Messenger (Alumni Newsletter)
summer 2026 EDITION
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3/20/19
Homecoming 2019
Calling all MVC alumni! Mark your calendars and plan to “come home” to 2 School Way for Homecoming 2019. Highlights for Saturday, October 19 will include:
- Homecoming Parade
- Inductions into the MVC Hall of Fame and the Mustang Ring of Honor
- Campus tours, including progress on the Don Price Performing Arts Chapel
- Pre-Game Tailgate
- Football Game
- Reunions for 5- and 10-year anniversary classes
If you are a member of the Classes of 2014, 2009, 2004, 1999, 1994, 1989, 1984, 1979, 1974, 1969, 1964, 1959, or 1954… contact Nikki Daniels to initiate plans for a reunion!
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Mustang Notes
Progress on the Don Price Performing Arts Chapel
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Alumni and friends can watch MVC’s new Don Price Performing Arts Chapel take shape before their very eyes by viewing the time-lapse video on MVC’s website. The concrete foundation was poured in February and March, and we anticipate the walls to begin appearing any day now. The MVC student body eagerly anticipates opening school for the 2020-2021 school year in this new, state-of-the-art facility.
Dr. Dehner is Back!
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MVC alumni who graduated in the last twenty years will no doubt recognize the name Dr. Tony Dehner. A nationally renowned vocal music educator, Dr. Dehner led MVC’s choral programs from 2002 through 2016, at which point he and his wife Ruth relocated to Texas. It is with joy and anticipation that we welcome Dr. Dehner back to the MVC faculty in the 2019-2020 school year as Vocal Arts Director. You can read more about Tony and his new role on our website
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Alumni Notes
Ray Houlihan ‘50
did a masterful job covering Homecoming 2018 photographically from start to finish. He was kind enough to share his work with MVC, and it is available for the enjoyment of all on our website.MVC is grateful to Ray for the many hours he poured into taking, processing, and making these images available to capture a memorable weekend for posterity.
Clinton "Skip" Skipton '00 returned to his alma mater in February to assume the role of Campus Technology Specialist. Skip reflects, "I am blessed to have had an amazing experience growing up and graduating from MVC. To be able to return now and work with technology in a Christ-centered atmosphere is exciting. It’s great to be back!!" In his spare time when he’s not serving at MVC, Skip enjoys spending time with wife Charissa (pictured here), children Jasiah, Isabella, Juliette, and Scarlett, and their two dogs, horse, cat, snake, and rabbit.
Dr. Sheryl Uyeda ‘02 serves as a missionary surgeon at Kudjip Nazarene Hospital in Papua New Guinea. She is back in the US this spring and looking forward to sharing her journey and ministry with current MVC students on April 25-26. More details about Sheryl’s work are also available on her blog.
Andres "Andy" Plascencia '16 stopped by MVC on a break from Azusa Pacific University where he’s finishing up a degree in business management while also serving as an Undergraduate Business Assistant and an Admissions Intern. He was surprised to know that he’s remembered fondly not just in the minds and hearts of his MVC teachers, but also on the wall in the Business Office! Andy’s looking forward to pursuing his M.B.A. as the next step in his educational journey.
Brianna Van Deusen '11 currently serves as a full-time registered nurse in the Trauma Nursing Unit at the UC Davis Medical Center. While earning both her BSN and RN degrees from Sacramento State University with Sigma Theta Tau honors, Bri volunteered with Reach Air Medical Services, providing pre-hospital, emergency critical care to patients.
Jordan De Los Santos '12 directed and produced the most recent MVC commercial currently running in area movie theaters (also available on our website). Alumni will recognize MVC graduate and Watsonville police officer Rudy Lopez ‘02, who is featured along with current student Noah Garcia ‘19 (pictured left). Thank you, Jordan, Rudy, and Noah, for representing MVC so well and encouraging future Mustangs to check us out!
Alumni Spotlight
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In Memoriam
James "Jim" Bard '50 passed into the arms of his Savior on February 16, 2019 from his home in Roseville, California and surrounded by loved ones. One of nine children born to missionaries serving in China, Jim served 25 years in the US Army and was, along with Martha Price, an inaugural member of the MVC Hall of Fame. His last visit to campus was this past October, when he was able to celebrate the beginning of the Don Price Performing Arts Chapel - a project he faithfully supported, both financially and prayerfully, over many decades.
