2022 Sandia Preparatory School Graduation Program

Commencement 

Ceremony 

Class of 2022 

Sandia Preparatory School 

Saturday, May 28, 2022

Commencement 

Ceremony 

Class of 2022

Class of 

2022

Program 

Welcome 

Amelia Chiavetta ‘22, President of the Student Government Association 

Processional 

Excerpts from "Pomp & Circumstance" 

Land Acknowledgement 

Claire Gunderson ‘23 

National Anthem 

Avery Ross '23 

Introduction of Student Speakers 

Doug Clark, Chair, Board of Trustees 

Remarks 

Rachel Stell ‘22 

Nahom Zerai ‘22 

Bill Sinfield, Head of School 

Introduction of Graduates 

David Chalfoun, Senior Class Sponsor 

Faculty Readers 

Arren Buck 

Patrick Kelly 

Mary Nakigan 

Esperanza Plath 

Presentation of Diplomas 

Bill Sinfield, Head of School 

Cheryl McMillan, Assistant Head of School for Upper School 

Doug Clark, Chair, Board of Trustees 

The Turning of the Tassels 


Recessional: Senior Class Song 

“Where’d All the Time Go?” by Dr. Dog

Senior Essays 

Personal messages written by the members of Sandia Prep’s Class of 2022 

Brianna Marie Addison 

For middle school I was supposed to 

go to a charter school. The only reason 

I’m here today is because Prep sends 

out acceptance letters faster than other 

schools, and me, being the ambitious 

child that I was, gave my parents a 

presentation on why I should go here. 

(I wanted to make sure the school I went to had good food.) I’m 

happy with my choice, and that’s mostly due to the people that I 

met here. Seven years is a long time. I don’t feel much different, 

although when a sixth grader runs by chasing their friend and 

screaming at the top of their lungs it suddenly makes me question 

if I was ever like that. The answer is yes, I was. 

Friendships change and grow over time, and sometimes they 

drift away. I’m grateful for those who have stuck with me through 

years and to those that I have gained this year. It’s amazing how 

someone can fall into your life and fit right in like they were always 

there. 

To my parents I say thank you for giving me this opportunity. 

Thank you for all you have done for me to get to this point and for 

supporting me through it. 

Alexandra Brooke Allpass 

I have been at Prep for 7 seven years 

and through all the years I have been 

here I have meet incredible people who 

have helped me get to this point in my 

life. I would like to thank all the teachers 

who have helped me with all the work 

and who truly care about the students 

and how we do in their classes. I would like to thank them for 

always making time to talk through homework and quizzes and 

tests and just to help me understand the material. I would like to 

thank my parents for helping me through all the hard times that 

life brings and for always believing in me and building me up. I 

would like to thank my friends for making me laugh and always 

being there for me when I need to talk. All of these people have 

really helped me through high school and I wouldn’t be here 

without them and they have all made me the person I am today. 

Owen Henry Andrews 

I’ve had my ups and downs, but I look 

back on each moment with a newfound 

gratitude. I truly feel like I have a good 

idea of who I am and have learned 

to focus on what’s important to me. I 

believe that I am as prepared as I can 

be for the upcoming changes in my 

life. As difficult as it is for me to express gratitude verbally, I must 

thank many people for how they have affected my life and made 

me change for the better. It has been a long time and an arduous 

journey, but we are here now. 

My teachers have always pushed me to put my best work 

forward and encouraged me to not be ashamed to speak up. 

Along with this, they have still allowed me the space I need to 

grow on my own, and I am very grateful. Friends have come and 

gone over the years, but all have taught me something unique. 

Some will be lifelong friends and I thank them for their loyalty and 

love. The moments we have shared will remain vivid in my mind. 

My family has been behind me this whole time, and their constant 

support and love has made me keep going. I am grateful for the 

sense of home they have provided for me and for reminding me 

that there are people who truly care about me as a person. 

Overall, I have many people to thank for getting me through 

school and who will continue to be behind me. I cannot begin to 

describe how excited I am to start a new part of my life with the 

people I love and the things I have learned. 

Tessa Leigh Anzalone 

I would like to thank the many people 

who have touched my life over these 

years. I don’t think I can name everyone 

because there isn’t enough room, but 

I’ll try. I want to start with my friends. 

They have supported me in many ways. 

I don’t think I could thank them enough 

for all they have done. It will be weird going to different schools 

across the country instead of one all together. I want to thank 

my parents, who have supported me through the trials of school 

and life. Thank you to my sibling, who has listened to me rant for 

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hours about nothing. I want to say thanks to my grandma, who 

has always been there for me. I want to call out some teachers 

who have touched my life. Ms. Shaw has been a consistent part 

of my Prep career. She reminded me why I like learning. Dr. 

Parker has educated me on the more important things. Mr. Kelly 

has made Math fun for everyone. Mr. G and Courtney have felt 

like a second set of parents to me. I would not have become 

the person I am without them. Ms. Nakigan, who I don’t ever 

remember having as a teacher, yet somehow has managed to 

check in with me often to make sure I’m alright. I wish I could 

thank every teacher that has been a part of my life, but alas 

there are too many. I want to thank the dance team and the OLP 

department. I have learned many skills and things about myself 

from both programs. Finally, thanks to Invisible Brad, who has 

stuck with me since sixth grade. I have learned about friendship, 

love, loss, letting go, and gaining strength. I wouldn’t change 

my experience. 

Hasnain Ashraf 

When I was in kindergarten, my father 

passed away. Ever since, I’ve been 

looking up to my brother, Ajmain. I 

always tried to do what he did, ate the 

things that he ate, and talked to the 

people he was friends with. When I 

first came to Prep in 6th grade, I was 

very conservative. I was going to a new school where I knew 

almost nobody. I primarily spoke with people from my older 

brother’s grade. I was accepted by my peers in my grade, but 

I was hesitant to approach them. I would spend the whole day 

thinking of who I’d sit with during lunch. I still remember the 

days I would walk into the cafeteria where I’d see a whole table 

packed with boys from my grade. I’d say to myself, “I wish I 

was there, but there’s not enough room for me.” As a result, I 

would sit with my brother and his friends. I still felt as if I didn’t 

belong. I began to question myself on who I really was. Why was 

I so afraid of talking to kids my age? Was it because I thought 

they wouldn’t understand me? Were they not mature enough? 

Or was it because I needed my brother’s approval on whether 

or not they were compatible with me? I wasn’t sure. It wasn’t 

until the following year when I wanted to leap out of my comfort 

zone, but the only way to do that was to take the initiative. One 

day, I got out of class early and just sat on the table that all the 

boys sat at. They were not the least bit fazed. They continued 

their ridiculous conversations everyday and pulled me along 

the way. I was accepted. Thank you, Nahom, Chad, Jaxon, Vinh, 

Lucas, and Jake. 

Mars Bennett 

I can’t say that I’ve had the best time at 

Prep. Being queer made it harder to exist 

in a school filled with casual classism and 

homophobia, but despite my rough time 

a few people have shone where others 

lacked. Many thanks to Sutherland, 

Moots, Gigi, Bux, GFunk, Slakey and 

Van Dam for the support. Also, much love and hope towards my 

friends, namely Bailey, Jordan, and Kat. Finally so much love and 

thanks to Em, the person deserving the most praise. None of this 

could’ve been done without you. 

Connor P. Black 

Thank you to my friends, family, and 

teachers for supporting me throughout 

my high school career. Thank you to my 

mom for always pushing me to do my 

absolute best, even when I didn’t want 

her to. Thank you to my dad for working 

so hard to support me and the rest of 

my family. Thank you to my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and 

cousins for always being there for me. Thank you to my teachers 

for providing me with such an incredible learning environment. 

As I leave high school I am grateful to everyone who has propped 

me up and given me every opportunity to succeed. It is because 

of you that I can be proud of who I have become and how I have 

grown. It has been a wonderful experience learning about math, 

science, and engineering. The Outdoor Leadership Program is 

unlike anything I have ever seen and I hope it continues to flourish 

for each new group of camping associates. I have learned so much 

and gained so many memories. It has been unlike any other time in 

my life and I will never forget it. 

Kiana Celeste Bogart 

Now that I think about it, graduation 

has never really been something that I 

thought could actually happen. It always 

seemed so far away. Now that it is 

happening, however, I want to thank all 

of the people in my life who have made 

these past years so memorable. Thank 

you to my teachers who have given me the knowledge and skills 

to achieve so much. Thank you to my friends who have taken me 

in and made me smile, who are there for me to talk to and giggle 

with when we do something crazy like spend lunch defacing an 

empty canvas with whatever pops into our heads. Thank you to 

my family especially my parents, who have pushed me to achieve 

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so much and who put up with my love for stuffed animals even 

though I’m almost an adult. Thank you to everyone that has ever 

influenced my life. I would not be who I am today without you. 

Xavier Steven Bordlemay 

My mother is the only reason I’m here at 

this school. She has done everything in 

her power and beyond to get me here 

and has continued to be my number one 

supporter. I would have nothing without 

my mother and she deserves every bit 

of thanks. At times I have struggled to 

understand how she has so much love and tenacity to achieve 

the things she’s done for both me and herself. I still cannot 

comprehend it, but I am thankful all the same. I must emphasize 

again how important my mother is to me and to my academic 

success thus far. Apart from my mother, there have been a number 

of people, faculty, friends, and other family members, that have 

been crucial in helping me get to where I am today, and for that I 

thank them. I will ensure that all the effort put forth by myself and 

those around me will not go to waste. 

Brennan James Cameron 

Life is all about relationships and 

experiences. During my time at Prep 

I have had the opportunity to have 

amazing experiences and create 

meaningful relationships and for that I 

am truly thankful. 

extraordinary job of teaching me, even though I may have put 

them through some struggles. Dr. Chalfoun has sparked a love 

for physics and science, and for that, I must thank him. My friends 

at Prep have helped me through difficult times, and I have come 

to love them like brothers. I will admit, I am not leaving the 

school on the greatest of terms with the current coaching staff 

and athletic directors, but having Paul Huitt as a coach before his 

retirement has shaped both the man and baseball player I have 

become. I have learned much from Sandia Prep and appreciate 

the effort put into creating a community. I hope that in the future, 

the school takes steps to uphold that community within both 

classrooms and athletics. 

Scott Lee Charles Jr. 

Through the years at Prep, I have 

learned a multitude of things. Not only 

how movement in the universe can be 

calculated mathematically, or how to 

properly conduct the scientific method, 

but also how to build relationships. 

