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Celebrate our 75th anniversary with us! Each month on social media  and in our O’Dowd In Brief  newsletter, we will have a trivia related to our school’s history and community. The answers and information about the trivia will be shared here. February 2026 Which of the following bands/music groups was NOT founded by an O’Dowd alumnus? A: Hall and Oates B: The Matches C: Counting Crows D: Souls of Mischief For many alumni and current students, music has played an integral role at O’Dowd. From instrumental music and choir classes to epic Spirit Week performances. Some of our alumni have gone on to become music producers, members of symphony orchestras, and other integral parts of the music industry. And a few even helped launch bands you’ve definitely heard of! While Hall and Oates did play a special concert at O’Dowd, no one in their band attended O’Dowd. Here is some deep-track O’Dowd music trivia: Formed in 1991, the underground hip hop group Souls of Mischief included O’Dowd alum Tajai Massey ’92. The group released its first album, Infinity Til ’93, in 1993 and has released six albums since then. In 1993, a duo project known as Counting Crows expanded into a full band, adding original bass player Matt Malley ’81. Matt was part of the group when their debut album was released, which included the hit single “Mr. Jones.” In 1997, Justin San Souci ’00, Matt Whalen ’01, Shawn Harris ’00, and Matthew Esposito ’99 founded the band The Locals, later renamed The Matches. Although Esposito left the band to join the Naval Academy in 1999, the rest of the bandmates stayed together and released three studio albums. January 2026 How many high schools did Bishop O’Dowd establish while he was Superintendent of Schools? A: 1 B: 2 C: 3 D: 4 After Fr. James T. O’Dowd’s ordination in 1932, he was assigned as the school master and assistant pastor of St. Lawrence O’Toole in Oakland. After only a year serving the school and parish community, Archbishop Mitty identified Fr. O’Dowd’s leadership skills and sent him to Catholic University in Washington, D.C., to earn a doctorate in education. In 1936, Fr. O’Dowd returned to the Bay Area and was named Assistant Superintendent of Schools and then Superintendent in 1941, and was given the title of auxiliary bishop. Beginning in 1943, Bishop O’Dowd led an unprecedented expansion of Catholic schools in the region, establishing nearly 24 schools, including four Catholic high schools: Archbishop Riordan High School, Marin Catholic, Mercy High School in San Francisco, and the school that now bears his name, Bishop O'Dowd High School in Oakland. December How many years has O’Dowd run a Christmas Adopt-A-Family Drive with St. Vincent’s Day Home? A: 17 B: 38 C: 47 D: 51 For 47 years, O’Dowd has partnered with St. Vincent’s Day Home in West Oakland each Christmas season to support families in need. For many of those years, Campus Ministry has led the O’Dowd community in donating gifts to the children who attend St. Vincent’s Day Home. This year, O’Dowd supported 62 families with gifts and gift cards. Nearly two-thirds of our school’s history has been supporting St. Vincent’s Day Home, and we look forward to the many years of partnership in the coming years! November Which religious order was the last to administer O’Dowd? A: The Basilian Fathers B: The Oblates of Mary Immaculate C: The Jesuits The last religious order to administer O’Dowd was the Basilian Fathers. When the school opened in 1951, O’Dowd’s administration consisted of two diocesan priests and four nuns from the Dominican Sisters of Adrian, Michigan. O’Dowd was a diocesan school until 1966, when the Oblates of Mary Immaculate took over the administration until 1978. The Basilian Fathers administered O’Dowd from 1978 to 2005. Many alumni still remember Fr. Glass, Fr. Scheafer, Fr. Schwenzer, and Fr. Ranalleti, Fr. Delaney, Fr. McLeod, and Fr. Malo. At that time, O’Dowd returned to a diocesan school and Dr. Stephen Phelps served as the school’s first president, and Joe Salamack was appointed the first lay principal. October How many classes have won Spirit Week in their 9th grade year? A: 0 B: 1 C: 2 D: 3 Since the first Spirit Week in 1967, the spirited rivalry among classes during the third week of October has made O’Dowd’s Spirit Weeks infamous. From traditions that have endured for decades, such as decorated hallways and class cheers, to evolving activities like bonfires in the 1970s, which turned into Night Rallies in the 1980s and continue today, the spirit of Dragon Pride has been evident throughout the years. Throughout each Spirit Week, classes compete to earn points by participating in hallway decorations, rallies, lunchtime activities, and daily dress themes, all in an effort to claim the top prize: Spirit Week Champion. In the school’s history, only three classes have won Spirit Week as 9th graders - the classes of 2018, 2019, and 2020. September Who was the first O’Dowd alumnus to become a faculty member? A: Jim Negri ’68 B: Sharon Correia ’83 C: Bob Grazzini ’55 In the 1955 yearbook, senior Bob Grazzini noted he hoped to become a teacher one day and in 1959 he returned to O’Dowd to teach Spanish, Social Studies, and Art, becoming the school’s first alumni faculty member. Additionally, he coached multiple sports teams and was the Athletic Director. For 44 years, Bob served the O’Dowd community, teaching and coaching generations of Dragons, including many who returned to O’Dowd on their own professional paths, until his passing in April 2003. Over the years, O’Dowd has welcomed back 234 alumni as faculty, staff, or coaches. Today, 26 alumni serve O’Dowd as teachers, campus safety, logistics, gardeners, and in the Office of the President. Bob’s legacy as “the first” lives on in them. The cafeteria, Bob Grazzini ’55 Hall, was named in his honor in 2004 after his passing. August What was the originally planned name for our school? A: Bishop O’Dowd High School B: East Oakland Catholic High School  C: Archbishop Mitty High School of the East Bay The originally planned name for our school was East Oakland Catholic High School. In the late 1940s, the Archdiocese of San Francisco purchased land that was a former rock quarry to expand the diocesan education in the East Bay. The vision of the school, which was originally planned to be named East Oakland Catholic High School, was led by Bishop James T. O’Dowd. As the head of the archdiocese’s education department, Bishop O’Dowd worked to plan and oversee construction of “the school on the hill.” In 1950, Bishop O’Dowd tragically died after his stalled car was hit by a train. To honor his legacy, Archbishop Mitty, the archbishop of San Francisco, renamed the school Bishop O’Dowd High School.

When Bishop O’Dowd High School opened in 1951, it didn’t yet have a campus of its own. Classes were held at St. Louis Bertrand in Oakland, where eighth graders Joyce Allencastre and Frank Souza (both Class of ’57) were already “going steady.” “O’Dowd was co-ed, whereas St. Joe’s and St. Mary’s were all-boys,” Joyce recalls with a smile. “That’s why I wanted to go there.” Her family’s commitment to Catholic education ran deep. “I babysat and cleaned houses all four years to pay my tuition,” she says. “I still have the receipt from my senior year: $250.” The school may have been new, but it left a lasting impression. For Joyce and Frank, O’Dowd shaped not only their education, but their values, relationships, and the course of their lives. They married soon after graduation, with an O’Dowd classmate as best man. Decades later, their son Jeff Souza ’83 found himself at a crossroads. Raised in San Leandro and active at Assumption Catholic Church, he initially wanted to attend public school with his friends. But after enrolling at O’Dowd, everything changed. “In the first few weeks, I knew I was in the right place,” Jeff says. “It was eye-opening—hands down the best thing that ever happened to me. It pushed me academically, and I built relationships that helped me start my own business. Without O’Dowd, my life would have gone a very different way.” That legacy carried forward to the third generation. Jeff’s nephew, Camron Castro ’16, felt inspired by the stories and example of his family. “I was drawn to O’Dowd because of my grandparents, my uncle, my cousins. I wanted to be part of it. I wanted that challenge.” Across all three generations, academic excellence stood out. Joyce is still affectionately known as “the brains” of the family—she even helped Frank with a few of his reports. Jeff and Camron recall how hard they had to work, and how supported they felt along the way. “It was a big sacrifice for my family for me to go to O’Dowd, and failure wasn’t an option,” Jeff says. But the effort paid off. By the time he reached college, Jeff felt prepared and confident. “It was easy—I was ready for the next chapter.” Camron agrees. “O’Dowd’s teachers gave us a strong work ethic while really caring about us. I never thought I’d be where I am today.” "Without O'Dowd, my life would have gone a very different way." Jeff Souza '83 That balance—challenge with care—helped each generation grow not only as students, but as people. And for the Souza family, athletics played a big role in that transformation. Frank played on O’Dowd’s championship basketball team and ran track. Joyce was a three-sport athlete in basketball, softball, and volleyball. Jeff played soccer. Camron joined the football team, then transitioned to tennis after an injury. Sports weren’t just about competition—they were where friendships were forged and character was tested. “After six hours of homework, sports was how I connected and made friends,” Jeff says. Camron found the same thing: practices, games, and shared goals helped him feel at home. That sense of community, first sparked in classrooms and on courts, grew into something deeper. Frank and Joyce stayed close to O’Dowd friends, hosting dinner parties and reunions. “The kids would be camped out in sleeping bags while we cooked for the adults,” Camron laughs. “Those were big family gatherings—and most of the people were from O’Dowd.” Joyce never lost her connection to the school. She volunteered with the development office, and later was hired as the principal’s secretary. She helps organize reunions and keeps the Class of 1957 email list going, sharing news and prayer requests. “Our family was at every crab feed, every sporting event,” she says. “O’Dowd has always been part of our lives.” As O’Dowd marks its 75th anniversary, Camron reflects on what it means to be part of that legacy. Now a firefighter in San Diego, he credits O’Dowd with shaping who he is. “It gave me courage, confidence, and integrity. Each generation had its own O’Dowd experience, but we all walked away believing one thing: anything is reachable. Don’t ever give up.”

