Earning a PhD is a rigorous and time consuming journey, often taking between five to seven years to complete. At Riordan, three teachers currently hold a PhD in various different fields of studies: Alexei Angelides, Caroline Gochoco-Tsuyuki, and Oliver Meneses.

In addition, Ray Dominguez and Mary Ann Datoc are currently pursuing a doctorate.

Each one of the instructors embodies the spirit of Riordan, bringing their years of experience and knowledge into the classrooms.

Angelides is a math teacher and department chair at Archbishop Riordan High School, teaching all levels of math, ranging from algebra to calculus. His ongoing interest and passion for math has led him to pursue a PhD in mathematical logic.

Mathematical logic explores deep into the foundations of mathematics by exploring how mathematical truths are shaped and structured.

“My PhD is in a very abstract branch of math, and I like to try to bring those abstractions to life in the classroom,” stated Angelides.

Each year, as students delve deeper into the world of algebra, trigonometry, and calculus, Angelides acts as a lighthouse and guides his students through the fog of complex symbols and formulas.

Just as Angelides brings the intricate concepts of math to life, so does Gochoco-Tsuyuki, who immerses her students in the fascinating world of chemistry.

Having a dream of becoming a biochemist at the age of 12, Gochoco-Tsuyuki continued to earn her PhD, with her research focus being on glycoproteins, which are fundamental to understanding cell communication and immune responses.

With her degree, her plan was to become a science lab researcher for the rest of her life, until she decided to set aside her lab coat and teach the young minds of high school students what the study of chemistry really should be.

Now, inside Gochoco-Tsuyuki’s chemistry lab, she challenges her students through rigorous lectures and curriculum; as an effect, encouraging them to bec ritical thinkers and problem solvers.

Religion teacher, Meneses, started his PhD journey in 2018 when he enrolled in the PhD program with the inspiration and encouragement from his wife.

His research focus was on Educational Leadership and Management at La Consolacion University Philippines, studying how school administrators can strengthen and nurture the values of Catholic education.

The most challenging part from his PhD journey was during the pandemic, as his wife was battling cancer. After her passing, Meneses persevered and successfully graduated, with his dissertation being awarded as one of the best at the time.

Now, as Meneses teaches World Religions in classrooms, he hopes students will, “find their way, especially those who are in search of meaning and purpose why they do things, and nurture the faith or those who find themselves belonging to a certain faith.”

Whether it’s through the complexities of math, expertise of chemistry, or exploration of theology, these teachers’ journeys are remarkable and their teachings shine a light to students following their lead.