a new way to pour into his students. “I thought, you know, maybe this is why I'm here, and this is why God put me in first grade. This is a formative age for them, so I started with my 11 first grade boys, and I said, ‘On Thursday, come in

to lunch, and we're going to have Young Gentlemen of Christ meeting. I really thought it was going to be a one-time thing.” But the students loved it, and they wanted more. The 25-minute meetings became a weekly standard, beginning in his classroom before moving out to the Admin Field. By second semester, the meetings, which start with scripture and prayer, grew to incorporate the boys from all three first grade classes. There was even a push to start a similar club for the girls. “Cooper has a huge heart for the students, and it shows in everything he does,” says Elementary Principal Jeff

Maljian. “When he started the club, he wanted to instill a desire in these boys, a love of following Jesus and what it looks like to practically live it out with kindness, honor, and love. With the mixed messages our young men are bombarded with in our society each day, he wanted to counter them with a Christ-focused one that plants seeds in their hearts and minds to grow for years to come. We have already seen these boys live out what they are learning in the classroom and at home.” And what better example to follow than Christ’s? “The two parts of it – gentleman and Christ – how to be a gentleman, how to have manners, how to show respect, and how to be young, godly men of Christ,” Barrick says. “Pairing those two, it actually really goes hand-in-hand

together. And they took it to heart immediately. I'm so proud of my first grade boys.” From praying before meals to holding the door for their classmates and taking turns, the effort is resonating. “It’s fun because we learn about how to be young gentlemen, and it made me learn how to protect girls,” says first grader Niko Arzumanyan. Added fellow first grader Nathaniel Kuddiss: “I help my brother and sister. There are challenges about being peaceful and staying calm, how to be a gentleman and be helpful and pick up trash.”

“I realize how much I'm being watched, and it's becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy in a way, because how could I teach young gentlemen of Christ if I'm not going to be a gentleman of Christ myself?” he says. “It's making me, as cliché as it is, a better person. It's making me a better father, and a better teacher.” It’s a profound impact for just 25 minutes each week. But every minute of investment could last a lifetime. And, frankly, who wouldn’t want to be in that number?

But it’s not just the students who have grown from the club. So has Barrick himself. S P R I N G/S U M M E R 2 0 2 6 | 25

VCS TODAY

MIDDLE SCHOOL UPDATE

Village Christian Middle School launches new signature house-based program headed into the 2026-2027 school year.

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The new Middle School signature program, “House of Village,” was officially launched to students on August 27, 2026. Students received their assignment to one of six “Houses” and then gathered for a special ceremony on the upper softball field.

FOR YEARS, VILLAGE CHRISTIAN MIDDLE SCHOOL WAS THE “PASSPORT TO ADVENTURE,” USING A SPECIAL GUIDING DOCUMENT TO CHART AN ACADEMIC COURSE AND MARK ACHIEVEMENT THROUGH GRADES 6, 7, AND 8. Now, these foundational years are undergoing a transformative remodel. Kicking off in the 2026-2027 school year, Middle School is launching a new house-based signature program that aims to further infuse core values into its culture, personal development, and community. “As enrollment continues to grow, we want to make sure every student feels like they belong and gets plugged into the community,” said Middle School Principal Robert Sayles. “That’s a major emphasis that is important to us – that every student is known and fits somewhere. This system will allow us to innovatively apply our core – and missional CARE – values in impactful ways.” That place of belonging will be found in one of six Houses named for essential virtues meant to reinforce the desired culture in Middle School: Faith, Truth, Honor, Excellence, Compassion, and Respect – all with associated mascots and colors to create vibrant and spirited identification and excitement at competitions and gatherings. Additionally, the program will help set students up for success when they graduate from eighth grade and step into Concentrations® in High School, with both programs featuring seminars, breakout opportunities, and a team-point structure. However, it is the focus on character and values that will truly prepare students to take full advantage of the opportunities available in High School. “With Concentrations®, students can gain experience with what comes next academically and professionally, giving

