THE PASADENA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
Congratulatesthe Class of 2020
Class of 2020,
You’re a class of overcomers, having braved challenges we couldn’t have imagined just a few months ago. We believe great opportunities lie on the other side of those challenges, and you hold enormous potential to bring renewed purpose and solutions into our world.
This is your time. We can’t wait to see what you’ll do next.
Your teachers, staff, and friends at Pasadena Unified School District
Visit us at: www.pusd.us CLASS OF 2020: A Letter to Emerging Leaders One day you’re high-fiving a classmate in the hallway, huddling over a team project or Different schools, riding with friends to a school event. You’ve shared ideals Dr. Brian McDonald worked hard and have big plans for your The Pasadena Unified senior year, with several “lasts” lined up: your School District comprises as you rise to positions of influence, however last prom, last game, last competition, last six schools: Center for Independent Studies, that looks like. senior hurrah, and so it goes. Then, overnight, Blair, John Muir, Marshall, Pasadena and your senior experience comes to a halt. Rose City High Schools. Each school brings This year’s celebration will look different from anything we could have expected, but it’s no Three months ago, we’d dismiss current a unique approach, tradition, culture and less heartfelt and meaningful. Your teachers, events as a far-fetched, overblown plot for a quirks. friends and loved ones are rooting for you. dystopian movie. Alas, it’s our current reality. The common ground that unites our We also celebrate our massive support We’re only beginning to understand the graduates is a shared sense of global network: PUSD teachers, administrators, impact of the pandemic and unrest that citizenship and commitment to lifelong staff, families and caregivers who’ve worked have disrupted our lives and key milestones learning, intercultural understanding, and hard to ensure our graduates are supported of your high school experience. But we living out the good ol’ golden rule: treating at home. It truly takes a village. know this much: This is a class like no other, others as we want to be treated. with enormous potential to bring renewed When we look at the class of 2020, we’re purpose and solutions into our world. Your next steps encouraged to see a class of compassionate, You’ve made it. It’s been a season fraught From grief to greatness out-of-the-box thinkers, always chasing with challenges, but we believe great unconventional solutions to emerging opportunities lie on the other side of those No other class has withstood the same pres- problems. As it happens, compassionate, challenges. sures, nor emerged with such resolve and ap- out-of-the-box thinkers are exactly what preciation for collaboration, cultural diversity our communities need to thrive in the days, Our hope for you is that you’ll make the most and lifelong learning. In recent months and weeks and years ahead. This world needs you. of your talents and resources to create your years, we’ve watched you overcome so much own opportunities. There’s no better time to and evolve as compassionate, skilled individu- Little things, big things lead, and we can’t help but feel hopeful of the als committed to building a life of purpose for It’s worth noting the past several weeks have skills and virtues you’re carrying forward into yourself and others. rearranged our priorities and brought much your next steps. Your time is now. You’re a class of overcomers who understand into focus. For one, we have a newfound Well done, 2020 graduates. We can’t wait to what many adults don’t: All lasting, significant appreciation for the little, mundane things we see how you’ll change the world. success hinges on relationships and the took for granted, like the freedom to go to pursuit of the common good — especially in a the movies, share a pizza with friends, visit a world that’s changing fast and furiously. We grandparent, or even share a kiss without a see in you global thinkers committed mask. to cultivating a fair society where everyone We’ve learned the little things are, in fact, the Brian McDonald, Ed.D. has a voice, where diversity is celebrated, and big things. It’s been a painful lesson, but we where opportunities are within reach for all. SUPERINTENDENT OF THE trust this perspective shift will serve you well PASADENA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
Greetings from your Dear Class of 2020:
It has been many years since I participated in my own high school graduation, but I have not forgotten what it meant to me and Leaders & Elected Officials! my classmates. I have heard and read a small sample of your disappointment through your own stories of celebrations canceled or postponed. I have heard your worries about the upcoming fall, and what present and future circumstances will mean for your college Dear Class of 2020, aspirations or job prospects.