The Beito Family poses on the O’Dowd football field. L-R bottom : Asziyah Sapp-Beito ’24 , Jay Beito ’92, Drew Beito ’03 . L-R top: Xzavier Sapp-Beito ’21 , Diane Beito ’66 . Diane Radich Beito ’66 was one of nine children in a devout Catholic family. “We followed our faith, and it was expected that we would go to Catholic school from kindergarten through high school,” she says. When she started at O’Dowd in 1962, the school was still relatively new—but for the Beitos, it was full of promise. Five of her siblings would eventually attend O’Dowd as well, making it a true family tradition. “It was a big sacrifice for my family to send us to Catholic school, but it was important,” she recalls. And with O’Dowd just a walk from their home, the opportunity felt like both a gift and a responsibility. Diane’s memories are shaped by the discipline and high expectations of her education. “There was no talking in the hallways, or we’d get detention,” she says, recalling the firm standards set by the nuns. Still, she saw the value in it. “Those expectations were preparing us for success. I wanted that same foundation for my own children.” Her son Jay Beito ’92 arrived at O’Dowd ready for a bigger world. “I went to Corpus Christi from K–8 and was excited for a large school like O’Dowd,” he says. “Plus, we have the best mascot.” Despite the school’s size, he remembers a strong spirit of unity. “There were lots of different groups—different backgrounds, different interests—but there was a sense of supporting each other.” Even before the school had a formal charism, he says, O’Dowd’s core values—community, character, excellence, justice, care for creation, and joy—were already embedded in the culture. “You could feel it.” “There were lots of different groups—different backgrounds, different interests—but there was a sense of supporting each other.” Jay Beito '92. Jay’s younger brother Drew Beito ’03 came to O’Dowd eleven years later, but he already felt part of the community. “I was always at my brother’s football games. The team even made me a jersey that said ‘Little Beito.’” Surrounded by O’Dowd connections—from teammates’ siblings to coaches’ kids who became classmates—Drew knew where he wanted to be. Like his brother, he played football and valued the discipline it brought. “I did well in school because  I played football. Our coaches taught us what it takes to succeed—lessons that helped me academically, too.” Jay carried those lessons with him to UC Davis, where the strength of his O’Dowd education became clear. “I watched a lot of students struggle and drop out. That’s when I realized what a gift O’Dowd had given me.” It was at Davis that he also met his wife, Aneesha Sapp ’92 —another Dragon who shared his appreciation for college prep done well. When it came time to choose a high school for their own kids, the choice was easy. “There is no teacher in the world I’d want more for my kids than Mr. Green,” Jay says. Educators like Mr. Viera, Mr. Judd, Mr. Mason, Mr. Sanchez, and Mr. Tyler helped shape the family’s connection to O’Dowd. “Choosing O’Dowd is about choosing the community,” Drew adds. “The faculty and staff are so deeply engaged that they draw us in.” In 2010, Jay joined the O’Dowd staff, bringing his passion for health and fitness to the weight room—and to a new generation of students. His daughter, Azsiyah Sapp-Beito ’24, remembers spending time there as a child, watching her dad work with athletes. When she later attended O’Dowd’s Summer Academy, those same athletes were her camp counselors. “O’Dowd is a tight-knit, full-circle community,” Jay says. “There’s always a chance to invest in younger students and pay forward what was given to you.” Naturally, Azsiyah followed her older brother, Xzavier Sapp-Beito ’21, when it was her turn to step into her own O’Dowd journey. Today, Azsiyah carries forward the family’s legacy of excellence—one she shares with her brother and the many Dragons who came before them. “I ran track,” she says. “We took pride in having the highest cumulative GPA of all the sports teams. That’s what I learned at O’Dowd—to be excellent in everything.” That mindset, she says, is what defines O’Dowd graduates. “People know: if you went to O’Dowd, you carry strength of character. You operate from a sense of purpose.” The Beito family continues to stay closely connected. Diane keeps up through her grandchildren and the alumni newsletter. Drew hopes to return one day as a coach or teacher. Jay, now 15 years into his tenure, is regularly visited by alumni. “My job is to build up future Dragons,” he says. “Helping students find pride in who they are—that’s the most rewarding part.” “We’re honored to have been part of the O’Dowd community since the beginning,” Diane says. “It’s a school that’s truly transformational.”

By Kathy Canty Brown ’84 | O’Dowd Senior Director of Development Daughter of Tim Canty ’58, Parent of Joshua Brown ’12 & Rebecca Brown ’18 I’ve walked these halls as a student. I’ve stood on the sidelines as a parent. I’ve shown up each day as a staff member, first as a math teacher and later in the development office, committed to giving back to a place that gave so much to me. I’m one of many in a three-generation O’Dowd family - and I know I’m not alone. Over the past 75 years, more than 600 families have chosen Bishop O’Dowd High School not just once, but across generations. Students from the school’s earliest classes went on to send their children - and then grandchildren - to O’Dowd. Many families are connected across siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and in-laws. O’Dowd isn’t just part of one person’s story - it becomes part of the family. In a world where families have endless choices, the decision to return to O’Dowd isn’t about tradition for tradition’s sake. It’s about identity. It’s about who we are, together: a deeply connected community that supports students to grow into their fullest potential. A community so strong that alumni feel called to return, beyond reunions, to serve as teachers, coaches, counselors, and staff. Choosing O’Dowd is a choice to belong - to a place rooted in values, strengthened by relationships, and committed to preparing young people to lead lives of purpose, faith, and impact. The three families featured here are just a glimpse into that legacy. From founding-year students to current sophomores, their stories reflect something powerful: a tradition of excellence rooted in community - and passed on with love. We’re forever Dragons. Click through to the stories below. The Beito Family The Varni Family The Souza Family