A number of his MVC classmates and lifelong friends are pictured (left) at his memorial service on March 1, 2019. They include (seated from left) Diane (Mast ‘54) Downer, Marilyn Wagner ‘54, Barbara (Meyer ‘56) Long, Eleanor (Vigna ‘54) Anetsky, Alan Anetsky, Dale Lebeck ‘64 and (standing from left) Leah (Price ‘64) Lebeck, Esther (Johnson ‘53) Jessee, Ray Houlihan ‘50, Alvin Kruger ‘53, and Stanley Jessee ‘48.
Dr. William "Bill" Reid IV '96 passed away on January 14, 2019. He is greatly missed by his wife, Fulvia, and their three children, Daniel, age 18, Guillermo, age 9, and Eliana, age 5.
After attending MVC for high school, Bill enrolled in Willamette University in Salem, Oregon where he earned a bachelor's degree in biology and played football. He went on to obtain his medical degree from UCSF, then completed his internship and residency at UCLA Medical Center. UCLA is where he would stay for the next 10 years, starting in 2009 when he joined the faculty. Bill served in many roles as a teacher of residents, direct care attending, and as a triage officer. UCLA paid tribute to Dr. Reid in a piece that highlights his numerous academic achievements.
Bill's sister, Brooke, remembers her brother fondly. "He was quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. He was clever and patient, and passionate about his career and his family." She also recalls his time at MVC: "While playing football his senior year in high school, in 1995, he rushed for 265 yards and 5 touchdowns on 7 carries in one game, an event that we have reminisced about often."
Jeff "Doni" Rindone '97 passed away on January 6, 2019. He grew up in Santa Cruz County and continued to live locally after attending MVC for high school. Doni's love of sports spanned from playing basketball at MVC to being a devoted Giants, Warriors, and 49er fan. He is greatly missed by his work family at Palapas Restaurant where he spent the last 24 years.
Jeff will be remembered fondly as having, "an admirable loyalty to his friends. His friends were family to him and he was always there for them. He had a way of making everyone feel special. Jeff had a large family whom he cared very deeply about. They were all always on his mind and he cherished many memories they have had."
11/30/18
Homecoming 2018
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We’ve had an unusually lively fall semester at MVC as heavy equipment rolled into action at the future site of the Don Price Performing Arts Chapel. Photos of the project’s current status are available on MVC’s website, along with images from the groundbreaking ceremonies held earlier this fall. We are on track to open the facility for the 2020-2021 school year and our students could not be more eager with anticipation. |
Alumni Spotlight
Though he began attending Monte Vista Christian in 7th grade, Rudy Lopez ‘02 and his family moved to the Spanish-looking stucco home at the top of the hill across Wheelock Road during his freshman year. The next four years would be eventful, both on and off the basketball court, and to this day, returning to the old neighborhood brings back good memories that had a huge impact on Rudy’s future.
After winning the CCS championship during his junior year, Rudy’s senior year MVC varsity basketball team went on to win a second-consecutive CCS championship, an SCCAL league championship, and end as the NorCal runner-up - one game away from the state championships. He recalls the local media at the MVC gym more days than not that year. Rudy was named League MVP, but he remembers his receipt of the Jeremiah Award for humility, chosen by his classmates, as just as meaningful and important.
As with most championship teams, the secret behind that MVC team’s success was relationships. Varsity Coach Steve Miles, JV/Freshman Coach Willie Bobo, and Assistant Coach Dave Stengl (pictured above) provided the kind of leadership that won games and built teamwork among young men. The bonds were so strong, in fact, that in 2014, when Steve decided to come out of retirement to coach at MVC again, both Dave and Rudy joined him as assistant coaches. These friendships remain strong to this day.
After MVC, Rudy went on to play basketball first at Hartnell College and then on a full scholarship at Fresno Pacific University, where he completed a B.A. in business administration. From there he was off to Mexico to play professionally for a year, and returned to accept a position with the Watsonville Police Department where he continues to serve.
Today Rudy lives in Hollister with his wife of nine years and their two children, Rudy Jr. and Olivia (pictured below). Apart from ongoing play in a local league, Rudy has competed in the Police Olympics the last two years with his MVC teammate Michael White ‘03. This past year they lost to the LAPD in the finals and took home silver medals (pictured below). They are a long way away from their days on the court in what is now MVC’s Theater, but the lessons and relationships forged here play a key role in those accomplishments just as they did in those of their Mustang days.
