ICA Alumnae Spotlight: Graduation Edition — Dr. Nina Caton Banda ‘16

As we wrap up celebrations for ICA Cristo Rey’s Class of 2025, we’re excited to spotlight an ICA alumna who also graduated this May—Dr. Nina Caton Banda ’16, who earned a dual M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology!

Reflecting on her time at ICA Cristo Rey, Nina recalls a moment of personal transformation. She entered as a shy, quiet student struggling with low self-esteem. “I barely spoke up for myself, wasn’t social, and didn’t know where I fit in,” she shares. But that began to change the moment she walked through ICA’s doors.

While an ICA Cristo Rey student, Nina gained early professional experience through the Corporate Work Study program, working at Kaiser Permanente, BCLP Law Firm, and marketing company, Thismoment. These diverse roles helped her build confidence, communication skills, and a strong work ethic.

“ICA taught me that my voice matters—that I deserve to be heard and shouldn’t feel intimidated in professional spaces. Others will respect you as you respect yourself.”

Dr. Nina Caton Banda ‘16

After graduating from ICA Cristo Rey in 2016, Nina earned her B.S. in Psychology and Clinical Counseling from Dominican University of California. She went on to pursue a dual M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Alliant International University in Emeryville, CA. “My Ph.D. program was a journey of self-persistence and self-discovery,” she shares. “It tested not just my knowledge, but also my confidence and perseverance. Through the long nights and internal battles, I realized—I can do this.” Nina graduated from her program in May 2025 with determination and a clear vision for the next step in her career.

Currently, Nina works as a School Psychologist in the Tri-Valley School District in the East Bay and as a Clinical Psychologist at the Portia Bell Hume Center in Pleasanton, CA. She hopes to one day open a private family therapy practice. “I want to be an advocate for those who need it and a voice for children and teens who just want to be heard,” she says. “I want to support parents on their journey to heal themselves in order to better understand their children. There’s a deep reward in helping my clients heal from the trauma they’ve experienced.”

Congratulations, Nina!