Alumnae News & Events
Alumnae News & Events
Join Us on Campus for Mass 2019-2020
Pax et Bonum Mass: Jan. 29, 2020, 10:35am
Ash Wednesday Mass: Feb. 26, 2020, 10:00am
Is it time for your
Class Reunion?
Click here for Reunions
SMILE & Make Your Holiday Shopping Count!
Your holiday shopping can benefit St. Francis Catholic High School. To support our school while shopping on Amazon, always shop at smile.amazon.com (bookmark the site to make it easier to return to). You’ll find the exact same low prices, vast selection, and convenient shopping experience as Amazon.com.
St. Francis High School Career Day 2020
Share Your Wisdom: Career Day & Mentoring
Without a doubt, St. Francis cultivates successful, impactful and
capable alumnae – women who are changing their world. As guides
to our current students, our dedicated faculty and staff work
every day to provide our young women with a glimpse into the
exciting and fulfilling futures that await them after
graduation. But what if there were a way for them to hear
those stories of success and opportunity directly, from the
people who live them every day? That’s where you come
in.
Alumna Izzy” Chelini ‘15
Alumna Isabella “Izzy” Chelini ‘15 graduated May 2019 with a degree in exercise science from Cal Lutheran in Thousand Oaks. She played soccer all four years. Last year the 2018 team went to sweet sixteen for the first time in the history of the school. She plans on pursuing nursing. Help us celebrate your Troubie grad by emailing photos with name, school, accomplishments and degree to rnamba@stfrancishs.org. #WomenWhoChangetheWorld
Calling All Loretto , Mercy and Bishop Armstrong & Manogue Alumnae
St. Francis High School would like to include legacy families from all the Sacramento all-girls Catholic schools.
If a member of your family attended Loretto, Bishop Armstrong, Bishop Manogue, or Mercy and you have a current student at St. Francis, please update MaryAnne Kelly at mkelly@stfrancishs.org.
Gerwigs’ latest film coming to theaters soon!
Coming soon to a theater near you: SFHS Alumna, Greta Gerwig ‘02, brings Little Women to life on the big screen as only she can do! Another well directed and cast film, Gerwig has Saoirse Ronan playing the heroine Jo March; Florence Pugh, Emma Watson, and Eliza Scanlen playing the sisters; Laura Dern is Marmee, and Meryl Streep plays their forbidding, rich Aunt March. Timothée Chalamet (another Lady Bird carryover) plays heartthrob Laurie, the literal boy next door who develops an intense friendship with Jo.
Olivia Nice (‘10) is returning to California to perform the lead in the musical ONCE
After almost a decade of performing around the world, SF Players alumna Olivia Nice (‘10) is returning to California to perform the lead in the musical ONCE, playing at the 42nd St Moon Gateway Theater from June 12-June 30th, 2019. She has been playing this role around the nation for over a year now, picking up a BroadwayWorld nomination for Best Lead Actress in a Musical and a win for Best Female Performance of the Year from Ashland, OR Sneak Preview Magazine.
Jingle Mingle 2018 Recap
Young alums from St. Francis, Jesuit and Loretto from the classes of 2007-2015 kicked-off the holiday season with Jingle Mingle at Barwest on December 21, 2018.
Amy Lynn-Cramer’90
Alumna Spotlight
Amy works on the Corporate Communications Team as head of HR Communications for all of NBCUniversal. She was formerly a publicist at TECHTV, FUSE, and NBC News.
Marion Kaeser Slakey ’48 recipient of the “Spirit of San Damiano Award”
The 2nd annual “Spirit of San Damiano Award” will be presented at the 2019 Revelry Gala & Auction on March 9, 2019. Marion Kaeser Slakey ’48 has been selected as a recipient of this year’s award.
Class of 2008 – 10 Year Reunion Recap
The Class of 2008 celebrated their 10 year reunion on December 22, 2018 with lunch at the Old Spaghetti Factory followed by a Holiday Cruise aboard the Hornblower Cruise on the Sacramento River.
Class of 83 – Reunion Recap
The Class of 83 celebrated their 35th reunion on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at Luna Lounge in Carmichael.
Class of 53 – Reunion Recap
On September 26th the Class of 1953 gathered for Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Parish. After Mass they met for lunch at the Old Spaghetti Factory in Downtown Sacramento.
Class of 1993 – 25th Reunion Recap
The Class of 1993, our Pebbles and Bam Bam, celebrated their 25th Reunion and their Sisterhood with a full weekend of events. These are photos from their Saturday, October 6th celebration.
Class of 1988 – 30 Year Reunion
The Class of 1988, our Chip & Dales, celebrated their 30th Reunion at Hook and Ladder in Sacramento.
Alumnae on Broadway and on an International Tour
Jessica Crouch’04 is on Broadway! Good luck and congratulations to Jessica Crouch’04 who is in previews for “Pretty Woman the Musical” on Broadway! The show officially opens on August 16th. Dreams do come true!
Class of 1968 – 50th Reunion Recap
The class of 1968 is celebrated their Golden 50th Reunion in 2018. They attended the 2018 Graduation Ceremony and processed in before the class of 2018. They also gathered at Piatti’s in Sacramento on June 2nd and a Picnic with Christian Brothers on June 3rd at St. Francis Catholic High School.
