Meet Our Donors

James Castaño '83

When Paula and I joined the Legacy Society at the Academy of the Holy Names, it was more than a commitment; it was a reflection of our values and journeys. Our story is one of faith, resilience, and the belief in giving back.

My great-grandfather immigrated from Spain to New York City in 1870, working as a cigar maker. In 1910, my grandparents moved to West Tampa for the cigar industry. My father and uncles, who grew up during the Great Depression, enlisted in the US Navy and fought in WWII. My father continued serving in every conflict up to the Vietnam War, dedicating over 27 years to the Navy.

My mother survived the Great Depression, Japanese occupation in Korea, and the Korean War. Immigrating to the US in the 1960s, she eventually became a US citizen. Her resilience was a constant inspiration. My first cousin, Sister Lillian, dedicated her life to the Lord as a Sister of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, serving at the Academy.

Paula's family also has a rich legacy of service. Her grandfather was an officer in the US Coast Guard, and her father, a police officer in New Jersey, passed away when she was 15. Paula served 10 years as a public-school teacher in New Jersey before joining the FBI as a special agent. Two years ago, we founded Hillsborough Public School Advocates, a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

Supporting the Legacy Society is deeply personal. We believe in giving back—values instilled through our families' sacrifices. My parents worked tirelessly to provide my sister and me with opportunities, including an education at the Academy of the Holy Names. Paula's family faced hardships, but remained committed to service.

Joining the Legacy Society honors our parents and their legacy of service. We may not be wealthy, but we believe our contribution can have a profound impact. By supporting the Legacy Society, we hope to inspire others to live Esse Quam Videri—to "be" rather than to seem—and help others achieve their dreams.

We are proud to support the Legacy Society and encourage others to do the same by naming AHN in your estate plans or as a beneficiary of your life insurance. Be the light. Be dauntless. And thanks be to God.