Ava Bright ’28,   Tony Varni ’57, Sara Varni Bright ’96. Tony Varni ’57 traveled from Hayward each day to attend Bishop O’Dowd High School. A graduate of All Saints Catholic School, he and his family were committed to continuing his Catholic education. “O’Dowd was the new Catholic high school,” says his grandson Graham Ramiza ’17, “and was a natural landing place with our family’s roots in the East Bay.” That legacy drew in Tony’s daughter, Sara Varni Bright ’96, who also attended All Saints and knew she wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps. She was drawn not only by academics—she was excited by the size and diversity of the student body. “O’Dowd has always attracted students from across the East Bay,” Sara says. “It was very appealing to go to a big school and meet kids from Berkeley, Oakland, Richmond, Castro Valley. It was a lot of new people, new perspectives, new experiences.” That same spirit of openness drew in the third generation. Sara’s daughter Ava Bright ’28 and nephew Graham Ramiza ’17 both chose O’Dowd because they wanted to meet new people and take on a challenge. Ava came from St. Philip Neri in Alameda, Graham from St. Paul’s in Oakland—and both found something energizing in the opportunity. “O’Dowd has stayed the same, in the best way,” Sara reflects. “It’s kept a great culture intact all these years, while always evolving to meet the current generation.” One constant across generations has been a drive toward leadership. “I guess we’re all Type A,” Sara laughs. Tony served on Student Council, and Sara followed suit—eventually becoming class secretary as a senior. “I loved helping to plan the rallies,” she says. Ava, too, has stepped into leadership early, becoming a class representative her freshman year. “O’Dowd is a place that allows you to flourish, pursue your interests, and become your own person,” adds Graham. That drive often showed up on the field. Tony ran track, Sara played soccer, and Graham took up lacrosse. Sports weren’t just about competition—they were a way to build community with students from different grades and backgrounds. “You really got to connect with people you might not have known otherwise,” Sara says. “Sports helped bridge those groups.” Another powerful thread across generations is service. Graham volunteers with a nonprofit, finding meaning in meeting new people and giving back. Ava has already exceeded the 10th grade 25-hour service learning requirement. She spent three weeks last summer working with a community organization that serves autistic children. “O’Dowd always emphasized how important it is to be a contributing member of our community, wherever that is,” Graham says. Sara has also given back to O’Dowd as a parent volunteer, most recently as a co-chair of the annual Transforming Lives Dinner in support of tuition assistance. “I’ve always appreciated the diversity of O’Dowd’s student body,” she says. “Supporting the Transforming Lives Dinner helps sustain what makes O’Dowd special.” Intergenerational connection is part of the school’s story—and the Varni family’s. One of Tony’s good friends at O’Dowd was Kip Wixson ’57, and the two families became closely intertwined. Kip’s daughter Heidi Wixson Novak became best friends with Sara’s sister, Andrea Varni Ramiza. Their children, including Graham and Owen Ramiza ’19, and Charlie ’17 and Atticus Novak ’23, grew up together and all attended O’Dowd. One of Sara’s best friends, Becky Wacht Cusack ’96, now has three Dragons: Brody ’25, Adam ’27, and Aubrey ’29. Sara’s daughter Ava fits right into the lineup as the Class of 2028. “We always text each other at O’Dowd events,” Sara laughs. “We’re big Dragon nerds.” Looking back on 75 years of O’Dowd history, the Varnis feel proud—and hopeful. Tony still keeps up with the latest school news, celebrating new additions to campus like the Center for Environmental Studies and the Cummins Center. “I’ve met people who graduated 10–15 years ahead of me and 10–15 years behind me,” Sara says. “No matter what they were into—sports, drama, music, debate—they had a great experience. And that’s rare. O’Dowd was great then, and it’s great now. We’re excited for what’s next.”

The O’Dowd Theater Department will be performing Lost in Yonkers from February 6-8 and the 12-15. Don’t miss out! Rehearsals By: Ocian Floyd-Haskell, Editor in Chief of The Crozier Lost in Yonkers is a play written by the esteemed Neil Simon, American screenwriter and Pulitzer Prize winner for Drama. The story follows two brothers, Jay and Arty, and their move to Yonkers, New York, to live with their grandmother and aunt during World War II. Meanwhile, their father stresses paying off a severe debt and emotionally recovering from the death of the boys’ mother. While the play presents lighthearted dialogue and humor at times, it also conveys serious themes, such as intergenerational trauma, neglect, burdens, and financial, physical, and emotional instability. Ultimately, what begins as an unwanted stay with their relatives transforms into an opportunity for reconciliation and personal growth, maturing the brothers’ perspectives and shaping their values. Jonathan Angeles, Director of Theater Tech, gives audiences the inside scoop: How would you describe the production to someone who has never heard of it before? The play takes place during World War II in the early 1950's. It centers around two boys who go to live with their grandma, with whom they do not have a good relationship. Over time, you learn more about each family member and their history and why each one is the way they are. It has the feel of a TV sitcom, but on the stage. It has moments of levity and moments of seriousness that will keep the audience engaged and entertained. Are there any notable set or costume pieces audiences should look out for during the show? The most noticeable thing in this play, compared to all our previous shows, is the use of color– or lack thereof. We decided to create a look reminiscent of a black-and-white TV show, which will be reflected in both the costumes and set pieces. Stylistically, it will be an exciting show to see! Also, for those who have done a show with us in the past, keep an eye out for the squirrel! What makes performances in the Erin Jaeb and Kelly Family Black Box Studio a captivating experience for audiences? Any black box studio allows for a completely different kind of experience for both the audience and the actors! While the James T. Bill ’55 Theater can hold 325 audience members, our black box studio has 75 seats for this show. With one third size of the audience, the show is significantly more intimate. There is also no bad seat since the audience is six feet away! With the intimate setting, the audience feels like they are sitting on the opposite couch of the actors as they navigate their life and challenges. Lost in Yonkers is a dramatic comedy reflecting the dynamics and everyday experiences of families everywhere. Audiences are sure to remain engaged and amused throughout the performance, so be sure to buy tickets and arrive early for the best seats! The play is directed by MizzO, and Sunny Countryman '26 is Assistant to the Director. Tickets are now available for purchase .

By: Scarlett Pearson ’26, Emi Green ’26, and Samantha Scott ’26, The Crozier  student journalists As the 2025–26 winter season gets underway, O’Dowd’s athletic teams are stepping into competition with confidence, experience, and high expectations. From seasoned seniors and returning varsity contributors to emerging underclassmen eager to make an impact, the Dragons are poised for an exciting winter across multiple sports. With strong early performances, ambitious goals, and a commitment to growth, each program enters the season ready to compete and represent O’Dowd with pride. Boys Basketball The boys basketball team begins the season with momentum and experience, as nine of the 13 players on the roster return after competing at the varsity level last year. The Dragons have opened the season confidently. Additional games to watch include matchups against Piedmont High School and Alameda High School, both of which consistently bring competitive energy and strong fan support. With a powerful start and key matchups ahead, boys basketball looks primed for an exciting season. Follow O’Dowd Boys Basketball on Instagram Girls Basketball Girls basketball is off to an impressive start, opening the season with victories over Pinole Valley, Oakland Technical High School, and Monache. With only two seniors on the roster, the team is balancing the integration of new talent with its pursuit of both short-term success and long-term growth. Despite the squad's youth, the Dragons have shown resilience and competitiveness early on, making them a team to watch as the season continues. Follow O’Dowd Girls Basketball on Instagram Boys Rugby O’Dowd boys rugby enters the season with confidence following a year of strong development and a deep group of returning players. Experienced upperclassmen provide leadership, while a core of younger athletes who gained valuable experience last season continues to improve. The Dragons are eager to compete against top programs across the region, with expectations rising as league play approaches. With depth, leadership, and momentum on their side, boys’ rugby appears ready for a potential breakout season. Follow O’Dowd Rugby on Instagram Girls Rugby The girls rugby team began winter training immediately after concluding a successful fall rugby 7’s season. As temperatures drop, the team transitions into a disciplined and demanding training phase in preparation for the more physical 15’s season. Practices emphasize strength, strategy, and team cohesion as the Dragons lay the groundwork for spring competition. Currently in a rigorous training block, the team will begin competing soon. Be sure to follow along for updates, schedules, and highlights as girls’ rugby gears up for an exciting season ahead. Follow O’Dowd Rugby on Instagram Boys Soccer The boys soccer team enters the new season with optimism and depth. With 10 seniors on the roster, the starting 11 has already demonstrated strong chemistry, discipline, and a work ethic that is paying off early in the season. Team captain Trevor Kaplan ’26 shared his confidence in the group, noting that the Dragons have a solid chance to compete for the league title. With veteran leadership and collective dedication, the team is determined to make this a memorable and successful season. Follow O’Dowd Boys Soccer on Instagram Girls Soccer O’Dowd’s girls soccer team returns following a highly successful campaign last year, reaching both the NCS and CIF semifinals. After graduating just four seniors and welcoming a talented group of new players, the Dragons remain competitive and well-balanced. The roster blends experienced leadership with emerging talent, creating a focused and motivated group. Assistant Coach Ramirez noted the team’s strong chemistry, while players remain determined to push even further this season, with goals of winning NCS and contending for a state title. With energetic training sessions and a demanding early schedule, girls soccer is positioned for another standout year. Follow O’Dowd Girls Soccer on Instagram