Alumna Allison Child Joins Volleyball Staff
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Alumna Allison Child ’13 will begin her first season on the St. Francis volleyball staff in 2018, serving as the head coach of the freshman team.
“Being back at St. Francis is such a blessing and I am excited to be here to serve the community that gave me so much,” said Child. “I loved being a part of this volleyball program as a player, and I can’t wait to experience it as a coach, alongside an amazing and supportive staff. Overall, it’s truly an amazing opportunity to be back in the SF gym and I am looking forward to this season!”
Katie Garnett ‘12 Takes Flight
Alumna Katie Garnett ‘12 had her first flight as a Flight Attendant for American Airlines on Saturday, June 23rd. Her day included the Chicago-Sacramento route which was boarded by members of the returning Chicago Service Trip. Katie, who went on the New Orleans Service Trip as a Troubie, recently graduated from Sacramento State and relocated to her base New York City and being a flight attendant is her absolute dream job.
Where Are They Now? Ashley Kyalwazi ‘14
Alumna Ashley Kyalwazi ’14, who was the Student Body President her senior year, continues to be a shining example and representative of St. Francis High School. She recently stopped by the campus in between her graduation from the University of Notre Dame and enrollment in Harvard Medical School this fall.
“I had a great time as an undergraduate at Notre Dame,” said Kyalwazi. “Over the course of four years, I was blessed to meet amazing people from professors to my peers. I will miss my time at ND, but I am looking forward to beginning my medical school journey.”
Reanna Klanseck ‘14
What’s new with our 2014 Troubies? Just four short years ago they were accepting their diplomas from St. Francis High School on stage at Sacramento’s Memorial Auditorium. Now they are graduating from colleges across the nation. Send us your graduation news to Dawn Winston ‘91 at dwinston@stfrancishs.org
MacKenzie Campbell ‘14
MacKenzie Campbell ’14 graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in Advertising and Public Relations with minors in English and Communications. She worked at Hudl (a sports software company) as an intern her senior year of college and she used her lacrosse knowledge from playing four years at St. Francis to help develop their lacrosse marketing. After graduation she transitioned to a full-time role at Hudl as a Project Manager for the Marketing Technology team. #TroubieForLife
Meredith Ray ‘14
Meredith Ray ‘14 graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Santa Clara University in Communication and Spanish. She is headed to Seattle in August for a full time job with the Seattle Seahawks in their Digital Media department. #TroubieForLife
Wow! That is an exciting industry to work in and we will follow up with Meredith in the fall for an update on her new career with the Seahawks.
We are so proud of all our Troubies and want to share your news too! Send an email to Dawn Winston ‘91 at dwinston@stfrancishs.org
Alumna Athena Nguyen 2018 Valedictorian at Santa Clara Univ.
Congratulations to Athena! She has been selected as the 2018 Valedictorian for Santa Clara University! Next she will be headed to Vietnam where she will serve as a Teaching Assistant as part of her Fullbright Scholar program #AlumnaNews
Sisterhood in Seattle!
Alumna Sarah Lewicki ‘09 and Rebekah Fenton(Lucien) ‘08 discovered they are both working at the Seattle Children’s Hospital; Sarah a nurse in the PICU, and Rebekah is a pediatrics resident! Way to Go Troubies!
Do you work with your Troubadour Sisters? We would love to feature you – send a photo into our Alumna Director, Dawn Winston ‘91, at dwinston@stfrancishs.org. #TroubieforLife
Kayla Morrow ‘15
Kayla Morrow ‘15 is currently studying Strategic Communication with a double emphasis in Public Relations and Advertising at Northern Arizona University. This summer she will be attending Regionals and Nationals with her Flagstaff baton team where she will compete in solo and team events. The medals she is wearing are from placing in her solo routines at a competition in April. She has been twirling since she was 7 and her teacher was Danielle Muller ’00. Kayla’s sister, current Troubie Olivia ‘20 is also a twirling student of Mrs. Muller.
Eleni Tsakopoulos Kounalakis ‘85
Congratulations Eleni Tsakopoulos Kounalakis ‘85. Eleni moved one step closer to Lieutenant Governor of California in the Tuesday June 5th primary election.
We are proud of all of our Troubies! Share your Troubie news at dwinston@stfrancishs.org
Natasha Soto-Albors ‘02
After graduating from SFHS Natasha Soto-Albors ‘02 made the journey east to study at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Since receiving her B.F.A. in Drama, Natasha has built a career as an actor, screenwriter, and film producer. She is the founder and CEO of Night Spark Pictures, an NYC production company dedicated to diverse and dynamic storytelling.
Alumnae Spotlight Eleni Kounalakis ’85
Troubie. Businesswoman. Activist. Diplomat. Mother. What's Next, Lieutenant Governor of California?
Congratulations to alumna Eleni Tsakopoulos Kounalakis ’85 on her election to Lieutenant Governor of California! If you missed the article on Eleni in the Spring 2018 issue, read it here:
We know Troubadours are women who change the world; we had a chance to catch up with Eleni Tsakopoulos Kounalakis ’85 to hear where her post-St. Francis journey has taken her and what lessons from her alma mater she has taken on the journey.