them opportunities to explore different aspects of a particular field or transition to another field,” Sayles said. “With the Houses, the emphasis is more on the character and values we want to develop to help students be successful in High School here at Village. Once they get into High School and see the Concentrations® system, it will feel much more familiar because they have already experienced a House system.” In launching the program, Middle School students were divided into Houses of approximately 50-60 students on August 27, 2026, as part of a special ceremony in chapel and on the upper softball field, blending students from all grades, demographics, and interests. Students will earn points for their House by participating in extracurricular activities such as athletics and fine arts, demonstrating the six core virtues, achieving House goals such as the fewest dress code violations and tardies, winning competitions, and more. Within their Houses, students will be able to step into new leadership opportunities and participate in seminars, or huddles, led by faculty and staff in Director and Dean roles. “What we’re going for with it, is building more cohesion, that family kind of atmosphere or team environment,” said Middle School Teacher Derek Samms, one of the faculty members who served on the program development committee. “Besides having that house pride, they’re also focusing on some kind of value that we want to stand for. That also means those words are going to be on banners and on things right in front of kids’ faces over and over again – these ideas of excellence, faith, compassion, truth. It’s one more way of emphasizing those values to the young people and ways that they are going to embody them. “I think what I’m looking forward to is seeing some of that team atmosphere, seeing kids come together. Hopefully, this will help them be less in a clique mindset, making friends with people

they might not have interacted with otherwise because they’re put in the same house. And allowing students and teachers to bond in that way,” Samms continued, adding that the early connection to High School programs also includes an introduction to 1:5® Circles of Care. “It certainly could, and that is one goal in the Bible Department specifically, that we’re trying to get into more next year is in Middle School – helping bring that up a little bit and prepare them. Something like this is going to at least help kids find that 1:5 when they get into High School in ninth grade and come up with names [for mentors]. They can look back at the teachers, ‘Oh, this person was in my House in Middle School.’” Research for the program began in the summer of 2025, with the structure taking shape alongside a faculty committee that was formed earlier this year. Common in boarding schools overseas, the House system is also modeled after similar programs currently in place at other Council on Educational Standards and Accountability member schools. “While originally designed to manage student life in historical boarding schools in England, the house system has evolved globally into a framework used to foster mentorship, peer leadership, and friendly competition,” said Head of School Tom Konjoyan. “Our students will have expanded opportunities to lead, be mentored, and build new relationships.” And in the process, each House will become a home for VCS students. “It’s a way to get kids who don't normally interact with one another to get to know each other and be on the same team, working toward the same goals,” Sayles said. “There’s competition, and they’re trying to win something, but in the process, we're instilling the values we want to see in students here at Village.”

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The Field of Dreams shines brightest in May, when for the fifth year in a row, Village Christian hosted Fifth Grade Culmination, Middle School Graduation, and High School Commencement right here in the foothills. We were blessed to hear student performances, enjoy speeches and tributes, and celebrate our students as they reached pivotal milestones. Please join us in congratulating the following students’ special recognition and achievement. 28

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WATCH MORE: 2026 Fifth Grade Culmination Recap

WATCH MORE: 2026 Middle School Graduation Recap

WATCH MORE: 2026 High School Commencement Recap

THE CLASS OF 2026 RECEIVED 412 TOTAL ACCEPTANCES TO 158 COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITIES ACROSS 35 STATES, EARNING A STAGGERING $18.2 MILLION IN SCHOLARSHIPS AND AID. NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY Lorenzo Arabian Versaille Arnado SALUTATORIAN Eisley Aust Allison Yu Cash Brett Margarit Luka Burger CRUSADER OF THE YEAR Chloe H Chung Matthew Harward Ryan Florida Molly Murphy Faith Freund Alexander Garcia CIF-SS ALL-ACADEMIC Ryan Girgis STUDENT ATHLETES Matthew Harward Ryan Girgis Leila Jacobsen Ella Tarverdyan Sabrina Kazaryan Hyeongbeen Kim SENIOR Samuel Kim ATHLETES OF THE YEAR Elena Kyriacou Leah Mosley Thomas Lash Nathan Peraza Jemma Learned Trinity Liang BOOSTER CLUB Pennelope Mietz SCHOLARSHIPS Rachel Miller Victoria Miller Alexander Garcia Nairi Minasyan Ava Holguin Kolby Mitchell Bronson Moore PTF CRUNITED Micaiah Mozee SCHOLARSHIPS Erin Nesmith Cash Brett Margarit Keili Newton Emmie Schlobohm Isabella Ohanganian Violet Swanson Rachel Overholt Nathan Peraza DAVE WILSON Sarah Popjes LEADERSHIP AWARD Ella Salzarulo Ryan Girgis Emmie Schlobohm Adrian Segovia TEAM RODAS Violet Swanson CHARACTER SCHOLARSHIP Ella Tarverdyan Asa Funk Rheese Vigilia Siqi Yang CHRISTOPHER OLIVER Leah Yesayan MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Allison Yu Jack Christopher Trinity Liang VALEDICTORIAN Erin Nesmith