Each year, the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice brings together students who believe that faith is not only something to be studied, but something that must be lived. This past November, 14 members of O’Dowd’s Solidarity in Action (SIA) team traveled to Washington, D.C. with Mr. Downs and Ms. Servais to take part in that call. The group joined more than 2,000 students from across the country who are learning how to turn compassion into action. For SIA, the Teach-In is not simply a conference, whose theme this year was “Press On.” It is a space where students come to understand why justice work matters, how their own stories shape their advocacy, and how faith calls them to speak even when it feels uncomfortable. That purpose felt especially powerful this year, as students returned to the very conference where Solidarity in Action was first imagined ten years ago. One of the clearest expressions of that purpose came when SIA member London Walker ’26 opened the conference as a mainstage keynote speaker. By sharing her experience as a young Black woman interested in coding and cybersecurity, London helped the entire assembly see why representation and access in tech education matter. Her story reminded students that justice begins when people can name where systems fall short—and when they choose to speak anyway. In doing so, London not only advocated for marginalized communities in tech but also modeled what it looks like to lead from lived experience. Throughout the weekend, SIA students continued to reflect on why their work matters by sharing their program's story in a breakout session. They spoke about SIA's long-term commitment to justice through campaigns focused on food justice, Black maternal health, immigrant legal support, environmental sustainability, college access for first-generation students, and ending the cash/bail system. In conversations with students and teachers from other schools, SIA members saw how their efforts could inspire others to believe that meaningful change is possible within their own communities. The question of why became even more tangible when students brought their advocacy to Capitol Hill. SIA students met with staff from five offices, including those of Senators Adam Schiff, Alex Padilla, and Cory Booker, and Representatives Lateefah Simon and Eric Swalwell. These meetings were not about abstract policy alone, but about reminding lawmakers that legislation has real consequences for real people. For Ricardo Cornejo ’26, that meant sharing his family’s experience with immigration enforcement and the fear that can accompany it. Speaking in a Senate office, Ricardo transformed personal vulnerability into purpose, grounding national policy conversations in human reality. His advocacy reflected the heart of SIA’s mission: to ensure that those most affected by injustice are not spoken about, but spoken with. Throughout the Teach-In, students were reminded that advocacy is not reserved for adulthood or elected office. It begins now—with listening, learning, and having the courage to speak. As members of the Ignatian Family, O’Dowd students deepened connections with peers and educators who share a commitment to a faith that does justice, finding hope even in a city often marked by division. The weekend ended with an unexpected moment of affirmation when Nancy Pelosi thanked SIA students for their commitment to justice and faith. Yet the true impact of the Teach-In was already clear. Students returned home more grounded in their purpose, more confident in their voices, and more aware of why this work matters, not just for others, but for who they are becoming. For Solidarity in Action, the Ignatian Teach-In for Justice is a reminder that justice is not a side project. It is a way of pressing on and living faithfully in the world.

Inside O’Dowd’s Gilded Age Project What does it mean to write with purpose — to use language that shapes a moment and moves an audience? For students in O’Dowd’s AP Language and Composition course, these questions fuel a dynamic project that blends historical research and original storytelling. “The primary skill for AP Language & Composition is rhetorical analysis,” explains Lindsey Ashlock, a seasoned educator who joined O’Dowd in 2019. “It’s about understanding that every writer — every speaker — is making choices to persuade. We teach students to ask: Who’s the audience? What’s the context? What strategies are being used?” In the Gilded Age Project, students move from analysis to authorship. Developed by Lindsey, the unit challenges them to write historically grounded creative nonfiction inspired by the muckraking spirit of the late 19th century. Each student selects a figure or population — from factory workers to financiers — and crafts a narrative that reveals the human truths behind the era’s glittering surface. “This was a time when journalists worked to expose the underbelly of society,” Lindsey says. “Our students are doing something similar — using rhetoric to spotlight what history often hides.” The project mirrors the course’s broader goal: preparing students for college-level thinking and writing. “They’re not just learning to pass a test,” Lindsey says. “They’re learning to think critically, argue effectively, and write with voice. O’Dowd’s 100% AP pass rate isn’t the point — it’s the result.” That success is also fueled by creativity. “Students take risks, experiment, and connect emotionally with their work,” she adds. “That blend of critical thinking and creative exploration — that’s where real learning happens.” Student Projects A Gilding of Dust Hannah ’26 This was my favorite English project because it combined creativity and deep research. I chose Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle (1906) after reading Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring (1962) — I was interested in how writers exposed dangerous industries. I read statistics on worker deaths and building conditions, but the hardest part was editing. I had to cut creative ideas to focus on one moment in Sinclair’s life. That discipline reminded me of dramaturgy, where you research the context of a play. I used some of those same skills during O’Dowd’s production of All My Sons — and I hope to keep building on them in college. "Upton kept his head down in case someone doubted his fib as a worker. The ground was covered with layers of dust, paper scraps, and haphazardly paved cement. Adjusting his blood stained white coat, borrowed from a striking worker, he staggered forward with the rest of the men, stern and fatigued by daily labor, towards the gated entry of the building." Hannah ’26 chose Upton Sinclair and his expose on the meatpacking industry, The Jungle,  for her Gilded Age Project. Inked: A Shout for Justice Mason ’26 I chose to research Ida B. Wells because I wanted to lift up someone who inspired change through writing. Looking at historical documents — even original letters she wrote to her attorney — helped me imagine her experience. The challenge was turning all that research into a first-person story. As someone who gravitates toward math, tech, and engineering, this really pushed me creatively. I used the image of her pen as a symbol of power: Wells put her pen to paper and used her ink to shout out against a system that had long suffocated the country. This project taught me how important it is to preserve and uplift stories from the past — to make sure history isn’t erased or forgotten. If I become an engineer, I know creativity will help me think in new ways and solve problems that matter. Mason ’26 uses the education platform NoodleTools to cite archival sources and organize research notes. This original document from 1885 awards Ida B. Wells as a plaintiff against The Chesapeake, Ohio and Southwestern Railroad after being forcibly removed from the first-class ladies’ coach. The Robber Baron and the Railroad Tucker ’26 As a baseball player, I was first drawn to Cornelius Vanderbilt because Vanderbilt University has one of the top baseball programs in the country. I learned the term “robber baron” was first used for him, and I especially enjoyed the research. Every issue of The New York Times is digitized, and it was incredible to scroll through articles, photos, and political cartoons from that era. One day, as Vanderbilt flipped through his newspaper, he was confronted with a sombering sight. Sitting atop the eighth page was a photo of three kids, nestling together over a grate in one of New York City’s back alleyways. In the photo, the black underbelly of America’s obsession with profit, even at the cost of human life, reared its ugly head, and even Vanderbilt was not immune to its effects. I want to be a neurosurgeon someday — and this class taught me how I could write medical nonfiction that draws people in and makes them care. Tucker ’26 reviews online databases, including Gale, NewsBank and Oxford Reference, with recently retired librarian Annette Counts. Tucker used this photo to imagine the impact the image would have on Cornelius Vanderbilt. Death of the White Castle Braelynn ’26 I love creative writing, so this project gave me space to spread my wings. I brought in ideas from AP U.S. History and AP African-American Studies to shape my topic. I chose Mary Ellen Pleasant because I wanted to explore how this era might have felt for a Black woman in San Francisco. She purposely lived in mystery, so I had to find primary sources to imagine her experience. As Pleasant walked into the courtroom veiled in emeralds, women yelled, ‘bad egg’ and ‘bladder dash.’ The audience filled with a sense of betrayal for the black woman they once knew as their white counterpart. The Gilded Age brought big advances — but also hard ethical questions. With Artificial Intelligence and SpaceX, we’re asking those questions again today. In the future, I want to study international law and how different cultures define right and wrong. Braelynn ’26 discusses her Gilded Age Project about Mary Ellen Pleasant, the first self-made millionaire of African-American heritage, with teacher Lindsey Ashlock. “Kill the Indian, Save the Man”: America’s Cultural Genocide Val ’26 As a Mexican-American with indigenous roots, I’m passionate about preserving indigenous culture. I chose Hastiin To’Haali, a Navajo man who became the poster child for the Carlisle Indian Boarding School, because I saw myself and my lineage in his story. My research led me to the Indigenous Research Center at UC Davis. Reading firsthand accounts from 1882 — children denied food, locked in cells for 30 days — was devastating. Photos of students wearing “civilized” names on wooden plaques around their necks showed how dehumanization happened. A staff member firmly grabs hold of a disoriented Hastiin, looming over him. The shouting of unfamiliar, foreign commands penetrates his ears. The sudden flash of steel scissors flash across his eyes. Black strands of luscious hair, once contently perched upon his shoulders, fall lifelessly to his feet. We like to say “that was long ago,” but the last Indian Boarding Schools closed in the 1970s. I want to study political science — and build better systems, rooted in justice. Val ’26 holds archival photographs of Hastiin To'Haali, a Navajo man who became the poster child for the Carlisle Indian Boarding School. In the Stacks: Scholarly Research, Lifelong Skills When students begin their Gilded Age project, they’re not just searching — they’re investigating. And until her retirement this past spring, longtime librarian Annette Counts was their guide, helping them think like historians: follow clues, trace language, and uncover meaning from primary sources. “Students are stepping into a time period with different vocabulary, values, and ways of seeing the world,” Annette explained. “To research effectively, they have to speak the language of the era — whether they’re exploring mental health, immigration, or poverty.” With degrees from Stanford and San Jose State, Annette shaped O’Dowd’s research instruction for two decades. She equipped students with powerful tools and taught them to work like scholars — tracing names, analyzing headlines, and letting one discovery lead to the next. Research Tools at a Glance: ProQuest: Historical newspapers Gale: Topic overviews + primary sources ABC-CLIO: Curricular essays & nonfiction Oxford Reference: Scholarly definitions & timelines NewsBank: Archived/global news Sometimes students do more than find sources — they expand the archive. One student reached out to a college about a changemaker’s letters, prompting the school to digitize them. “Our students are not just consuming knowledge,” Annette says. “They’re helping preserve it.”

