With strong family ties to Mater Dei and a passion for the performing arts, Briel “Bri” Jim ’26 has made her own mark on campus through a powerful combination of leadership, creativity, and service.
A graduate of St. Joseph School in Placentia, Bri chose Mater Dei after watching her sisters’ experiences and recognizing the opportunities the school’s performing arts program offered both on stage and beyond. From her first year as a Monarch, she quickly found her place by getting involved across campus and embracing every opportunity to grow as a performer, leader, and person.
Bri’s involvement at Mater Dei is both wide-ranging and deeply rooted. She has been a member of ASB since freshman year and currently serves on the Alumni and Advancement Commission, helping strengthen connections between past and present Monarchs. In the performing arts, Bri’s leadership and dedication have been especially impactful. She serves as student director of the Mater Dei Choir, is a member of the Honors Chamber Choir, and has participated in a cappella for four years, including two years as a leader of VFX. She has also been part of Rubies and has performed in every Mater Dei theatre musical during her time on campus, taking on lead and supporting roles alike. In addition to the arts, Bri was co-president of STEM Club and continues to compete in club volleyball, balancing her creative passions with academic and extracurricular pursuits.
When Bri learned she had been named Monarch of the Month for December, she felt both honored and grateful. With so many dedicated students in the Class of 2026, the recognition affirmed her commitment to giving her best to the Mater Dei community.
For Bri, Mater Dei’s values of Honor, Glory, and Love guide her daily life. Honor means doing the right thing and showing respect for God, others, and herself, even when it is not easy. Glory reminds her that her achievements are not just for personal success, but opportunities to give thanks to God. Love is reflected in how she treats others, with kindness, patience, and forgiveness shaping the way she leads and serves.
Academically, Bri excels with a 4.5 GPA and is a member of NHS and CSF. She is especially proud of being named student director and of receiving the RISE Award, which recognizes students who demonstrate promise, perseverance, and a strong work ethic. Her commitment to service includes caring for children at summer camps and faithfully serving her parish by singing at Mass, offering her talents in gratitude and worship.
One of Bri’s favorite Mater Dei traditions is the senior-year fountain jump following Madrigal Feast, a moment that celebrates shared accomplishment, friendship, and the bonds formed through years of collaboration and performance. She describes her Mater Dei experience in one word: Influential.
Looking ahead, Bri plans to continue pursuing music, a lifelong passion, while also exploring a future in manufacturing or product engineering. Wherever her path leads, she carries with her faith, confidence, and sense of purpose shaped by her years as a Monarch.