As someone who has experienced several graduations in my own I have faith in your capabilities, courage, and perseverance. There have academic experience and as a parent and grandparent, I understand been many opportunities for you all to shine in these last four years, what year-end celebrations and ceremonies mean. and you have made your district and community proud. Your generation So, I know how this pandemic has upended all those moments has shown it will be one to be reckoned with and will lead our city and left you all disappointed. and country forward into this century. Your community will be here to There is very little I can do or say to reduce that disappointment. support you. However, I would like to express my personal congratulations and convey the congratulations of the people of Pasadena to I speak for the entire Board of Education when I say that the most you all – students and parents – for what you have achieved. enjoyable of our duties is participating in high school graduation and honors ceremonies. Although this year’s ceremonies will be different, You have persevered in the face of very challenging circumstances it is an honor to celebrate your graduation with you as you receive your and for now, you will continue to be challenged. Nevertheless, while diplomas and plan for the future. We still want to hear your plans and there is much that has been lost, there is even more to be gained as dreams, and hope we will see you in person soon. we emerge from this shared experience. It is up to you not to let this sad circumstance defeat you. All of Good fortune to you, Class of 2020. us must face adversity during our lives and how we deal with it Sincerely, will frequently determine how successful we are. So, please know that we value your achievements to date Patrick Cahalan and we are pulling for your success in the future. PRESIDENT Sincerely,
Terry Tornek Hey Class of 2020! MAYOR Seniors throughout Pasadena have proven they are resilient, talented, and hardworking. You’ve spent so much time studying and striving, and I hope now you get the chance to enjoy the fruits of your labor. After enduring this school year, you deserve to celebrate all you’ve accomplished. With everything we’re facing, our graduates are this community’s greatest Dear Class of 2020, hope for the future. You’ve reminded us to be strong, give back, and stay connected. I know there are countless inspiring stories of students As the Representative of Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley in showing up as a force for change on campus and in their neighborhoods. Congress, it is my privilege to say congratulations to the entire PUSD Your creativity and compassion give me profound hope. Each of you has High School class of 2020! used your time and talents to make a meaningful difference that will set I know it is difficult that we cannot celebrate in person, but I hope you up for success in the future and will make an impact on Pasadena for you are all proud of yourselves because I know your parents and years to come. teachers are proud of you, and so am I. You are leaving behind an incredible legacy. This community is grateful for all you’ve done and eager for all that’s still in store for you. Your Graduation is a real accomplishment, and one you spent years graduation marks the beginning of boundless opportunities. There are so achieving. What comes next now is up to you. But armed with the many parents, teachers, and community leaders who care about you and knowledge you’ve gained, the options are endless. are here to support you. Know that as you walk into I cannot wait to see what you do next. this next chapter, we’re cheering for you every Congratulations! step of the way. Sincerely, Best, Judy Chu, Ph.D. Supervisor Kathryn Barger MEMBER OF CONGRESS, CHAIR, LOS ANGELES COUNTY 27TH DISTRICT BOARD OF SUPERVISORS The Pasadena Unified School District is Proud to Recognize the 2020 Graduating Class of Blair High School
Anna Griffin | VALEDICTORIAN
Ai Takada | VALEDICTORIAN
Nicholas Rajha | SALUTATORIAN
AN INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE SCHOOL Blair High School Class of 2020 College Acceptances & Post-Secondary Plans Arizona State University California State California State Northern Arizona University of California, Biola University University, East Bay University, San Diego University Merced California Lutheran California State California State Oklahoma State University of California, University University, Fullerton University, San Francisco University Riverside California State California State California State Pasadena City College University of California, Polytechnic University, University, Humboldt University, San Jose Point Loma Nazarene San Diego Pomona California State Chaminade University University University of California, California State University, Long Beach of Honolulu Rensselaer Polytechnic Santa Barbara Polytechnic University, California State Citrus College Institute University of California, San Luis Obispo University, Los Angeles Glendale City College United States Armed Santa Cruz California State California State Grand Canyon University Forces University of Hawaii at University Maritime University, Northridge Manoa Harding University University of Arizona Academy California State University of La Verne Loyola Marymount University of California, California State University, Sacramento Irvine University of Nebraska- University, Bakersfield University California State University of California, Lincoln California State University, San Mount Saint Mary’s University Los Angeles Western Colorado University, Bernardino University Dominguez Hills
CongratulationsCLASS OF 2020 Vikings,
No other class has withstood the same pressures, nor emerged with such resilience and appreciation for collaboration, cultural diversity and lifelong learning.