Always a woman who wanted to experience the world, Eleni spent her sophomore year at a boarding school in Lugano, Switzerland before embarking on her Troubadour education. While transferring schools mid-way through high school can seem intimidating, Eleni found her St. Francis home to be warm and welcoming and affectionately remembers the many friends she made while a student here. Troubies who remember her debate performance as Walter Mondale*, alongside Claire Chatfield as Geraldine Ferraro, will not be surprised that Eleni is currently campaigning to be the next Lieutenant Governor of California.
“A part of running for office is reviewing your old files. I pleasantly found a report I had written in high school about the 1984 election. There was no question the work we were doing at St. Francis was very relevant,” Eleni reminisces. Her social studies teacher, Trisha (Garretson) Uhrhammer, had connections at the Capitol through her graduate work in history and government. She was also involved with the League of Women Voters and encouraged her students to be informed and active in government. She made a big impact on Eleni.
Katie Sweeney ‘09
Katie Sweeney, class of 2009, spent her college years at Seattle University studying philosophy and classical vocal performance. She supported the choirs as the Soprano II section leader, honed her skills as a musical arranger directing SU’s first a cappella group, and played bass and guitar in extracurricular bands. In 2011, Katie and a few choir buddies formed a band, jokingly named it The Ramblin’ Years, rehearsed twice, and unexpectedly won the campus Battle of the Bands.
Leah Pezzetti (Horner) ‘13
Leah is a reporter and weekend weather anchor at KERO, the local ABC affiliate, in Bakersfield, California. She graduated early from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a B.S. in Broadcast Journalism and immediately started at 23ABC. In college, she won many prestigious journalism scholarships and awards, including two Sacramento Press Club scholarships, the Outstanding Senior Award in her graduating class and a National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) scholarship to attend their workshop.
Q&A with Alumna Kaitlyn Cozens ‘13
St. Francis Alumna Kaitlyn Cozens ’13 is a recent graduate of the University of Michigan. She was a four-year letter winner with the Water Polo program and graduated from the School of Kinesiology with a degree in sports management in April, 2017. She was a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar, two-time Academic All-Big Ten selection and received the U-M Academic Achievement Award twice. She finished her career with 51 games played with 11 goals, 11 assists, 22 points and 13 steals and was a member of two CWPA Championship teams and two NCAA appearances.
Rescue & Jessica Book Tour – Sacramento, CA
Jessica Kensky ‘99 and her husband Patrick Downes were among those injured in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, Jessica is a double amputee and her husband lost his left leg. Their life now includes a black labrador service dog named Rescue. Jessica and Patrick have authored a children’s book about an 11-year-old girl named Jessica adjusting life with prostheses, wheelchairs and crutches with her service dog by her side.
3x Your Impact with AmazonSmile
3x your impact! From March 12-31, Amazon is tripling the donation rate on your first smile.amazon.com purchase!
Go to smile.amazon.com/ch/94-1582159 shop as you normally would, and Amazon donates to St. Francis Catholic High School!
Alumna Stephanie Buck ‘05 writes Vanity Fair Article
Alumna Stephanie Buck ‘05 wrote a lovely article for Vanity Fair about Greta Gerwig ‘02, Lady Bird and our Red Carpet Party 2018 on Sunday. It’s really great to hear the community near and far abuzz for Greta, Lady Bird and Sacramento!
St. Francis Celebrates Lady Bird!
And you’re invited! Join the St. Francis community for a one-of-a-kind Red Carpet Awards Party on Sunday, March 4, 2018 on campus. We’ll have our own red carpet so come out at 4:30 pm to experience the paparazzi and have your picture taken.
Fox40 on Campus for Lady Bird Golden Globe Buzz!
Exciting Morning at SFHS! Theatre Arts Director, Mrs. Cheryl Watson and Alumna Arts Faculty Mrs. Kiera Mickiewicz Anderson ‘99 are talking with Fox40 News about Greta Gerwig ‘02, Lady Bird, and the Golden Globe Wins! Check out the story here: http://fox40.com/2018/01/09/st-francis-reacts-to-greta-gerwigs-lady-bird-golden-globe-win/
Jessica Crouch ‘04
SFHS Theatre Alumna Jessica Crouch ‘04 has been cast in the Broadway bound Pretty Woman: The Musical! Jessie was very active member of the SF Theatre Program. She performed in musicals, plays and was a member to the SF Players all four years of high school. Jessie received an Elly Award for her final performance as Winifred in Once Upon a Mattress! After high school she graduated in musical theatre from NYU Tisch and has been working non stop since in regional theatres and national tours.
Alumna Greta Gerwig’s film “Lady Bird” wins 2 Golden Globes!
2017 Alumnae Visiting SFHS
2017 Alumnae Sarah Ajise (USC) and Julia Cannon (CalPoly) visit SFHS for the Advent Prayer Service and to keep an eye on younger sister, Lauren Cannon. Troubies always welcome on campus!
Class of 55 Visits St. Francis High School
Our sprightly graduates from the St. Francis Class of 1955 joined us on campus for a festive holiday lunch. These Alumnae were treated to beautiful singing from our A Capella group and lunch was served by our warm student Ambassadors. As one of the Alum noted, “It felt like a miracle.” Our current students witnessed the St. Francis sisterhood and friendships that have been nurtured over many decades. As the words of one of the songs shared said, “Here we are as in olden days, happy golden days of yore.
Katherine Clark ’12 graduated with high honors from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy
Katherine Clark ’12 graduated with high honors from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Management and a commission as an Ensign. Katherine was a varsity starter and two-time Captain of the CGA Women’s Soccer Team and received the Captain Lee H. Baker Award, which is presented to a female senior for inspirational leadership in Academy athletics.