The key in the strongest relationships 

is trust. The trust that every single day there will be someone 

willing to help me in any way that they can. In order to continue 

this trust, it is also necessary for me to return the favor whenever 

I can. When a classmate is going through a difficult time, I must 

be by their side, willing to listen, and then speak either to them, 

or on their behalf. The same goes for a teacher. They work hard 

every day in order to give us the best possible chance for success, 

and the least that I can do as a student is respect them and the 

plan that they have prepared to execute for the class. All of these 

relationships intertwining in a single place creates a community 

where trust is routine and growth is nurtured. 

Amelia Marie Chiavetta 

Emily Michelle Carpio 

Luziano Casados y Lopez 

As my time in high school comes to an 

end, I have increasingly appreciated 

those around me. My parents have 

worked extremely hard to provide 

opportunities, and for that, I cannot 

express the amount of debt I owe to 

them. My teachers have also done an 

To place the entirety of 7 years in a 

mere 300 words is impossible. But, I can 

begin with expressing the gratitude I 

have for all the people who were by my 

side on this journey. Whether fleeting 

or lasting it made me who I am. I will 

always have a place in my heart for 

so many of the teachers that I had the privilege of being their 

student, especially Ms. Nakigan, who never doubted my abilities 

inside the art classroom and beyond to my larger dreams. Mr. 

Nielsen who tolerated me all 7 years of my time at Prep in his 

guitar class and went the extra mile everyday to help me achieve 

the musical potential he saw in me and always with the most 

adorable smile. Dr. McMillan, who will always have a special 

place in my heart. And of course, my grandparents who support 

every dream I have no matter how far-fetched, and are proud 

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of everything I accomplish. My parents, who stood by my side 

through every challenge I faced and gave me the confidence 

to face the world with an open heart and hungry ambition. My 

big sis, who was my role model throughout middle and high 

school. My friends who showed me what true friendship means. 

All these people allowed me to prosper in an environment filled 

with love and for that I will be forever grateful. Everything I have 

accomplished I dedicate to the incredible family I have and have 

encountered on my journey through Prep. 

Daniel D. Clark 

In order to graduate I need to write 

a 300 word essay for some random 

book or something. I don’t really know 

why I’m writing this or what it’s for, but 

I know that it’s not for a grade and I’m 

getting laser eye surgery tomorrow so 

I’m just gonna write something so that 

I don’t get in trouble. 

Okay, the last stuff I wrote was 2 days ago and now I have 

19 minutes to finish this. The email with the instructions says to 

thank people from school which seems disingenuous because 

it’s an assignment that we can’t skip or we don’t graduate, but 

I’m running out of time so I’m just gonna think of people and if I 

forget someone I’m so sorry. 

Okay, okay. The first person that comes to mind that I need to 

thank is Mr. Nielsen. He’s been my teacher for 7 years, which is 

a LONG time and I’ve become such a better person because of 

him and guitar. I grew the confidence to perform on stage and in 

front of a group of my peers. So thank you!! 

Next is Mr. Kelley. He’s also taught me a lot and is a VERY 

talented teacher. He makes somehow makes classes interesting 

but not off topic. It’s truly an enigma how I much I learned in his 

class without even knowing. 

Shout out to Mr. Minear, he was good. 

And I know it feels kinda cheaty to include two teachers in 

one spot but I really liked Mr. Smith’s and Ms. Williams’s classes 

and I’ve benefited so much physically from them and had so 

much fun playing games. I’ll miss Hunger Games Dodge Ball so 

much!!! 

Okay, so I’m kinda conflicted about including Mr. Kelgard, 

not because I like don’t like him but I feel like I’ve made too 

many errors in this essay and he’ll get in trouble for me being a 

bad writer, but I’ve never been able to listen to someone talk for 

so long and not lose interest. He’s the best! 

Sebastian Elijah Clemens 

High school was never easy for me 

but the constant support I received 

was so helpful. Thank you to my mom 

and dad for never giving up on me 

and always pushing me to try my best 

and to finish off strong. I wouldn’t be 

here without you guys. Thank you for 

supporting my crazy dreams and encouraging me to strive to 

be the best in all that I do. I love you both so much. Thank you 

to my partner in crime, Analyssa, for being there for me and 

believing in me like no one else could. With you by my side, I 

feel like I could conquer the world. Thank you to all my family 

and friends for always supporting me. Thank you to Jacob, 

Naomi, and Tiger…you guys rock and are my best friends and 

I’m grateful to call you family. Thank you to my incredible Aunty. 

You always give the best advice and always believe in me and 

it means the world. Thank you, Bamba, for supporting me and 

being the best grandma ever! Thank you Papa Bear for pushing 

me to be a better artist and always hyping me up! Thank you to 

all my other family members. Each one of you is amazing and 

I appreciate you all! Thank you to all my teachers at Prep! Mrs. 

Plath, thank you for admiring my creativity and pushing me to 

succeed. Mr Touma, thank you for encouraging me in my artistic 

ventures. Mr Jeffries, thank you for making math fun and easy 

to understand, and thank you to Ms. Moots for being like family 

and never failing to make me smile. Lastly, thank you to the 

Most High. I’ve come a long way and I’m very excited to see 

where God takes me next! :) 

Sydney Nicole Cook 

I would never take back the last four 

years of high school, although I had 

some incredible lows and learned 

great lessons from those experiences. 

I also learned that you are sometimes 

only able to experience moments 

once, and therefore you need to enjoy 

them while you can. 

I want to thank Pat Kelly for never giving us a dull moment in 

class and being there for me outside of class during the school 

days. Whether it was to get help on an assignment or if I needed 

someone to listen to me, I felt like he heard and understood me 

and gave me advice that would not only help me at the moment 

but carry on into my future. Thank you for always listening to me 

and giving my best friends and me the motivation we needed 

when our senioritis was at its peak. I would also like to thank 

Cheryl McMillan for constantly checking in on me and believing 

in me when I felt like I was at a loss on what to do with certain 

situations I found myself in. She always gave the best hugs. 

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The friends I have made throughout my seven years at Prep have 

shown me endless support and have been the most significant 

outlet for me when times are hard. I am happy to have called Prep 

my home for the last seven years. 

Santiago Ramos Cooper 

The time I’ve spent at Prep will forever 

be engrained in my memory. From day 

one, I made friends who have become 

my best ones. The incredible people I 

have met and who have helped shape 

me into the person I am, and will be 

in the future, are people you can’t 

find easily. I cherish the good times for stories I can tell to my 

children, and I cherish the hard times as stories I can use to grow 

as a human being. Prep taught me not to be focused on just the 

education itself, but more so on the why in everything we do. It 

taught me that the why will help me in my education and career. 

I will forever be grateful for the opportunities I had at this school 

and the level of preparation I received for my next journey. 

Chad A. Cordova 

As I finish my time at Prep, I want to 

thank the two people who have literally 

been there from the beginning -- my 

mom and dad. They have guided me 

and taught me important lessons, all 

while being the two people I look up to 

most in the world. Every soccer game, 

track meet, or late night spent finishing calculus homework or 

chemistry labs, they were there, offering encouragement. They 

taught me the importance of faith and family and for that I’m 

forever grateful. 

Thank you to my brothers, John and Seth, and my sister, 

Baylee. They say you can’t pick your family, but if I could, I’d pick 

you three every time. 

Thanks to my teachers and coaches, both for your instruction 

and the fact that you truly cared, not just about our performance, 

but about the kind of people we should strive to be -- people 

who are kind and compassionate and give back to our community. 

Thanks to my coaches, Tommy Smith, Janell Miller, and Kyle Ellis, 

teachers like Arreb Buck, Pat Kelly and Jesse Van Dam, and of 

course Cathy Walters, who taped me up and kept me going more 

than I’d like to remember, and to the OLP leaders with whom I saw 

the world … Costa Rica, Iceland, Hawaii and London, to name a 

few. 

Lastly, I want to thank a group of guys I met in 6th grade, 

thanks in large part to our love of a soccer ball. Those friendships 

have endured and grown in this place and I can tell you that those 

same guys are now the men I will do life with. Wherever we end 

up, our bonds are strong and we will be there for one another -- 

the original “soccer boys.” I love you guys. 

Thanks, Prep. It’s been great. 

Sofia Grace Crecca 

As I leave Sandia Prep and reflect on my 

time here, I feel gratitude. I am grateful 

for my time and experiences here. My 

experience here has been full of ups and 

downs. After 7 long years I have made 

some good friendships, great memories, 

and wonderful experiences. Overall, I 

am grateful to everyone and everything that has crossed my path 

because every memory made at Sandia Prep (both good and 

bad) has brought me to who and where I am today. I am thankful 

to the wonderful friends who surround me today. I couldn’t have 

done this without you guys. I want to say a big thank you to every 

teacher who has helped me through my time here. Thank you 

to my parents who have taught me to dream big and work hard. 

Lastly, I want to thank my best friend in the whole world, my sister. 

Isabella. I don’t know who I would be without you. Thank you for 

making me a big sister. I will miss you immensely as I move away 

to college. I am very excited for the next chapter of my life, a 

chapter that would not be possible without Sandia Prep. Thank 

you! 

Calissa Elene Dellabarca 

My experience at Prep has shaped me 

into the person I am today. When I 

reflect on my past three years here, I feel 

gratitude for the students and faculty 

that make this community so special. I’d 

like to thank my teachers, whose passion 

for their subjects never ceased to 

inspire. Each department fostered an environment that allowed us 

to grow academically and as people. The humanities departments 

encouraged originality and challenged me to think from new 

perspectives. The math and science departments provided a 

process-oriented approach that I have benefited greatly from. The 

foreign language department created a cooperative environment 

that inspired me to learn. While I had a unique experience in each 

classroom, my teachers’ support was unwavering—their passion 

for teaching and the Prep community apparent. 

I would also like to thank my family for their consistent belief in 

me. I am immensely grateful for their support and encouragement 

over the years. I am excited for the next chapter of my life and 

cannot wait to return to Prep as an alumni. 

Go Sundevils! 

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Ramona Pearl Delyser 

My experience in New Mexico has 

been defined by Sandia Prep’s 

community. When I moved here in 

eighth grade, knowing almost no one, 

Prep welcomed me with open arms. I 

am so thankful to have met such kind, 

genuine friends and such supportive, 

fascinating teachers – two abundances that Prep has like no 

other school. 

My teachers have shaped the person I am today. Thank 

you to my art teachers for helping me put my feelings onto a 

canvas and into words. Thank you to my humanities teachers for 

challenging me to think differently about how we connect with 

others. Thank you to my STEM teachers for encouraging me to 

pursue my interests and find my voice. 

In my four years here, I formed friendships that have given 

me confidence, laughter, and support. Through school days 

and volleyball practices and so much more, I have made great 

memories with these friends. I am thankful for the coaches and 

teammates who have challenged me to grow and taught me 

how to be my best, both on and off the court. 