Mustang Notes
Twenty-
four years of service to MVC was celebrated along with many other accomplishments and milestones when Dale Lebeck’s children hosted a surprise 80th birthday party for him at The Crow’s Nest in Santa Cruz. Dale filled many roles at MVC from 1964 until 1988, including but not limited to business manager, athletic director, and principal. What a privilege for MVC to thank him publicly for his contributions.
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MVC’s Class of 1998 enjoyed a wonderful 20-year reunion during Homecoming 2018 thanks to the hard work of coordinator Gretchen (Dawid ‘98) Cortes. Over 40 people gathered at Corralitos Brewing Co., owned by Luke Taylor ‘98. In addition to classmates and their guests, beloved teachers including Sheldon and Gaytha Parkinson and Paul and Glenda Lyons joined in the reminiscing and the fun.
Chris Chandler '11 (left) and Will Cook '11 (right) just wrapped filming and producing MVC's latest commercial that is airing in select Gilroy, Morgan Hill, Salinas, and Watsonville movie theaters.
Ariana Locsin '17 feels like she has grown so much since she graduated. Following graduation, she attended De Anza Community College in Cupertino, CA majoring in psychology. Upon completing her freshman year, she decided to take a gap year to do a DTS (Discipleship Training School) at YWAM Kona (Youth with a Mission), where she is currently enrolled in the Fire & Fragrance program. She will be spending three months on campus and three months on outreach in Paraguay.
Ari is thankful to have attended Monte Vista Christian where she made lifelong friends who continue to encourage and inspire her to work toward things that are bigger than herself. She is thankful to have had teachers who proved good examples of what it is like to lead a Christian life and have a relationship with God. After her gap year, Ari plans to return to college. In her words, "My plan might not be God’s plan so I am keeping an open mind to be called to a different path, always keeping Jesus at the focal point."
Rachel Vanni '17 is four weeks into being a student at YWAM (Youth with a Mission). She is hungry to learn more about the Lord and see the Great Commission fulfilled. Rachel is scheduled to leave in December for the Philippines. Reflecting on her experience so far, Rachel says, "The Lord is doing great things, especially during our local outreach. We’ve been reaching so many people and families and it’s been such a blessing to get connected with the neighborhood. We are more expectant than ever and cannot wait for how the Lord moves in the next couple of months!"
In Memoriam
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Sylvia L. (Turner) Woodgates died October 6, 2018 in Chapel Hill, NC, two days before her 103rd birthday. She was a music instructor at MVC from 1937-1941. Her mother, Lucena Eddings Turner, was Dean of Students. Sylvia traveled with The Sharon Singers and is still remembered for leading a famous boy's a cappella quartet which sang in Watsonville churches. Martha Price wrote to Sylvia on her 100th birthday: "I have very loving thoughts of you when I came to Monte Vista. I was only 14 and feeling very awkward. You made me feel welcome. I loved you from the first day. The time you spent here was the solid foundation on which MVC was founded. You invested lots of yourself here." A complete obituary and other remembrances can be seen at Hall Wynne.
Samuel Nicholas Ford '08 passed away on July 16, 2018 in Scottsdale, AZ from a seizure that took him instantly into the Lord's presence. Samuel played baseball at MVC and developed into a fine pitcher and power hitter. After college he worked in the restaurant industry in both California and Arizona. Friends and colleagues remember Samuel for his dedication, dependability, and faithful commitment as a fan of the San Francisco Giants.
In Memoriam
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Sylvia L. (Turner) Woodgates died October 6, 2018 in Chapel Hill, NC, two days before her 103rd birthday. She was a music instructor at MVC from 1937-1941. Her mother, Lucena Eddings Turner, was Dean of Students. Sylvia traveled with The Sharon Singers and is still remembered for leading a famous boy's a cappella quartet which sang in Watsonville churches. Martha Price wrote to Sylvia on her 100th birthday: "I have very loving thoughts of you when I came to Monte Vista. I was only 14 and feeling very awkward. You made me feel welcome. I loved you from the first day. The time you spent here was the solid foundation on which MVC was founded. You invested lots of yourself here." A complete obituary and other remembrances can be seen at Hall Wynne.