By: Scarlett Pearson ’26, Emi Green ’26, and Samantha Scott ’26, The Crozier student journalists. Photos by Home Team Sports Photo and Dennis Mockel. As the fog rolls into the Bay, the air begins to get colder, and suddenly, the fall sports season is ending. All of O’Dowd’s fall sports teams are coming to an end. Thank you for a great and entertaining season, Dragon athletes! Cheer The cheer team has had many injuries this season, causing the need to redo and polish routine, having to learn new steps, and more. Through all of that, the team persevered, placing first in their recent competition against eight other teams! Besides that, they were nailing it on the sidelines at football games. Whether it was getting the crowd excited or cheering on the players, the cheer team showed relentless dragon spirit this season! Girls and Boys Cross Country The Dragons wrapped up another strong cross-country regular season. Additionally, the girls placed 5th at WACC, with two O’Dowd runners placing in the top five spots, Isabella Rodgers and Lucy King. Senior Sebastian Taylor ’26 defended his league title by taking first place in the league for the second straight year. This was the third consecutive WACC league championship win for the boys. Now, the Dragons head into NCS where the boys look to place in the top four and the girls in the top three, to punch their ticket to the state meet for the second year in a row. The NCS championship takes place Saturday, November 22, at Hayward High School. The boys race at 10:30am and the girls race at 12:00pm. Football The football team finished its regular season with a 6-4 record, earning Co-Championship honors in the WACC league. With three new transfers this season, the team has had some new talent on the field, which has benefited them. The team was named WACC Co-Champions and has the NCS Division VI semi-finals playoff game on Friday, November 21st at St. Helena High School at 7:00pm. Follow @odowdathletics on Instagram for up-to-date information. Girls Golf The girls' golf season has come to a fantastic end, with the team being the WACC League Champions. Hayley Fong ’28 scored the lowest score in O’Dowd girls' golf history, a 66! Thank you, ladies, for a wonderful season. The team also competed in the NCS playoffs in Windsor. Girls Tennis The O’Dowd girls' tennis team has kept on rolling this fall. They built on their strong start and tournament success in Fresno. After opening the season 4-2, the Dragons found their groove with steady wins and standout play all throughout the season. They competed in the NCS finals with a sweep in Santa Rosa against Maria Carrillo High School, led by seniors Sonja Abid ’26 and Coco Moody ’26, who each won 6-0, 6-0. The team went on to compete in the NCS Division II finals and won the championship - the program’s first-ever NCS championship title! Girls Volleyball The Girls Volleyball team had a great season! They were this year’s WACC Co-Champions and qualified for NCS D1! Though they were unfortunately knocked out in the first round, our players still put up a great fight and had an accomplished season! Girls & Boys Water Polo The water polo season finished with the boys team losing in the NCS quarterfinals against Granada in a close game, 12-15. Still, we are very proud of them, as it is the first time in recent years that they have qualified. A quick shout-out to our First team All-Conference players, Varsity Girl Riley Welch ’28, and Varsity Boy Jake Hyde ’27. Great job this year, Dragons! Great job, athletes! We are already looking forward to next fall!

From Quarry to Classroom, Students Have Transformed O’Dowd’s Landscape and Its Legacy For a quarter of a century, O’Dowd’s Living Lab has stood as a beacon of innovation, resilience, and environmental leadership. What began in 2000 as a bold idea from students has flourished into a 4+ acre native plant community, certified wildlife habitat, and sustainable garden  that now shapes the lives of every Dragon who steps onto campus. From Quarry to Kinship with Creation Two decades ago, the hillside behind O’Dowd was little more than a fenced-off quarry and home to an illegal dump. Students and teachers envisioned something radically different: a place where the community could heal the land, study the natural world, and deepen its commitment to O’Dowd’s charism of kinship with creation. Armed with shovels, compost, and determination, generations of Dragons transformed that same hillside into renewal. More than 400 trees were planted , trails and outdoor classrooms were built, and thousands of hours of service turned rocky soil into thriving ecosystems. A Living Classroom Today, the Living Lab is at the heart of O’Dowd’s academic and spiritual life. Every 9th grader begins their journey here through the Science and the Environment  course, learning ecological stewardship alongside scientific skills. Classes across disciplines, from biology to theology, utilize this outdoor classroom to explore connections between environmental science, spirituality, and social justice. The Center for Environmental Studies (CES) , a LEED Platinum–certified building , anchors this work with indoor labs and a covered amphitheater that extends learning seamlessly between classrooms and the Lab. Students also contribute through service: since 2020 alone, O’Dowd students have completed over 13,000 service hours,  restoring habitats, composting, planting, and caring for animals. Leading the Way in Sustainability The impact of the Living Lab extends far beyond its 4+ acres. A culture of sustainability is seen throughout campus and in the lives of our students. More than 10,000 students  have participated in hands-on environmental education since its founding. The Lab and cafeteria together have generated over 21,972 pounds of compost , reducing landfill waste and enriching gardens. O’Dowd’s 425 solar panels  have produced 1.63 million kilowatts  of clean energy in just three years, cutting the school’s carbon footprint. Students have grown and donated over 3,100 seedlings  to Oakland schools, supporting community gardens across the city. Inspiring Leaders, Locally and Globally The Living Lab has become a model for climate literacy and Catholic education. O’Dowd is the only school on the California Catholic Conference of Bishops’ steering committee  for sustainability, and partners with the UC and CSU systems  to support climate education across California. On the global stage, O’Dowd contributes to the Vatican’s Laudato Si Action Platform , helping shape environmental education in 54 countries and 1,200 schools worldwide . From hosting summits with student eco-leaders across the U.S. to training thousands of educators through national conferences, Dragons are leading the way. Looking Ahead As O’Dowd celebrates 25 years of the Living Lab , the work is far from finished. New generations of Dragons are stepping forward to steward the land, advance sustainability, and carry the vision of kinship with creation  into the future. What began as an abandoned quarry is now a thriving ecosystem and a living testament to student leadership. For the next 25 years and beyond, the Living Lab will continue to grow and inspire as students learn, serve, and lead in shaping a more sustainable world. Join us as we celebrate 25 years of the Living Lab at the annual Harvest Festival! Sunday, October 26 1:00-4:00pm CES Patio and Living Lab

