2023-2024 US Wrap Up - Commencement & Spring Athletic Highlights

Saint Monica Preparatory welcomed back one of our own esteemed alumni, Blake Van Putten '12 as the speaker at the 86th Annual Commencement for the Class of 2024. Van Putten is the CEO and Founder of CISE, a clothing and accessories brand based in Los Angeles with a mission to create apparel for those who are typically ignored. He was recognized by Forbes last year as a member of its 2023 30 Under 30 for Retail and Ecommerce. 

Van Putten reflected on his own graduation from Saint Monica, sharing, "I had big dreams but was unsure how to achieve them. I was filled with questions about my purpose and how I could change and make a difference. I wondered how I could navigate the challenges ahead and what role I would play in the broader world." He challenged the Class of 2024 to remember the power of community: "You all have a responsibility. Embrace your responsibility to that community. Your commitment may look different than mine, right? So whether you become a teacher, an engineer, an artist, an entrepreneur, your impact matters. In a world that often seems divided, your actions can bridge gaps and bring people together." St. Monica, pray for our Class of 2024 during this exciting next chapter in their lives. 

SMPREP also celebrated three more of its athletes continuing their athletic careers at the college level this fall in a special spring signing ceremony. Congratulations to Carolina Calzada headed to King University for Golf, Shadel Ffrench headed to Glendale College for Basketball and Kaya Ghobrial headed to Loyola Chicago University for Basketball. Shoutouts also go to Boys and Girls Track & Field for breaking four all-time school records this season for Boys 4x100 Relay, 4x400 Relay and 400M and Girls 100M. Meanwhile, Mariner Boys Golf led by Head Coach Charles Womack Jr., PGA, shot a personal best 192 this season - an impressive score unmatched by most programs in the country! Well done Mariners.