Lastly, I would like to thank my family for providing me 

with endless love and possibilities. My gratitudes would be 

incomplete without acknowledging that all that I am is the result 

of the love and support of my parents, grandma, extended 

family, and close family friends. Thank you to my parents for 

the sacrifices made for me to access this education and for the 

encouragement to feel comfortable as myself. 

I am excited to continue my academic career and begin a 

more independent adventure, knowing that I leave Prep with 

the ability to think deeply about the world that surrounds me 

and engage with the communities I inhabit. 

Lauren Maurae Duncan 

Life brings many unexpected 

changes. Never in my wildest 

dreams did I imagine I would 

move to Albuquerque, live with my 

grandparents, and attend Sandia 

Prep. The love and support of my 

family has enabled me to rise to the 

best of my abilities. My heart overflows with gratitude as you 

dramatically changed your lives in order to raise two teenagers 

and I have cherished every moment. On a lighter note, thank 

you for watching the Alabama football games with me on 

Saturdays (roll tide roll), supporting my impromptu tennis 

career, and gifting me with a pottery wheel to pursue my artistic 

passion outside of the studio. 

The outstanding Prep education I received exposed me to 

rigorous academics which prepared me for my new chapter in 

life: college. Thank you Mrs. Moses for dedicating your time 

to Sandia Prep Mock Trial. Your love of teaching, history and 

law inspired me to pursue my dreams of becoming a lawyer. 

Thank you Mr. Touma for introducing me to ceramics, which has 

become one of my greatest passions. You always encouraged 

me to create and embody my art. You were instrumental in 

my acceptance into college because my application essay 

was solely about clay. You have given me an outlet which I will 

always treasure. 

Although we may not all be friends, I want all my peers to 

know that you have influenced me for the better. To my best 

friends, I will never forget our memories and I pray we will 

always be a part of each other’s lives. 

Sandia Prep, you will always have a place in my heart as you 

have molded me like the clay I am. I wish everyone the best of 

luck for the future. I believe in you. 

Lincoln S. DuLac 

I would like to thank my family, my 

teachers, and maybe my friends for 

making Prep easy and fun. There is a 

crazy amount of stuff to do at Prep, 

and I’m quite sad I never used their 

facilities to the best of my ability. Prep 

was a great mix of learning and many 

other activities. While I never did that much at Prep, everything 

I have done was very memorable. I will miss this place, and I am 

glad I was able to experience Prep. 

John Nicholas Juarez 

Duran 

These years at Prep have helped 

me discover and grow my interests 

and have left me with many great 

memories. I would like to thank 

the people who have helped me 

throughout this period in my life. 

Taking guitar classes has inspired me to keep playing outside 

of school and has brought along fun opportunities and 

experiences. Thank you to my guitar teacher, Mr. Paul Nielsen, 

who has worked with me all these years to help me learn and 

grow my abilities. I have also discovered that I have a very 

strong interest in the fields of history and earth sciences. A very 

big thank you to Ms. Melanie Templet, who has done so much 

for me and has been an amazing friend. I am very grateful that 

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I have been fortunate enough to have such good friends during 

my time here at Prep. From the friends that I have known since 

my earliest days in middle school to the friends made in my senior 

year, I’ve had so much fun and so many laughs spending time 

with them both at and outside of school. I am truly grateful that I 

have been able to grow up with them. Lastly, I would like to thank 

my parents and grandparents. They have been with me through 

every struggle and success. Some of the days were fun and happy 

while others took a worried and somber tone. Through these days 

my family has always given me support, everything from doctors’ 

appointments (still not a fan of needles!) to celebrations, my 

family has been with me, supporting and empowering me to be 

able to make it through my best and worst days. I extend my true 

heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been with me throughout 

my school days. 

Jake Andrew Eckenroth 

High school was an interesting journey. 

I always was terrified in elementary 

school thinking I would not fit in with 

any groups or find many friends, but 

the first day of my seven-year adventure 

started off amazing when I found my 

group of friends at lunch while playing 

soccer. I have been friends with them for the whole 7 years and 

love and cherish them for always being there for me and making 

my school experience amazing. 

I would like to thank the teachers who have always been there 

and are happy to help answer any questions I had whenever I was 

confused about anything. Patrick Kelly really did make learning 

math interesting and fun and he was always happy to be there 

for his students I was always looking forward to that class every 

day. I am really thankful to my parents for always supporting me, 

especially coming out to my soccer games and cheering me on 

with all my siblings. I am thankful for my friends who always could 

make me smile every day. My siblings made my journey way 

better and I was always looking to make them proud to be related 

to me. 

Samantha Jane Everett 

Well, I’ve completed high school. 

I’m proud of how far I’ve come in my 

journey of life and I’m excited to move 

forward. Going to Sandia Prep wasn’t 

always an easy task, nor was it my 

favorite, but I have this school to thank 

for giving me an education. I would 

especially like to thank my photography teacher, who has always 

taught me to look at things from a different perspective and learn 

from it. Before being in photography I saw the world from a much 

uglier perspective, and now I’ve learned to look at the beauty 

of life in all its forms. So thank you to my photography teacher. 

Beyond that I’d like to say thank you to all my teachers who put 

up with me these past four years. I know I haven’t always been the 

best student but thank you for your help and kindness. Next I’d 

like to express my gratitude for my family, who have supported 

me through every endeavor I’ve ventured on. My family has been 

so encouraging and supportive throughout my life and I truly am 

grateful for them. I’m so happy to be done with this chapter of 

my life, and am ready to move forward with my plans. My career 

goal is to become a civil rights lawyer and create change in this 

progressive world. I have a lot of hard work ahead of me, but I 

feel prepared to step out into the world on my own now. 

Javin Isiah Felipe 

As a kid, I always envisioned myself 

graduating from my dream school 

-- Albuquerque Academy. I am forever 

grateful that wasn’t the case. It’s not 

an exaggeration to say that Prep has 

shaped me into the person I am today. 

Coming into sixth grade, I was just 

a naive boy. But now I can say I’ve grown into the responsible 

young man I only dreamed of becoming. Prep has truly prepared 

me for my future, and I am super thankful to my parents for 

sacrificing so much to give me the opportunity for this better 

education. 

I want to thank my friends Mary, Cora, Sydney, Reija, and 

Joseph for continuing to put up with me over the past couple 

of years. There was never a dull moment between us. To all my 

teammates, thank you all for being my second family. We’ve 

shared so much together, and I will never forget the memories we 

made along the way. To Ms. Nakigan, Mr. Slakey, Mr. Buck, and 

Coach Kyle, thank you for always supporting me and pushing me 

to be the best version of myself. And to the rest of the faculty, 

thank you for guiding me through my academics. I wouldn’t be 

here without you guys. Finally, I wanted to give the biggest thanks 

to my family. To my grandparents, thank you for always being 

there for me, and giving me your endless support and care. To 

my older brother and sister, thank you for being amazing siblings 

and the greatest role models. I can only wish to be as good of a 

sibling to my little sister as you guys are to me. To my parents, I 

cannot thank you enough. I dream that someday, I can repay you 

for everything you’ve done for me and make you proud. 

7

Haley Jordan Feuerherd 

I never imagined my four years at 

Prep would go by so fast. Thank you 

Dad for encouraging me to pursue 

my interests and for being at every 

single one of my volleyball games. 

Thank you Mama for being my best 

friend, inspiring me, and supporting 

me in all my dreams. Thank you to my brothers for driving me to 

be the best I can be, and the rest of my family for always being 

there for me. 

I am incredibly grateful to Prep for the experience I have 

had here. Seven years filled with fun, laughter, and endless 

memories. Thank you Mr. Touma for showing me the beauty 

in all the little things. You taught me the importance of 

appreciating the world around us. I will never forget the time 

I spent in your class and everything I have learned from you. 

Thank you to all of my teachers at Prep for preparing me to 

thrive not only in college, but in life as well. 

To my peers, it has been an honor to grow up with you, 

some of you since 6th grade. I have seen all of you become 

incredible and capable people and I wish great success for all 

of you. 

“This is the time for bold measures and this is the country 

and you are the generation… The degree of yours is a blunt 

instrument - go forth and build something with it.” - Bono 

Bailey Cadence-Rayne 

Flowers 

Big thanks to the people who 

helped guide me to my aspirations. 

Specifically, my time working in 

theater and being in that community 

has given me a great sense of worth 

and accomplishment, but most 

importantly friendships I’ve had for years that will continue far 

beyond the future. Erin Moots has been an amazing mentor and 

beyond that someone I could confide in. I appreciate her help 

and guidance immensely. I’ve had my highest highs and lowest 

lows while I’ve been at Prep, and I’m so grateful that it made 

me who I am today. I hope we all find success in what we love 

to do. It’s been fun folks. 

Alexandra Marie Force 

When I was younger, I used to think 

about what it would be like to be at 

my senior graduation. Now that we 

are here, I could not be more excited. 

I would like to thank everyone who 

has been with me throughout these 

seven years, those who have been 

with me through everything that high school has thrown at us. 

I would like to think my biggest accomplishment throughout 

high school has been my improvement in my art and my 

writing. I have worked on several large projects, and those have 

made my art infinitely better. I would like to thank Ms. Nakigan 

for this opportunity, as she has been with me for four years of 

my art career. Ms. McColl, too, was a large part of my creative 

journey. 

I would also like to thank my friends and family for being 

there on this journey. I couldn’t have done any of this without 

you guys, and I am endlessly grateful. 

Nicholas Antonio Fuentes 

Being at Prep has been an 

experience, to say the least. I’ve 

been here for seven long years, 

and while I wouldn’t say that I’d do 

it again, I definitely don’t regret it. 

Nearly all of my teachers were great, 

especially those that I had in high 

school, though most of my middle 

school teachers were also great to 

have. Even then, the ones that weren’t amazing were still good 

teachers, and I’m glad that I was in their classes. I’ve also come 

to appreciate some of the people that I’ve met during my time 

here, whether they’re still here at Prep or not. They’ve helped 

to turn me from an incredibly awkward 6th grader, into only a 

slightly less awkward, and maybe a slightly meaner, 12th grader. 

They’ve given me more confidence, thicker skin, and a worse 

sense of humor, among other things, and I wouldn’t be who I 

am today without them. 

