Brandi Chastain and Mary Frances Callan Speak at Inaugural Alumni Speaker Series

By Samantha Juda

The notable Santa Clara Alumna Mary Frances Callan '65, and Brandi Chastain '91, spoke in the St. Claire Room April 4 as part of the inaugural Alumni Speaker Series. Callan and Chastain were asked questions by Associated Student Government President Courtney Seymour about their time at Santa Clara, and advise for current students and celebrate the 50 year anniversary of women attending Santa Clara. Callan, a former superintendent of numerous school districts in the bay area, was part of the group of women first admitted to Santa Clara University. Chastain is most known for her game-winning goal in the 1999 World Cup against China while on the US National Women's Soccer Team.

Callan and Chastain described their experiences as Broncos. Callan shared her memories of living in the all-girls residence hall, Graham, and blazing the path for all female Broncos. Chastain recalled the spirit at soccer games, and urged current students to continue the traditions.

After Seymour's questions, Callan and Chastain were open to questions from the audience.

"It was really great to hear the differences between the superintendent and Brandi Chastain's experiences alongside each other and it makes me really thankful for the privileges we have as Santa Clara students today," said junior Natasha Gupta, after attending the event.

Contact Samantha Juda at sjuda@scu.edu or (408)554-4849