General Academic Excellence Award

• Lucy Harrington
• Jordan Bowman Davis

Through their tenure at Justin-Siena these students have received straight A’s while challenging themselves with the most rigorous schedule possible at Justin-Siena.

The Justin-Siena Spirit Awards were founded in memory of Brother Justin McMahon, a pioneer educator in California, and St. Catherine of Siena, a great Dominican woman and doctor of the Church. These awards are presented to graduating seniors in appreciation for, and recognition of their enthusiasm and participation in the spirit activities of Justin-Siena High School.

The Senior Service Awards are presented to graduating seniors who, in the estimation of and selection by their class, exemplify those qualities of generosity, leadership and unselfish service to all school affairs.

The Brother Augustine King Loyalty Award, founded in memory of Brother Augustine King, a member of the founding faculty of Justin-Siena High School, is awarded to a senior distinguished for his loyalty to the Christian ideals of Justin-Siena in all aspects of school life. The Sister Rosemary Jovick Loyalty Award is founded in memory of Sister Rosemary Jovick, a member of the faculty of Siena High School from 1969 to 1971. In the short time she was with us, she radiated a joy and enthusiasm in every community and school activity. We are honored to give this award to a girl who, through her dedication to Justin-Siena, has given herself to countless school projects and activities in loyalty.

There are two Leadership Awards which are considered to be the highest and most distinguished non-academic awards that may be presented to a graduating senior. These Awards are presented to a pair of graduating seniors who, throughout their high school career, have devoted their efforts to the advancement of their fellow classmates. Enthusiasm, dedication, and support of school activities, outstanding spirit, devotion to the school’s ideals, and loyal service for the advancement of student affairs are the distinguishing characteristics of these graduates.

This year the Lasallian schools across the San Francisco New Orleans District have added the Visitor’s Award to be presented to the seniors who are often the behind the scenes servant leaders that contribute to the transformation of their schools by helping them live out the Lasallian Mission.

 

Graduation is such an exciting time, and we just love to celebrate our graduates! We are so proud of the Class of 2019 for all they have accomplished and for all they have given of themselves for the good of our Justin-Siena family. We will miss them, and we wish them well.

As a way to build momentum to graduation day, we counted down the days with shout-outs to various members of the class on our different social media channels (@justinsiena on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) for our extended community to be able to follow along. The students in this eclectic group were selected through a collaborative process that involved faculty members, program directors, department chairs, administrators, and more in order to show the breadth of talent and personality from this fine group of young men and women. While our “countdown list” is limited for time and space—the possibilities and potential with this class are limitless! Congratulations to each member of the Class of 2019! Please keep in touch and come visit—but most of all be the BRAVES you are. We know that you will make us proud as we are confident that you are prepared to serve and to lead in our ever-changing world!

A humble leader on and off the court and one of Justin-Siena’s most decorated athletes, Julia Sangiacomo ’19 plans to take her game, her incredible work ethic, and her D-1 volleyball scholarship to Santa Clara University where she plans to study biology. She describes her time at Justin-Siena as “fulfilling and a time of growth”, and she relishes the lasting friendships she has made. Fueled by a competitive and athletic family life and upbringing, along with a deep sense of gratitude for her JS education, Julia hopes to put her talents to use for the benefit of others. “I decided that I wanted to play volleyball in college and pursue a degree in medicine because it can help improve the lives of others,” she shared. Julia truly is all heart and lives life with a team-first attitude—she embraces the notion that we must believe in other people for everyone to be their best. And, we believe in you, Julia! #ALLHEART #Classof2019

May 21—9 days! Countdown to Graduation with Feras Halabi ’19
No stranger to the stage, Feras Halabi has discovered a passion for performing arts during his time at Justin-Siena—from theatre to choral to instrumental music. “I used to be a kid without any real sense of direction and did not want to grow up, but after my time at JS I have found my passion through the arts and cannot wait for what the future holds.” Armed with a desire to hone his craft and charm the world with his character, his next act takes him to Chapman University to pursue a Bachelor’s of Art in Theatre Studies. “I knew I belonged in the entertainment industry, so the first place I looked in my college search was Southern California. After touring some colleges and listening to the experiences of several alums, I had a strong feeling about going to Chapman, and my acceptance just confirmed that for me.” Whether hyping up the crowd at a rally or football game, sharing his wide range talents on stage in a concert, ComedySportz, or Founders Day talent show, Feras gave of himself and clearly got out of high school what he put in. He used the word “wholly” to describe his time here. “My experience at Justin-Siena has been amazing and life-changing. If I went to any other high school, I know I would not be who I am today.” Best of luck to Feras as he will, no doubt, take Chapman by storm! #ALLHEART #Classof2019

