A very special note of thanks to The Meduri Family P’15 ’17 ’21 and NMR Events for facilitating the stage design and audio services for today’s events.
SIXTY-FIRST BACCALAUREATE & COMMENCEMENT OF ST. AUGUSTINE PREPARATORY SCHOOL FOR THE CLASS OF 2023
THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023
golDen DiploMA RecipienTS:
ST. AUgUSTine pRepARAToRY ScHool clASS of 1973
Kai William Ackerman
Matthew Joseph Adams Jr.
Robert G. Adamson Jr.
Christian Michael Amato
Aiden James Andre
Manuel Domenick Aponte
Nathaniel William Arena
William Albert Ashmore
Nicholas Gary Auer
James Michael Bachman
Nico Bruce Balzamo
Brendan Geoffrey Berns
Nadir Musawwir Bethune Jr.
Brandon Michael Bispo
Joshua Francis Blakely
Matthew W. X. Buonocore
Michael Alexander Peter Burnley
Ethan Riley Buscher
Nolan James Call
Vincent Allan Campanaro
Nicholas Paul Campano
David Charles Cappuccio III
Michael Domenic Caprice
Stephen M. Capriotti III
Justin Andrew Carr
Mason Travers Cassady
Massimo Felice Catania
Anthony F. Cerchiaro
Na’Cire K. Christmas Shields
Colin Daniel Clancy
Paul Clavner
Hayden D. Clay
Christopher J. Clayton
Angel A. Collazo
Christian K. Collot
Brady Thomas Conlin
Joseph Francis Cortese IV
Noah Jacob Cressman
Gavin Patrick Curran
Cooper Thomas D’Ambrosio
Thomas R. Daley
Elijah Davis
Nicholas J. Diana
Kyle Matthew F. Dizon
Michael Dostillio
Nicholas John Elentrio Jr.
Enzo Anthony Fanelli
Aidan Matthew Farrell
Daniel Patrick Fean Jr.
Luke Dalton Field
Alec Edward Fog
Ethan Andrew Fox
Christopher Joseph Furey
Anthony Jerald Galinus
Robert William Galletta
Emiliano García Rojas
Alec Joseph Giancola
Zachary Brian Gibson
Noah Gregory Grdinich
Richard John Grungo
Alexander J. Guadalupe
Andrew James Hall
James Thomas Haugh
José Wilfrido Hernandez
Drew Joseph Hetzer
Robert John Holland
Connor Paul Hughes
William Ernest Hughes V
William Marc Jamison
Asher Brian Jenkins
Cole Jennings
* Head of School Honors N National Honor Society
Gavin Robert Johns
Cooper Atlas Kane
Domenic Silvio Kenny
Cooper G. Lange
Andreas Joseph LaRosa
Marco Lorenzo Levari
Jacob Thomas Littleton
Ryan N. Marengo
Jonathan Michael Marrone
Darren Ray Mattern
Nicholas R. Mazzochette
Justin Roger Mazzuca
Luke Robert McCrossin
Brenden Joseph McGrath
Ethan Miller
Kaden George Naame
Kendrick Lashay Nelson
Christopher Louis Newell
Brandon Nguyen
Trevor J. Nolan
Ifeoluwa Isaac Okebiorun
Gary Michael Okoorian Jr.
Chad Louis Ottinger
Milan Patel
Nicholas Philip Pizagno
Vincent Patrick Polistina
Andrew Joseph Poyas
Nathan Michael Price
Brandon Dominic Pustizzi
Carson Michael Quinn
Kevin Brian Quinn Jr.
Rory John Quinn
Gavin M. Reed
Luke Michael Reed
Jacob G. Ruske
John Michael Rynkiewicz III
Christian Matthew Sabella Jr.
Vincent Joseph Sangataldo
John Edward Schleicher
Jackson Thomas Schwarzwalder
Robert Michael Scimeca
Timothy Michael Shea Jr.