CSF SCHOLARSHIPS Brock Gordon Sabrina Kazaryan Colette Kendrick Victoria Miller Leah Yesayan CSF SEALBEARERS Versaille Arnado Eisley Aust Luka Burger Zachary Burks Jack Christopher Chloe H Chung Joshua Donnelly Ella Duncan Anna-Sophia Falco Faith Freund Alexander Garcia Ryan Girgis Alexander Golanian Leila Jacobsen Sabrina Kazaryan Colette Kendrick Isabel Kim Jemma Learned Trinity Liang Presley Mendoza Victoria Miller Bronson Moore Molly Murphy Nathan Peraza Sarah Popjes Emmie Schlobohm Ella Tarverdyan

HIGH SCHOOL GPA OF 4.0 OR HIGHER Lorenzo Arabian Eisley Aust Luka Burger Zachary Burks Jack Christopher Chloe H Chung Griffin Elmer Anna-Sophia Falco Ryan Florida Faith Freund Callum Ganz Alexander Garcia Ryan Girgis Brock Gordon Matthew Harward Leila Jacobsen Jessica Jang Sabrina Kazaryan Colette Kendrick Erica Kim Hyeongbeen Kim Isabel Kim Samuel Kim Jemma Learne Trinity Liang Pennelope Mietz Rachel Miller Kolby Mitchell Bronson Moore Micaiah Mozee Molly Murphy Erin Nesmith Keili Newton Taylor Norton Isabella Ohanganian Rachel Overholt Sarah Popjes Kolbie Purinton Adia Rickert Ella Salzarulo Emmie Schlobohm Adrian Segovia Violet Swanson Ella Tarverdyan Rheese Vigilia Leah Yesayan Allison Yu Tyler Yuster

MATTHEW PAVELKA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP MIDDLE SCHOOL Neil Gunn CRUSADERS OF THE YEAR Molly Murphy Audrey Hernandez (6) Matthew Nazarpoor (6) JACK FORSCH Lorena Karapetyan (7) MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Jude Murphy (7) FIFTH GRADE Jack Christopher Leena Nazarian (8) CRUSADERS OF THE YEAR Alexander Dodd Jack Sanchez (8) Liv Bisordi ELIZABETH CARLETTA Lauren Klinger MIDDLE SCHOOL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP STUDENTS OF THE YEAR Katelyn Treat Colette Kendrick Kristal Olguin (6) FIFTH GRADE Nico Gonzales (6) ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARD “DOUG’S WAY” Ellie Sorowice (7) SCHOLARSHIP Michael Ajami Nicholas Ferguson (7) Blake Johnstone Kai Hakhamimi (8) Keili Newton Evan Sorowice Mason Lee (8)

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PLEASE JOIN US IN CONGRATULATING THE 14 STUDENT-ATHLETES FROM THE CLASS OF 2026 WHO HAVE SIGNED ON TO CONTINUE THEIR ATHLETIC CAREERS AT THE NEXT LEVEL.

Collegiate Signees SEVASTIAN BOCANEGRA

PRESTON MATHIS

Beloit College

Pasadena City College

Men’s Lacrosse

Football KINGSTON MAYFIELD

MADDIE BOQUIREN

College of the Canyons

Menlo College

Football

Women’s Basketball VICTORIA MILLER ZACHARY BURKS

Azusa Pacific University

Marymount University

Women’s Volleyball

Men’s Lacrosse KEILI NEWTON BLAKE DECKELMAN

California Baptist University

Cairn University

Cheer

Baseball SANDRINA PANALIGAN AVA HOLGUIN

University of Redlands

Hope International University

Women’s Basketball

Stunt NATHAN PERAZA JESSICA JANG

Keiser University

Rice University

Men’s Lacrosse

Women’s Golf EMMA RODRIGUEZ JEMMA LEARNED

Loyola Marymount University

Rockhurst University

Cheer

Women’s Lacrosse 30

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S P R I N G/S U M M E R 2 0 2 6 | 31