We’re inspired by your hunger for new solutions as compassionate global thinkers. All you need to change the world is within you.
We can’t wait to see what you’ll do next.
Your teachers, staff, and friends at Blair High School
JUNE 25 AT 4:30PM
VIRTUAL GRADUATIONFor more info please visit: pusd.us/pusdgraduates The Pasadena Unified School District is Proud to Recognize the 2020 Graduating Class of Center for Independent Studies
Ainsley Martinez | VALEDICTORIAN
Completed the Career Exploration Opportunities medical academy. Her career goal is to be a pediatric gastroenterologist.
Angela Romero | SALUTATORIAN
Completed the Career Exploration Opportunities medical academy. Her career goal is to be a Registered Nurse.
Center for Independent Studies Class of 2020 College Acceptances & Post-Secondary Plans
California State California State Glendale Community Pasadena Community University of California, Polytechnic University, University, Northridge College College Berkeley Pomona Chaffey College New York University
CongratulationsCLASS OF 2020
Class of 2020,
You got it done. You finished strong.
In recent months, we’ve watched you overcome so much and evolve as skilled, resilient individuals. You’re a class of out-of-the-box thinkers, always chasing unconventional solutions to emerging obstacles. This world needs you.
Kudos on a job well done. We can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve next.
Your teachers, staff, and friends at Center for Independent Studies
JUNE 24 AT 2:00PM
VIRTUAL GRADUATIONFor more info please visit: pusd.us/pusdgraduates The Pasadena Unified School District is Proud to Recognize the Xiomara McDonald | VALEDICTORIAN 2020 Graduating Class of Congratulations to Valedictorian Xiomara McDonald. Marshall Fundamental Xiomara has earned the title Valedictorian as the Marshall Fundamental Class of 2020 highest ranked student in her Secondary School graduating class. She will deliver the valedictory address for the virtual commencement exercises. Xiomara has selected to attend Johns Hopkins University with plans to major in Neuroscience (pre-med). Xiomara is recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. Last summer she represented Marshall Fundamental as the American Legion Girls State Delegate. She is an AP Capstone Candidate for Diploma, conducting research and communicating her results on Cross- Sectional Evaluation of the Reflection of a Common Core Education in Problem Solving and Preparedness in Students Grades 8-12. She is a member of the National Honor Society and Key Club, where she served as Vice President. She is a Pasadena Tournament of Roses Student Ambassador, a Pasadena Educational Foundation Summer Enrichment Program Youth Leader, and a Methodist Hospital Nursing Floor volunteer. She has played on the Girls Tennis Team for four years and led as one of the Varsity Tennis Team Captains. Congratulations, Xiomara. Well done!
Roaa Shaheen | SALUTATORIAN
For 4 years Roaa volunteered at the Burbank Islamic Center as an Assistant Teacher and Teacher working with up to 200 students ages 5 to 15, tutoring, assisting students, and grading. She taught students Islamic History, helping them memorize scripture, and teaching them how to read, write, and speak Arabic. In the summer of her junior year Roaa had an internship at the Keck Chemotherapy Infusion Lab for 6 weeks where she performed nursing assistance tasks. For 3 years Roaa was a student volunteer at Methodist Hospital where she was assigned to the Admitting Department where she transferred patient paperwork to doctors/nurses, discharged patients, sanitized wheelchairs, and made deliveries. In 9th grade Roaa won the Pasadena Human Relations Commission Award for her essay on solving the problem of low graduation rates due to homelessness. Marshall Fundamental Class of 2020 College Acceptances & Post-Secondary Plans Alfred University California State University, Clark Atlanta University McMaster University St. Olaf College University of Denver Amherst College Humboldt Concordia University-Portland Merrimack College Swarthmore College University of Illinois Arizona State University California State University, Denison University Morehouse College Syracuse University Urbana-Champaign Arkansas Baptist College Long Beach DeSales University Mount Saint Mary’s University Texas Christian University University of Kansas Azusa Pacific University California State University, Dominican University Mount Saint Mary’s University The American University University of La Verne Barnard College Long Beach of California New York Institute of of Paris University of Minnesota Baylor University California State University, East Los Angeles Technology The City University of New University of New Mexico Los Angeles Beloit College Community College New York University