Samuel Nicholas Ford '08 passed away on July 16, 2018 in Scottsdale, AZ from a seizure that took him instantly into the Lord's presence. Samuel played baseball at MVC and developed into a fine pitcher and power hitter. After college he worked in the restaurant industry in both California and Arizona. Friends and colleagues remember Samuel for his dedication, dependability, and faithful commitment as a fan of the San Francisco Giants.
MVC is Grateful
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Merry Christmas
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7/25/18
Homecoming 2018
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Alumni Spotlight
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Alumni Spotlight
Mikayla Gibson ‘07
Growing up in Gilroy, Mikayla was active in community theater from an early age. It wasn’t until her high school years began at MVC, though, that her passion started to truly take root. She was cast as Little Red Riding Hood in her freshman year production of Into the Woods and the rest, as they say, is history. Her drama classes with both Jason Hedden and Peter Weisenburger, combined with future productions including Little Shop of Horrors and Guys & Dolls, were highlights of her high school years.
After MVC graduation in 2007, Mikayla enrolled at Chapman University and eventually transferred to the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in Los Angeles. She earned her bachelor’s degree in fine arts (BFA) in 2011 and was off and running. Her career thus far has included a role in MTV’s Awkward, roles in feature films Betrothed and Moments of Clarity(alongside stars Erik Roberts and Lyndsy Fonseca), and, most recently, CBS’The Young and the Restless.
In between roles, Mikayla stays busy taking classes and continually honing her skills. She points to good friends - including numerous MVC classmates, who she keeps in touch with across the miles - and maintaining a balanced life as key to her ability to stay focused on her goals. Her encouragement for others is clear - “If you stick with it, it’s worth it.”
Alumni Spotlight
Ty Widell '11
When people ask him what he does for a living, Ty Widell '11 can honestly say he builds spaceships.
He could also say that he’s an avionics engineer for The Spaceship Company, a subsidiary of Virgin Galactic, where his primary role is to code the Multi-Function Displays (MFDs) in both the White Knight 2 (WK2) and Spaceship 2 (SS2). The components that Ty codes include various 3D displays and maps that are crucial to the safety of these vehicles and the future path of recreational space travel.
Ty caught his vision for engineering during his time at MVC, building his first computer at age 16 and choosing Purdue University as his next step. He points to his involvement with Purdue Solar Racing (PSR), however, as the key turning point that “launched” him on his current path. Ty was elected VP of Engineering at PSR after assisting to build an entire solar car from scratch. He soon benefited from a mentorship by a Purdue graduate and employee of Virgin Galactic, which led to an internship and, ultimately, his current role at The Spaceship Company, based in California’s Mohave Desert.
When he looks back on his time at MVC, Ty points to the relationships - specifically those with his teachers - as the influences that shaped him most. He recalls Laramie Holtzclaw’s wit and honesty that propelled his students forward toward achievement, as well as Kent Tarr’s ability to convey lessons and key math principles with clarity. Influences like these shaped the journey that led to Ty’s current life and role, and in the case of his future in particular, it can truly be said that the sky is NOT the limit.
He could also say that he’s an avionics engineer for The Spaceship Company, a subsidiary of Virgin Galactic, where his primary role is to code the Multi-Function Displays (MFDs) in both the White Knight 2 (WK2) and Spaceship 2 (SS2). The components that Ty codes include various 3D displays and maps that are crucial to the safety of these vehicles and the future path of recreational space travel.
Ty caught his vision for engineering during his time at MVC, building his first computer at age 16 and choosing Purdue University as his next step. He points to his involvement with Purdue Solar Racing (PSR), however, as the key turning point that “launched” him on his current path. Ty was elected VP of Engineering at PSR after assisting to build an entire solar car from scratch. He soon benefited from a mentorship by a Purdue graduate and employee of Virgin Galactic, which led to an internship and, ultimately, his current role at The Spaceship Company, based in California’s Mohave Desert.
When he looks back on his time at MVC, Ty points to the relationships - specifically those with his teachers - as the influences that shaped him most. He recalls Laramie Holtzclaw’s wit and honesty that propelled his students forward toward achievement, as well as Kent Tarr’s ability to convey lessons and key math principles with clarity. Influences like these shaped the journey that led to Ty’s current life and role, and in the case of his future in particular, it can truly be said that the sky is NOT the limit.