In addition to significant softball and #allheart student life memories, a deepened sense of faith and closer relationship with God is something Clare García ’19 will take with her to Boise State University and beyond. Clare plans to pursue a degree in special education and considers her teachers and coaches to have been very influential in her growth and in her decision to want to become a teacher. “To have countless faculty around me every day, who embody God’s love is what really pushed my faith to be so strong.” Drawn to service in the form of Kairos Leader and VENAVER participant, Clare feels called to help others and loves working with children. “From a very young age, I knew that I wanted to work in a field that gives back to others. I’ve also been a nanny for a couple of years now, and I absolutely love it! As I headed into my junior year, Mr. Hodges suggested I become a teacher, that way I would get the best of both worlds; helping others while being surrounded by children. At first, I was nervous about the idea but the more time I spent thinking and praying about it, I knew I was meant to be a teacher. I helped tutor some of my fellow classmates and elementary students, and it brought me so much joy when they would understand the topic I was teaching them. I realized how much I love being at school and learning new things. The teaching environment at Justin-Siena is so welcoming and kind that it only made me want to become a teacher all the more.” Clare reflects on her time at the Home of the Braves as a special time full of love and personal growth. “I can see a great change looking back at myself from freshman year to senior year and it’s all because of the marvelous community at Justin-Siena and those who’ve coached me, taught me and cared for me.” Clare’s faith, positive attitude, and work ethic will serve her well in Boise and beyond, and if the stars align, perhaps she’ll return to her alma mater as a member of the faculty and as a coach! #ALLHEART #Classof2019

May 23 – 7 Days! Countdown to Graduation with Austin Parlett ’19
Austin Parlett ’19 found a home at Justin-Siena, and the try-new-things philosophy he adopted early on, served him well. “I always try to find ways in which I can challenge myself and make a positive impact on the world around me.” He was able to grow and discover new passions, ones that have led him to pursue a course of study at Saint Mary’s College of California. “I have changed completely from the first day of high school. Entering high school, as a freshman, I was shy and scared to try new things. As soon as I began to reach out and try leadership on campus, I was able to grow and accomplish some pretty amazing things.” Through his roles in various aspects of student leadership, Austin was instrumental in shaping student culture, by creating a connected community and seeking to create an environment of respect among students. “These qualities helped me choose to attend Saint Mary's because I realized that this type of community is what I am searching for in a college. A loving community is very important to me and that is why I chose Saint Mary's. As soon as I walked on campus, I felt at home and knew right away that it was going to be my next home after Justin-Siena.” We just know that Austin will thrive in his next chapter of Lasallian education as a Gael at SMC. #ALLHEART #Classof2019

May 24 – 6 Days! Countdown to Graduation with Mary Cate Hyde ’19
Equally at home reciting poetry, preparing a court case in Mock Trial, nurturing animals, playing the violin, or exploring in the biology lab, Mary Cate Hyde ’19 knew she needed to find a school where she could not only be challenged but across multiple areas of interests—and Princeton University fit the bill. She credits her time at Justin-Siena to awaking these various passions and for giving her the opportunity to explore—calling her time “inspiring.” “I have gone beyond my comfort zone academically, become a more confident person, and gained a better sense of who I am and who I want to be. I always considered myself more of a science person, but at JS I discovered a passion for liberal arts-based activities like Mock Trial and Poetry Out Loud that challenged me in a way I hadn't experienced before. As a result, I sought a college with both a rigorous research-based science program and strong arts and humanities, and I found that at Princeton. Additionally, so many of my classmates at Justin inspired me in their commitment and passion for such a variety of activities and disciplines, and I knew I wanted to go somewhere with people equally as enthusiastic and willing to grow. I have also experienced what it means to be a part of a supportive community through Mock Trial and Instrumental Music, and I knew I wanted a similar experience in college. With the multitude of groups, clubs, and organizations on campus, along with the relatively small undergraduate population, I knew I would be able to find a community like that which I experienced at Justin-Siena.” Mary Cate plans to study Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and hopes to become involved in field research and public service opportunities, contributing to a greater knowledge of life on our planet. She credits Mr. Spencer Joske ’10 (a true Lasallian educator, having been educated at JS himself) to opening her eyes to what is possible in the field of biology and plans to push herself “to achieve greater things for the ultimate service of others.” #ALLHEART #Classof2019