Valdoston Shealey III
William Colin Sherlock
Connor Daniel Short
Victor Robert Simonin III
Jacob Slotnick
Alexander William Smith
Vincenzo Joseph Smith
Marcos Emilio Sneathen
Caleb Jon Soto
Matthew Drew Stanker
Dominic Anthony Tenuto
John Timothy Terista
Christian Patrick Torpey
Mateo A. Trivellini
John Albert Tucker
Ryan James Vaites
Dennis Ralph Virelli III
James Vincent Waddell
Brady Salvatore Wainwright
Terrin Lamonte Walker Jr.
Sawyer Carson Widecrantz
Aaron Andrew Williams
Matthew Sean Wolosin
Nicholas Zane
Paul Ambrose
Joseph Cifaloglio
P. Anthony Colasurdo
John Colligan
Peter Covella
David D’Alessandro
William Dauito
Jeffrey DeLiberis
John Ezzi
David Galetto
Lawrence Giuliani
Gary Greico
William Hankins
Peter Karlowicz
Daniel Leshchyshyn
Charles Littlefield
Michael Lopergolo
Joseph Lucchesi
Peter Macrie
Frank Marrongelli
Thomas McFarland
Timothy Mihok
James Nedohon
Michael O’Donnell
James Pfaff
Martin Reale
Robert Saia
Anthony Sibbert
Thomas Sulpizio
Stephen Sykes
David Torres
Patrick Trainor
William Triboletti
Ernest Trionfo
Deno Venturi
John Votta
Very Rev. Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A., J.D. Prior Provincial, Province of St. Thomas of Villanova Chair, Board of Directors, St. Augustine Preparatory School
The Augustinian Friars
PROCESSION: “Pomp and Circumstance” — Edward Elgar
ENTRANCE HYMN: “All Creatures of Our God and King” — Geistliche Kirchengesänge
Verse 1 - All creatures of our God and King, Lift up your voices, let us sing. Alleluia! Alleluia! Bright burning sun with golden beams, Soft silver moon that gently gleams, O praise him!
Refrain: O Praise Him! O Praise Him! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Verse 2 - Great rushing winds who are so strong, Your clouds above that sail along, O praise him! Alleluia! Fair rising morn, with praise rejoice, Stars nightly shining, find a voice, O praise him!
Refrain: O Praise Him! O Praise Him! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Verse 3 - Swift flowing water, pure and clear, Make music for your Lord to hear, Alleluia! Fire so intense and fiercely bright, Who gives to us both warmth and light, O praise him!
Refrain: O Praise Him! O Praise Him! Alleluia! Alleluia!
WELCOME ADDRESS - Andreas Joseph LaRosa ’23
GLORIA: Anonymous, Peru
FIRST READING: Proverbs 2:1-15, Aidan Matthew Farrell ’23
RESPONSORIAL PSALM: Psalm 118 “Give Thanks to The Lord for he is good, His love is everlasting”
SECOND READING: Romans 12: 9-12, Vincent Patrick Polistina ’23
ALLELUIA: “Mass of Creation” - Marty Haugan
GOSPEL: Mt 28 :16-20
HOMILY: Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., Ph.D., Head of School
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL: John Michael Rynkiewicz III ’23
RESPONSE: “Lord, Hear our Prayer”
PRESENTATION OF THE GIFTS: “O God Beyond All Praising” - Thaxted
Verse 1 - O God beyond all praising, We worship you today And sing the love amazing that songs cannot repay For we can only wonder at every gift you send.
At blessings without number and mercies without end: We lift our hearts before you and wait upon your word
We honor and adore you, our great and mighty Lord
Verse 2 - Then hear, O gracious Savior, accept the love we bring, That we who know your favor may serve you as our king And whether our tomorrow be filled with good or ill, We’ll triumph through our arrows and rise to bless you still: To marvel at your beauty and glory in your ways, And make a joyful duty our sacrifice of praise.
Offertory Procession - The Parents/Guardians of Graduating Seniors
Holy, Holy, Holy Eucharistic Acclamation
Great Amen
Lamb of God “Mass of Creation” - Marty Haugan
Communion Hymn: “There is a Longing” - Anne Quigley
Choral Anthem: “All Shall Be Amen and Alleluia”
— Vince Peterson, Commissioned by St. Augustine for the 2023 Baccalaureate Mass
Meditation Hymn: “Coming Home” — Rev. Joseph A. Genito, O.S.A.