Kaitlyn Christine 

Gabaldon 

We never thought this day would 

come. I’m sorry it has because it 

means leaving people who inspire 

me and teachers who have been my 

mentors. I’d like to thank my family 

and all the people who have shaped 

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me into the person I am today. I’ve been lucky enough to have 

only amazing people in my life. From coaches and teachers to 

friends and family, I wouldn’t have been able to do it all without 

them. I’d like to thank Coach Kyle for pushing me further than 

I thought I could go at times. Without him, along with my track 

coaches, I wouldn’t have the confidence or ability to continue my 

running career in college at Fort Lewis. I would also like to thank 

Mr Touma. Mr Touma has been there for me at school for years, 

through all my ups and downs. Most days were spent cracking 

jokes and having a good laugh, but whenever I was down he was 

always there to lend an ear. Sandia Prep has helped shape me 

into the person I am today, but if it wasn’t for my two mentors and 

role models, Coach Kyle and Mr. Touma, I am certain I wouldn’t 

be the same. Lastly, I would like to thank my family. I cannot begin 

to explain how sad I get thinking about leaving home, but I know 

you guys will always have my back and that means more than you 

know. I’m going to miss family games nights and watching Topher 

cause a scene over Monopoly. But ultimately I’d like to thank my 

best friend, my mom. My mother never gave me any idea that I 

couldn’t do whatever I wanted to do or be whoever I wanted to 

be. So thank you. To everyone. 

Garrett Hallenbeck 

I started coming to Sandia Prep when 

I was in elementary school for Summer 

Prep. I always had such fun classes, 

and I thought the campus was so cool. 

When it was time for me to apply to 

schools, I only applied to Prep. My 

family and I knew it would be the best 

place for me, and we didn’t even know who the new Head of 

School was going to be at that time, which turned out very well 

for us. I am so grateful that I could be at Prep all seven years 

under Mr. Sinfield. I want to thank all of my computer, science, 

and math teachers for encouraging me to do my best. I am so 

glad that I could take almost every single math, science, and 

computer class that was available to me. I want to thank Mr. Aase 

for letting me roll with my computer aspirations and antics and 

for being my mentor for my Capstone project. To all my friends, I 

will miss all of you and all of our lunchtime hangouts and intense 

gaming sessions. I’m glad we are all computer geeks, and we will 

still be able to hang out on Discord when we are off to college in 

the fall. I want to thank my brother Caden for always helping me 

out when I needed a hand with something. You are so smart, and 

I can’t wait to see what the future brings for you. And thanks to 

my mom and dad for all their love and support. And to my mom, 

especially, for keeping me on the path I needed to be on and for 

making me do the best I could possibly do. 

Sidney Hayden 

Harenberg 

It’s pretty crazy we’ve been waiting 

for this exact moment for seven years. 

Man, I’m only 18 years old, that’s a 

good chunk of my life. Now Mom, I 

know you’re going to cry when you 

start reading this, but I couldn’t have 

done it without you and dad. Thank you for sticking by my side 

and supporting me when I needed it most, as well as showing me 

nothing but love and compassion through the years. I also want 

to thank my sister and my brother. Look at me: the baby is finally 

leaving the nest. I bet you guys never thought this would happen. 

I also want to give a special thank you to my nana, aka my best 

friend. Thank you for showing me how to be the strongest person 

I can be and teaching big life lessons at such a young age. I love 

you guys. I also want to throw a thank you out to my teammates 

and coaches. You guys might not know it, but you really got me 

through high school. I’m going to miss our long runs and team 

dinners. I am proud of you all and have so much love for you 

guys. Thank you to all my friends that I have made along the way. 

I am so grateful that I got to know such amazing people. I also 

want to give a thank you to P Kelly and Momma Moses. You guys 

definitely made senior year unforgettable. Thank you for always 

being people I can joke around with, while also giving me advice. 

God knows I needed it. Congratulations everyone! We did it! 

Josiah Nathaniel Herrera 

I want to start by saying how impressed 

I am, not only with myself but with 

everyone around me, especially my 

closest friends and teachers who have 

helped push and guide me through 

this journey. Without everyone who 

has surrounded me and inspired me in 

the slightest and biggest ways, I would not be the “JoJo” that 

everyone knows today. I want to say thank you to the best group 

of friends anyone could have. Through the most challenging 

times and the best times of my high school years, you have built 

me inside and out. I would not be who I am today without your 

support and friendship. My biggest thank you is to my parents 

and brother for the unconditional love and support they provide 

me day in and day out. They are always there for me regardless. 

To the teachers and faculty that have impacted my life, I no longer 

desire to call you a teacher or a security guard (including you 

“Barnett”). Today and tomorrow, you are my forever friends. I do 

not think I could ever call Prep just a school because every person 

here is part of a greater family that all rely on each other. Without 

this family, I could not imagine where I am today or where I will be 

in 10 years. However, with the inspiration and strong mindset that 

9

I have been taught by everyone here at Prep and my parents, 

I now know what I am capable of. Together we have endured 

some extremely rough and hard times, so everyone, please 

take note that no matter the size of the problem that is put in 

front of us, if we all work together, we can weather the storm, 

and that is something I will never forget about friends and 

“family.” 

Marin Ruth Begay 

Holtrop 

Where’d all the time go? Didn’t I 

just walk onto campus yesterday as 

a 6th grader?. What makes Sandia 

Prep unique is the supportive and 

accepting community where I have 

space to be myself and learn in way 

that lets me be true to who I am. It’s small enough that I got to 

meet and learn little pieces about each of my classmates and 

the faculty and staff. I’m deeply thankful for the faculty and staff 

who challenged me to take different perspectives and work 

really hard. To my friends who have been there for me since 9th 

grade, I will never forget the memories we have made together 

and I am forever grateful for you guys. To my other classmates, 

everyone is truly a beautiful soul and I am so proud of all of our 

accomplishments. To my sister, Dylan, thank you for being my 

best friend and making me laugh on some of my darkest days. 

I really would not have survived high school without you. And 

finally, to my parents. Thank you for supporting me through 

my journey at Sandia Prep, and encouraging me to do my best 

and be present in my community. I love you guys tremendously. 

Thank you Sandia Prep and my community for an amazing 7 

years. And now I’m off to discover new communities and new 

experiences with Sandia Prep foundation to support me. 

Lucas Austin Huron 

I cannot believe it has been 7 years 

since I came to Prep. The amount 

of memories and life lessons I have 

learned cannot be put into mere 

words. I could never have imagined 

how important my family, friends, 

teachers, and coaches could have 

been. Even though all my teachers 

left great impressions on me, the 2 that were the most 

inspirational were Mrs. Moses and Mr. Polansky. I had Mrs. 

Moses for 3 years and she is the sole reason that I have fallen 

in love with history when I never thought that to be possible. 

I also have had Mr. Polansky for 2 years, taking both Bio 1 

and 2 and even though these classes were very challenging, 

it showed me that when I put my mind to it, I could pass any 

class and also enjoy them in the process. Mr. Smith was a huge 

influence on the person I am, and if I hadn’t played soccer for 

him for my 5 years of high school sports I’m not sure I would 

be the same person I am today. The friends I have made over 

these years are truly the best I could have ever asked for and 

I’m so grateful that we got to make so many memories that I 

will cherish forever. Lastly, my family who are my rock. Thank 

you to my mom, dad, and brother for always pushing me to do 

the best I can and shaping me into the man I am today. Thank 

you to my grandparents for becoming my best friends. With all 

this being said, I am ready to begin the next chapter of my life 

and I am thankful for everyone who has helped me along the 

way. 

Emma Madison Kelley 

My parents always taught me to do 

what makes me happy, to follow my 

heart because I’d end up where I 

was meant to be. I was told I could 

do whatever I wanted to do as long 

as I worked hard, and now those 

are words I choose to live by. I have 

been gifted with wonderful opportunities to embrace who I 

am and I’ve come to know some of the best people through 

my experiences at Prep. I’ve grown into a well rounded human 

being with facets and skills I would not possess without my 

experiences over the past seven years. I am incredibly thankful 

for all I have gotten to live. 

Prep took the innocent eleven year old I was in sixth 

grade and transformed me into a well-rounded, confident 

young woman. I look in the mirror and take pride in my 

accomplishments and in the person staring me back in the 

mirror. Prep has given me the tools to be who I am today, how 

to learn about myself, and to understand joy in learning. 

Teachers like Molly Rennie, Mary Nakigan, George 

McJimsey, Erin Moots, Patrick Kelly, Amy James, and many 

more have elevated my experiences here. They showed me 

what learning is supposed to be. I have been helped in every 

class if needed and been immersed in my classes. This has 

helped me proudly follow my path to who I am meant to be, 

and for that, I am forever thankful. 

These seven years have enriched my life in ways I cannot 

explain and have molded me into the person I have always 

wanted to be. A person who speaks with a confident voice, 

stands strong, and takes their own learning by the reins and 

pursues it with joy. 

10

Cree Riley Kennedy 

Twenty years ago my mom graduated 

from this very school. She dreamed of 

her future child attending her beloved 

school as well. Despite having me 

when she was very young, she never 

gave up on her dream of me going to 

this school, and for that, I’m eternally 

grateful. Even though I may not have recognized it when I was 

younger, I have now grown to realize just how amazing of a 

mother she truly is. She always put me first, and never missed a 

soccer game, or a guitar recital, even after working a graveyard 

shift and being completely exhausted. 

She constantly made sure that I was happy and loved. I’ll 

always remember how highly she spoke about Prep and all the 

crazy adventures that she had. She talked about beginning of the 

year camping trips, and OLP trips with her friends. 

Beginning of the year camps helped me make so many 

memories and helped me meet my first few friends at Prep. Color 

day continues to be absolute chaos, and definitely contributes 

to the times at Prep where I’ve laughed so hard that I’ve cried. 

While at Prep, I’ve also come to realize how amazing the teachers 

are. Both Mr. Kelly’s have been the best math teachers that I’ve 

ever had. They’re encouraging when anyone doesn’t understand 

something, and are so lively and passionate about what they 

teach. 

Overall, I am so incredibly proud, and thankful for my dad. 

He grew up so rough, and some of the stories he tells about his 

childhood, break my heart. He never really had an opportunity to 

go to school and similar to my mom, has worked so hard for me 

to have the education that I have today. He works so hard, and 

comes home exhausted and dusty every single day, to send me 

to such an amazing school. I will always recognize the struggle 

both my parents have had to overcome to send me to such a nice 

school. And I will never take what they’ve done for granted. 

Caroline Holmes 

Kjeldgaard 

These last 7 years at Prep have been 

full of ups and downs, but I am grateful 

for it. The highlight of my time at Prep 

has been being a part of the dance 

team. The dance team is my second 

family that never fails to make me 

laugh. Thank you especially to Mr. G and Courtney for pushing 

me to be the best dancer I could and cheering me on the whole 

time. Sandia Prep has also given me some of the best teachers 

that have genuinely made me love learning and look forward to 

coming to school. Mr. Polansky and Ms. Shaw, you made me love 

science. What more can I say? Ms. Plath, thank you for listening 

to me talk– in class and out. Thank you also to the friends I have 

made that have gotten me through the past 7 years. And none 

of this would have happened without my family. My grandfather 

has made it possible for his grandchildren to take advantage of 

any opportunity that comes our way and has shown us the world. 