York, Brooklyn College University of Notre Dame California State University, Bethany Lutheran College Emerson College Northeastern University Tuskegee University University of Oregon Monterey Bay Bucknell University Florida University Northwestern University University of Arizona University of Pennsylvania California State University, of Technology Occidental College University of California, University of Pittsburgh California College of the Arts Northridge California Lutheran University George Washington University Oregon Institute of Technology Berkeley University of Rochester California State University, Glendale Community College University of California, Davis California State Polytechnic Sacramento Oregon State University University of San Francisco Grambling State University University of California, Irvine University, Pomona California State University, Otis College of Art & Design University of Scranton Grand Canyon University University of California, California State Polytechnic San Bernardino Pasadena City College University of Southern Grinnell College Los Angeles University, San Luis Obispo California State University, Pepperdine University California University of California, California State University, San Diego Hawaii Pacific University Point Loma Nazarene University of Toronto Merced Channel Islands California State University, Hofstra University University University of Waterloo University of California, California State University, San Francisco Howard University Portland State University University of Wisconsin- Riverside Chico California State University, Johns Hopkins University Princeton University Madison University of California, California State University, San Jose Kalamazoo College Purdue University Virginia State University San Diego Dominguez Hills California State University, Lehigh University Reed College Wesleyan University University of California, California State University, San Marcos Lesley University Rutgers University Westmont College East Bay Santa Barbara Carleton College Lewis and Clark College Saint John’s University Wheaton College California State University, University of California, Carnegie Mellon University Louisiana State University Santa Clara University Whitman College Fresno Santa Cruz Central State University Loyola Marymount University Southern University Whittier College California State University, University of Colorado Centre College Macalester College Williams College Fullerton Southern Utah University University of Colorado Boulder Chapman University McDaniel College Southwestern University University of Colorado Denver Xavier University of Louisiana McGill University St. John’s University Yale University
CongratulationsCLASS OF 2020 Eagles,
You’ve soared past severe turbulence and emerged as a remarkable class, hungry for knowledge, connection and significance. We’ve watched you grow into engaged citizens committed to building a life of purpose and a fair, diverse society.
It’s your time to fly. We couldn’t be prouder.
Your teachers, staff, and friends at Marshall Fundamental Secondary School
JUNE 26 AT 2:00PM
VIRTUAL GRADUATIONFor more info please visit: pusd.us/pusdgraduates The Pasadena Unified School District is Proud to Recognize the Haley Cogshell | VALEDICTORIAN 2020 Graduating Class of Valedictorian Haley Cogshell has been a proud Mustang at John Muir High School John Muir High School (JMHS) Early College Magnet since her Early College freshman year. She has been accepted to UC Berkeley, Xavier University, Tuskegee Magnet University, USC, Sacramento State, Howard University, Charles Drew University, UC San Diego, Spelman College, San Diego State, LSU, San Jose State, Langston University, and UCLA. She plans on attending UCLA and will major in Human Biology. She would like to become an obstetrician and gynecologist. Haley is the recipient of the John Muir Service Award, the California Scholarship Federation Award, the Academic Letter Award, and she has received an Engineering and Environmental Sciences Medallion Award. She is also a member of the National Honor Society. Haley has completed a total of 17 credits (6 college courses) at John Muir High School through their Early College Magnet Program and Pasadena City College. Haley has been involved in many of the clubs and programs offered at JMHS. She has participated in the Associated Student Body (ASB) and was the ASB Treasurer her Senior Year. She was on the track team since her sophomore year and was a cheerleader all four years, serving as Captain her junior year. She has also been a part of Upward Bound, Leaders for Change, InterAct Club, Ideal Youth, and the Black Student Union serving as Secretary her Senior year. Haley also was part of Ms. Black Pasadena this past year. Congratulations Haley Cogshell!