SENIOR REFLECTION

GRIFFIN ELMER (2026)

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EVERY YEAR, WE ARE PROUD TO FEATURE A MEMBER OF THE GRADUATING CLASS AS THEY SHARE MEMORIES, REFLECT ON THEIR TIME AT VILLAGE CHRISTIAN, AND LEAVE A MESSAGE FOR THE VCS COMMUNITY. THIS YEAR, WE ARE HONORED TO SPOTLIGHT GRI F F I N E LME R, WHOSE MOVING TESTIMONY OF PERSEVERANCE IS AS PROFOUND AS THE LESSONS HE HAS LEARNED ALONG THE WAY.

The Class of 2026’s Griffin Elmer reflects on his time at VCS and what he’s learned through tremendous hardship. BY GRIFFIN ELMER

Class of 2026

I’m going to be blunt here: the past couple years I’ve gone through, I’ve been hit pretty hard by life.

When I got a bad grade in English that was sending me spiraling in my self-esteem?

learn more than just how to read Frankenstein or do Algebra; it's where we can learn to get back up again.

Every step felt like it was burdened by a new social conflict, a struggle for my mental health, a tumor in my abdomen. It was a constant bitter experience knowing that the moment I got back up, something new would come to beat me down.

I got back up and excelled in the class.

Mrs. Case (teacher of AP Literature) specifically helped me realize this. In a class so filled with passion, where even when assignments got difficult and tests got rough, we could fall, learn, refine, and get back up.

It was hard to find peace in the moment. In a relentless struggle against the world, how could I get up when every step of the way it felt like there was a new conflict, a new worry, a new pain to hold me back. I felt crushed. And yet, being at Village, being surrounded by my community and surrounded by God-fearing, loving, passionate individuals, who kept going, who kept loving, who kept fearing, I learned something important: Get up. When I was about to step on stage in Arsenic & Old Lace and feel the weight of anxiety? I got back up and discovered a passion for theater.

When I woke up with excruciating pain and had to be rushed to the ER, discovering I had liver cancer and needed immediate surgery as well as chemotherapy for the next six months of my life? I got back up, found support from friends and family, studied hard, and passed every single AP Test despite going through my treatment. Every time I felt like I fell to the dirt, the community at Village got on my feet and told me “You’re okay. Get back up.” I don’t have to be perfect. I don’t have to do everything right. I don’t have to exceed. If I was, I’d be God (which I am thankfully not). And Village was the place that taught me that. It is a place where failure is okay. It pushes you gently (with the exception of Mr. Behrend), but even if you fall, Village will not define you for it. Because this is a place where we

There is a poster on her wall – Rocky Balboa with a quote saying, “Going in one more round when you don't think you can. That's what makes all the difference in your life.” And that is what Village is to me. That is what Village is to us. Thank you to every student and staff and faculty member for the four years you have allowed me to fail without fear. And to the students reading, whether you're still in High School or going forward, I encourage you to do one thing – if not for me than for God. Get up.

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This year’s annual fifth grade trip to Washington, D.C. had a little different look than in the past, and Village Christian students reaped the benefits. Ahead of our nation's Semiquincentennial, Village students explored foundational sites, toured iconic government institutions, and experienced powerful living-history reenactments that held special significance.

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JOLIE AVETISYAN

BRIELLE PUTIGNANO

My class trip to Washington, D.C. was the most memorable part of the fifth grade at VCS. Although there were many places I enjoyed seeing in D.C., the cherry blossom trees, the Lincoln and MLK memorials, and the Bible museum were my favorites. The cherry blossoms were fully bloomed and the Lincoln and MLK memorials were so huge and beautiful. I especially loved the MLK statue that was coming out of the stone. It was so powerful. This was the perfect year to visit D.C., because it is the 250th year anniversary, and I loved seeing all the special decorations and displays. My experiences in D.C. were fun and will be in my memories forever.

It was really special to be at our nation’s capital in the 250th birthday year of the United States of America. When I was there, everyone was making Washington, D.C. really pretty for July 4. When I found out I was going to Washington, D.C. in the 250th birthday, I was so excited. While I enjoyed every place we went, the most impactful place for me was Gettysburg. While I was there, I was looking at all of the gravestones, and it made me feel really sorry for the people who died in the Civil War – but I am thankful for their sacrifice.