Thank you to my grandmother who moved across the country 

to be there for me as I grew up. My parents, however, are my 

biggest influences that I love more than anything. They have 

encouraged me to follow all of my dreams, no matter how big, 

and have been my biggest cheerleaders my entire life. Thanks, 

all, for the memories. Now let’s go make some new ones. 

Katherine Ellison 

Lambert 

I am so incredibly grateful for everyone 

who has guided me and helped me 

grow at Prep. I’d like to say a special 

thank you to Louie and Courtney 

Giannini for helping me find a passion 

and admiration for dance and for 

putting in extra hours to build my skills as a dancer. Thank you to 

the entire Varsity Diablas Dance team for being my home away 

from home. I love my dance family so much and cherish all the 

memories I have with the team. Thank you to Ms. Nakigan for 

teaching me how rewarding it is to create art and making the art 

room a calming and safe space. You are so genuinely kind and 

I will miss having art class with you as my teacher. Thank you to 

Mr. Touma for helping me expand my media as an artist as well 

as find a love for sculpting. Thank you to Ms. Effy Hamon and Ms. 

Hutchinson for making French class so fun and special. Je t’aime 

beaucoup. Thank you to the entire OLP program for showing 

me places that I would have never traveled to one my own 

and taking me out of my comfort zone. I am so grateful for the 

countless beautiful memories I have on OLP camping trips. Thank 

you to my Mom, Cecelia, for always showing me unconditional 

love. You inspire me everyday to be a more generous and loving 

human. Thank you to my Dad, Ted, for always putting in effort 

to show me how much you care and love for me. I love you both 

very much. Lumina, Ramona, Marin, Owen, and Sofia, thank you 

for making senior year so wonderful. I cherish all our moments 

laughing together. I love you all so much. I am so grateful for all 

the beautiful and talented friends that I have made here at Prep, 

and am so proud of all of the class of 2022 for being so resilient. 

11

Ava Zoe Lensi 

I would like to thank my friends 

and family for all of their support 

throughout the years, all of the 

lessons they have taught me, and 

for all the laughs we have shared 

together. Most of all I would like 

to thank my parents. My mom has 

shown me how to be a good person and taught me things 

like pretending you are confident will lead to real confidence. 

Thank you to my dad for teaching me how to drive and for 

helping me with my homework even when I insisted on not 

doing it. Without these things and the many more they have 

taught me, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Everyone that is 

in my life today has shown me an endless amount of love and 

support that I am so grateful to have. I would also like to thank 

my teachers and the Sandia Prep community for creating a 

fun feeling around campus and in the classrooms. I’m grateful 

for the teachers for being accommodating in the midst of the 

Covid-19 pandemic and putting effort into the lessons they 

taught. The Sandia Prep community taught me about trust and 

sincerity which was great in its own way. I am excited to start 

this new chapter in my life and to continue to learn new things. 

Reija Ilmi Lynch 

Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “You 

must do the things you think you 

cannot do.” Prep has helped me 

realize the power of this quote over 

the last four years. Prep has pushed 

me to do the things I did not think I 

could do and allowed me to discover 

my love of art, dance, and engineering, as well as helped me 

connect with my Native American heritage. I would like to 

thank my grandparents, Bob, and Vicki, for allowing me to have 

the opportunity to have such a great education; my parents, 

Jesse and Sarah, for encouraging me when things got harder, 

as well as keeping me motivated to keep up all my hard work. 

Thank you for also being the greatest, hardest working parents 

and for providing me everything I want and need. Thank you 

for giving me all the opportunities to be able to grow and 

become the strong independent person I am today. I would 

also like to give a huge thank you to my little sister, Teija, for 

helping me through chemistry this year. I couldn’t have done it 

without you. I would also like to thank Prep for the many great 

memories and friendships I have created through the last 4 

years. Mr. Buck, you inspired me and helped me discover my 

love of engineering. I’m very excited to pursue a degree in 

mechanical engineering because of your class. Mr. Kelly, Mr. 

Gator and Mrs. Wix, you have given me a love of math that 

will help me achieve my dreams. Mr. Kelgard and Ms. Plath, 

thank you for pushing me and teaching me how to find my 

voice and write. Dr. Foun and Ms. James, you showed me that 

science could be fun. I will forever cherish all the memories 

and experiences that Prep has taught me and allowed me to 

have. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me and all my 

classmates. 

Benjamin Richard 

Mannal 

High school was difficult. The 

way I see it, there will always be 

challenges, but there will always be 

people around us to help in times of 

need. Throughout my high school 

experience, I’ve had my family. 

My mom who supported me in my struggles. My dad who 

encouraged creativity and brilliance in everyday life. My sister 

being a source of fun and help whenever I needed it. Mom 

and Dad, I cannot express how thankful I am for the sacrifices 

you made to get me here today. Over the years I’ve had highs 

and lows but through it all, I’ve always had friends by my side. 

Best friends like Vinh Ton-That and Hasnain Ashraf, you guys 

are always there when I need you. I’ve also had some of the 

best teachers and faculty who taught me skills and life lessons 

I will treasure and pass on. I would like to thank Mr. Gater, the 

kindest and most understanding teacher I have ever had. Mr. 

Westerlund, you taught one of the most complex topics in a fun 

way and had the best advisory. Mr. Kelly, you taught me one 

of the most useful skills, how to juggle. Mr. Aase, you always 

believed in me and what I was passionate about. Mr. Slakey, 

you will forever be my favorite English teacher. You have taught 

me more than you will know. Ms. Jaramillo, for being passionate 

about my interests, advising, and making the best activity. Last 

but not least I want to thank the IT department, Patrick, Garrett, 

Liam, Marcus, Allen, and Jenny,. You guys are like a second 

family to me. I will always cherish my time working with you all; 

work never seems like a drag when I’m around you. I will use 

what all of you have taught me. 

Mac Sanchez 

Manzanares 

Looking back on my seven years at 

Sandia Prep, it is hard to describe 

what it has meant for me, as it 

has meant everything. It is where 

I was taught by some of the most 

passionate teachers in the country, 

competed with some of the best athletes in the state, and met 

12

the greatest friends in the whole world. When I remember myself 

as a sixth-grader, and when I compare that person to me today, I 

barely recognize myself. 

I remember running around campus, finding new and more 

dangerous places to play tag in, then the next week being 

banned from those places. I remember looking up to the 

towering high schoolers, making me feel as if I were an ant 

compared to them. I never expected to one day be as tall as 

they were. I remember sitting down in the west gym for assembly 

and looking into the seniors’ section, thinking how much time 

I had from now till the day I sat among them. As I write this, all 

the memories of basketball games, dances, and cross country 

races come flooding into my head. Out of all the things from high 

school, I think I’ll miss lunchtime with my friends the most. 

I remember sometimes the homework would feel like too 

much, or the practice would be too hard, and I thought about 

quitting right there. But then I would always picture myself 

walking onto the ceremonial stage, looking out into the crowd to 

find my family smiling, and finally accepting my diploma. I would 

then say that it will all be worth it in the end. And my God, it was 

more than worth it. Thank you, Mac, for never giving up. 

Matthew Damacio 

Medina 

Having two siblings attend Prep before 

me, I thought I knew what to expect: 

being assigned a Lion or a Unicorn, 

walking through the many buildings 

to go to class, learning important life 

skills that will help me navigate the real 

world, and of course making and hanging out with friends, but 

through my 7 years here, I have experienced more than I have 

ever imagined. I’ve made lifelong friends, I’ve achieved amazing 

academic achievements, I’ve made memories that I’ll remember 

forever, and most importantly, I’ve had fun through it all. I’ve had 

excellent teachers that have supported me through my entire 

academic journey, from Mr. Kelly who had expanded my love for 

all sorts of math, especially applied probability, to Mr. Toman who 

taught me everything I now know about the adobe suite and has 

mentored me through life, to Mr. Slakey who would read all my 

papers and critique them, no matter the length, and has made 

me truly love reading. My excellent friends have been there with 

me for the ride of my life, from playing cribbage during activity 

on Tuesdays and attending a school dance in random outfits we 

picked out for each other, to messing around in class and just 

hanging out at a table that always seems to break during lunch. I 

would most importantly like to thank my father for always being 

there for me, giving me a big hug and congratulating me every 

time I got all A’s, motivating me to apply to the best colleges, 

and supporting me through everything, even on the worst days. 

I’ll always remember my time at Sandia Prep, and it will always 

hold a special place in my heart as the place where I discovered 

who I am. 

Brockton Patrick 

Monaghan 

I am thankful to my Mom and Dad 

for encouraging me to do my best in 

school, sports and life and to my sister 

and brother for always being there for 

me. They were always willing to help 

me with studying, homework, sports or 

anything I needed. My parents, sister and brother are my biggest 

supporters in everything I do in my life and I am grateful for 

them. 

My teachers at Prep were awesome because they made 

learning the material fun and inspired me to become a better 

student. Some days I’d go to school having an ordinary day and 

then I’d go to class and my teachers would brighten up my day. 

I really appreciate all of their efforts to make Sandia Prep a great 

experience for me. 

I have made many amazing friends during my time here at 

Prep. They have helped me become the person I am. Whether 

it was in class or outside of school, on the soccer team, doing 

homework or studying together, my friends have always 

motivated me to be my best and been there when I’ve needed 

them. 

My soccer teammates and I encouraged each other to push 

ourselves in every aspect of the sport and to keep going and 

never quit. That environment was my favorite because we wanted 

each other to become the best we could be. I will look back at 

high school soccer with great memories of being a Sandia Prep 

State Soccer Champion three times in my high school career. 

I appreciate my family, my friends, Mr. Sinfield and teachers 

for supporting me and for making these past seven years at 

Prep the most memorable years of my life and an honor to 

have attended. I will move on to college and throughout my life 

remember all of the incredible times I’ve had at Sandia Prep. 

Mary Olivia Montoya 

From sixth grade to freshman year 

I attended a school I wasn’t happy 

at. My sister, though, attended 

Prep and she loved it. After a lot of 

consideration I decided to move to 

Prep for my sophomore year, it was the 

best decision I’ve made. The sense of 

community is strong here, from classmates to faculty. I’ve never 

witnessed an institution with teachers and faculty who genuinely 

13

care about students and coworkers. I can say that I am truly 

proud to be graduating from a school like Sandia Prep. 

While the academics are great at Prep, I want to highlight 

the athletic department. Before I was a student here, I would 

come watch my sister play my favorite sport, softball. I couldn’t 

help but notice how involved the coaches were. It made me 

so excited to come and play for them. Ms. Karah Williams and 

Mr. Patrick Kelly bring a caring and warmful aura to the field. 