RECESSIONAL HYMN: “Christ Be Our Light” — Bernadette Farrell
Refrain - Christ, be our light! Shine in our hearts. Shine through the darkness. Christ, be our light! Shine in your church gathered today.
Verse 1 - Longing for light, we wait in darkness. Longing for truth, we turn to you. Make us your own, your holy people, light for the world to see.
Verse 2 - Longing for peace, our world is troubled. Longing for hope, many despair. Your word alone has the power to save us. Make us your living voice.
Verse 3 - Longing for food, many are hungry. Longing for water, many still thirst. Make us your bread, broken for others, shared until all are fed.
Vocalists under the direction of Fine Arts Department Chair and Choral Director, Mr. Erik Stenswold
Musical accompaniment provided by the St. Augustine Preparatory School Band under the direction of Band Director, Mrs. Mary Lou Newnam P’06 ’08 ’13
Very Rev. Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A., J.D.
Prior Provincial, Province of St. Thomas of Villanova
Chair, Board of Directors, St. Augustine Preparatory School
OFFICIANT
Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., Ph.D.
Head of School, St. Augustine Preparatory School
MASTER OF CEREMONIES
Mrs. Norma Vogelsong, Assistant Director of Academics
OPENING SONG
God Bless America
PRESENTATION OF GOLDEN DIPLOMAS
Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., Ph.D.
Head of School, St. Augustine Preparatory School
PRESENTATION OF CANDIDATES FOR AWARDS & DIPLOMAS
Mrs. Nancy M. McHugh P’08 ’11 ’15, Dean of Academics
PRESENTATION OF DIPLOMAS AND COMMISSIONING
Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., Ph.D.
Head of School, St. Augustine Preparatory School
FAREWELL ADDRESS
James Michael Bachman ’23
ALMA MATER
Class of 2023
$57.6 Million awarded in College Scholarships and Grants over four years
1 Military Academy Acceptance
49 Athletes Committed to NCAA Universities
28 Conference Championships
6 South Jersey Titles (2 Wrestling, 1 Basketball, 3 Baseball)
6 State Titles (2 Rugby 7’s, 1 Rugby 15’s, 1 Hockey, 1 Swimming, 1 Lacrosse)
1 Individual State Title (Richie Grungo - Wrestling)
3 Individual All-State Athletic Selections
22 Individual All-South Jersey Athletic Selections
34 First-Team Cape Atlantic League Conference All-Stars
1 Individual All-South Jersey Chorus Selection
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
Kai William Ackerman
Elizabethtown College
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University*
Fordham University
Iona University
Ithaca College
King’s College
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
Liberty University
Monmouth University
Neumann University
Rowan University
Seton Hall University
Stockton University
Ursinus College
Matthew Joseph Adams Jr.
La Salle University
Saint Joseph’s University
Stockton University
Ursinus College*
Robert G. Adamson Jr.
Monmouth University*
Christian Michael Amato
Liberty University
Monmouth University
Sacred Heart University*
Aiden James Andre
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University* Widener University
Manuel Domenick Aponte
Arcadia University
Cabrini University
Delaware Valley University
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Washington College*
Nathaniel William Arena
Liberty University*
William Albert Ashmore
James Madison University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University
Stockton University
The Ohio State University
University of Delaware
University of Pittsburgh*
Nicholas Gary Auer
Drew University
Drexel University*
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University
Stockton University
Ursinus College
Widener University
James Michael Bachman
Lehigh University
Rutgers University
Seton Hall University
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of Notre Dame
University of Pennsylvania*
University of Pittsburgh
Villanova University
Nico Bruce Balzamo
Flagler College
Lynn University
Nova Southeastern University
Rollins College*
Brendan Geoffrey Berns
Liberty University*
Nadir Musawwir Bethune Jr.
