ASTER STUDY CENTER

Angela holds a bachelor’s in biology, master’s in bioethics, and master’s in public health, in addition to certifications in aging and teaching science. She has worked in bioethics and healthcare research and has two decades of experience as a science teacher and school administrator. In 2025, Angela published the book "Wholeheartedly:  God's mystery of love in the call to celibacy" and a Stations of the Cross for Students.  She contributes to the St. Josemaria Institute.

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Watch her TV interviews here:

Watch For God Alone: the Call to the Lay Celibate Life, Pt. 1

Watch For God Alone: the Call to the Lay Celibate Life, Pt. 2

​Marita Montes is an organizational development professional currently earning her MS at Pepperdine University. She works at the intersection of business strategy and human capital, and has volunteered for many years as a program coordinator and mentor to young women.
Hailing from Santiago, Chile, she holds a degree in Interior Design and Art History from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, and spent her early career on high-profile design projects in NYC and DC before shifting to human and organizational development. She loves to read, cycle, and explore the beauty of California.

Eliana (Elie) is currently a graduate student at Chapman University School of Pharmacy in Irvine, California. She has participated in and organized programs for high school students at Aster Study Center and college students at Westfield Residence. In addition to working in a long-term care pharmacy, she also uses her pharmacy background to tutor high school students and support their academic and personal growth. 

Ann graduated from Lexington College in Chicago, where she studied culinary arts and developed her passion for food, hospitality, and bringing people together. She works in hospitality at a residence and cultural center and also develops and leads culinary programs.
Ann loves exploring new recipes and flavors, staying active, and all things DIY. She believes some of the best memories are made in the kitchen—and there’s always something new to learn, taste, and create. 

Rosario currently works as an Academic Counselor in a public Middle School in the city Carson. Before being a counselor, she taught in a public Elementary School for 17 years.  Second grade was her favorite grade to teach.  Rosario also volunteers as a Catechist in her parish. She enjoys cooking and walks at the beach during sunset.  Rosario is passionate about her Mexican culture.  

Cristina lives in the South Bay.  She is a second-grade teacher who works for LAUSD.  She enjoys mentoring new teachers and helping out parents who seek to improve their child's social and academic skills.  Cristina especially likes art, music, and watching cartoons. She says that she hopes to own a dog one day. Her favorite quote is from one of her favorite books, The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry: "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."

Abigail (Abby) is currently a student at California State University, Long Beach pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. She is deeply involved in campus life, serving as the Graphic Designer for her university’s Catholic Ministry, Art Director for the American Marketing Association, and President of the Visual Communication Design Association. Through her creative work and leadership, she uses design to bring communities together. Outside of design, she finds creativity in the kitchen, combining her passions for food, experimentation, and caring for others.

A SoCal native and proud Long Beach enthusiast, Karla earned her Bachelor’s in Biology from UCI and went on to receive her Doctor of Physical Therapy from CSULB. She is passionate about helping others discover their potential, build confidence, and find plenty of joy and laughter along the way. Outside of the clinic and leadership activities, you can usually find her at the beach, weightlifting, line dancing, or taking on her newest adventure: learning how to skateboard!