Los Angeles Angels Manager and two-time World Series Champion Joe Maddon joined Bishop Vann, Auxiliary Bishop Nguyen and Dr. Erin Barisano, superintendent of schools, to honor the Class of 2020 valedictorians and salutatorians from Catholic high schools across the Diocese of Orange.
Coach Maddon acknowledged the students for their achievements and hard work, encouraging them to stay positive, remain optimistic and embrace new challenges.
“Catholic education to me means everything,” Maddon said. “Enjoy this moment and continue to grow.”
The Zoom call also featured a special message from Angels centerfielder and three-time American League MVP Mike Trout.
“Your ability to overcome these challenges will prepare you for anything the future holds,” he said.
The students will be attending USC, UCLA, Rice University, Long Beach State, Macalester College, the U.S. Naval Academy, MIT, Notre Dame, Brown University and Stanford.
“While this is the end of one experience, the world has opened up for you,” Dr. Barisano said. “I believe you will go out and change lives. You will always have a place to call home in the Diocese of Orange.”
STUDENTS JOINING THE CALL INCLUDED:
Kathleen Macfee – JSerra Catholic High School
Maria Valentina Osorio – JSerra Catholic High School
Cynthia Garcia – Mater Dei High School
Fiona Mulholland – Mater Dei High School
Jeffery Peterson – Mater Dei High School
Colin Weaver – Mater Dei High School
Bryn Boznanski – Rosary Academy
Julia Clift-Toth – Rosary Academy
Kloey Reyes – Rosary Academy
Jordan Cheung – Santa Margarita
Brendan Reeves – Santa Margarita
Matthew Martinez – Servite High School
Preston Patz –Servite High School