Click here to see a video of one of Ty's recent powered flights. WK2 is the big carrier plane with two fuselages and SS2 is the one that drops.
Mustang Notes
Andrew Hubbard '06, and Olivia Cannizzaro '06 are excited to announce their engagement and upcoming wedding on August 11 of this year. Congratulations, Andrew and Olivia!
Ray Houlihan '50 earned two gold medals in cycling during this year’s Bay Area Senior Games. Racing in the 85-90 age group, 86-year-old Ray rode in both the 5K and 10K events where he finished his 10K in1:05:33. Ray began his cycling career in 1948 as a student at Monte Vista with his mentor, Jim Price, son of MVC founder R.O. Price.
Click here to read more about Ray and his passion for cycling.
Joshua Kristianto '09 is the newest dayside on-air reporter for the Central Coast’s KION Newschannel 5/46. He studied broadcast journalism at Biola University, graduating in the Fall of 2014, and became a reporter for NBC Montana in Bozeman. After a brief stint as a news producer in San Diego, Joshua moved home to the Central Coast to continue his journey as a television journalist and considers it a privilege to report the news for his hometown.
Click here to see Joshua cover an amazing story about the recent missing Oregon woman who survived a crash down a cliff along Highway 1 and was found days later by a couple of hikers.
Dr. Lorrel (Brown ‘99) Toft is a trained cardiologist and an advocate of CPR education. She is currently creating an interactive film to teach high schoolers CPR. The premise of the film is to increase retention by constructing an emotionally charged scene where students observe their peers aiding their coach who has just gone into cardiac arrest. Dr. Lorrel’s ultimate hope with her film is to raise the percentage of cardiac arrest victims receiving CPR.
Click here to see the making of Dr. Lorrel’s film.
In Memoriam
John Kennedy '63 went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 19, 2018, at the age of 74 in Clovis, CA. John was born in Sierra Leone, West Africa, to missionary parents. He served in the United States Navy and was an ordained minister who loved the Lord Jesus and shared his faith with all. He leaves behind his wife of nearly 53 years, three children and their spouses, and multiple grandchildren.
5/9/18
- Martha Price 1926-2018
- Homecoming 2018
- Outdoor Student Center Update
- Alumni Spotlight
- Mustang Notes
- In Memoriam
Martha Price 1926-2018
Mary Martha Price Eulogy 05/11/2018
(Mary) Martha Price was born November 10, 1926 in Cottonwood, Arizona to Christian and Mabel Sailer. She attended first through eighth grade in Clemenceau, Arizona. During her early years she enjoyed working on the Sailer chicken ranch. The family was active in their church and worked to reach their community with the Gospel.
Martha’s parents wanted their children to attend a Christian school. They learned of Monte Vista Christian School from a visiting minister. With God’s leading, her brother, John Sailer, attended Monte Vista first, while Martha followed him two years later as a freshman at the age of 13. In 1944, Martha graduated from Monte Vista Christian as the valedictorian of her class. Both Martha and her brother John, remained at Monte Vista their entire lives, where they were pivotal in establishing the solid Christian foundation that exists today.
It wasn’t long until Don Price noticed this quiet, beautiful, senior class student who would become his wife of 55 years. Martha knew God was calling her to serve alongside her husband. Don and Martha married in December 1944, beginning their leadership role at Monte Vista Christian School where they touched lives for over 78 years.
During her years at Monte Vista, Martha served in many capacities while completing her degree at San Jose State University. Martha was loved by the faculty and student body as a teacher, an administrator and a faithful prayer warrior. She and Don also became “Mom and Dad” to many students and influenced them with Godly character and standards. Through humility and faithfulness, Martha’s (and Don’s) goal was to reach others for Christ. Together they never lost sight of their purpose.
Don Price preceded her in death in 1999. Martha leaves behind 2 children Rob Price and Leah Lebeck and (Dale Lebeck), 5 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Over the years her children and grandchildren grew up at Monte Vista, while her great grandchildren have enjoyed playing at her house creating special memories. Martha’s family was her ultimate joy and pride. Now that she is home with her Heavenly Father, Martha’s Godly legacy will continue to live on through her family, friends and the many lives she touched.
Homecoming 2018
Vote Now to Help Us Plan!