May 25 – 5 Days! Countdown to Graduation with Landon Mispagel ’19
UC Santa Barbara-bound Landon Mispagel ’19 has cleared yet another hurdle—high school! A 3-sport athlete and all around great student, Landon knows that his success in and out of the classroom comes from a lot of hard work and commitment. He is grateful for the growth opportunities of high school and feels ready for what’s next—a course of study in biology and running hurdles for the Gauchos! “I have grown athletically and academically. The athletic teams at Justin-Siena push you out of your comfort zone and allow amazing connections with students and coaches that have definitely helped me grow to be more sociable and friendly. Academically, I have grown through taking Honors and AP classes. These classes were difficult, but through hard work and dedication my level of preparation for college has definitely increased.” As his high school career winds down, he is grateful for the memories. “My experience at Justin- Siena was absolutely amazing. I will cherish these past four years for the rest of my life. Whether it was the friendliness of students and teachers, playing sports, or all the excellent events held at Justin- Siena, this loving community has touched my heart. Justin-Siena challenges you to be your best, and that is a mentality I will live by forever.” We are confident Landon will clear any hurdles life places in front of him with grace and bravery! #ALLHEART #Classof2019

May 26—4 Days! Countdown to Graduation with Conrad Say ’19
No stranger to going the distance—whether yardage on the gridiron or another lap around the track, but especially in the classroom—Conrad Say ’19 learned from early on that if he believed in himself, he could always improve and become better. This distance can certainly be measured in growth during his high school career, although “not in the height department,” he jokes, showing off his dry sense of humor. “Learning that I don’t have to be great at everything, but to find what I love and what I am good at and pursue them aggressively, while still being able to keep things in perspective and not becoming too narrow-minded.” While he was aggressively pursuing his fitness for sport and he discovered that he enjoyed challenges and seeing self-improvement. “Through weightlifting with Coach Ed and sports, I learned I had a passion for the human body. And, in my biology class with Mr. Joske (both a teacher and coach), I was able to entertain my curiosity further, bouncing crazy ideas and theories off of him. Johns Hopkins, a university with more than two billion dollars towards research, seemed to be a perfect match for my curiosity as I hope to go pre med.” As Conrad prepares to leave the home of the Braves for his new home at Johns Hopkins University, he does so with confidence. Justin-Siena has been a time of “endless growth and learning” for him while figuring out who he wants to be and the continual adjusting and perseverance that goes with that journey of discovery. He sums up his time at JS as “unexpected,” and we wish him all the best! #ALLHEART #Classof2019 #johnshopkinsuniversity @johnshopkinsuniversity

Discovering dance and nurturing her service-minded nature paired with an optimistic outlook and solid work ethic has led Jan Escocio ’19 on a transformative high school journey at Justin-Siena. “I have grown to become a more confident person. As a freshman, I was very shy and quiet, inside and outside the classroom. However, through dance, I discovered different sides of me as I learned how to express myself creatively through movement. By being a part of dance for four years, I have learned how to become more comfortable in speaking and performing in front of people, which has helped with my shyness.” When she wasn’t dancing or hitting the books, Jan could be found engaging in service either through JS clubs or at the Veterans Home. “By participating in these clubs and shadowing my mom who works as a nurse helped me realize that I like to help people in a hands-on way by developing a bond with the people I help. Through these experiences, I realized that I wanted to become a nurse.” So Jan will attend Dominican University of California to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. “In the future, I hope to specialize in pediatrics and/or become a nurse practitioner.” She credits being a part of the JS community for her growth. “Learning in such an environment, creating fun memories with my classmates, and developing great relationships with people has helped me discover and appreciate my true self and prepared me for whatever may come my way in the future,” she shared. Jan feels blessed to have been a part of the JS community and will no doubt be a blessing to the people whose lives she will impact in the future. #ALLHEART #Classof2019

May 27—3 Days! Countdown to Graduation with Olivia Boles’19
Quick with a helping hand, a positive word, or a big smile, Olivia Boles ’19 plans to take her boundless energy and huge heart to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in order to pursue a degree in Modern Languages and Literature. “High school has taught me that it is important to be a person of passion but also to strive to be humble because working with others through love is when the best things are created.” Olivia generously shared her creative talents on and off stage with theatre tech and instrumental music, student life and more. Adopting a you-get-out-what-you-put-in philosophy early on, she excitedly describes her time at JS as “busy, but worth every second.” And knowing that worth as led her to consider a future in education potentially. “My Justin-Siena environment has taught me that it is important to challenge oneself, enter each situation with an open mind, and always save a little time for music. My experience has pointed me in the direction of pursuing a ‘helping’ profession—most likely teaching—something Mr. Day inspired me to consider.” With a huge heart full of love and a desire to share it with the world and to be a person of character, Olivia will no doubt open minds and touch hearts on whatever path she takes. #ALLHEART #Classof2019