Bethune-Cookman University
Delaware State University*
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
Brandon Michael Bispo
Eastern University
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola University Chicago
Monmouth University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University
Rutgers University
Sacred Heart University
Saint Joseph’s University*
Seton Hall University
University of Pittsburgh
Matthew W. X. Buonocore
Salisbury University*
Michael Alexander Peter Burnley
DeSales University
Fairleigh Dickinson University
James Madison University
Shepherd University*
Ethan Riley Buscher
Catholic University of America*
Fairfield University
James Madison University
Loyola University Maryland
Marist College
Mount St. Mary’s University
Sacred Heart University
Saint Joseph’s University
Seton Hall University
University of Scranton
Nolan James Call
College of Charleston
George Mason University
James Madison University*
Old Dominion University
Saint Joseph’s University
Towson University
Vincent Allan Campanaro
Boston University
Claremont McKenna College
Dickinson College
Indiana University
Lehigh University
Northeastern University
Rice University*
Wesleyan University
Nicholas Paul Campano
Drexel University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University
Rutgers University
Saint Joseph’s University*
The College of New Jersey
University of Delaware
University of Pittsburgh
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
David Charles Cappuccio III
College of the Holy Cross*
Gettysburg College
Merrimack College
Mount St. Mary’s University
Rutgers University
Saint Joseph’s University
Villanova University
Michael Domenic Caprice
American University
James Madison University
Loyola University Maryland
Ursinus College
University of Pittsburg*
Stephen M. Capriotti III
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Gulf Coast University
James Madison University*
Pennsylvania State University
University of Delaware
University of Nevada
University of South Florida
Justin Andrew Carr
Bryn Athyn College
Monmouth University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University*
Rutgers University
University of Denver
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
Mason Travers Cassady
Earlham College
Gettysburg College
Manhattan College
Marist College
Misericordia University
Mount St. Mary’s University
Sacred Heart University
Saint John Fisher University
Salisbury University*
Widener University
Massimo Felice Catania
Monmouth University*
Pennsylvania State University
University of Pittsburgh
University of South Carolina
Anthony F. Cerchiaro
Drew University
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Florida Atlantic University
Rutgers University*
Stockton University
The University of Alabama
The University of Tampa
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
West Virginia University
Na’Cire K. Christmas Shields
Monmouth University
University of Maine*
Colin Daniel Clancy
Arcadia University
Coastal Carolina University*
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Robert Morris University
Rowan University
The University of Tampa
University of Pittsburgh
Hayden D. Clay
Florida State University
Michigan State University
North Carolina State University
Purdue University
University of Maryland
University of South Carolina*
Christopher J. Clayton
Belmont University*
Monmouth University
Saint Joseph’s University
Stockton University
Widener University
Angel A. Collazo
Arcadia University
Hofstra University
Ithaca College
Juniata College
Marietta College*
Rutgers University
Ursinus College
Christian K. Collot
University of Delaware*
Brady Thomas Conlin
Rider University*
Joseph Francis Cortese IV
Roanoke College*
Noah Jacob Cressman
Marist College*
Gavin Patrick Curran
Louisiana State University
Mount St. Mary’s University
St. Bonaventure University
University of South Carolina*
Cooper Thomas D’Ambrosio
Arcadia University
Clemson University*
College of Charleston
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Fordham University
Iona University
Saint Joseph’s University
University of Delaware
University of Rhode Island
University of South Carolina
Ursinus College
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
Thomas R. Daley
Clemson University
College of Charleston
Jacksonville University
James Madison University
Loyola University Maryland
University of North Carolina - Wilmington
University of South Carolina*
Elijah Davis
Auburn University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University
Rutgers University*
Saint Peter’s University
Seton Hall University
University of Pittsburgh
Xavier University
Nicholas J. Diana
DeSales University
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Neumann University
Seton Hall University
The University of Tampa
Wilmington University*
Kyle Matthew F. Dizon
Catholic University of America
Moravian University
Neumann University
North Carolina State University
The College of New Jersey
University of Delaware
University of Pittsburgh*
University of South Carolina
Michael Dostillio
James Madison University
Louisiana State University
Muhlenberg College
University of South Carolina*
Wingate University
Nicholas John Elentrio Jr.
University of Mary Washington*
Enzo Anthony Fanelli
Coastal Carolina University
The University of Tampa
University of Delaware
University of South Carolina*
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Aidan Matthew Farrell
Drexel University
Merrimack College
Rutgers University
Seton Hall University
The College of New Jersey
University of Delaware
University of Notre Dame
University of Pittsburgh
University of South Carolina*
Daniel Patrick Fean Jr.
