St. Pius X - St. Matthias Academy celebrates history at gala

DOWNEY – St. Pius X - St. Matthias Academy (PMA) celebrated its Impact Gala and Grand Reunion on April 27, celebrating the 70th anniversary of the opening of Pius X High School, the 60th anniversary of the first graduating class of St. Matthias High School, and the 10th anniversary of its rededication as St. Pius X - St. Matthias Academy.

The event, which welcomed nearly 300 attendees, surpassed expectations and marked a historic moment for the school community.

One of the highlights of the evening was the recognition of esteemed honorees. Raul Salinas (‘78), partner in charge at Frost Brown Todd Alvarado Smith, was inducted into the school’s Alumni Hall of Fame.

“PMA made a significant difference in my life and it continues to make a monumental difference in the lives of students,” Salinas said.

Leadership Honorees Erick Rubalcava and Veronica Zozaya were recognized for their role in serving as founding principal and president of the school’s rededication in 2013.

John and Cynthia Lee Smet, founders of the Smet Foundation and Onward Scholars Program at PMA, were honored for their philanthropic support of the school’s growth.

The gala also served as a fundraising opportunity to support crucial needs such as tuition assistance, educator retention and campus modernization.