Class of 2012 to Celebrate their 5 Year Reunion
The class of 2012 will be holding their 5th Reunion on December 23, 2017 at Hot Italian located at 1627 16th St, Sacramento, CA 95814 from 6:00 – 8:30. Purchase your ticket at www.venmo.com/curiousgeorge5year. When Venmo-ing, please include your name in the text to RSVP. Questions? Email Hannah Gonzalas at hannahcgonzales@gmail.com
Cheryl Watson attends Screening of Greta Gerwig’s ‘02 “Lady Bird”
St. Francis Performing Arts Department Chair, Cheryl Watson, enjoyed a special screening of Greta Gerwig’s ‘02 new film, “Lady Bird,” penned a love letter to Sacramento. Greta tells the story of Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson (played by Saoirse Ronan) during her senior year at Immaculate Heart High School.
Go Back in Time to the 80’s at St. Francis High School
Let’s Go Back to the 80’s
You and your family are cordially invited to our 3rd annual St.
Francis Community Celebration on Saturday, September
23. This complimentary event is appropriate for all
ages. Break out your neon and big hair, and come
experience the wonderful St. Francis community as we
step back into the 80’s for a “totally rad”
celebration!
Alumna Brown Named AAC Goalkeeper Of The Week
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (SMU/AAC) – SMU junior goalkeeper Catie Brown, a ‘15 alumna of St. Francis, was named the American Athletic Conference Goalkeeper of the Week, and freshman midfielder Isabelle Nashmi earned a spot on the AAC weekly honor roll, the league announced Monday.
Greta Gerwig ‘02
Greta Gerwig graduated from St. Francis Catholic High School in 2002. While at SF, Greta was part of the Dance program, Chamber Choir and numerous theatre productions. She played in SF’s shows “Into the Woods,” “The Boy Friend,” “Pippin,” and “The Apple Tree,” as well as Lenaea Festival showings with SF for “Antigone,” “Final Dress Rehearsal” and “Ladies of the Tower,” for which she was a Lenaea medalist.
Alumna LaRocco Finishes 13th at USATF Championships 10K
SACRAMENTO, CALIF. – Alumna Lauren LaRocco ‘14 finished 13th in the 10,000 meters with a time of 33:41.08 at the USATF Championships on Thursday at Sacramento State.
“My goal was to start really conservative,” said LaRocco. “I did not know how I would feel coming down from altitude. I really tried to run my own race and slowly pick off girls. I think I did a pretty good job of it and I was close to one of them at the end.”
Basketball Player Razo Signs with Dominican
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – St. Francis senior basketball player Julia Razo will continue her basketball career at Dominican University in San Rafael.
“I am really grateful for it and I was not expecting it,” said Razo. “I am really excited for a new beginning. It has always been a goal to play in college so I am glad I got it.”
Maggie Lloyd ‘08 Completes Boston Marathon for a 4th Time
Congrats to alumna Maggie Lloyd ‘08 who completed her second Boston Marathon. She was a St. Francis Booster Club scholarship winner, two-time state championship qualifier, Nike Team Nationals open race qualifier and AP Scholar and Bank of America award winner for science and math. She competed for MIT in college.
Frances Wang ‘10
Frances Wang ‘10 has dreamed of being a journalist since she
was kid after being interviewed by Walt Gray.
She’s always been the most talkative of her peers, so her former
teachers and classmates aren’t surprised she became a
reporter.
After graduating from St. Francis High School, she went on to
become a Trojan at the University of Southern California. She
graduated Magna Cum Laude with Phi Beta Kappa honors. During her
time there, she also earned a second Bachelor’s degree in
Business Administration.
Alumnae Swimmers Reunion in Ann Arbor
St. Francis Alumnae Kaitlyn Cousins ’13 (Michigan) and Maggie Oys ’16 (Santa Clara) played in the 2017 Wolverine Invitational this past weekend in Ann Arbor. The tournament also included Pacific and Brinnley Barthels ’15. Oys scored twice against Michigan in the finale of the event.
Alumna Madison Carnahan ’16 Raises Money for Pediatric Oncology Research
Alumnae News: Alumna Madison Carnahan ’16 participated in the University of Kentucky’s 24-Hour dance marathon raising money for pediatric oncology research at the University of Kentucky’s children’s hospital and Markey Cancer center.
She competed for 24 hours straight for Kappa Alpha Theta’s team and was among the top 40 fundraisers out of 954 dancers.
Alumnae Attend 2017 Crab Feed
Thank you to all of the Alumnae who attended our 2017 Crab Feed.
You can view the full alum on our Facebook page.
Congratulations go to Delaney Feener ‘14
Congratulations go to Delaney Feener ‘14 who is performing the title role in Willam Shakespeare’s Richard III at DePaul University. DePaul is one of the premier theatre schools in the country. At St. Francis High School Delaney performed onstage in many shows including her Elly awarding winning performance as the Witch in Into the Woods and Jesus in our gold medal Lenaea production of Godspell.
Congratulations to Ciara Zanze ‘04
Congratulations to Ciara Zanze ‘04 on becoming the new owner of Rumpelstiltskin yarn store in Downtown Sacramento. She was featured on the The Sacramento Bee website, check out the video here.
