26th Annual Crystal Ball

2025 Crystal Ball Honoree

 Dr. Stephanie Paggi embodies the highest ideals of Lasallian leadership, visionary governance, and faith-driven service. As the past Chair and Strategic Advisor to the Board of Trustees, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the school's trajectory. A retired educator with a distinguished career as Deputy Superintendent and Chief Academic Officer for the Tustin Unified School District, she brought a wealth of experience in academic excellence, leadership, and strategic innovation. A triple alumna of the University of Southern California, earning her BS, MS, and EdD from the USC Rossier School of Education, Dr. Paggi's dedication to education is both personal and profound.

During her leadership tenure as Trustee Chair, she worked closely with President Perry Martin to develop the acclaimed World Away Program and establish five Centers of Innovation, positioning La Salle College Preparatory as a leader in global, future-focused education. Her strategic foresight led to the creation of a comprehensive and forward-thinking strategic plan, ensuring the school's continued strategic leadership in Lasallian education and innovation. As a champion of policy governance, she spearheaded a major revision of Trustee policies and practices, strengthening the institution's governance framework and solidifying its future as a premier Lasallian school. Perhaps most notably, her mentorship of President Martin, her unwavering faith, and her steadfast commitment to excellence have strengthened our Lasallian community and the Lasallian District, ensuring that students and educators thrive in an environment of compassion, innovation, and purpose.

Beyond La Salle, Dr. Paggi's leadership extends to USC, where she is one of the university's most dedicated volunteers. She currently serves as Co-Chair of the 2025 Women's Conference and the USC Caruso Catholic Center's Newman Guild, two organizations that exemplify the transformative power of faith, leadership, and service. The 2025 Women's Conference empowers women, fostering resilience, wisdom, and insight, calling them to lead with courage, purpose, and a commitment to shaping a better world. The Newman Guild at USC Caruso Catholic Center is a beacon of faith and intellectual excellence, supporting students and the broader community in their spiritual and personal journeys through mentorship, service, and fellowship, cultivating a deep sense of purpose, inspiring individuals to live out their faith with conviction and compassion.

Dr. Paggi's impact is far-reaching. Her tireless dedication to transformative Lasallian education, mentorship of future leaders, and unwavering faith in the power of service leave an indelible legacy. She has shaped La Salle College Preparatory in a way that will inspire generations to come. We are honored to celebrate Dr. Stephanie Paggi as the 2025 Crystal Ball Honoree, recognizing her extraordinary contributions, lasting impact, and unwavering commitment to Lasallian education, faith, and service.