College of Charleston
East Carolina University
Rowan University
Rutgers University
Stockton University*
Widener University
Luke Dalton Field
Purdue University
Stevens Institute of Technology*
Alec Edward Fog
Arizona State University
James Madison University
Louisiana State University
Michigan State University*
Ethan Andrew Fox
Saint Elizabeth University
Saint Joseph’s University
Widener University*
Christopher Joseph Furey
Villanova University*
Anthony Jerald Galinus
The University of Alabama
University of South Carolina*
University of Utah
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
Robert William Galletta
Drexel University
Florida Institute of Technology
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rochester Institute of Technology
Stevens Institute of Technology*
Syracuse University
Emiliano García Rojas
Flager College
Nova Southeastern University*
Rowan University
The University of Tampa
Alec Joseph Giancola
Montclair State University
Southern Connecticut State University*
Zachary Brian Gibson
Catholic University of America*
Noah Gregory Grdinich
Clemson University
Fairfield University
The University of Tennessee
United States Military Academy at West Point*
University of Delaware
Villanova University
Richard John Grungo
Lehigh University*
Alexander J. Guadalupe
Arcadia University*
DeSales University
Saint Joseph’s University
University of Delaware
University of Hartford
University of Scranton
Widener University
Andrew James Hall
Coastal Carolina University
Elon University
Pennsylvania State University*
Rowan University
The University of Tampa
University of Delaware
University of South Carolina
James Thomas Haugh
Albright College
Georgian Court University
Rowan University*
Saint Joseph’s University
The College of New Jersey
University of Scranton
Ursinus College
José Wilfrido Hernandez
Clemson University*
Drexel University
King’s College
North Carolina State University
Northeastern University
Seton Hall University
University of Pittsburgh
Drew Joseph Hetzer
High Point University
Lehigh University*
Saint Joseph’s University
University of South Carolina
Robert John Holland
Clemson University
James Madison University
Saint Joseph’s University
Seton Hall University
The University of Tennessee
University of Miami*
Connor Paul Hughes
Clemson University
Louisiana State University*
Seton Hall University
The University of Alabama
University of Central Florida
University of Mississippi
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
William Ernest Hughes V
Cornell University*
William Marc Jamison
DeSales University
Immaculata University*
Mount St. Mary’s University
Asher Brian Jenkins
Middlebury College*
Cole Jennings
The University of Tampa*
Gavin Robert Johns
The University of Tampa
University of Delaware*
University of South Carolina
Villanova University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Cooper Atlas Kane
Clemson University
James Madison University
Louisiana State University
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Rowan University
Stevens Institute of Technology
The College of New Jersey
The University of Alabama*
University of Delaware
University of Florida
Widener University
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Domenic Silvio Kenny
Clemson University*
Fordham University
James Madison University
The University of Alabama
University of Delaware
University of Maryland
Ursinus College
Andreas Joseph LaRosa
University of Notre Dame*
University of Virginia
Villanova University
Cooper G. Lange
Colorado School of Mines*
Michigan Technological University
Syracuse University
Marco Lorenzo Levari
Old Dominion University*
Jacob Thomas Littleton
Catholic University of America
Loyola University Maryland*
Rowan University
Saint Joseph’s University
Seton Hall University
University of Scranton
Ryan N. Marengo
High Point University*
Jonathan Michael Marrone
Gettysburg College
Manhattan College
Saint Peter’s University
Seton Hall University*
St. John’s University
Stockton University
Darren Ray Mattern
Elizabethtown College
Fairfield University
King’s College
Michigan Technological University
Millersville University of Pennsylvania*
Quinnipiac University
Rowan University
University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy
University of South Carolina
Nicholas R. Mazzochette
Rowan University*
Justin Roger Mazzuca
La Salle University
Pennsylvania State University
Saint Joseph’s University*
Seton Hall University
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
Luke Robert McCrossin
The University of Alabama
The University of Tennessee*
Brenden Joseph McGrath
James Madison University
Mount St. Mary’s University
Pennsylvania State University
Saint Joseph’s University*
University of Scranton
Ethan Miller
Catholic University of America*
James Madison University
Loyola University Maryland
Marist College
Mount St Mary’s University
Kaden George Naame
Rider University*
Kendrick Lashay Nelson
Saint Elizabeth University
Saint Peter’s University
William Paterson University of New Jersey
Woodbury University*
Christopher Louis Newell
Rowan University*
Rutgers University
Stockton University
Brandon Nguyen
Drexel University
Rowan University*
University of Pittsburgh
Trevor J. Nolan
George Mason University
Loyola University Maryland
Monmouth University*
Mount St. Mary’s University
Old Dominion University
Seton Hall University
St. Bonaventure University
The University of Tampa
Towson University
University of Delaware
Ifeoluwa Isaac Okebiorun
Boston University
Catholic University of America
Fairleigh Dickinson University
La Salle University
PennWest California
Rowan University
Rutgers University*
Seton Hall University
Saint Elizabeth University
Gary Michael Okoorian Jr.