HERE’S WH AT MEMBERS OF THIS YEAR’S FIF TH GRADE CL ASS H AD TO SAY ABOUT TRAVELING TO THE EAST COAST AND DIVING DEEP INTO THE N ATION’S HISTORY DURING ITS 250TH YEAR.

OLIVIA MADADI

LIANA TUBON

EVAN SOROWICE

JULIAN BRENES

The Washington, D.C. trip was an extraordinary trip. It included so many artifacts and items that were so interesting to learn about. Williamsburg was definitely a favorite of mine with all the equines, which means horses or any type of animal like one, and the different people who acted accurately in the parts they were given. Everything was delicious and nutritious. Sharing rooms was exciting because you had to learn to control your excitement and have fun with your roommates. Being there on the 250th anniversary was amazing, especially with the cherry blossom trees in their peak season. Additionally, the Smithsonians were nice to see because of the historical artifacts, and because some of the museums were in the movie Night at the Museum 2. Overall, Washington, D.C. was one of the most exciting trips I’ve been on in my life and definitely one I will remember.

Visiting Washington, D.C. was a great experience! I didn’t realize how many people sacrificed their lives for the freedoms we have today; knowing that makes me feel more patriotic and appreciative. This trip also taught me to be more independent and manage more responsibilities both on the trip and here at home. I feel very special to have been there for the 250th birthday of America. It feels like I am a part of history, since I was there during such a historic time. God bless America. the museums were in the movie Night at the Museum 2. Overall, Washington, D.C. was one of the most exciting trips I’ve been on in my life and definitely one I will remember.

My time in the D.C. area was very fun. It was cool to explore Washington, D.C. for the first time with my friends. I really like the Smithsonians and the Gettysburg Museum. It was interesting being in D.C. on the 250th birthday of America. They had special merchandise, and it was interesting to go to the really old places like Mt. Vernon and realize that those exact buildings were there 250 years ago, when we were fighting in the revolution. Also, Arlington and the war memorials were very meaningful knowing that people had fought and died for our country for 250 years so that we could be free and a country unlike any other. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to go to Washington, D.C.

My time in D.C. was breathtaking. The cherry blossoms and 250th decorations were an extraordinary touch to the D.C. trip. I’d like to think the whole country is throwing a party for the 250th anniversary just to celebrate our gradation, but honestly, it’s fitting that the nation is celebrating its biggest milestone at the same time we are reaching ours. The 250th anniversary was the highlight of my year. I am especially looking forward to next year and the wonderful memories we will all love and cherish.

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New Head Coach Rand Holdren and his staff have VCS Football ready to build on the program’s legacy heading into the 2026 season.

SET FOR A NEW ERA 36

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VCS TODAY

ATHLETICS UPDATE

NOT EVERY REBUILD MEANS STARTING FROM SCRATCH. Often, the foundation remains. And Village Christian football has a special foundation. Rich in history and tradition, beloved by current families and alumni, and impactful for decades of Crusaders, VCS Football has gone from its founding flag team in 1954 to a CIF Southern Section division championship in 2003.

Head Coach Rand Holdren works with players during practice in June.

Friday nights feature more than a game; they are an opportunity to come together as a community, celebrating not just the athletes on the field, but students from all corners of the campus. Cheerleaders inspire passion on the sidelines. Athletic training students launch potential careers in medicine. Band members and dancers perform in front of crowds. And fans, young and old, gather with school spirit to support the name on the front of the jersey as well as the back. So when new head varsity football coach Rand Holdren steps onto the field after taking over the program in April, it’s not only to develop athletes and young men, it’s also about adding a chapter, or a new story, to an already firm foundation.

CAPTION

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And he’s going to do it with a teamfirst mentality that’s already starting to resonate after a few short months on the job. “I am excited for an opportunity to build the program back up for the Village Christian community. I have heard that Friday Night Lights is well attended here and am fired up to see what it looks like. In addition, getting a chance to continue developing young players is something I am grateful for,” Holdren said. “We’re building a team. That's what's interesting to me. I like fixing things with people, not necessarily parts. I don't rebuild cars; I like rebuilding things with people and putting them in the right places they're supposed to be.” The former Southern Methodist University quarterback, who previously overhauled struggling programs at John Burroughs High School and Maranatha High School, took over for former head coach Richard Broussard following his sudden resignation late in the school year. Broussard was hired in 2017, rebuilding the program following a canceled season due to low numbers. He went on to lead the Crusaders to a 44-37 record with postseason trips in five of his seven seasons at the helm. Now, with participation lean following a large graduating class and a number of transfers, the opportunity is ripe for young players to step up, new leaders to emerge, and a new culture to be established. “This year, our new coaches, they’re showing us how football really works. He’s teaching us the ways of football, the smart ways,” said senior quarterback