Vanessa Sanchez | SALUTATORIAN
Vanessa Sanchez was accepted to UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, UC Riverside, California State University, Los Angeles, San Marcos State University, and California State University, Northridge. She plans to attend UC Berkeley and major in Molecular and Cell Biology. She would like to go to medical school to pursue her career as a pediatrician. Vanessa is a recipient of the John Muir Service Award, the California Scholarship Federation Award, the Academic Letter Award, the Arts, Entertainment, and Media Medallion Award, and the Seal of Biliteracy. Vanessa has completed a total of 21 credits (6 college courses) at John Muir Highschool through their Early College Magnet Program and Pasadena City College. Jose Gadea | SALUTATORIAN Vanessa has been involved in several clubs at John Muir High School. She participated in the Associated Student Body (ASB) and was the ASB secretary her Senior Year. She also participated in the National Honors Society, the Puente Program, and Trio Talent Search. John Muir High School Early Saudia Usher | SALUTATORIAN College Magnet Class of 2020 College Acceptances & Post-Secondary Plans Bucknell University California State University, California State University, North Carolina A&T State University of California, Merced California State Polytechnic Fullerton San Jose University University of California, University, Pomona California State University, California State University, Oregon State University Riverside California State Polytechnic Humboldt San Marcos Pasadena City College University of California, University, San Luis Obispo California State University, Charles Drew University Paul Quinn College San Diego Long Beach California State University, Claflin University Shaw University University of California, Bakersfield California State University, Clark Atlanta University Santa Barbara Los Angeles Southern University California State University, Dillard University University of California, Channel Islands California State University, Spelman College Santa Cruz Glendale Community College California State University, Monterey Bay SUNY Morrisville University of Kentucky Grand Canyon Univeristy Chico California State University, Tuskegee University University of Nevada Las Vegas Northridge Hampton University California State University, University of Arizona University of Southern Dominguez Hills California State University, Howard University University of Arkansas California California State University, Sacramento Langston University University of California, Virginia State University East Bay California State University, Louisiana State University Berkeley Wiley College California State University, San Diego Miles College University of California, Davis Fresno California State University, Xavier University San Francisco Morgan State University University of California, Los Angeles
CongratulationsCLASS OF Mustangs, 2020 As our world shifts, you’ve met challenges with remarkable resilience and ingenuity. In recent months, we’ve watched you mature into conscientious, global thinkers committed to building a life or purpose for yourself and others.
There’s no better time to lead, and we trust you’re well equipped to make a lasting difference in our world.
Our hats off to you. Here’s to your success.
Your teachers, staff, and friends at John Muir High School Early College Magnet
JUNE 26 AT 4:30PM
VIRTUAL GRADUATIONFor more info please visit: pusd.us/pusdgraduates The Pasadena Unified School District is Proud to Recognize the 2020 Graduating Class of Colin Juett | VALEDICTORIAN Pasadena High School Colin Juett attended Sierra Madre Elementary and Sierra Madre Middle School. Colin will attend the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) in the Fall, where he will study Biochemistry, with the intent of pursuing medical school.. He is the recipient of the Class of 1967 Scholarship and a recognized CollegeBoard National AP Scholar, the highest AP honor and distinction. He holds the PHS Swim record in the 100m Backstroke. Colin is an active member of the National Honor Society (NHS) and California Scholarship Federation (CSF), Commissioner of Assemblies for Associated Student Body (ASB), 4-year Varsity Water Polo player, and 3-year Varsity Swimmer. Colin is proud of attending a public high school that embraces diversity and multiculturalism and has open access for all students to thrive and to optimize on their opportunities. His favorite teacher is Mr. Maharaj, who’s taught him the most intensive math curriculum he’s ever accessed.
Gabriela Bank | SALUTATORIAN
Gabriela Bank attended Willard Elementary and Marshall Fundamental School before PHS. Gaby will attend the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) in the Fall, where she will study Psychobiology, with the intent of pursuing medical or dental school. She is the recipient of the 2020 Wark Memorial Scholarship, the DAR Scholarship (Daughters of the American Revolution), and is a recognized CollegeBoard National AP Scholar (highest AP honor and distinction) and National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar. Gaby is also an active member of the National Honor Society (NHS) and the California Scholarship Federation (CSF), and the Leo Club (Lions Club-affiliated). The best lesson Gaby learned from high school was not from the classroom, but rather about herself – that she can accomplish anything through sheer will, fortitude, and tenacity. She is grateful for the multitude of opportunities that Pasadena High School offered and hopes to continue the purposeful track that she is on.