#TroubiePride Do you have Alumnae news to share? Send it to Dawn Cullo at dcullo@stfrancishs.org
Alumna Beth Balbierz ‘11 Making Impact on the Sideline
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Coaches can be role models for their players in many ways. Alumna Beth Balbierz ‘11 is not only a former player at St. Francis but Division I starter at Cal Poly and now she is passing on her program and basketball knowledge to the players on the Junior Varsity team.
“It is fun but different,” said Balbierz. “There is more anxiety on this side of the ball as I have learned. The girls are really smart players so it is easy to coach them. They catch on quickly.”
Greta Gerwig ‘02 Appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon
Greta Gerwig ‘02 appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Thursday, January 12th. Greta spoke about her new movie “20th Century Women” in which she co-stars with Annette Bening. Greta also shared her experience growing up in Sacramento without a TV and how she made up a theme song to “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.”
“20th Century Women” - http://www.nbc.com/the-tonight-show/video/greta-gerwigs-20th-century-women-will-make-you-cry-and-laugh/3453574
Alumnae Post Top Performances at NCAA West Regional
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – St. Francis alumnae Lauren LaRocco ‘14 and Peyton Bilo ‘15 had successful returns to Sacramento at the NCAA West Regional on Friday morning.
“It was really fun because there were people lining the course everywhere,” said Portland junior Lauren LaRocco. “I was really surprised by the turnout and I felt like I had a lot of support running in my hometown.”
Alumnae Dominate at NCAA Conference Cross Country Meets
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Former Troubadour cross country standouts Peyton Bilo ‘15, Lauren LaRocco ‘14 and Miranda Myers ’15 each helped their teams to wins at the their respective conference championships over the last two days.
Cal Poly sophomore Bilo won the Big West title with a time 21:04, winning by 17 seconds over UCSB junior Jenna Hinkle, and helping the Mustangs to their second straight title in Kahuku, Hawaii. They were ranked No. 36 in the latest rankings.
Chloe Mitchell ‘16 was named to the A-10 Rookie of the Week
Chloe Mitchell ‘16 was named to the A-10 Rookie of the Week October 2016 at Fordham University. In her first collegiate meet against Marist, Mitchell kicked off her Fordham career by winning the 1000-yard freestyle in 10:36.07, and followed that with a third place finish in the 500-yard freestyle in 5:14.90. She was also a member of the winning 400 freestyle relay, which posted a time of 3:38.30. Read more here.
Olivia Stevenson ‘11
Olivia Stevenson ‘11 received her Master Degree in Theatre from
the prestigious Royal Conservatoire of Scotland! Olivia was
involved in SF Theatre for the four years she attended SFHS. She
was part of three Elly award winning productions and was
nominated for multiple individual Elly awards. Mrs. Watson, our
Theatre Director, reached out to Olivia for an update on her
post-SFHS experience:
Engagement News for Shari Hakim ‘07
Congratulations to Alumna Shari Hakim ‘07 on her engagement to Curran Wong. They were engaged at the Happiest Place on Earth!! Alumna Frances Wang ‘10 shared the story on ABC10. Check out the awesome video of the proposal.
Read the full story here.
Congratulations to Alumna Ivy Depner ‘98
Congratulations to Alumna Ivy Depner ‘98 on her engagement to Jonathan Williams of El Dorado Hills. Jonathan proposed to Ivy in our garden during the St. Francis Open House on October 9th. They have set their wedding date for November 19, 2017.
Troubies Deliver St. Francis Volleyballs on Service Trip
SOUTH DAKOTA – Rising senior Jessica Gianulias organized the donation of St. Francis volleyballs while on a service trip this summer in South Dakota.
Gianulias traveled with seven current and former classmates with the Global-7 non-profit organization service trip to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. They worked with girls between 6-10 years old part of the Oglala Lakota Indian Tribe.
Alumna Mills Makes 400 IM Final at the U.S. Olympic Trials
OMAHA, Neb. – Alumna Kate Mills ‘07 finished eighth in the 400 IM (4:46.58) at the U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials in Omaha, Neb., on June 16. Mills swam at Harvard and is a 2011 graduate with a degree in Art History and Spanish. She is the school record holder in the 200 Butterfly and ranks in the top five in the 200 IM and 400 IM. She is qualified to swim the 200 IM on Tuesday and is appearing in her third Olympic Trials.
Alumnae Verspieren ’12 and Murbach ’14 Making Waves with Gonzaga Rowing
GOLD RIVER, Calif. – Former Troubadour Madeleine Verspieren ’12 was drawn to the big boat setup at orientation and decided to try out a new sport. Four years later, she helped the Zags record their best NCAA finish in school history and will leave with two degrees and a feeling of accomplishment from her time on the water.
Alumna LaRocco Qualifies for NCAA Track and Field Meet
Alumna Lauren LaRocco ’14, a sophomore at the University of Portland, qualified for the NCAA Track and Field Championships, finishing sixth at the NCAA West Regional on Friday in 34:25.40 in the 10,000 meters.
Murbach ‘14 Named WCC All-Academic
Alumna Cheryl Murbach ’14 was named to the West Coast Conference All-Academic Team, one of three from the Gonzaga women’s rowing team to tie for league-high honors. She is a sophomore Human Physiology major with a 3.79 GPA. The Zags won the West Coast Conference title and will compete in the NCAA Championships.