Hudson Gerhardt, who is entering his second season in the program. “Coach Rand builds such a great team that isn’t just about me, it’s about us. I feel like that is what our team this year is going to do really well – we will succeed in being a team. We are going to worry about one thing and one thing only, winning as a team. And we are going to get better as the weeks go on. … I feel like [Coach Rand] is making everyone start to love football more.” Holdren and his staff are emphasizing fundamentals, developing football IQ, and remaining committed to not only building the high school program, but the middle school program as well. “The players that have shown up are bought in, attentive, and wanting to get better,” Holdren said. “Having had such a strong senior class depart also really lends itself to starting fresh with the program. This is a new coaching staff for the kids and they are excited to get to work and develop the team.” The staff features former UCLA award-winning defensive tackle and team captain Brigham Harwell as the defensive line coach and former VCS coach Mike Aguirre as offensive line coach, as well as newcomers Greg Pierce with the linebackers and running backs and Jacob Montez working with the defensive backs – all committed and investing in a group that is hungry to learn. “We have a lot of young guys, a lot of guys that are new to the sport,” said senior linebacker and running back Dylan Simon, who was forced to sit out last season with a shoulder injury. “But the bonds that we've had and that we built through the struggles and getting a new coaching staff – a whole new everything

– that kind of just made us strong. And I think that if we just keep working hard and keep going, that our future is going to look pretty good.” It's not just the players who are working hard. The new staff jumped right in, hosting the “Village8” 7-on-7 tournament within weeks of Holdren’s hiring. The team has participated in additional passing tournaments, held a joint practice with Burroughs, and is deep into summer ball. On June 27, VCS even won Burroughs’ 7-on-7 competition. The commitment is there, and so is the heart. “I coach to be the mentor that I didn't have when I played. I didn't have anybody to talk to or to teach me the intricacies of the game. So, I try to be the mentor that I didn't have to these kids,” Holdren said. “Also with that, building a team is important to me. I am someone who played football in the 80s and 90s, when team and life lessons were the primary goals. And that’s an exciting piece to me – a team that is forged together. I believe that a group of high school players can create an unstoppable energy when they believe and are all rowing the boat in the same direction.” And that’s a direction the entire community is excited to rally behind, making Friday nights shine even brighter. “We are so excited for this new chapter in VCS Football,” said Athletic Director Diana Putignano. “Coach Rand and his staff jumped right in to get to work with our boys, and it has been a blessing to see the growth and excitement so fast. We are thrilled to have Coach Rand and his staff here to take VCS Football to the next level.”

I believe that a group of high school players can create an unstoppable energy when they believe and are all rowing the boat in the same direction.

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Members of the Village football program pose with the championship banner after winning the Burroughs 7-on-7 tournament on June 27, 2026.

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On Saturday, April 25, 2026, Village Christian School hosted the 14th annual auction and gala, with this year’s theme celebrating 250 years under God as we gathered together in fellowship for a night of nostalgic fun and generosity. The “Stars and Stripes” celebration was held at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank, featured patriotic student performances, and raised nearly $220,000 for Tuition Assistance and Stand Up For Teachers, a record for total revenue. 40

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The night was complete with live and silent auctions, a tuition raffle opportunity, delicious food, and more. Make sure to save the date and join us next year on Saturday, April 17, 2026, for our western-themed annual auction and gala, which will be held on campus for the first time since 2016. Look out for more information. We hope to see y’all there!

WATCH MORE: 2026 Annual Gala Recap S P R I N G/S U M M E R 2 0 2 6 | 41

Crusaders for Life John Williams ('96)

Lexi (Hopkins) Kelly ('98)

John and Joy Williams have retired from education after 36 and 33 years, respectively. They will now enjoy traveling, golf, and spending time with their three grandchildren. Jude will join them in 2026. Kevin and Lexi are former foster parents and are passionate about showing the love of Christ through foster care and adoption.