They’ve helped me in more ways than I can begin to write. As a 

captain this year, along with my best friend Sydney, I’ve gotten 

closer with my coaches and teammates. It’s bittersweet to pass 

the torch onto the next generation. I wish the future teams 

nothing but the best. 

Now, I’d like to mention the teachers that have impacted 

me during my time at Prep. To my first advisor: Mr. Ausherman, 

thank you for genuinely caring about not only me, but all of 

your advisees. Thank you for always making sure that I was 

doing well, academically and throughout the tumult of my 

personal life. Ms. Williams, thank you for being someone to 

talk to, not only concerning softball but all other aspects. I 

appreciate your patience and kindness. I know that our coach 

and player relationship will continue throughout the years. 

Cameron Alexander 

Lantis Motola 

When I was younger I always thought 

high school was a crazy place that 

had virtually no obstacles and 

you would just hang out with your 

friends. I’m sure you could imagine 

my shock freshman year when we 

had our first big English assignment. I thought to myself, “This 

isn’t anything how I thought high achool would be. I don’t 

know if I can do this.” I went home and received help from my 

dad who would edit every future high school essay I wrote. 

During my time at Prep many teachers have helped me so 

much. I would first like to thank Mr. Schoepke who helped me 

fall even more in love with film. If it were not for you I probably 

would not be majoring in film. I would also like to thank Ms. 

James who had created a class that balanced learning and 

leisure. And last I would like to thank Mr. Gater for helping me 

deal with my transfer to Prep. If I was nervous about being the 

new kid I could at least look forward to your class every day. 

Lastly, I would like to thank my family. You have sacrificed so 

much to help me get to this point. Whether it was Dad staying 

up late to help me with my paper or Physics homework, or 

Mom always making sure I had all of the supplies I needed, 

or Sis helping with French throughout middle school. All of 

you have sacrificed so much for me, for example moving to 

Albuquerque so I could go to Prep, going to every baseball 

game since T-ball, or rescheduling important events to be 

home to help with homework. Thank you. I love you all. 

Ashton Christine 

Munding-Dixon 

Since I was four years old I wanted 

to be a veterinarian. I would grab 

my little tools and take my stuffed 

animals’ heart beats, or wrap their 

legs like they needed a cast. My 

passion for animals has always 

been the center of my life, from rescuing dogs, to taking 

care of my horses, or even laying on the couch on a Sunday 

afternoon with my dog’s head in my lap. I want to thank Prep 

for preparing me to be able to go out in the world and turn 

my passion into a career. For the last seven years, Prep has 

been my home. I met my friends here. We as the class of 2022 

became our own little family. Prep has been a major part of the 

person I am today. I want to thank my teachers for developing 

my mind to think outside the box, the friends I have made and 

lost, the memories and the life lessons I will cherish forever, my 

family for always supporting me through everything, cheering 

me on at my games, and loving me through it all. I want to 

thank my mom for being my number one fan, my partner in 

crime, my biggest supporter, and my shoulder to cry on. And 

of course the biggest thank you to my animals, for creating this 

dream of mine, for protecting me when I was scared, cuddling 

me when I was sad, and of course “trying to help me with my 

homework.” 

Isaac Matthew Nelson 

Man, high school was crazy. I can’t 

believe that it’s finally time for 

everyone to move on to bigger 

things. It seems like yesterday, I was 

on the bus with a bunch of strangers 

I never thought I would be able to 

call my best friends. The people I’ve 

met have shaped me into who I am today and I’m not sure who 

I’d be without them. Mom, thank you for always being there 

for me when I needed you. I hate to say it but you were right 

when you said everything would work out the way it should. 

You pushed me to get my Eagle Scout done and motivated 

me to always work hard with baseball. Throughout high school, 

you and Dad always supported me with any decision I made 

and always made sure I felt loved. Dad, I love you. I’m not sure 

how I would’ve turned out without such an important figure in 

my life. You were always involved in anything I did. You showed 

me what it meant to be a father and there’s no one else I 

14

would ever wish to have that role other than you. I want to thank 

my friends for all the memories we made. Mr. Van Dam, you were 

the only teacher I had every year I was at Prep. Over the years, 

I learned you were less of a teacher and more of a mentor. You 

were always there when I just needed someone to talk to. To 

my peers, I’m very impressed, to say the least. Seeing everyone 

around me reach their goals and succeed, ensures me that good 

things are to come of the ’22 grads. Been a crazy ride, Peace out. 

Estevan T. Ortega 

I cannot believe that my high school 

journey is finally coming to a close. 

These past four years here at Prep have 

been filled with memories that will last 

a lifetime. I have grown and matured as 

a person during my high school journey 

thanks to the constant encouragement 

and support from my family, friends, and teachers. My parents 

have always pushed me to be my best. They knew the potential I 

could reach and taught me so many life lessons that have helped 

me throughout my time at this school. I know that everything 

they have taught me will continue to help me throughout the rest 

of my life. I love my mom, dad, sister, brother, and the rest of my 

family so much. They mean the world to me and I would not be 

the person I am today without them. 

During my time here, the number of people that I consider 

family has grown to include people who may not be related to 

me, but the connection and love we share are the same as if we 

were blood. I have many amazing friends here at Prep and I will 

truly miss them every day next year in college. The support and 

kindness I have seen from the people here have allowed me to 

become a much more open person and become truer to myself. 

I can’t wait to see all the amazing things my wonderful friends are 

able to accomplish in the future. 

A huge thank you has to go to all of the outstanding teachers 

I have had. I have learned so much from them and I am so 

thankful for them always being there in my corner supporting me 

in any way they could. I will truly miss every single one of them. 

This has been an amazing journey, and although I am sad to see 

it end, I can’t wait to see what the next chapter of my life brings. 

Joseph Evan Perez 

In the five years I have attended Prep, I 

have made many wonderful friends and 

connections that I know will help me 

for the rest of my life. I would like to 

thank some of the teachers who have 

mentored me in my time here. Mr. Van 

Dam has been a supportive instructor 

who fostered my love of music, and mentored my Senior 

Capstone Project. Thank you also to Mr. Kelly, whose humor 

and style of teaching inspired me and allowed my knowledge of 

math to grow, especially in applied probability. Mr. Buck who has 

mentored me in engineering and helped to focus my passion. 

It is worth noting that there has not been a teacher at Prep who 

did not touch me in some way and so I thank you all. I would 

most importantly like to thank my parents who encouraged and 

supported me throughout my journey. My mom and dad are 

always there for me, pushing me to accomplish great things, and 

I know they will continue to as I move forward in life. 

Michael Louis 

Rosenbaum 

The time went by quickly, and It’s sad 

to say goodbye to all of my friends and 

teachers that have been so influential 

over the years. Special thanks to Jesse 

Van Dam, who has been my teacher for 

all seven years at Prep. He has been 

a superb meteor, and he has taught me so much more than just 

music. Thanks to all of my friends. They have been so loyal for 

my whole time at school. I also want to thank Coach Simpson 

for showing me how to be tough and fight through adversity 

through his cancer battle. He taught me always to show up, and 

it doesn’t matter how much pain you’re in. Thanks to my parents, 

who have been by my side through everything, I don’t know 

where I’d be without them. And thanks to Todd Kelgard, who 

taught me how to identify a comma splice. 

Sydney Morgan Sanchez 

When people would say at the 

beginning of this year, “watch out, 

your senior year is going to fly by 

fast,” I didn’t believe them. But I can 

definitely say that it did. Walking onto 

this campus for the first time in 6th 

grade, I knew that this was the right 

place for me. This 7 year journey has flown by and I’ve made so 

many amazing memories that I will never forget. I am honored to 

be apart of a heartwarming, loving community like Prep, and it 

has made me love the 7 years that I spent here. Thank you Prep 

for preparing me for this next chapter in my life. Ms. Plath, Mr. 

Perez, and Mr. Ausherman, thank you for the talks that we had 

that weren’t school related. Thank you to Mr. Kelly (P Kel) and 

Ms. Williams for being the best teachers/coaches/mentors that 

I could ever ask for. Thank you for challenging me in the sport I 

love most, softball. I will forever be grateful for our bonds that 

created when I was in 6th grade. 

15

Lastly, to the people who have been with me through it all, I 

would like to thank and honor my mom for always encouraging 

and pushing me to be the best I can be. Thank you, Mom, for 

everything you do for me and my sister. Thank you Mikayla for 

being the best sister I could ask for and I pass the torch to you 

now. Make us proud! To Chee-ee, Grandpa, Grandpa, Meh- 

Meh, and my other family members, thank you for supporting 

me through this journey. To Mary, Cora, and Javin, thank you 

for being my best friends and making me laugh until I can’t 

breathe. Love you guys!! 

Timothy Schatzman 

Jordan Lee Schierloh 

It’s been a crazy ride but we finally 

did it. The moment we’ve all been 

waiting for, for so long. My past 4 

years at Prep have taught me so 

much not just academically, but 

life lessons as well. I am so grateful 

to all the friends and people I’ve 

met along the way. You guys really made high school an 

unforgettable experience. I want to thank my family for all the 

support they’ve given me thus far. I love all of you guys so 

much and I couldn’t have done it without you. I want to give a 

special thanks to my mom, who has sacrificed so much for me 

and my brother. Her constant support in sports, academics, 

and socially has been one of the things I’m most thankful for. 

Thanks for not only being my mom, but one of my best friends 

as well. Thanks to all of my siblings. You guys help keep me 

grounded, especially my sister Daria, who has listened to 

countless facetime rants about school and everything going on 

in my life. A shout out to Mama Moses and P. Kel as well, for 

helping make my senior year one for the books. You guys have 

taught me so much and made sure I had safe places at school. 

Thank you to all my coaches these past years, you taught me 

what it means to be a team player and helped push me to 

be better. I obviously can’t fit all my thanks into such a short 

paragraph, but I am truly grateful for everyone in my life. To all 

my fellow classmates, it’s been great getting to know you guys 

and I’m excited to see everyone achieve their goals in our next 

chapter in life. I love y’all. 

Ean Alexander Sears 

Moving from Illinois to New Mexico 

your senior year was a challenge by 

itself. Leaving a school district you 

have attended since Kindergarten 

and joining a new one your senior 

year created extra pressure. I was 

anxious to leave behind lifelong 

friends and nervous about what I would find at a new 

school. Luckily, Sandia Preparatory School was a welcoming 

environment where teachers and students were accepting of a 

new senior entering their realm. 

I would like to thank the teachers that pushed me and 

encouraged me to explore different ideas and subjects. 

Books I would have never read, classes I would have initially 

avoided and clubs never before joined were presented to me 

as opportunities for exploration and knowledge. Thank you to 

those teachers who believed in me and helped me exceed my 

own expectations. 