One Night, One Student, Infinite Possibilities The Transforming Lives Dinner celebrates the power of an O’Dowd education and the generosity that makes it possible. This year’s gala embraces the theme, “One student can change the world, one night can make it happen,” honoring both the students whose lives are transformed and the supporters who help make that transformation possible. The evening also celebrates our 75th anniversary and the decades of academic excellence, leadership, and community impact for which O’Dowd is known. Caitlin Meyer ’08 knows firsthand how life-changing an O’Dowd education can be. “O’Dowd introduced me to the art of the possible,” she says. “It totally shaped my academic and professional careers.” Caitlin credits the school with instilling the values of empathy, integrity, and human connection, lessons that continue to guide her professional work and personal life. She recalls that O’Dowd taught her to treat everyone with authenticity, to lead with compassion, and to always prioritize people. Tuition assistance is at the heart of ensuring that every student can access these transformative opportunities. Currently, 30% of O’Dowd students receive tuition assistance, providing $4.2 million in support annually. “You cannot cultivate the magic of O’Dowd without removing economic barriers to enrollment for students, plain and simple,” Caitlin emphasizes. Supporting tuition assistance enables bright, talented students from diverse backgrounds to join the O’Dowd community, acquire the skills to lead with purpose, and carry forward the school’s mission of social impact, joy, and community. Throughout the special evening, which includes passed hors d’oeuvres and a plated dinner, guests will be treated to an O’Dowd string orchestra performance, a specially choreographed praise dance from the Dance Team, and hear directly from student speakers whose lives have been transformed through O’Dowd. We’ll end the evening with a lively paddle raise in support of tuition assistance. The Transforming Lives Dinner is more than a celebration. It’s an invitation to make a real difference. “I know a great investment when I see one, and an O’Dowd education is top of that list,” Caitlin says. Attendees of the gala will not only honor the school’s 75-year legacy but also directly support the next generation of Dragons, giving them the opportunity to learn, grow, and ultimately change the world. One night truly can make it happen, one student at a time. Tickets to the Transforming Lives Dinner are available until October 27. Reserve your seat today .

By Gillian French-Liu ’27, Crozier Staffwriter This fall, step into the funny and frightful world of Skid Row as O’Dowd Theatre brings the beloved musical Little Shop of Horrors to life. Little Shop of Horrors tells the thrilling tale of Seymour, a timid florist who discovers and raises a talking, bloodthirsty houseplant named Audrey II. As the plant grows, it lures Seymour with promises of fame, fortune, and even world domination, forcing him to choose between satisfying its hunger and protecting the people he loves. Meredith Barnidge, Drama Program Manager at O’Dowd, describes it best: “It’s a show about what happens when you partner with evil.” Full of laughs and jaw-dropping surprises, this is a production you simply can’t miss. Behind the scenes, the tech department has been working tirelessly in collaboration with professional artist and O’Dowd parent Scott Morse to build five puppets, all changing in size as the monster satisfies its peculiar appetite. Vivien Olofsen ’28, head of the puppet team (also known as the creature crew), says they’ve used a plethora of random materials to bring the plant to life, including couch cushions, creature cast, hot glue, zip ties, cut-up trash cans, and wire cables. Under the guidance of Jonathan Angeles ’08, Technical Director, students have had complete creative freedom, ingeniously transforming inanimate objects into a living, breathing monster. Onstage, Eli Morse ’27, the show’s leading man who plays the role of Seymour, describes the production as “universally enjoyable; you’ll just have to watch out for the man-eating puppet!” Eli, along with 24 talented actors and 30+ dedicated crew members, rehearses daily from 3:30 to 6:30pm. “It’s been an amazing cast to work with,” he adds, emphasizing that this show is truly a labor of passion and hard work. This production also debuts a brand-new lightboard, which Mr. Angeles explains, “connects to all our old light fixtures so we can do an upgrade of the whole theater system,” enhancing the range and vividness of color. Ms. Barnidge adds, “It sets us up for an all-LED theater,” marking a huge step forward for the program. “The whole O’Dowd community has come together to support the dramatic arts. From parent volunteers to donor support, we are able to make this special production one to be remembered. I am incredibly grateful.” There is also an exciting new development in the high school theater world: members of the cast and crew can now join the new International Thespian Society. To qualify, they must have over 100 hours of theatre time on O’Dowd’s stage, have been enrolled in at least two classes in the dramatic arts, maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA, and prepare for the competition. According to Ms. Barnidge, members “must attend the Leadership and Tech Conference, which happens at Santa Clara University, and in the spring travel to Southern California to compete against 3,000 other students who are also members of the honors program.” Currently, there are 13 students eligible to apply, and that number will surely grow. Tickets for Little Shop of Horrors are on sale now for $20 for general admission, senior/youth tickets for $15, and O’Dowd students get $10 tickets on the O’Dowd website . Opening night is on Halloween, and the full performance schedule can be found online . Attend at your own risk!

By: Scarlett Pearson ’26, Emi Green ’26, and Samantha Scott ’26, The Crozier student journalists Varsity Cheer Sept 5, 2025 As the school year takes off, so do O'Dowd's fall sports teams ! O’Dowd is getting excited for the year of spirit and sports that follow! Tune in to hear all about the fall sports teams! Football Following an eventful 2024 season, the football team continues to put in hard work and perseverance. In their first non-league game of the season, the football team won against Armijo High School. They put up a good fight in their first home game against Mater Dei, though unfortunately they could not make the comeback in the second half. The team has received new transfer students this year and is excited to showcase them! Be on the lookout for game updates and the homecoming and senior night game announcement! Varsity vs Mater Dei Catholic, Sept 5, 2025 Girls Volleyball Girls volleyball is already defeating other schools with their fierce sportsmanship! In a recent tournament they won four games and finished second place among many other schools. They also competed in the Sierra Invitational, posting a record of 3-3. They have given a peek into a promising season, so be sure to be on the lookout for games! Girls & Boys Water Polo Girls and Boys Water Polo are making waves. As the season began, both varsity teams headed to Sierra Shoot Outs. The boys went 3-1, and the girls' score will be coming soon. Watch out for Captain Carson Brill ’26, and Jake Hyde ’27 as they look to turn tides for the Varsity Boys Water Polo team this season. On the girls' side, keep an eye out for Zoe Goss ’26 at set and don’t forget to turn towards Riley Welch ’28 as she drives to goal. The girls' team has young and promising talent with freshman Amber Beatty ’29, who so far has been the top scorer. Be sure to check out the O’Dowd Water Polo Instagram and O’Dowd Athletics for more information on games to come! Girls Golf Taking a swing at girls golf as we start strong, going 5-1. With momentum building, the team is aiming to make a deep push in league play and beyond. Captain Ananya Prem ’26 explains, “The girls golf team is one of the closest-knit teams you will find at O’Dowd. Not one practice goes by without laughter, bonding, and encouragement.” The golf team is looking at one of their best seasons yet, so make sure to stay tuned for games. Go Dragons! Cross Country The dragons enter the 2025 cross country season as the slight favorite in a highly competitive NCS Division IV field. For the third straight year, the same four teams (Archie Williams, St. Mary’s, Miramonte, and O’Dowd) are expected to battle for state meet berths. However, O’Dowd returns the fastest top five on paper. Sebatsion Taylor ’26, last year’s Division 1V runner-up, opened the season with a 15:13 win at the Hayward Scrimage. Additionally, Nathaniel Mesfen ’26, Liam Wright ’26, James Prater ’25, and Dylan Blout ’25 give the Dragons impressive depth and the best chance to rise to the top! Girls Tennis O’Dowd girls tennis team is off to a strong start this fall, opening the season with a 4-2 record/ After splitting their first two matches, the Dragons bounced back impressively, sweeping through their tournament in Fresno with back-to-back wins. They posted an 8-1 win over Heritage, followed by a 5-1 win against Clovis, and finally a hard-fought 4-1 victory over Louisville. With growing momentum as the season continues, our girls tennis program looks poised for a competitive season ahead. Cheer Under the bright Friday night football lights, the cheerleaders help kick off the season and show us their moves! The cheerleaders have been the star of the halftime football shows so far this year and have pumped up the crowd like no other! Their cheers get everyone excited to not only support their football team, but also to express dragon spirit. They have a couple competitions coming up to look out for and are even going to nationals this February. Be on the lookout for updates! The Dragons are looking great so far this year and are excited to take on any team that comes their way. Be sure to come out and support! Go Dragons!