Homecoming is coming up on Friday-Saturday, October 5-6, 2018, and MVC is looking forward to hosting our alumni for a weekend of reconnection and fun… but we need your input to plan it!
A fun run on Saturday morning? A golf outing? A family picnic with kid-friendly activities? Click here to let us know what you would (or would not) sign up to do when you come home this October, and then watch the July issue of the Messenger for the results and a full schedule ready for sign-ups.
If you would like to help plan a reunion for your class and/or other classes, contact Nikki Daniels today for more information.
Outdoor Student Center Update
Outdoor Student Center:
Phase I Installation Complete!
We did it! Or more appropriately, YOU did it! MVC’s supporters - alumni, parents, faculty/staff, Board members - came together and donated nearly $60,000 toward the Outdoor Student Center project. This means that Phase I of the project - the first five umbrellas and seating nooks that cover the upper-most level of the amphitheatre - are in place and already in use!
Our goal is to raise $40,000 more to reach our $100,000 goal - allowing Phase II (four more umbrellas/nooks to fill the rest of the amphitheatre) to be in place in time to kick-off the 2018-2019 school year.
Current MVC faculty members are combining their gifts to reach the $1000 threshold for naming tributes in memory of beloved former MVC teachers Isomi Doyal and Amy McRae. To make a gift toward either of these memorials or a different in honor of/in memory of dedication, click here.
Questions? Contact Nikki Daniels
Alumni Spotlight
Alumni Spotlight
Jordan De Los Santos '12
Current MVC Digital Art teacher Jordan De Los Santos ‘12 likes a challenge. “Don’t ever tell me I can’t do something, because that just means I’ll figure out a way to prove you wrong.” He can look back and see that mindset taking shape in his high school years, during which he would no sooner finish challenging courses than sign up for the next year’s even more difficult version. The challenges kept coming after that, and Jordan’s can-do attitude continued to serve him well. His MVC college preparation equipped him to blaze new ground for his family as a first-generation college student. Read more.
Mustang Notes
Mustang Notes
Giuseppe Steigman ‘17 is a finalist in the Carmel Bach Festival Young Artists' Competition. Recognizing talented young musicians from California’s Central Coast, this showcase presents accomplished young soloists, pianists, instrumentalists, vocalists, and chamber ensembles. Young artists chosen to perform during the Festival were selected from a competitive audition held in March. Giuseppe and his fellow winners have been invited to perform in a special Young Artists showcase concert on Saturday, July 21 at 2:30 pm on the main stage of the Sunset Center in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Norman Root ‘68 and his wife just celebrated 40 years of marriage with a cruise. In Norm’s words, “MVC started it all.” Congratulations, Norm and Kathy!
Beth Kirchner ‘05 has been teaching kindergarten for the past seven years. She spent last year teaching aboard a hospital ship off the coast of West Africa with Mercy Ships. Her pupils were the children of the onboard crew - four students from four different continents! She returned to the U.S. this year to live near family in Houston, Texas, and will return to the ship this summer to teach for the next two years in Guinea and Senegal.
Kate (Kirchner ‘05) White graduated from Pepperdine University and then spent six years working with kids both on the Disney Cruise Line and then in the fifth grade classroom. In 2015, she married her "favorite guy in the world" and moved to Texas, where her husband works as an ER physician and she spends her days chasing Charles (age 1) and growing Baby #2 (due in August). Kate shares, "MVC was an awesome season of my life. One thing I especially appreciate to this day is the incredible vocal training I received from Dr. Dehner. He instilled a huge love for music that I'm still expanding today as I compete with a Sweet Adeline chorus that is in the top 10 in the world! Go Mustangs!"
Timothy Urban ‘90 recently celebrated 20 years of marriage and promotion to Captain in the U.S. Navy. After two decades in naval aviation, Tim, his wife, and their two sons are settled in Newport, RI where Tim teaches at the U.S. Naval War College. He expects to complete a Ph.D. in International Relations at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in Boston next year. Tim thanks MVC for a well-rounded high school education that was foundational to his career. Tim shares, “The Lord has been faithful to provide for us and sustain us through many challenging Navy deployments and other assignments. We are blessed by His providence.”