Pasadena High School Class of 2020 College Acceptances & Post-Secondary Plans Brigham Young University California State University, Louisiana State University University of California, California Lutheran University Northridge Northern Arizona University Riverside California State Polytechnic California State University, Occidental College University of California, Sacramento Santa Barbara University, Pomona Pasadena City College California State University, University of Denver California State University, Pennsylvania State University Fullerton San Diego University of La Verne Point Loma Nazarene University California State University, California State University, University of Oregon San Jose The Master’s University Long Beach University of Southern California State University, Chaminade University of United States Army California Los Angeles Honolulu University of California, Berkeley California State University, Concordia University/Irvine University of California, Monterey Bay George Fox University Los Angeles
Congratulationsg CLASS OF 2020
Bulldogs,
You’ve made it. As the world changes, we’ve watched you grow into compassionate, skilled problem-solvers who will lead us into better days.
Be proud of all you’ve achieved and who you’re becoming. We’re rooting for you.
Your teachers, staff, and friends at Pasadena High School
JUNE 25 AT 2:00PM
VIRTUAL GRADUATIONFor more info please visit: pusd.us/pusdgraduates The Pasadena Unified School District is Proud to Recognize the 2020 Graduating Class of Giovana Orozco | VALEDICTORIAN Rose City High School Giovana was enrolled at Rose City High School for two years. During this time, she completed three paid internships (at the Burbank Airport, PUSD’s No Boundaries art exhibition, and the Rosebud Cafe). Giovanna mentored middle school students through PUSD’s Mentors for Life program and completed three dual-enrollment college classes during senior year. She plans to attend Pasadena City College, to transfer to a four-year college, and attend dental school.
Giselle Zamora-Cortez | SALUTATORIAN
Passionate about social justice, Giselle volunteered at Day One, completed a paid internship at the Burbank Airport, and works full time at a board and care facility. Giselle will attend Pasadena City College.
Angela Delgado-Negrete | SALUTATORIAN
Angela is enrolled at Pasadena City College and plans to pursue a career in law enforcement such as the FBI.
Rose City High School Class of 2020 College Acceptances & Post-Secondary Plans Pasadena City College California State University, Los Angeles California State Polytechnic Pomona
Congratulations! All of you should be proud of yourselves for finishing the To the PUSD students, parents and grandparents, year in one of the most challenging times we have ever faced. Today our graduates reach a new milestone This year, public health, economic, and social issues are more personal and and we collectively celebrate them for their pervasive for your generation that you may have thought it would be. accomplishments.
One thing I can say for sure is that what we are experiencing now will make They will face a future filled with promise, new you stronger, and shape who you are as a person. What gives me hope and experiences and unprecedented challenges. inspiration for the future are the values you hold that will make our world a Knowing many of them, I am confident that their better place. futures are bright and they are well equipped to meet these challenges and thrive. As a life-long Pasadena resident, and Pasadena High School graduate (go bulldogs!), I am excited to see you learn, grow, and contribute to society. I am proud to join you and your families in celebrating your graduation and send my I encourage you to follow your passions and have fun along the way. best wishes for your journey Travel far and wide, when possible, but always remember ahead! your Pasadena roots. Sincerely, Congratulations, and I wish you all the best for your future endeavors!
Sincerely, Assemblymember Chris Holden Anthony J. Portantino 41ST ASSEMBLY DISTRICT STATE SENATOR, DISTRICT 25
CongratulationsCLASS OF 2020 Class of 2020,
You’re no stranger to challenges, nor to creating your own opportunities.
Through your high school years, you’ve shown tremendous resolve and learned the value of collaboration to advance in a world that’s changing fast and furiously.
We celebrate your achievements and trust you’ll lead us into a better future.
Well done.
Your teachers, staff, and friends at Rose City High School JUNE 24 AT 4:30PM
VIRTUAL GRADUATIONFor more info please visit: pusd.us/pusdgraduates