Thanks to the friends I have met and made here this year, as 

well as my friends across the country. Our times together have 

created lifelong friendships and memories that will be reflected 

upon over the years. Thank you for bringing laughter and 

adventures into my life. 

Most importantly, I am grateful for my family. My parents 

and brother have been alongside me in any endeavor I 

pursued. They were there to cheer me on in competitions and 

applauded academic successes. I am the person today largely 

because of my family’s guidance and support over the years. 

Thank you for your sacrifices, your cheers, your love, and your 

help. 

Keira Aerwyn Silloway 

The years I’ve spent at Sandia Prep 

have been the most formative years 

of my life. I can thank the school and 

all my friends for making me into the 

person I am today, and preparing me 

for the life ahead of me. 

I would like to thank Mary 

Nakigan and Steve Ausherman for helping me find my passion 

for art and photography, as well as Bill Slakey and my English 

class this year for rekindling my love for reading. Thank you 

to the Outdoor Leadership Program for teaching me life skills 

like cooking and basic first aid. Some of my most memorable 

moments have been on camping trips, like melting a spatula to 

a pan in the middle of a snowstorm. Thank you to my friends 

for being there for me through every high and low, and just for 

being your amazing selves. It’s nice to be surrounded by super 

16

cool people with similar interests and humor as me. I cherish 

every joke and philosophical debate. I feel like I can say or do 

anything around you guys without being judged, and just be 

my authentic self. Lastly, thank you to my family for pushing me 

forward, even when I felt like I couldn’t be moved. Even through 

the rough times I’ve felt loved and supported. I truly am so lucky 

to have this community, my friends, and my family. 

Rachel Catherine Stell 

On a day like this, I think about who 

helped me through this crazy journey 

that is high school. I sit back and 

wonder if I could’ve made it through 

without those people. My teammates, 

who pushed me to be better, on 

and off the stage. The teachers who 

were there for me no matter how many times I asked the same 

question. Thank you to Mr. Polansky, Ms. Plath, Mr. Kelly, Ms. 

Moots, Mrs. Huitt, and Mrs. Shaw. Mr. Polansky, thank you for 

constantly allowing me into your classroom, even just to vent. 

Honestly, I’m surprised you didn’t kick Caroline and me out 

for how much we annoy you. But we know you love us… deep 

down. Thank you to my grandparents, who are a constant 

support system. I have watched my brothers cross this stage and 

leave their legacy to me, and I want to thank them. Thank you 

for protecting me, but being honest. Thank you for making me 

laugh and hugging me when I cry. Daniel, thank you for bringing 

the best sister into this family I could’ve assked for. My dad is 

forever my cheerleader, the one constantly giving me pep talks 

and reassuring me that I am good enough. To my best friend, my 

mom, there aren’t enough ways to say thank you in the world to 

express the amount of gratitude I feel. Thank you for being my 

road trip buddy, the person I can cry to without any judgment, 

the one I want to tell everything to, and the person I laugh so 

hard with that I cry. I love you to the moon and back. Without 

your love and support I wouldn’t be where I am today and 

without you as my hero I certainly wouldn’t be who I am. 

Calvin Kenneth Succi 

With Sincere Gratitude: From the first 

moment I entered Sandia Preparatory 

School I was warmly welcomed and 

that feeling has never decreased. 

Every individual I have encountered, 

even with differing personalities, has 

kindly and respectfully made me feel 

appreciated. I hope they can also say the same thing about me. 

I want to especially thank my teachers and the faculty. 

With their kindness, understanding, and patience, I have 

been nurtured, educated, challenged, and inspired to pursue 

greatness. Unfortunately, it is not possible to acknowledge all of 

my instructors but I would be remiss if I didn’t personally thank 

Mr. Patrick Kelly. He is one of my most cherished instructors and 

a true friend. I will never forget his L’Hopital’s Rule lessons. 

My peers and friends have always been a source of support and 

I am extremely grateful. Whether I was discouraged, confused, 

or perplexed, my peers always rose to the occasion; especially 

Joseph Perez, Mathew Medina, Noah Jensen, Sebastian Xie, 

and Benjamin Mannal. Thank you. It is my greatest wish for our 

friendships to last throughout our lifetimes. 

Without the selfless generosity of my parents, grandparents, 

(my uncle) Adrian Zollinger, and (Godmother) Sheri Fernandez, 

my success at Sandia Preparatory School wouldn’t have been 

possible. Their sacrifices and support have been limitless 

throughout my life. Your efforts have instilled an unquenchable 

drive for success, that will only be satisfied by my reciprocal 

efforts to aid you in the future. I am truly looking forward to the 

challenge. 

Words can not sufficiently portray how very thankful I am to 

everyone who has contributed to me reaching this milestone. 

Your assistance has meant more to me than you will ever know, 

and it will never be forgotten. THANK YOU SO MUCH! 

Alexander Sutulov Marín 

Throughout my life, I have had many 

setbacks in which I have had to 

learn from my mistakes and from the 

problems that arise. I have had to 

learn to solve them on my own, but 

as soon as I got here it was a totally 

different experience. I had to learn to 

do everything and these are things that in my past life were not 

a priority, which I have been able to learn a lot since I have had 

new experiences. The hardest thing I have been able to do is 

leave my family and friends in Chile, without knowing if I would 

return. That’s why I became strong and promised myself that I 

would return to visit my loved ones. 

In this life I had to start over and it’s tedious at times, but I’ve 

learned from many people and that’s what makes me the most 

happy to have arrived because I’ve been able to mature, learn 

and enjoy a good job. 

My teachers have been a great help, because with patience 

I can learn everything, which was not easy for me since I am 

always talking. It is understandable that my teachers get upset. 

However, with all the anger and frustration of the teachers I have 

been able to get ahead which has cost me a lot, but I am very 

happy since my hard work will give me results. 

To finish I want to thank my parents, my brothers and my 

friends who supported me for so long and who worried about 

17

me. Additionally, I thank my teachers. I will be completing my 

goals to be able to fulfill my dreams. 

For the person reading this, if you fall it’s okay because you 

learn from the wounds and if not from the fall, the experience 

of suffering helps you learn, to become strong. 

Lumina Malaika Tami 

Over my time at Sandia Prep, I 

grew into the young woman that 

my younger self would be proud 

of. On my first day of sixth grade, 

having just moved to New Mexico, I 

had no idea what to expect. Would 

I make friends, would I like my 

classes, and which activities I would join were all questions 

that were swarming inside my head. But as soon as I got done 

with my first day, I knew this school would be a place where I 

could thrive and work hard to achieve great things. I became 

involved in many of the extracurricular activities Prep offers 

like theater, dance, and the camping associates program. As 

I transitioned into high school I was able to create deeper 

bonds with some of my classmates and discover what I wanted 

to pursue in the future with help from the introductory film 

class I took in eighth grade. This guided me into applying 

to the Odyssey scholars program and beginning a project 

that would change my focus and for the better. Having 

the resources and support from the Prep community was 

something that I don’t think I could find anywhere else. I was 

able to participate in a semester abroad in Switzerland, and 

direct my first short film, which I won an award for. Growing up 

while attending Prep gave me life skills that I will carry into my 

adult life and share with others because I value the time and 

energy they put into every single one of their students. I am 

greatly thankful for the past seven years and I will be carrying 

the memories and experiences with me. It is an honor to have 

learned from the amazing teachers and educators that work at 

the school and I am happy to represent Sandia Prep going into 

my college years. 

Vinh Ton-That 

I am the luckiest person alive to 

have so many people in my life 

show me compassion and kindness. 

I believe that I am who I am thanks 

to so many people that make me 

happy and smile. Thank you to my 

father and mother for giving me the 

world, I am forever in your debt. You made anything possible 

for me whether or not it was unreachable or not, you stretched 

beyond your limits for not only me but for my siblings. I love 

you so much. I also want to thank my dear two siblings, Qui 

and Tam. You’ve not only made my role as an older brother 

much harder, but you’ve shown me how to be a good older 

brother. To laugh with you, to protect you, and to teach you 

all the mistakes I had to encounter before you. I want to thank 

my other brothers, my closest friends, Jaxon, Nahom, Lucas, 

Chad, Hasnain, Jake, Ben, and so many others that made 

my Sandia Prep experience so great. From the bottom of my 

heart, thank you for making me so happy every day and for 

spending so much time with me. Without you guys, my school 

life wouldn’t be the same. My aunt and uncle, Thuan and My, 

thank you for tutoring me every night and teaching me how to 

drive. Truly, without the help of you both, I would have never 

succeeded in homework or driving. I truly am blessed with my 

wonderful and supportive family, so thank you. I want to thank 

all my teachers who taught me the most valuable lessons, Ms. 

Plath, Ms. Wix, Mr. Touma, Ms. Nakigan, and Mr. Schoepke. I 

truly am thankful for being your student. You all made learning 

wonderful and inspiring. And lastly thank you to the love of my 

life for everything. 

Jaxon Emilio Tregembo 

I need to thank my family, who 

have been there for me day and 

night. Mom and Dad, thank you 

for pushing me to always work my 

hardest, supporting me through my 

endeavors, and raising me to be 

the person I am today. Ryder, you 

are the best little brother I could ask for, and I am so proud 

to have shared the pitch with you this year; you’re going to 

accomplish big things here at Prep. And to my grandparents, 

thank you for always cheering louder than anyone else. 

I’d also like to thank the people who have guided me. 

Buck, I know you will miss me just as much as I’ll miss you, no 

matter what you say. Aush, I wouldn’t be pursuing my dream 

of photography in college if it wasn’t for you. I will deeply 

miss your guys’ guidance and our conversations; thank you 

for everything. Coach Smith, I will always brag about winning 

three state championships, and I could not have accomplished 

that without you. Thank you for always inspiring my love for 

the beautiful game and motivating me to be the greatest. 

And I need to thank the amazing people I met here at Prep. 

Maryah, you make me the happiest person in the world. You 

push me to be the best version of myself, and I’m endlessly 

grateful to have met you in photo class. And last but not least, 

the “soccer boys.” You guys have made these 7 years the best 

years of my life, and I don’t know what I would do without any 

of you. It’s incredible to look back at how much we have grown 

18

and accomplished together. Homies for life. I love you boys. 

Prep, I’ll miss you. Thank you for all the memories. 

Haotian Xie 

From my four years of staying here in 

Sandia Prep, I’ve grown a ton, both 

mentally and physically. Through 

athleticism I’ve learned to push forward 

and persist. Through study I’ve learned 

to face challenges. It has not been an 

easy four years but I made it. And I 

regard that all to my teachers. 

My teachers have always been patient with me even when 

I am being naughty and not doing what I’m supposed to do. 

To them I like to say thank you, for carrying me through my 

darkness. 

