Monarch of the Year | AP Scholar with Honors | STEM Distinction Award | National Hispanic Recognition Awardee
Chapman University: Biological Sciences & NCAA Athletics
Valerie Noria’s journey at Mater Dei has been nothing short of transformative. From the quiet beginnings of freshman year to being named the Class of 2025 Monarch of the Year, Valerie has grown into a confident leader whose academic excellence, servant heart, and steadfast faith embody the best of the Monarch spirit.
A graduate of St. Cecilia School, Valerie chose Mater Dei for its commitment to Catholic education and the breadth of opportunities across academics, athletics, and service. “It was important for me to be surrounded by like-minded individuals,” she explains. “Mater Dei offered a place where I could grow in faith and find my voice.”
And find her voice she did. Valerie distinguished herself as an AP Scholar with Honor, earned the California Scholarship Federation chapter scholarship, and was recognized nationally as a College Board National Hispanic Recognition Award recipient. She also completed the rigorous Biotechnology Certificate of Proficiency and earned the coveted STEM Distinction Award.
Beyond the classroom, Valerie made her mark as a standout member of the Varsity Cross Country and Track & Field teams, where she found a supportive community that empowered her to lead with compassion. “Cross Country was one of the most rewarding experiences of my high school career,” she says. “It taught me the power of encouragement and how to uplift others through the same kindness I was shown.”
A servant leader with nearly 200 service hours, Valerie volunteered at youth summer camps, Ronald McDonald House, and with local charities and park restorations—always drawn to hands-on experiences where she could connect, learn, and live her faith in action.
Valerie will continue her journey at Chapman University, where she will major in Biological Sciences and pursue a research pathway focused on autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. She will also continue her athletic career as a collegiate runner, competing for Chapman’s Cross Country and Track & Field programs.
Reflecting on her time at Mater Dei, Valerie names “transformative” as the word that best captures her experience. “I came in shy and introverted. I’m leaving as someone confident and ready to lead. That growth is because of the people and values I found here.”
And yes—she’ll miss the famous MD cookies, too.