In Memoriam
Robert Templin ‘68 passed away on February 2, 2018 at his home in Wickenburg, AZ after a battle with prostate cancer. Following his time at MVC during which time he was a soccer and baseball player, he worked for Woolworth Stores until they closed in the late 1980s. He lived and worked in Hawaii for many years before he and his wife Betty relocated to Arizona in 2014. A patriotic American and committed Denver Broncos fan, Bob is survived by Betty and his son Jeff (Kristina) Templin of Morgan Hill, CA. Bob’s classmate Norm Root ‘68 fondly remembers, “Bob and I both worked in the dairy and, of course, our job was to milk the cows. As we had to be finished by breakfast we started very early and, as the sun would come up, we would serenade the girls dorm with the sound of music. I don't think they ever heard us - at least I hope not!”
Robert Stotts ‘52 passed away on February 1, 2018 in Orange, CA from complications due to heart failure and stroke. After his senior year at MVC, Robert enlisted in the U.S. Army and then attended college. He served as a builder and business owner in Orange County, CA for more than 50 years. In the mid-1980s, Robert found his life's work in the management and expansion of skilled nursing facility, Hacienda Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Hanford, CA, which continues his legacy of creating a community of care to nourish and heal. He was a dedicated Christian and steadfast supporter of the evangelical Christian church at every stage of his life.
The Stotts name is best known to current MVC students as one of the two surnames honored by the Stotts-Hellmann Hall title of our girls’ dormitory - a facility that Robert and his family supported generously. Current students also benefit annually from the Reneé L. Stotts Memorial Scholarship Fund, named in honor of Robert’s daughter who preceded him in death. Robert is survived by his wife Donna Faye Stotts, daughter Rhonda Kaye Moore (Rex Moore), son Matthew Lee Stotts (Carol Sacks), and grandchildren Gus, Grant, Amanda, Clyde, and Claire.
1/8/18
- Homecoming 2018
- Outdoor Student Center
- Getting and Staying Connected
- Share With Our Students
- Alumni Story
- MVC Reflections
Homecoming 2018
Come On Back!
ALL alumni of all years are invited to come back for Homecoming 2018. Watch future Messenger newsletters for details about a Friday night all-alumni event and some Saturday opportunities as well!
Calling all MVC alumni, especially Classes of:
2013 - 5-Year Reunion
2008 - 10-Year Reunion
2003 - 15-Year Reunion
1998 - 20-Year Reunion
1993 - 25-Year Reunion
1988 - 30-Year Reunion
1983 - 35-Year Reunion
1978 - 40-Year Reunion
1973 - 45-Year Reunion
1968 - 50-Year Reunion
1963 - 55-Year Reunion
1958 - 60-Year Reunion
If you would like to participate in a class reunion for the years listed above, contact Nikki Daniels today for more information.
Outdoor Student Center
By day, a dynamic:
- Classroom with flexible seating for collaboration or independent work
- Outdoor cafe for teachers and students to share a meal or conversation
- Chapel venue for God’s praise to sound beautifully across campus
By night, a well-equipped:
- Playhouse for concerts or plays with ambient lighting and premium sound
- Cinema for gathering as a community for fun family movie nights
- Space for community celebrations
Each member of the MVC school family - current parents and alumni alike - is invited to give a gift to literally “set the stage” of our current amphitheater space to become the functional heart of our campus.
The size and scope of the project will be determined based on gifts received on or before January 30, 2018. Our hope is to have installation finished during spring in order to hold a dedicatory celebration during Commencement Weekend 2018.
Gifts of $1000 or more are eligible to be recognized within the Outdoor Student Center. Naming can be customized to be “in honor of” or “in memory of” a loved one.
Questions? Contact Nikki Daniels.
Getting and Staying Connected
We eagerly anticipate reaching each and every MVC graduate with the Messenger. Please forward this Messenger to any and all classmates that might not have received it and ask them to send their email address to alumni@mvcs.org. That way, we can send them the next one!
Share With Our Students
Come Share Your Professional Expertise With Our Students!
MVC’s College and Career Exploration class is looking for alumni in various professions to come to campus to share about their work and educational background, as well as current workplace experience. If you are interested in helping out and could come to campus for 30-40 minutes in the 8:45-10:05 am window on a Friday this semester (January through May), please contact Guidance Counselor Scott Nystrom.