Alumna Dyer Received Jim Shea Award at Santa Clara Banquet
Santa Clara’s Camille Dyer ’12 was awarded the Jim Shea Award at the annual Red and White Celebration at Malley Center on the Santa Clara campus on May 22.
The award recognizes one male or female student-athlete who has courageously led his or her team through selfless actions and been a leader in the campus community. Jim Shea was the first Santa Clara student-athlete whose life was cut short while serving in the Vietnam War.
Alumna Zoe Nightingale Wins NCAA Title with USC Beach Volleyball Team
GULF SHORES, Ala. – Alumna Zoe Nightingale ’11 helped the top-ranked USC Trojans win the inaugural NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship with a 3-0 win over No. 2 Florida State. The Women of Troy completed the year on an incredible 30-match winning streak.
Former Troubie Clare Perez ’15 Named Best Newcomer Nominee
Former Troubie Clare Perez ’15 was a nominee for Best Newcomer at the Sacramento State’s Green and Golden Globes Award banquet. Perez is contributing the second varsity boat for the Hornets. Check out the video (got to 1:10 mark).
Lyndsey Carpenter ‘14 Earns All-Conference Honor
Lyndsay Carpenter (So. · Defender · Sacramento, Calif.) ‘14 earned Mountain East Conference second team honors for Wheeling Jesuit this season. She caused 13 turnovers, winning 11 draw controls, picking up 36 ground balls, and scoring four goals. In seven different games, Carpenter finished with three or more groundballs.
1993 State Champs Look Back on Title Run
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – When the 2016 St. Francis basketball team qualified for the state championship game on Saturday, there was a group text started between 12 players. The achievement brought back memories and feelings for the only people in St. Francis school history who can relate: the 1993 state championship team.
Giving Back: Alumnae Help Troubadours to State Title Game
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – St. Francis Alumnae Sole Montemayor ’01 and Maren (Martinelli) Christie ’00 are both assistants on the basketball staff and played for Head Coach Vic Pitton during their days on campus. They have played a big role in helping the current team reach the CIF Division I Championship game on Thursday.
Water Polo Alumnae at Aggie Shootout
DAVIS, Calif. – UC Davis hosted the Aggie Shootout Saturday but it felt like a St. Francis water polo alumnae gathering with the large number of Troubadours students, alumna and parents in attendance. The Cal Head Coach even called it “National St. Francis Day” at the pool.
Five alumnae were representing three different schools at the Aggie Shootout including Brinnley Barthels ‘14 (Pacific), Lauren Charter ‘15 (UC-Berkeley), Marisa Kolokotronis ‘13 (Brown), Kat Menz ‘12 (UC-Berkeley) and Brooke Vowell ‘12 (UC-Berkeley).
Congrats to Megan Musilli ‘12
MIDN 1/C Megan Musilli ‘12 has been selected for a Rhodes Scholarship and will study medical anthropology at Oxford University in 2016. Megan is a mathematics major and is training to become a Navy physician. You can read more about Megan on the U.S. Naval Academy Blog and on the Sacramento Bee Website.
Alumna Fran Dowell, SSUSA Exec. Director, Elected to the National Senior Softball Hall of Fame
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Fran (Jaksich) Dowell, a 1971 graduate of St. Francis, was inducted into the National Senior Softball Hall of Fame in Las Vegas on September 28. Her election was in her first year of eligibility and was in the category of “Director”. Fran is a former recipient of the prestigious SFHS Lifetime Achievement Award for her career in Senior Softball.
Homecoming for Two Montana State Bobcats
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – It was ironic that Homecoming activities have surrounded the St. Francis campus this week as two of the school’s alumnae returned home to play collegiate volleyball Thursday night less than a mile away at the Hornets Nest on the Sacramento State campus.
For Dana Vestman (Elk Grove) and Loni Kreun (Davis) of the Montana State volleyball team and the St. Francis Class of 2013, everything was familiar on Thursday as they drove down Elvas Avenue on the way to the their game, providing directions to their van drivers.
Feast of St. Francis Celebration
On Saturday, October 3, 2015 we kicked off our 75th Anniversary Celebration with the Feast of St. Francis Day community event.
Alumnae from nearly 60 of our graduating classes were represented, the class of 1974 had the most members in attendance with a total of 12!
Alumnae enjoyed the afternoon surrounded by former faculty, classmates and their families. They enjoyed BBQ, live music from Clean Slate and a Beer Garden.
Troubie Takeover at the Causeway Cup
DAVIS, Calif. – The UC Davis women’s soccer team posted a 2-1 victory over Sacramento State on Monday in the annual Causeway Cup matchup between the programs in a match that featured three former St. Francis Troubadours and a fourth waiting for her opportunity.
“It felt really good,” said Aggie junior Andi Damian ’13 of the win. “It is good to keep that going for us.”
The game featured Damian, senior Hayley Hughes ’12 and Sacramento State junior Jennifer Lum ’12. Freshman Allie Carmickle ’15 is a reserve goalkeeper for the Aggies.
Where Are They Now? – Volleyball
The St. Francis volleyball program has 18 alumnae on collegiate rosters this fall across all NCAA Divisions. Pepperdine standout Gabi Palmeri leads a talented group of players taking the court this season after starring for Head Coach Alynn Wright and St. Francis.
