Portrait of an Alum
Annette Finley Mayes ’79
In her thirty years of practice as an obstetrician and gynecologist, Annette Finley Mayes '79 has delivered thousands of babies. As the first in her family to graduate from college, she views Castilleja as a stepping stone—learn why.
Kate Isenberg ’93
Kate Isenberg ’93 is a visual artist, musician, and writer, whose cartoons have appeared in The New Yorker and The New Republic. Inspired by Casti's creative community, she advises young people to stay true to their craft.
Leena Ambady ’16
As a student, Leena Ambady was a volunteer tutor for kids from nearby communities, year-round. She is now busy completing medical school. "If you believe in the purpose or in the mission of what you’re doing, it’s worth it,” she says. Read more here.
Victoria Dean ’13
Victoria Dean '13 is an artificial intelligence expert and Assistant Professor of Computer Science. She is inspired by the lessons she learned on Castilleja's robotics team and committed to combatting gender bias in STEM. Read her story here.
Betsy Gilliland ’91
Betsy Gilliland ’91 is an Associate Professor of Second Language Studies. She has dedicated her career to teaching English and training writing instructors worldwide to work with diverse populations. Learn how Castilleja library and teachers ignited her curiosity about the world, here.
Ruby Moreno '12
When Ruby Moreno ’12 walked into the Stanford Children’s Hospital for career day in 2010, she never imagined it would become a turning point, inspiring her to study disparities and healthcare and pursue a career in pediatrics. Click here to read her story.
Erin O'Malley '09
Erin O'Malley '09, a sustainable energy expert and an equestrian, reflects on her passion for fighting climate change, as well as her experience building bridges in Nicaragua and working on a robot at Castilleja, here.
Yasmin Elayat '00
Emmy-Award Winning Creator Yasmin Elayat '00 is a storyteller and is one of the pioneers in 3D filmmaking. Click here to read more.
Nancy Ditz '72
Olympian Nancy Ditz '72 says, "There are no shortcuts. Some days just showing up is a win. Doing the work creates success." Click here to read Nancy's story.
Amy Chow '96
During her Olympic career, Amy brought home bronze, silver, and gold medals. After retiring from gymnastics, she went to medical school and became a pediatrician. Click here to read her story.
Juliet O'Brien '16
The first Castilleja graduate to attend the United States Naval Academy, Juliet O'Brien '16 reflects on her path and belonging, here.
Jackie Provost '98
Chief Operations Officer for Saban Community Clinic in Los Angeles, Jackie Provost '98 brings Castilleja spirit to public healthcare. Click here to read her story.
Kaanji Irby '91
Kaanji wears many hats: attorney, founder, advocate, certified DEI consultant, coach, podcaster, and best of all, mom. Click here to learn about her.
Judy Lawrence '69
Judy reminisces about her time on the Circle during the sixties—and her journey since. Click here to read her story.