Bryant University
Cabrini University
Drexel University
High Point University*
Monmouth University
Mount St Mary’s University
Rowan University
St. John’s University
Chad Louis Ottinger
Drexel University*
Milan Patel
Arizona State University
Indiana University
James Madison University
Pennsylvania State University
Purdue University
Rutgers University
The University of Alabama
University of Maryland
University of South Carolina*
Nicholas Philip Pizagno
Florida Southern College
Louisiana State University
Rider University
Rowan University
Stockton University
The University of Alabama
The University of Tampa*
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
Vincent Patrick Polistina
Catholic University of America
Muhlenberg College
University of Pittsburgh
University of Richmond
Seton Hall University
Villanova University*
University of Virginia
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Andrew Joseph Poyas
Colorado School of Mines
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University*
Florida Institute of Technology
Nathan Michael Price
Pennsylvania State University*
Rutgers University
University of Delaware
University of South Carolina
Brandon Dominic Pustizzi
Rowan University*
Stockton University
Carson Michael Quinn
Pennsylvania State University
University of Delaware
University of Richmond*
Kevin Brian Quinn Jr.
Georgetown University*
Rory John Quinn
Catholic University of America
Drexel University*
Pennsylvania State University
Gavin M. Reed
Endicott College
Merrimack College
The College of New Jersey
Seton Hall University*
The University of Tampa
Luke Michael Reed
DeSales University
Rowan University*
Stockton University
Widener University
Jacob G. Ruske
Drexel University
Rutgers University*
University of Delaware
University of Pittsburgh
John Michael Rynkiewicz III
Boston College*
Christian Matthew Sabella Jr.
Coastal Carolina University
Drexel University
Iona University
James Madison University
La Salle University
Saint Joseph’s University*
University of Delaware
Vincent Joseph Sangataldo
Belmont Abbey College
Catholic University of America
Christendom College
Rowan University*
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
John Edward Schleicher
Hobart and William Smith Colleges*
Jackson Thomas Schwarzwalder
Catholic University of America*
James Madison University
Miami University (Oxford)
Roger Williams University
University of Maryland
University of Pittsburgh
Robert Michael Scimeca
Merrimack College
Neumann University
Rowan College of South Jersey
Rowan University
Stockton University
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
Timothy Michael Shea Jr.