18 Troubadour Alumnae on NCAA Volleyball Rosters
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The St. Francis volleyball program has 18 alumnae on collegiate rosters this fall across all NCAA Divisions. Pepperdine standout Gabi Palmeri leads a talented group of players taking the court this season after starring for Head Coach Alynn Wright and St. Francis.
Several programs have become popular destinations for the Troubies especially in California.
Twelve Alumnae Playing NCAA Soccer
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – NCAA Soccer teams across the country start their 2015 seasons this week and there are 12 Troubadour alumnae soccer players on rosters this season: Catie Brown ’15 (SMU), Terra Carden ’14 (Pacific), Allie Carmickle ’15 (UC Davis), Katie Clark ’12 (U.S. Coast Guard Academy), Izzi Chelini ’15 (Cal Lutheran), Andrea Damian ’13 (UC Davis), Emily Egan ’14 (Georgia Southern), Anna Gregg ’15 (Colorado College), Haley Hughes ’12 (UC Davis), Madison Kimball ’15 (Loyola Chicago), Jennifer Lum ’12 (Sacramento State) and Addie Wallace ’15 (Villanova).
Basketball Alumna Limcaco Graduates from Menlo College
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Jolise Limcaco ’11 recently graduated from Menlo College with a degree in Accounting and already has an offer to work at Frank Rimerman + Co. LLP after she graduates due to her exceptional job as an intern. She was a member of the Student Athletes Leadership Committee (SALC) the past two years and worked for the athletic department in her free time.
St. Francis Alumna Calderon Represents Mexico in World Cup
Moncton, CANADA – St. Francis alumna Ariana Calderon made the Mexican national team for the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Canada but a recent injury will keep her on the sideline.
“Due to my injury, I will not be playing in the World Cup this year,” said Calderon on Instagram Thursday night. “I gave it everything I had, but it was not in God’s plan. Thank you to those who reached out and (have) given me strength during this time. I wish my teammates the best of luck. I can’t wait to get back in the Mexico jersey.”
Troubie Trio Help Gonzaga at NCAA Rowing
SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Cherie Murbach ’14, Heather Handy ‘14 and Madeleine Vespieren ‘12 competed for Gonzaga in the NCAA Rowing Championships held on Lake Natoma this past weekend.
Murbach, who competed in water polo and track at St. Francis, Handy (golf) and Vespieren (tennis) were on the Second Varsity 8 for the Zags and helped the team to a 17th-place overall finish. It was the second NCAA appearance in school history after the team won the West Coast Conference title.
Former Lacrosse Standout Lands Nebraska Marketing Position
LINCOLN, Neb. – MacKenzie Campbell ’14 recently accepted a paid internship with the University of Nebraska Huskers Marketing department. She was selected for one of seven positions out of more than 100 applicants and was one of only two freshmen and the only freshman girl. She will be coordinating the marketing for the Huskers nationally-ranked volleyball team, nationally-ranked women’s gymnastics and men’s gymnastics teams this fall. She also will be working events for the football and game day on the field.
Alumna Mao Leads Virginia to ACC Golf Title
GREENSBORO, N.C. – Led by St. Francis Alumna Briana Mao, the University of Virginia women’s golf won their first ever ACC title in record fashion, setting the 54-hole ACC tournament record of 27-under par Tuesday. They beat their closest competitor, Duke University (the No. 5-ranked team in the Nation and the defending National Champion), by 26 strokes. This is the first time a non-Carolina school has won the ACC title.
Alumna Courtney Glass ‘01 in the Arts
Courtney, class of 2001, was very active in SF’s Drama and Dance departments throughout all four years of high school. Almost 15 years later, she is still a working actor, having appeared on Broadway, in numerous regional theatre productions, and traveled the world with the Walt Disney Company as a singer for their luxury cruise line. It was on the ship that she met her partner Pete, a technician from Australia. Now married, the couple lives in New South Wales, where Pete serves as a technical director for the iconic Sydney Opera House and Courtney continues to pursue theatre.
Great News for Alumna Eileen Walsh ‘14
Congrats to recent Alumna Eileen Walsh ‘14, as she had her first simulation lab clinical experience last week on February 19 at Marquette University and received the great news that she has been chosen as a dorm Resident Assistant for next year! We are very proud of your hard work and for pursuing your dreams!
Alumna Nightingale Hoping for Another Championship
Troubie Named to CIF All-Century Team
LOS ANGELES, Calif. – UCLA senior middle blocker Zoe Nightingale told college coaches she wanted to play for and win a national championship. She did just that in her freshmen year and now she wants to perform an encore to bookend her career.
Nightingale, a 2011 graduate of St. Francis, helped the Bruins win the title in her freshman season, earning a selection to the NCAA All-Tournament team in the process.
Alumna Kasey Clark Finishes Special Season at Lawrence Tech
SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Former Troubadour volleyball player Kasey Clark went back to serve like she has done a thousand times. But something was different. When she turned around, she was mobbed by her teammates.
“I went back to serve and all my teammates started running up to me,” said Clark, who is a senior at Lawrence Tech in Southfield, Mich. “I had no idea what was going on.”
St. Francis Athletics Alumnae News – Nov. 17
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – St. Francis alumnae are succeeding at the collegiate level across the country. Here is collection of news and notes about the former Troubies. Submissions can be sent in to Assistant AD Steve Shaff at sshaff@stfrancishs.org.