Alumni Story
And To Think It All Began…
Yukari (Yamada ‘07) Kurino’s Story
Growing up in Japan, the thought of studying abroad never really occurred to Yukari Yamada. In fact, it wasn’t until her older sister spent a few weeks in Australia during a winter break that it dawned on Yukari that she could also venture away from friends and family to experience another culture.
By the time Yukari’s “non-negotiable” was factored in – an affordable, year-long program at a private California school – Monte Vista Christian was her obvious choice. As she recalls it, she came “in spite of the Christian part.”
In the midst of her difficult first year – fraught with loneliness, language struggles, and low self-esteem – Yukari met ESL substitute teacher Tracy Brumme. The very first day they met, Yukari asked Tracy if she could live with her, and somewhat surprisingly, Tracy said she would pray about it.
Before she knew it, Yukari moved into the Brumme home and life began to change. The very first night at dinner, when her host brother T.J. prayed and thanked God for bringing Yukari into their home, it moved Yukari deeply. She recalls, “I had never met anyone like [the Brummes]. They cared so much about me and they didn’t even know me. Church attendance on Sundays was a given, but I didn’t mind because I loved just being with them.”
Over time the Brummes shared “God stories” and asked Yukari questions that she “kind of hated,” but that got her thinking… When Tracy shared her testimony of growing up in a Christian home yet feeling empty in her heart, Yukari knew exactly how she felt. As she heard Tracy share how faith in Christ had filled those holes, Yukari “slowly started to believe that Jesus was what I needed, too. And as I stepped out in faith, God met me literally each step of the way.”
When Yukari reflects on who she was when she arrived at Monte Vista and who she became, she recognizes that she was transformed. “I used to hate myself, especially how tall I was as a Japanese girl, and I used to constantly compare myself to others. In hindsight I see that I left Japan mainly because I thought maybe people in the US were taller and I would feel normal here, but God used my insecurity to draw me to Him, even before I knew He existed. I see His hand so clearly. Once I accepted Jesus, I was able to love myself through Him.”
Yukari lived with the Brummes throughout high school and graduated from Monte Vista in 2007. As she wrestled with whether to return to Japan or attend college in the States, God used the Scripture exhorting us to “love not the world” to show her that staying and growing closer to Him was far more important than the material reasons drawing her home. She went on to Pepperdine University to earn a degree in accounting and was recruited by a firm in Los Angeles where she went to work and eventually met her husband.
Today Yukari is a happily married mother to one-year-old Elisa and juggled naptime in order to reconnect with her alma mater and share her Monte Vista story.
We praise God that though a decade has passed since Yukari walked the MVC campus, our school community is still full of Yukaris and Brumme families… students being empowered to achieve their highest potential, and faithful servants being used by God to provide Christ-centered educational excellence that changes lives.
MVC Reflections
Dr. Mike Kirchner - MVC biology teacher from 2000-2006 who has now returned to that role as a “new” teacher this year - recently reached out to his former students with the following question:
Can you think of an example of a teacher from your time at MVC who said or did something that had a significant influence on your life?
The voices that follow represent a sampling of the responses he received… each a great reminder of the loving relationships and supportive community that characterize MVC - in the past as well as today.
I had a teacher that would get so enthusiastic about a subject that most would write off as boring. I am talking about the kind of enthusiasm that would make you laugh and wonder if they knew how silly they looked. Of course they did, but they loved their calling and gave it everything they had. This made me want to learn. I had teachers that challenged me to look at everything through God's eyes. To see that he cared about each aspect of who we were and pushed me to know Him and who He called me to be. This made me know that I was wanted. I had teachers that would labor over explaining a concept to me over and over again and push me to go beyond what I thought I could do. This made me know that I was capable. MVCS shaped the mother, wife and woman I am today.
~ Sarah (Van Gundy ‘03) Singleton
The most positive influence I received was from Coach Zo. He always made time to talk about God and be close with God/pray. I believe the biggest reason he had that influence on me was because of the positive relationship I was able to have with him from a personal standpoint. So when he did talk about God, it would make a bigger impact on me. It’s helped me in my life today with the struggles I have been faced with. I feel I have a very strong walk with God and I feel he had a big part in it. I did have an awesome Mom to lead me in the right direction at a very young age too. But to this day, I will still look to him for Godly advice. I believe it’s not about just talking about God that will influence students. It’s having a positive relationship with the students on a personal level.
~ Aaron Glaum ‘05