The Cor Unum Award, named for the school’s motto, “One Heart in Christ,”  is Bishop O’Dowd High School’s highest honor. It is presented each year to a select member of the O’Dowd community whose life and work embody our mission to create a more just, joyful, and sustainable world. The 2025 recipient of Bishop O’Dowd High School’s Cor Unum Award is Jevon Holland ’18. “I remember my very first classroom experience at O’Dowd,” Jevon recalls. “It was a literature class with Mr. Lucas. He was explaining the syllabus and he called on me to answer a question. His whole demeanor was so engaging and so funny that the entire class burst into laughter. That’s when I knew, O’Dowd is the place I want to be .” As a student, Jevon was deeply engaged in campus life. He was active in the Black Student Union and a proud participant in O’Dowd’s renowned African American History Celebration. While football was a defining part of his high school experience, Jevon also discovered a love for the arts - taking cinema with Mr. Blasser, ceramics with Mrs. Loewinsohn, and drawing with Mr. Sanchez. “Mr. Sanchez was also a football coach, so some of that style came through in his classes and I vibed with that,” Jevon remembers. What he treasures most, though, is the Dragon community he built. “Looking back, I didn’t even realize how special it was, to have such a diverse group of classmates, friends, and teammates,” he says. “I formed very deep bonds, and I’m really close with my O’Dowd friends today.” After graduating from O’Dowd, Jevon committed to playing football at the University of Oregon, where he also earned a B.A. in Ethnic Studies. In 2021, he was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the NFL draft. He quickly became one of the league’s top-rated safeties and the youngest two-time team captain in Dolphins history. Today, he plays for the New York Giants while preparing to pursue a master’s degree in cinema from NYU. Despite his rising profile, Jevon remains deeply connected to his roots. This summer, he will return to support the third annual “Bay Area’s Finest” Football Camp at O’Dowd, a free opportunity for young players across Oakland and the East Bay. Founded and hosted by fellow O’Dowd alumni Alijah Vera-Tucker ’17 (NY Jets), it's an opportunity for young players to learn directly from NFL professionals - including fellow O’Dowd alumni Milo Eifler ’16 (Arizona Cardinals) and Terique Owens ’18 (SF 49ers). “It’s important to come back to O’Dowd and to Oakland and support the next generation,” Jevon says. “I want to inspire kids to keep chasing their dreams.” Beyond mentorship, Jevon is also helping students in a more immediate way - through his generous support of the Debbie and Gary Mason Angel Fund, which ensures that no student misses out on essential parts of school life due to financial hardship. “I want to make sure that every student at O’Dowd, no matter their family income, can participate 100% in everything the school has to offer,” Jevon says. “This is a great school that sets students up for success. I want to strengthen that mission through my resources and my platform.” Jevon Holland ’18 exemplifies the spirit of Cor Unum  through his leadership, generosity, and unshakable pride in the O’Dowd community. His commitment to lifting others - on the field, in the classroom, and through financial support - reflects the very best of what it means to be “One Heart in Christ.” With the Cor Unum Award, we honor Jevon’s enduring impact on O’Dowd and his inspiring dedication to building a more just, joyful, and sustainable world for future generations.

Photography by: HomeTown Sports Photography This spring, the O’Dowd Dragons displayed their teamwork and athletic prowess. From the golf links to the field to the pool, our Dragons continued the O’Dowd legacy of sportsmanship, passion, and athletic excellence. Baseball O’Dowd’s baseball team delivered a memorable season, with five players earning all-league honors. The team made it to the semi-finals of the WACC Championships, but fell to Castro Valley, 3-4. The team also had an appearance in Round I of the NCS Division III playoffs. Eight of the program’s seniors have committed to playing at the collegiate level next year. All-League Honors First Team: John Teti ’25, Dimitri Williams ’26 Second Team: Rashad Hayes ’25 Honorable Mention: Duncan Russell ’25 Boys Golf  O’Dowd’s boys golf team ended the season with an amazing 16-2 record, earning the 2025 WACC Championship. The Dragons competed throughout the year, winning both matches against our rival Piedmont, scoring 195-234 in the first game and 197-207 in the second. In a season of great accomplishments, the Dragons’ spirit and determination remained strong and earned a spot in the NCS D1 Championships finishing 7th overall. The team is young and  ensured to swing to even greater heights next year.  All-League Honors First Team: Theron Amey ’28, Adam Koceniak ’25, Theo Stoop ’28, Daniel Weiland ’26 Boys Lacrosse Our boys lacrosse team finished their season with a 9-8 record that included playing in both the WACC and NCS Championship playoffs. The team finished second in WACC league and went out in the second round of NCS playoffs. With many returning players, the program is looking forward to next year! All-League Honors First Team: Giovanni Fontana ’26, Jacob Glasgow ’25, Kevin Sally ’27, Julian Scott ’25 Second Team: Trevor Erickson ’26, Brody Van Overbeek ’25 Honorable Mention: Santiago Laub-Sabater ’25, Jake Lim ’26 Girls Lacrosse The girls lacrosse team finished their competitive season with a 13-9 record. Filled with highlights, the season included making it to the WACC and NCS Championship games, and a standout performance from four-time Player of the Year Lucy Yu ’25. Lucy also earned #1 goal scorer in the nation with 155 goals! With multiple all-league players returning next year, O’Dowd can expect the competitive efforts and determination of the girls’ lacrosse team to continue.  All-League Honors Player of the Year: Lucy Yu ’25 First Team: Frances Mulligan ’25, Val Pouzo ’28, Adele Schulman ’27, Lola Taylor-Wang ’26, Chiara Zunino ’25 Second Team: Chloe Barrios ’26, Amelia Lawrence ’26, Genet Dutto ’25, Ellie Ryan ’25 Honorable Mention: Angel Uchenna ’25, Sydney Watson ’27 Softball Dragon softball achieved success throughout the season, led by UCLA-commit Jaella Mercado ’25 and other senior players. Our Dragons’ exceptional play and teamwork carried them through a season worth remembering, reinforcing O’Dowd’s reputation of athletic success. The team  finished 3rd in the WACC and lost a close playoff game to Alameda. The team earned a seed into the NCS D1 playoffs losing a tough game in the first round. The team has lots to hope for as a strong JV team and returners will be ready to go next season.  All-League Honors First Team: Tulip Barnes ’26, Olivia Marletta ’25, Jaella Mercado ’25 Second Team: Zoe Bolick ’27, Blake Kellerman ’26, Riley Veenstra ’25 Honorable Mention: Lama Evju ’25, Amaya Heard ’25 Swimming O’Dowd’s boys and girls swimming teams both finished the season on high notes, with 11 swimmers qualifying for the NCS Championships. The boys team saw standout performances from Jordan Estimo ’26 and Baran Watson ’26, both qualifying for NCS. The girls team was led by Mia Walsh ’25, who also qualified for NCS. Dragon swimmers displayed their incredible endurance and technique, upholding O’Dowd’s strong commitment to sportsmanship and athletic success.  All-League Honors Boys First Team: Jordan Estimo ’26 Second Team: Baran Watson ’26 Girls First Team: Jade Estimo ’28, Mia Walsh ’25, Riley Welch ’28, Eva Youngquist ’26 Boys Tennis The boys tennis team demonstrated remarkable skill and drive in their historic season, winning their second WACC Championship title and finishing their season during the NCS semi-finals. With a season record of 26-6-1, the team was led by seniors Neo Chai ’25, Alex Byrd ’25, and Henry Hoffman ’25. With their dedication unrivaled, expect the boys’ tennis team to see even more success next year.  All-League Honors First Team:  Doubles: Alex Byrd ’25 and Henry Hoffman ’25 Singles: Neo Chai ’25 Track & Field O’Dowd’s track and field team had a stellar season, culminating in members of both the girls and boys teams representing at the CIF State Championships! On the way there, the boys team secured the WACC Championship as well as the NCS Bayshore Area championship, demonstrating the hard work they put in all season. The girls team also saw success throughout the year, finishing in second place at the WACC Championship. Lanai Mitchell ’26, Amaya DeFlorimonte ’26, Daia Sanders ’27, Cameron Jones ’25, and Ian Sweeney ’26 represented O’Dowd at the CIF State Championships with Amaya finishing in the top 10 of all triple jumpers in California. The Dragons are poised to continue their success with multiple first and second-team all-league athletes returning next year! All-League Honors Boys Track Athlete of the Year: Ian Sweeney ’26 First Team: Ayodeji Ajose ’25, Cameron Jones ’25, James Prater ’27, Juan Scarlett II ’25, Spencer Vu ’25 Second Team: Ivan Hudson ’25, Jayden Smith ’26, Girls Field Athlete of the Year: Lanai Mitchell ’26 First Team: Amaya DeFlorimonte ’26, Amaria Murphy ’28, Sanai Patterson ’28, Daia Sanders ’27 Boys Volleyball Led by Player of the Year Toby Lee ’25, the Dragons saw immense success. As they finished the season with a record of 22-7-1, the team won the WACC Championship for the third time in a row and competed in the first round of the NCS Championship playoffs. All-League Honors Player of the Year: Toby Lee ’25 First Team: Anthony Alaniz ’25 Second Team: Gabriel Ferris ’27, Matthew Fong ’26, Simon Sturm ’25, Luke Whitten ’27 Honorable Mention: Hunter Borbon ’26, Kurt Stoss ’27