East Carolina University
Elon University
Fairleigh Dickinson University
High Point University
Iona University
James Madison University
Montclair State University
Saint Joseph’s University*
Stockton University
The University of Tennessee
University of New Hampshire
Valdoston Shealey III
Cleveland State University
The Ohio State University
University of Central Florida
University of Miami*
University of South Florida
William Colin Sherlock
Carnegie Mellon University*
Drexel University
Seton Hall University
Connor Daniel Short
Indiana University
Pennsylvania State University
The University of Alabama University of South Carolina*
Victor Robert Simonin III
Drexel University
Florida Institute of Technology
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Rowan University*
Seton Hall University
Stevens Institute of Technology
The College of New Jersey
Widener University
Jacob Slotnick
Delaware Valley University
Hofstra University*
Long Island University
Rider University
Alexander William Smith
American University
Drexel University
George Washington University
Providence College
Rutgers University
Saint Joseph’s University*
The College of New Jersey
University of Pittsburgh
Vincenzo Joseph Smith
Merrimack College
Providence College
Rowan University
Stockton University
The University of Alabama
The University of Tampa*
University of Delaware
University of Michigan
University of Minnesota
Ursinus College
Marcos Emilio Sneathen
Iona University
Ithaca College
Louisiana State University
Seton Hall University*
Caleb Jon Soto
Rowan University Trade School*
Matthew Drew Stanker
Mount St. Mary’s University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University*
Saint Vincent College
Dominic Anthony Tenuto
High Point University
Immaculata University
Misericordia University*
Monmouth University
Mount St. Mary’s University
Rowan University
Stockton University
Widener University
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
John Timothy Terista
Elon University
Liberty University
Merrimack College
Monmouth University*
Stockton University
The University of Alabama
The University of Tampa
University of Scranton
Christian Patrick Torpey
Arcadia University
Marywood University
Rutgers University*
Thomas Jefferson University
Mateo A. Trivellini
James Madison University
Purdue University*
Rowan University
John Albert Tucker
Catholic University of America
DeSales University
Drexel University
Stockton University
Thomas Jefferson University
Villanova University*
Widener University
Ryan James Vaites
King’s College
Neumann University
SUNY College at Brockport
SUNY College at Geneseo
SUNY College at Oswego
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
Dennis Ralph Virelli III
Delaware Valley University
Newberry College*
Southeastern University
Wilkes University
James Vincent Waddell
Jacksonville University
University of Maryland *
Brady Salvatore Wainwright
Bucknell University*
Loyola University Maryland
Miami University of Ohio
Pennsylvania State University
University of Delaware
University of Maryland
University of Pittsburgh
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Terrin Lamonte Walker Jr.
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
University of New Haven
Sawyer Carson Widecrantz
James Madison University
Lees-McRae College*
Mount St. Mary’s University
Nova Southeastern University
Roanoke College
Saint Leo University
Aaron Andrew Williams
Iona University
Rowan University
Saint Joseph’s University*
Stockton University
Matthew Sean Wolosin
Catholic University of America
Clemson University
Drexel University
Loyola University Maryland
Rutgers University*
Saint Joseph’s University
Seton Hall University
Syracuse University
University of Delaware
University of Maryland
University of Pittsburgh
As reported by the students as of May 3, 2023.
Nicholas ZaneAlvernia University
Arcadia University
Canisius College
Holy Cross College
King’s College
Lebanon Valley College*
Manhattanville College
Mercyhurst University
Merrimack College
Neumann University
Paul Smith’s College
Quinnipiac University
Robert Morris University
SUNY College at Oswego
SUNY Morrisville
Sacred Heart University
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Salve Regina University
Trine University
University of Michigan
University of New England
Western Michigan University
Western New England University
The history of academic dress begins in the early days of the oldest universities. A statute of 1321 required all “Doctors, Licentiates, and Bachelors” of the University of Coimbra to wear gowns. In England during the second half of the 14th century, the statutes of certain colleges forbade “excess in apparel” and prescribed the wearing of a long gown. It is still a question whether academic dress finds its sources chiefly in ecclesiastical or in civilian dress. Gowns may have been considered necessary for warmth in the unheated buildings used by medieval scholars. Hoods may have served to cover the tonsured head until superseded for that purpose by the skull cap. The cap was later displaced by a headdress similar to ones now recognized as “academic.” European institutions continue to show great diversity in their specifications of academic dress. However, when American colleges and universities adopted a system of academic apparel a half century ago, a code was devised for all to follow.