I would also like to thank my parents for the constant support. 

It is not easy to be thousands of miles apart and keep a clear and 

direct communication. I have not been able to go back and visit 

for the past three years, and it has been quite hard not seeing 

them for such a long time. So, I’d like to thank them for always 

being there for me. 

Throughout my life, there has been many setbacks. Due to 

the pursuit of better education, I’ve changed middle school 5 

times. I have seen my fair share of different education systems 

and I believe my future is bright ahead right here. 

proud with what I accomplish in the future, and I hope they know 

how much they have impacted my life for the better. 

As I close this chapter of my life and move on to the next, 

I hope to hold steadfast to the principles that got me through 

it: family and faith. For me, the two are intertwined, and they 

are the two most important things I have acquired through 

my eighteen years of life, so I want to take this opportunity to 

acknowledge all Christ and my family have done for me. 

Nahom A. Zerai 

“It takes a village” has always 

resonated with me in a way I can never 

describe - probably because that’s 

exactly what it took to get me here. 

My entire life, I have been fortunate 

enough to have amazing people 

supporting me: my mother, who has 

moved heaven and earth too many times to count for me; my 

brother, who has paved the path down every road I have gone. 

My American grandparents, my Ethiopian “aunts,” “uncles,” and 

“cousins,” and so many more. I am eternally grateful to all of 

them. 

I have learned so much during my time here at Prep, but what 

made my four years of high school so special were the memories 

I made inside and outside of school. It is the small things that 

will always resonate with me. Secretly launching pens from our 

cafeteria table. Playing soccer in the quad every day in middle 

school. Learning about my friends’ lives outside of school. I am 

thankful for all the people I made these memories with, and I 

pray we will make so many more in the future. I hope to make 

the teachers who poured so much time and energy into me 

19

Sandia Preparatory School 


Brianna Marie Addison 

Alexandra Brooke Allpass 

Owen Henry Andrews 

Tessa Leigh Anzalone 

Hasnain Ashraf 

Mars Bennett 

Connor P. Black 

Kiana Celeste Bogart 

Xavier Steven Bordlemay 

Brennan James Cameron 

Emily Michelle Carpio 

Luziano Casados y Lopez 

Scott Lee Charles Jr. 

Amelia Marie Chiavetta 

Daniel D. Clark 

Sebastian Elijah Clemens 

Sydney Nicole Cook 

Santiago Ramos Cooper 

Chad A. Cordova 

Sofia Grace Crecca 

Calissa Elene Dellabarca 

Ramona Pearl Delyser 

Lincoln S. DuLac 

Lauren Maurae Duncan 

John Nicholas Juarez Duran 

Jake Andrew Eckenroth 

Samantha Jane Everett 

Javin Isiah Felipe 

Haley Jordan Feuerherd 

Bailey Cadence-Rayne Flowers 

Alexandra Marie Force 

Nicholas Antonio Fuentes 

Kaitlyn Christine Gabaldon 

Garrett Hallenbeck 

Sidney Hayden Harenberg 

Josiah Nathaniel Herrera 

Marin Ruth Begay Holtrop 

Lucas Austin Huron 

Emma Madison Kelley 

Cree Riley Kennedy 

Caroline Holmes Kjeldgaard 

Katherine Ellison Lambert 

Ava Zoe Lensi 

Reija Ilmi Lynch 

Benjamin Richard Mannal 

Mac Sanchez Manzanares 

Matthew Damacio Medina 

Brockton Patrick Monaghan 

Mary Olivia Montoya 

Cameron Alexander Lantis Motola 

Ashton Christine Munding-Dixon 

Isaac Matthew Nelson 

Estevan T. Ortega 

Joseph Evan Perez 

Michael Louis Rosenbaum 

Sydney Morgan Sanchez 

Timothy Schatzman 

Jordan Lee Schierloh 

Ean Alexander Sears 

Keira Aerwyn Silloway 

Rachel Catherine Stell 

Calvin Kenneth Succi 

Alexander Sutulov Marín 

Lumina Malaika Tami 

Vinh Ton-That 

Jaxon Emilio Tregembo 

Haotian Xie 

Nahom A. Zerai 

20

Odyssey Scholars Program 

Graduates 

As with Homer's Odysseus, our Odyssey Scholars set out on an epic journey of learning 

and discovery. After choosing an area of study they are passionate about, the Scholars 

design a two-year research program that combines elements of independent study, 

academic inquiry, and scholarly analysis. The Odyssey Scholars program culminates in a 

major public presentation at the end of students' senior year. 

Sydney Nicole Cook - The pandemic’s effect on young people’s mental health 

Lumina Malaika Tami - A study of the Black community in film production 

Distinguished Scholars 

Certificate of Distinction 

Sandia Prep’s Distinguished Scholars Program recognizes those students who embrace 

learning on an advanced level. Distinguished Scholars graduate with 28 or more credits 

and earn an overall 3.5 GPA or higher. Additionally, they earn a 3.5 GPA or higher in one or 

more academic disciplines and meet advanced qualifications in those subject areas. 

Brianna Marie Addison (Math) 

Hasnain Ashraf (Math / Science) 

Brennan James Cameron (Math) 

Emily Michelle Carpio (Math / Performing Arts) 

Amelia Marie Chiavetta (Math) 

Chad A. Cordova (Math) 

Sofia Grace Crecca (Visual Arts) 

Ramona Pearl Delyser (Math / Science / Visual Arts) 

Samantha Jane Everett (Math) 

Javin Isiah Felipe (Science) 

Haley Jordan Feuerherd (Math) 

Bailey Cadence-Rayne Flowers (Math / Performing Arts) 

Garrett Hallenbeck (Math / Science) 

Sidney Hayden Harenberg (Math) 

Marin Ruth Begay Holtrop (Math) 

Lucas Austin Huron (Math) 

Emma Madison Kelley (Math) 

Caroline Holmes Kjeldgaard (Science) 

Katherine Ellison Lambert (Visual Arts) 

Reija Ilmi Lynch (Math) 

Matthew Damacio Medina (Math / Science / Digital Media & Communications) 

Joseph Evan Perez (Math) 

Rachel Catherine Stell (Math / Science) 

Calvin Kenneth Succi (Math / Science) 

Jaxon Emilio Tregembo (Math / Science) 

Nahom A. Zerai (Math / Science) 

21

Faculty & Staff 

in order of tenure 

Ernest Polansky 

Paul Ryder 

Susan Walton ’72 

Willie Owens 

Cathy Walters 

Allen Arsenault 

Chuck Buxbaum 

Tony Schoepke 

Tommy Smith 

Steve Ausherman 

Charles Osman III 

Darby Fegan 

Paul Huitt 

George McJimsey 

Daniel de León 

Joan Goessl 

Noel Huitt 

Stacy Moses 

Bambi Otero 

Brian Tregembo 

Doug Anderson 

Lucy Kozikowski ’91 

Claudio Perez 

Todd Kelgard 

Julie Cook 

Louis Giannini 

Thomas Gentry-Funk 

Helen Haskell 

Jon Toman 

Laura Fitzpatrick 

Andrew O’Cleireachain ’98 

Melissa Besante Dineen ’97 

Leonard Garcia 

Lori Hunt 

Scott Jeffries 

Patrick Kelly 

Joelle Shaw ’03 

J. Melanie Templet 

Rick Sanchez 

Karah Williams Cooper 

Susi Hochrein 

Erin Moots 

Laurie Magee 

Amy James 

Melissa Stroud 

Ying Ding 

Danielle Yepa Gunderson 

Waseem Touma 

Jenny Davidson 

Joe Garcia 

Cheryl McMillan 

Shanna Wix 

Mary Nakigan 

William Slakey 

Luz Maria Gutierrez 

Irma Lozoya 

Vince Barnett 

William Sinfield 

Vicki Gale 

Jesus Molina 

Paul Nielsen 

Maria Cano 

Brian Phillips 

Melissa Morse 

Eloisa Luevano 

Leroy Cordova 

Ann Dee Gonzales 

Alexis Magaña-Jaggli 

Jesse Van Dam 

John Garcia 

Arren Buck 

Courtney Giannini 

Dan Kelly 

Amanda Parker 

Matthew Westerlund 

Molly Rennie 

Lynn Jeffries 

Dacia Card 

Victor Ibarra 

Lois Brakenhoff 

Shannon Elliott 

Sara Mannal 

Daniel Cano 

Kathleen Lucero 

Scott Crago ’00 

Lauren Erdman 

William Gater 

Rosalind Hutchinson 

Brennan Lucero 

Fermin Paul Gonzales 

Perla Webb 

Raymond Nelson 

David Chalfoun 

Monica Reedy 

Leigh Schierloh 

Anna Wilkerson 

Nicholas Aase 

Nadia Garcia 

Amber Hayes 

Esperanza Soledad Plath 

Yajaira Rodriguez 

Sean Cardinalli 

Marcus Sanchez 

Liam Arsenault 

Gigi Guajardo 

Kim Thomason 

Sutherland Jaramillo 

Juliana Todescan 

Rae Arsenault 

Rachel Giunta 

Mita Saldana 

Thane Kenny 

John Baker 

Andrea Kendall ’98 

Tommy Boyd 

Magdelena Dominguez Bailon 

Patricia Gonzales 

Michael Gonzales 

Jessica Pérez 

Gabriella Holder 

Mikaela Sanchez 

Lee Kitts 

Michelle Treme 

DeAnna Hanosh 

Christine Drapeau 

Kois Hunnicut 

Anne Merril 

Kiersten Huitt ’16 

Vladi Stanojevic 

Natasha Abruzzo 

Board of Trustees 

Charles Becknell • Faith Begay-Holtrop • Laura Calkins, Vice Chair • Doug Clark, Chair • Robert DelCampo 

Bronson Duran • Susan Przekurat Epstein ‘91 • Ali Hashemian ‘01 • Stan Hubbard • Kristofor Kite ’93 • Ed Manzanares 

Dale Maxwell • Lisa Mitchell • Kelly Ross, Parents Association President • Dominic Serna ’01 

Vahid Staples ’91 • Ed Street, Treasurer • Alexandra Vavruska ’12, Alumni Association President 

Avery Volkman ‘96 • Troy Weisler • Patrick Westerfield, Secretary • Lorna Wiggins 

Honorary Trustees 

Drs. Paul & Marilyn Duncan • Don Hurst • Yvette Stout Lyle • Ogden Reid 

Leonard & Elizabeth Trainor • Ellen Ann Lembke Ryan • Robert M. St. John • Lorna Wiggins • Ray Zimmer 

22

532 Osuna Road NE • Albuquerque, NM 87113 

505.338.3000 • sandiaprep.org

2022 Sandia Preparatory School Graduation Program

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