By: Delphine Parkin ’26, Contributor to The Crozier Photography by: Nico Lawes ’27 and Vincent Jurgens The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee  was a hilarious new spring production fantastically showcased by the O’Dowd Drama Department. The play’s two-weekend run provided drama and laughter for the O’Dowd community. This musical comedy debuted on Broadway in 2005 and won a Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical. For a quick recap of this unique show, it opened with the eight main cast members introducing themselves through a captivating solo song, and then the spelling games began!  A unique aspect of the show was that the main eight characters were played separately by upper-level and lower-level student casts, with each cast having four outstanding performances. A highlight performance was noted by Claire Davison ’27 and Keira Kennedy ’26, who had to additionally learn sign language with their lines when spelling out words for the spelling bee. When asked about this difficulty, Keira stated, “A part of my character is that she overcomplicates and messes up. But she tried, so I tried.” Act One closed with only one character, Chip Tolentino, getting out due to an unfortunate incident on stage. The next act began with characters continuing to get out until two were left, Olive Ostrovsky played by Ozzie Schaffer ’28, and Ocian Floyd-Haskell ’26 and William Barfey played by Landon Kennedy ’28 and Hannah Sweeting ’26. William ultimately wins, leading to an emotional song by Olive. Ocian shared that despite being a funny play, the song was an emotional story of wanting to be noticed by her parents and being scared of being the second choice in her life. The performance was a perfect combination of comedy and an accurate representation of awkward adolescence, enhanced by audience interaction. As the show’s characters are introduced, four audience members join the stage and participate in the spelling bee along with the cast, which required quick wit from the character Rosa Lisa Peretti, played by Elle Hanlon ’27 and Sofia Marletta ’26, who had to give a fast, funny improv statement on each guest. During intermission, Chip Tolentino, played by Eli Morse ’27 and Tristan Valdez ’26, went around to the audience acting as a food vendor carrying a vendor cart, giving the audience a laugh-out-loud experience. A considerable amount of hard work and dedication goes into the flawless execution of the play. When asked about the work schedule of the play, Charlotte Goyne ’26 explained the process of creating this show. “Production started in January, right after people returned from winter break.” The actors and tech team worked on the play from 3:30-6:30pm each day. Just before the show’s opening is tech week, a time when final aspects of the show are perfected. Everyone in the show puts in work from after school until 8:30pm.  The students continue working hard in their classes, balancing academics and theater responsibilities. Despite this incredibly hard work, Charlotte shared that she loves theater, and for many like her, they don't mind the hard work, “It's people’s haven away from school.” This hard work and dedication from everyone are truly admirable and easily detectable through the fantastic plays they put on, especially this spring's hilarious production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.

Monday, July 2, 2018 Dear O’Dowd Supporter, As I step into my new role as president of O’Dowd with plans to continue the trajectory of the work launched so skillfully by Steve Phelps, I want to reflect with you on what he was most proud of – the impressive accomplishments of the students of O’Dowd and his deep gratitude to you for the investments you have made at O’Dowd to help ensure their success. Our recent graduates are prepared and eager to create their own legacies by serving others – as our Cor Unum Award winner and Commencement speaker Ellie Knauss said, “a legacy that leaves a consequence, has an effect and produces a result” (watch her inspiring Commencement address here ). Our recent graduates are headed to top colleges and universities across the nation, including Stanford, Duke, Princeton, UC Berkeley, and Boston Conservatory of Music. These students received significant amounts of academic merit scholarships and aid, and more than 20 students were awarded athletic scholarships. As a class, they contributed over 50,000 hours of service and, along with their parents, raised nearly $110,000 to support the Class of 2018 Scholarship Gift which will provide the gift of an O’Dowd education to the next generation of Dragons through need-based financial aid. They excelled in their athletic prowess, winning league and North Coast Section championships in multiple sports. Just a few weeks ago, Tierra Robinson-Jones ’18 became the first Northern California girl in state history to win both the 200- and 400-meter dashes at the CIF State Track & Field Championships! In August we will welcome an equally accomplished class of incoming freshmen. Their academic preparation and potential, personal qualities, and individual achievements distinguish them as students who will excel at O’Dowd and live our charism, Finding God in All Things calls us to: Community in Diversity, Strength of Character, Academic Excellence, Kinship With Creation, Social Justice and Joy. Thank you for investing in O’Dowd students. The more than $3 million in financial contributions invested each year are critical towards ensuring access for all to a top-notch O’Dowd education, innovation in programming, and support for long-term and strategic improvements. I look forward to sharing updates about our students, our O’Dowd community at large, as well as school developments as the 2018-19 school year kicks off in a couple months. Sincerely, James Childs, President P.S. – I welcome hearing from you. Please feel free to reach out to me at any time with anything that is on your mind about O’Dowd at jchilds@bishopodowd.org .

Sophomore Ben Ratto III was presented with a certificate of appreciation by The Lodge & AEC Living , in recognition of his community spirit and continuing support of seniors. Ben began volunteering for the organization his freshman year, to fulfill the requirement for the Ancestors Project, and has been volunteering ever since. Every Friday, from 4-5 p.m., he coordinates “Bocce with Ben,” encouraging seniors to play bocce in the facility’s multipurpose room. Through this activity he has developed a strong bond with the seniors and staff. A Boy Scout, Ben proposed building a senior-friendly bocce court at the facility for his Eagle project. The proposal has been approved by the Scouts Committee Chair and the facility.

Ten Bishop O’Dowd High School student-athletes signed National Letters of Intent/committed to play sports in college in a ceremony held in the small gymnasium on November 14, 2018. Family and friends were on hand to congratulate Molly Bernstein, volleyball, Trinity College; William Chavarin, basketball, Cal Poly Pomona; Gemma Cook, crew, San Diego State University; Nicole Hammoude, softball, Cal; Lexi Love, basketball, Brown University; Isabella Mahoney, soccer, University of Chicago; Gabriella Onken, rowing, UCLA; Nadia Pace, volleyball, Bethune-Cookman University; Jasmine Powell, volleyball, Portland State University; and Elizabeth Todd, soccer, University of Montana.