Lexi and her family recently moved from the Imperial Valley to Valencia, where she now teaches third grade at Trinity Classical Academy. Her husband, Kevin, is a prosecutor with the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office. They have five children – Cole, Emma, Drew, Cora and Jude. Cole is serving in the Marine Corps. Emma, Drew, and Cora are attending Trinity, and Jude will join them in 2026. Kevin and Lexi are former foster parents and are passionate about showing the love of Christ through foster care and adoption.

Travis Wenkalman ('96) Travis is celebrating 22 years working for Fidelity Investments in their Boston headquarters. He has lived in Massachusetts for 30 years.

Mike Gallegos ('96) CAREER UPDATE: Mike Gallegos is joining Sands Investment Group as an Executive Managing Director for the Southwest region. With over 24 years of experience in strategic planning, sales management, and business development, his career in brokerage, management, and coaching has been defined by success in designing Commercial Real Estate go-to-market strategies, optimizing personnel deployment, and driving operational excellence. Mike earned both his B.A. and Executive Master of Leadership degrees from the University of Southern California and is currently pursuing an MBA at Brown University. He also holds the CCIM and MCR designations, along with multiple certifications in sales, leadership, and financial analysis. In 2020, GlobeSt.com / Real Estate Forum recognized him as one of the industry’s “Best Bosses.”

PLEASE SEND US YOUR UPDATES! WE WANT TO KNOW WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR LIFE. SEND US YOUR MILESTONES AND CLASS NOTE FOR INCLUSION IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF THE VILLAGE VOICE. 42

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ALUMNI UPDATES: Submit your information using this ALUMNI UPDATE FORM.

ALUMNI REUNION

Ambassadors Jennifer Spires ('00) Jennifer married Iain Hill, a Beverly Hills attorney, in La Jolla on September 20, 2024. Fellow VCS alumni that were in attendance, included Julieann Spires (2005); Monica (Tennis) Wood (2000), her fellow Drill Team mate; and Geoffrey Peterson (2003). She is a Marketing Executive at Netflix.

Danielle (Cooper) Delgado (Class of 2007), left, and Merly (Barco) Long (Class of 2003), center, were honored as Elementary Volunteers of the Year during Fifth Grade Culmination on May 27, 2026, at VCS.

Merly (Barco) Long (Class of 2003) and Danielle (Cooper) Delgado (Class of 2007), who have been involved at Village Christian with Elementary Parent Teacher Fellowship, will now be helping expand the school’s alumni connection efforts as Alumni Reunion Ambassadors.

Bradley Arnold ('02) Brad was named Chief Designer and Head of Hyundai Design North America (HDNA) in March. In this role, Arnold will oversee new vehicle and concept design for Hyundai Motor in North America, reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment toward a more customer-centric, design-led position in the marketplace. After graduating from Village, Arnold went to ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, where he also served as an instructor from 2009-2022.

“After spending many years serving and volunteering within the Village community, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand the lasting impact this school has on the lives of students, families, and graduates,” Delgado said. “My hope is that by expanding our alumni efforts, we can cultivate a lifelong sense of connection to Village, honor the legacy of those who came before us, and remind our graduates that Village will always be a place they can call home.” Added Long: “As a proud Class of 2003 graduate and current VCS parent, I am honored to serve as an Alumni Reunion Ambassador. Village Christian has impacted my life in so many ways, and I look forward to helping strengthen our alumni community, celebrate the stories and experiences that connect us, and create opportunities for graduates to stay engaged with the school that will always be part of our story.” FOR ASSISTANCE COORDIN ATING YOUR REUNION, PLEASE CONTACT VCSALUMNI@VILLAGECHRISTIAN.ORG. S P R I N G/S U M M E R 2 0 2 6 | 43

Class Reunion CL ASS OF 1996

On June 26, 2026, members of the Village Christian Class of 1996 visited campus for a special tour as part of their reunion festivities. It was such a joy to tour these fantastic Crusaders: (from left to right) Michele (Arnold) Serna, Dan Miller, Ben Tarntongjaroen, Rachel (Leonard) Angevine, Tina (Rust) Aust, Jennifer (Bernard) Russell, and Stephanie (Egyed) Davis.

