As we continue celebrating Holy Cross Anglican School's 20th Anniversary, our "Where Are They Now?" series highlights the lasting impact of a Holy Cross education. This month, we are especially proud to feature two graduates whose journeys have come full circle. Once students walking our halls, they have returned as dedicated members of our staff, investing in the next generation with the same care and encouragement they once received.
Alumni Spotlight: Dora Anariba
Dora Anariba graduated from Holy Cross Anglican School in 2010 before continuing her education and graduating from high school. Today, she has come full circle, serving as the Head Cook at Holy Cross, where she prepares nutritious meals for the very students who now walk the same halls she once did.
Reflecting on her time at Holy Cross, Dora says the school taught her far more than academics. She credits her education with instilling values of kindness, respect, responsibility, determination, and the importance of helping others—lessons that continue to guide her both personally and professionally.
One of Dora's most treasured memories is meeting Richard and Cindy Shaffer during her time at Holy Cross. What began as a simple introduction grew into a lifelong relationship, and today they remain her godparents and a constant source of love, encouragement, and support. She also remembers Ms. Linda Carter with great affection, describing her as one of the kindest and most caring people she has ever known, whose warmth and sense of humor made a lasting impression.
Returning to Holy Cross as a staff member has been especially meaningful for Dora. Every day, she plays an important role in ensuring students receive healthy meals that help them stay focused, energized, and ready to learn. Having once benefited from the care and support of the Holy Cross community herself, she now has the opportunity to give back in a way that directly impacts hundreds of children.
Looking ahead, Dora hopes to continue expanding her knowledge and skills through further education if opportunities become available on the island. She also encourages current students to work hard, stay focused, and make the most of every opportunity they are given.
We are proud to celebrate Dora's journey—a beautiful example of how the values learned at Holy Cross continue to inspire a lifetime of service and compassion.
Alumni Spotlight: Stephanie Chi
Stephanie Chi graduated from Holy Cross Anglican School in 2014 before going on to graduate from San Pedro High School in 2018 with top academic honors. Today, she has returned to Holy Cross as a Preschool Teacher, where she is helping shape the lives of the school's youngest learners.
Stephanie credits Holy Cross with laying the foundation for both her education and her character. During her years as a student, she learned the importance of discipline, respect, responsibility, hard work, and kindness—values that continue to influence the way she teaches and interacts with her students every day.
Among Stephanie's favorite memories is winning a Gold Award in the Festival of Arts after months of dedicated practice with Ms. Kim Bartling. She also fondly remembers Mr. Brandon Bood, who challenged her academically, encouraged her to reach her full potential, and played a significant role in her educational journey. His belief in her abilities helped build the confidence she carries with her today.
As a preschool teacher, Stephanie finds great joy in creating the same supportive and encouraging environment that she experienced as a Holy Cross student. She believes her education prepared her well not only through academic instruction but also by teaching life values that are just as important inside and outside the classroom.
Stephanie hopes to continue her own education if additional opportunities become available on the island, demonstrating that learning is a lifelong journey. Her story is a wonderful reminder that today's students can become tomorrow's educators, inspiring future generations with the same love and dedication they once received.
We are incredibly proud of Stephanie and grateful to have her back at Holy Cross, where she continues to make a difference in the lives of our students every day.