May 28—2 Days! Countdown to Graduation with Jordan Bowman-Davis ’19
Princeton University-bound Jordan Bowman-Davis ’19 considers his time at the Home of the Braves to have been profoundly rewarding, and at the same time profoundly challenging. “Justin-Siena has pushed me to be a better person in many different aspects, and will undoubtedly have a positive impact on my future success. I have loved the ‘Justin-Siena experience’ because it can be whatever you want it to be. There is truly a place for everyone.” Clearly, Jordan’s high school experience has shaped his college plans. “Experiencing Justin-Siena's small classes, and the bonds formed among its members, I knew I wanted to attend a college where I could truly get to connect with my professors and peers. JS Robotics and the engineering program, along with chemistry, physics, biology, and math courses, have furthered my passion for science and technology, while Justin-Siena's club and leadership options have allowed me to explore my other varied interests, from finance to management. Finally, as a member of Braves athletics (Football, Soccer, Lacrosse), I have learned the values of teamwork and self-sacrifice. My development as an athlete and as a leader has played a role in my decision to participate in NROTC during college, after which I will be commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy.” Jordan plans to study chemistry or engineering while at Princeton, and we are confident that this young man is well equipped to meet these new academic challenges and for whatever lies beyond—he is prepared to serve and to lead in an ever-changing world. And in his own words, “Justin-Siena has taught me not only to be a good student, but a good teammate, friend, and future professional.” #ALLHEART #Classof2019

One may recall the mighty solo number in the second act on the JS Theatre spring production of Encore where she belted out the Chorus Line hit, “And I dug right down to the bottom of my soul; To see what I had inside. Yes, I dug right down to the bottom of my soul; And I tried, I tried.” Although in possession of an amazing voice, huge smile, and the heart of a servant leader, Patrizia Tandinco ’19 did way more than try in her Justin-Siena years—she did, wholeheartedly! “I have grown immensely during my time in high school, and love that Justin-Siena was a place that nourishes the whole person. Coming to Justin-Siena as a freshman I was a shy girl from a middle school pretty far away, which led me to be hesitant. Fortunately, I was given so many opportunities to break out of my shell. For example, being in advanced choir throughout these four years has taught me to be a better singer and leader, and I developed a professional work ethic through participating in theatre productions.” Inspired by several service opportunities and fueled by an innate desire to bring a smile or lighten a load, Patrizia hopes to continue on a path of servant leadership in all aspects of her life. Patrizia is a caring friend who wants to make a difference in the world, and as she pursues a course of study in biology at Loyola Marymount University Los Angeles, we know that she will continue to smile and sing her way into the hearts of all she encounters along her journey. #ALLHEART #Classof2019

May 30—0 Days! Countdown to Graduation with Sumaia Khoury ’19, Valedictorian
From a home-schooled experience through grammar school to rounding out a college prep experience at Justin-Siena as co-student body president with a passion for science, Biola University-bound Sumaia Khoury ’19 says her Justin-Siena years have been nothing short of transformative. “High school has been the most fulfilling time of my life. As Seventh-Day Adventists, both my parents and I were interested in a school with a foundation in faith, and I found my niche at Justin-Siena. I found a community centered on faith, which supported involvement in a variety of faith-based outreach and service-oriented programs. Justin-Siena has shaped me into the person I am today, and my experiences with classmates, teachers, and courses have motivated me to work hard for what I love.” In addition to a rigorous academic course-load Sumaia enriched her experience through embracing leadership opportunities, playing golf, and service opportunities, and through her Justin-Siena journey she has paved a path toward the future. “I found my passion for the sciences this year studying biology and human physiology. Now, when I consider prominent biological topics—like stem-cell theory and cloning technology—my insatiable child-like curiosity meets its match. The nature of scientific inquiry fuels my learning process and translates directly into my desire to become a biomedical researcher or a physician. In pursuing a degree in biochemistry and going on to medical school, I can combine my love of discovery with a goal of helping others, through traveling as a medical missionary to developing countries, many of which lack access to adequate health-care. While I seek to live out my vocation I recall one of my favorite verses from Colossians: ‘whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters’ (Colossians 3:23). Sumaia is #allheart; she puts her whole heart into everything she does, and we can all learn from her example. “I strive to become the person God meant me to be. In my own experience, faith has pushed me to work hard for what I love, and I have recognized through my Justin-Siena experience that true fulfillment comes from living in Christ.” Godspeed, Sumaia! #ALLHEART #Classof2019