Tartan Achievements: Accolades, Publications and Performances!

St. Margaret’s students and professional community members have been making their mark recently, honored and showcased in a variety of ways.

Here is a look at some recent achievements: 

St. Margaret’s Upper School student Allie Dandel was named Distinguished Young Woman of Dana Point. Allie will represent Dana Point and serve as a role model to young people by spreading the program’s national outreach message of “Be Your Best Self.” The outreach program is designed to encourage self-esteem and excellence in students. The Distinguished Young Women scholarship program offers young women the opportunity to showcase their talents, leadership, and scholastic achievements on a national platform. 

During the Distinguished Young Women of California Scholarship program this month, Allie will engage in personal development activities and community service projects before competing for the opportunity to become the Distinguished Young Woman of California for 2025.


Click here to read The Maui News on her service.

St. Margaret’s Upper School English teacher Kimberly Kim’s work was showcased in the recent edition of the California English Journal. Her article entitled Real Tiger Moms and Mahjong: The Joy Luck Club was published in the quarterly professional journal of the California Association of Teachers of English.

This issue invited teachers to share ways they have used Asian American and Pacific Islander books with their students. Contributors were invited to describe ways to include stories from these communities from the classroom. The selected articles featured valuable perspectives encouraging rich discussion and fostering solidarity. To learn more about the article click here.

St. Margaret’s band director Chris Carbajal performed in Dubai in front of a large crowd as part of the touring band of legendary Iranian singer Ebi. Mr. Carbajal plays tenor saxophone with Ebi while as a full-time educator. Mr. Carbajal expresses his passion for music and encourages his students to follow their dreams, “Let’s inspire the next generation, and show them that the spotlight isn’t just for stars—it’s for anyone who dares to share their melody with the world.”

Ebrahim Hamedi, better known by his stage name Ebi, is an Iranian singer. Ebi has released more than 30 albums in a long career in music, and has played in sold-out shows around the globe.