St. Francis Athletics Alumnae News – Oct. 20
St. Francis alumnae are succeeding at the collegiate level across the country. Here is collection of news and notes about the former Troubies. Submissions can be sent in to Assistant AD Steve Shaff at sshaff@stfrancishs.org.
St. Francis Athletics Alumnae News – Oct. 6
St. Francis alumnae are succeeding at the collegiate level across the country. Here is collection of news and notes about the former Troubies. Submissions can be sent in to Assistant AD Steve Shaff at sshaff@stfrancishs.org.
Alumna Koumelis Enjoying First Year at Portland
PORTLAND, Ore. – Ali Koumelis did not have any chance to settle into collegiate life at Portland, earning a spot in the Pilots rotation right away in her freshman season in their 6-2 system.
“I have not run a 6-2 in a while but it works for our team,” said Koumelis, a 2014 graduate of St. Francis. “I get to work on fewer things like I don’t have to work on blocking. So I can focus more on defense so I get more practice time doing that.”
St. Francis Athletics Alumnae News – Sept. 22
St. Francis alumnae are succeeding at the collegiate level across the country. Here is collection of news and notes from the last week about the former Troubies. Submissions can be sent in to Assistant AD Steve Shaff at sshaff@stfrancishs.org.
St. Francis Athletics Alumnae News –Sept. 15
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – St. Francis alumnae are succeeding at the collegiate level across the country. Here is collection of news and notes from the last two weeks about the former Troubies. Submissions can be sent in to Assistant AD Steve Shaff at sshaff@stfrancishs.org.
Alumna Allie Wegener Making Her Mark for UC Davis
DAVIS, Calif. – Allie Wegener started her sophomore season at UC Davis this month and the former St. Francis volleyball standout is enjoying every moment of her collegiate career at the local school.
Wegener is starting for the Aggies and ranks second on the team in kills and digs per set in the first nine games this season for first-year Head Coach Dan Conners.
Alumna LaRocco Runs Strong Collegiate Opener
EUGENE, Ore. – Troubadour alumna Lauren LaRocco had a successful collegiate debut on Saturday. LaRocco finished 12th overall in 20:44 as the first freshmen in the race to cross the line, helping the Portland team to a second place finish at the Dellinger Invite held on Pre’s Trail in Eugene.
Portland accumulated 46 points during the six kilometer race which put them ahead of No. 2 Oregon (68), Oregon State (120), and Portland State (131). Sixth-ranked Michigan State won the meet.
Alumnae Return with UC Santa Barbara Volleyball Team
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The drive down Elvas Avenue to St. Francis High School was very familiar but this time they kept driving by their former school en route to the gym at Sacramento State.
“On the bus I was really excited,” said UCSB freshman Megan Sullivan about driving by the school. “I was (telling everyone) that was my high school and pointing out where we go to eat all the time after school. No one really cared but Noa and I were really excited and took videos and everything.”
Former UC Davis Head Coach Robinson Named Interim Soccer Coach
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Former UC Davis women’s soccer coach Maryclaire Robinson has been named the interim head coach for the St. Francis soccer program for the 2015 season, Athletic Director Mark McGreevy announced.
Alumna Jahn Plays Big Role at Sacramento Republic FC
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – St. Francis alumna Erica Jahn does not suit up for Sacramento Republic FC but she has played a big role in their inaugural season. In her first season as an account executive, Jahn has helped the team post attendance records all season.
Alumna Nowinski Wins Two Medals at World Rowing Championships
VARESE, Italy – St. Francis Alumna Agatha Nowinski won Gold and Silver medals at the Women’s World Rowing Under 23 Championships.
Nowinksi was the stroke on the United States women’s eight that won the Gold medal Sunday with a time of 6:07.88 to beat silver medalist Great Britain (6:11.76). They had advanced to the A final by winning their heat on Thursday.
Former Troubadour Balbierz Leads Cal Poly into the Big West Tournament This Week
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. – Cal Poly sophomore Beth Balbierz will play in the Big West Tournament starting Friday in Anaheim.
She has been a key contributor for the Mustangs this season, playing in all 29 games and making one start in the season finale this past weekend. She is coming off the best game of her college career last weekend.
Memorial Notice for Sandra Geary Cook ‘ 54
It is with great sadness that we share with you the passing of St. Francis High School Alumna Sandra Geary Cook ’54 who passed away January 30, 2014 after a long battle with cancer. Sandra, and her loving husband John, have contributed to the community at St. Francis in ways that go far beyond the generosity of their gifts. John and Sandra were recipients of the President’s Pax et Bonum Award in 2009 for their contributions to the mission of St. Francis and modeling the characteristics of Peace and Goodness – the motto of the school and our Patron, St.
Alumna and her Class Ring Reunited after 42 years!!
Santana “Tina” Mandella, graduate of Bishop Armstrong class of 1958, was finally reunited with her class ring after she thought it was lost for a lifetime. In 1971, she loaned the ring to her teenage daughter who had begged to wear it. Shortly thereafter, Tina’s daughter sadly reported that she had lost the ring and all involved thought they would never see it again. Life went on and Tina’s daughter grew up and had a daughter. Occasionally, Tina thought of the ring over the years, but with Bishop Armstrong closing in 1964 there was no chance of replacing the ring.