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Jonathan Kim ('06) Since graduating, Jonathan Kim has built a career in nonprofit leadership and currently serves as Executive Director of BuildAbility, a Los Angeles-based organization supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. BuildAbility’s work focuses on helping individuals pursue employment, community involvement, independent living, and creative opportunities that support more self-directed lives. Jonathan is especially proud to be part of work that centers dignity, inclusion, and meaningful opportunities for marginalized communities and people who are too often overlooked. Outside of work, Jonathan enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter and continues to call the San Fernando Valley home. These days, life is a balance of family, nonprofit leadership, and trying to stay present for the small moments that matter most. He remains grateful for the experiences, relationships, and foundation from his high school years, which helped shape both his personal and professional path.

Samantha Ochse ('14) Sam was recently honored by her alma mater, Loma Linda University, with the school’s prestigious Rising Star Award. Each year, the faculty at Loma Linda select one alum from each discipline for the honor, and this year, Sam was the recipient for Child Life in recognition of her outstanding contributions to advancing the field at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. After earning her Master’s Degree from Loma Linda in 2020, Sam joined CHLA as a Child Life Specialist in the inpatient Oncology/ Hematology Department, where she provides an array of compassionate and empathetic support and much-needed resources to children and families. Additionally, she also serves as an Adjunct Professor at the university, teaching a class in the Child Life Master’s Program and helping prepare the next generation of Child Life Specialists.

Ruby (Cates) Gray ('21) Ruby, the daughter of VCS Class of 1997 graduate Lesli (Gunn) Cates, married her husband, Matthew, in February 2026 after meeting while attending Grand Canyon University. The couple now lives in Arizona, where they have built a wonderful community through their church, friendships, and careers. They love calling Arizona home and are enjoying this new chapter of marriage together, while staying connected to family and friends in Southern California. As a Village lifer, Ruby is especially grateful for the people and experiences that shaped her throughout her years at Village and helped prepare her for this season of life.

RSVP BY SEPTEMBER 18

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UPDATE

FUNDRAISING

As VCS heads into Year 3 of THE NEXT 75 Anniversary Campaign, focus remains set on new Event Center.

The Next Chapter BY TOM KONJOYAN

Head of School

A DECADE AGO, WE ASKED OUR COMMUNITY A VITAL QUESTION: WHAT NEW FACILITY WOULD MAKE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON OUR STUDENTS? The answer was resounding: a new indoor gymnasium. As our performing arts and indoor athletic programs flourished, the Kendall Pavilion, affectionately known in the past simply as "the Pavilion,” became a hub of overlapping schedules and growing congestion. In response, the school launched a strategic plan to clear the way for a new, much-needed facility. In 2018, we experienced a true blessing from God: the opportunity to purchase land across the street from the Field of Dreams. Despite delays caused by pandemic-era closures, the South Athletic Field officially opened this school year. This new field serves as the home for our softball program and a premier practice space for soccer, lacrosse, and football. Soon, we will also begin construction on a state-of-the-art hitting and pitching complex on the property adjacent to the field. Most importantly, the completion of this athletic hub has finally unlocked the space needed to break ground on our long-envisioned gymnasium. 46

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Planning is well underway for the Event Center at VCS. This center will house our indoor sports, athletic training, and coaching offices, while simultaneously freeing up the Kendall Pavilion to become a dedicated home for our thriving Performing Arts department. With two expansive indoor venues, every program will have the room to grow alongside our student body. We know that co-curricular programs are more than just "extras" — they are drivers of academic success and college readiness. They teach invaluable life lessons, foster lifelong friendships, and, most importantly, allow students to explore their God-given talents and grow in their faith. Currently, we are in the expedited planning process with the City of Los Angeles. God willing, we will break ground by the end of the next school year. To turn this prayer into a reality, we have launched the largest fundraising effort in our school’s history. Our goal is $10 million; thanks to the incredible generosity of our families, we have already raised $5 million. We invite you to prayerfully consider how you can join us in building this strategic future for our students. Visit villagechristian.org/give to learn how you can help us step into THE NEXT 75.

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Village Christian campus following the completion of the new South Athletic Field in 2025. The multi-purpose SAF will soon include a pitching and hitting complex that is slated to be finished in 2026.

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ALUMNI WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU Please send us your updates, weddings, births, graduations, and everything in between. We want to know what’s happening in your life. Send us your milestones and class notes for inclusion in the next issue of the Village Voice. Submit your information.