The gown for the bachelor’s degree has pointed sleeves and is worn closed. The gown for the master’s degree has an oblong sleeve, open at the wrist, with the sleeve base hanging down in the traditional manner. The rear part of the sleeve’s oblong shape is square cut and the front part has an arc cut away. It may be worn open or closed. The gown for the doctor’s degree has bell-shaped sleeves and may be worn open or closed. Bachelor’s and master’s gowns have no trimmings, but the doctor’s may be faced on the front with black or colored velvet and with three bars of the same across the sleeves. If color is used, it is the color distinctive of the subject to which the degree pertains, and it matches the edging or binding of the hood. For all academic purposes, including trimmings of doctors’ gowns, edgings of hoods, and tassels of caps, the colors associated with the different subjects are as follows:
Agriculture – Maize
Arts, Letters, Humanities – White
Commerce, Accountancy – Drab
Business – Drab
Dentistry – Lilac
Economics – Copper
Education – Light Blue
Engineering – Orange
Fine Arts – Brown
Forestry – Russet
Journalism – Crimson
Law – Purple
Library Science – Lemon
Medicine – Green
Music – Pink
Nursing – Apricot
Oratory (speech) – Silver Gray
Pharmacy – Olive Green
Philosophy – Dark Blue
Physical Education – Sage Green
Public Administration – Peacock Blue
Public Health – Salmon Pink
Science – Golden Yellow
Social Work – Citron
Theology – Scarlet
Veterinary Science – Gray
Hoods are lined with the official color or colors of the college or university conferring the degree. The binding or edging of the hood is the color indicative of the subject to which the degree pertains, except that the doctor’s cap may have its tassel of gold thread.
Mortarboards are generally worn as part of the academic costume. The long tassel fastened to the middle point of the cap’s top is either black or the color appropriate to the subject. It is customary for degree candidates to wear the tassels on the right front side before degrees are conferred and to shift them to the left when the degrees are awarded. This custom is in some respects a substitute for individual hooding.
* Adapted from “An Academic Costume Code and Ceremony Guide,” A (Washington, DC: American Council on Education, 1959). Universities and Colleges.
PROVINCIAL LEADERSHIP
Very Rev. Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A., J.D.
Prior Provincial
Rev. Aldo Potencio, O.S.A.
Secretary & Treasurer
COUNSELORS
Rev. Kevin M. DePrinzio, O.S.A.
Rev. Raymond F. Dlugos, O.S.A.
Rev. Robert J. Guessetto, O.S.A.
Rev. Joseph L. Narog, O.S.A.
Rev. James D. Paradis, O.S.A.
Rev. Luis A. Vera, O.S.A.
Very Rev. Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A., J.D. Prior Provincial, Province of St. Thomas of Villanova Chair, Board of Directors, St. Augustine Preparatory School
Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., Ph.D. Head of School, St. Augustine Preparatory School
Mr. Cornelius J. McPeak, Jr. ’05 Vice Chair
Mr. John J. DiDonato P’18 Secretary
Rev. Francis Horn H’14, O.S.A., J.C.D. Treasurer
Mrs. Rose M. Davis H’17
Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D.
Rev. Christopher J. Drennen, O.S.A.
Mr. Raymond M. Giunta P’19 ’21
Mr. Robert D. McCormick P’17 ’21
Dr. Bridget McLaughlin P’12
Mr. R. Douglas Smithson P’26
Mr. Anthony P. Talotta P’19
Mr. Robert F. Woods
Historically, the mace is a symbol of authority dating from medieval times when knights carried them during processions with their kings. As the tradition grew, the mace became a ceremonial symbol of peaceful leadership, and maces were embellished with jewels and metals. Today, an independent school’s mace is carried before the Head of School, platform-party dignitaries, and faculty during commencement exercises and other academic ceremonial processions.
Head of School medallions are closely aligned with maces and are traditional symbols of authority. A Head of School medallion is typically inscribed with the seal of the institution and is worn over academic regalia on ceremonial occasions, particularly at commencements and academic convocations. The Head of School medallion honors the current Head of School, Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., and his predecessors, Rev. Donald F. Reilly, O.S.A. (President), Rev. Paul W. Galetto, O.S.A. ’70 (President), and Rev. Stephen J. LaRosa, O.S.A. (President).
An adaptation of the seal of the Order of St. Augustine, the seal of St. Augustine Prep, is one of the school’s most ubiquitous images. The HEART is the symbol of love and charity, which is the first rule of St. Augustine. The CROSIER and MITRE symbolize the bishopric of St. Augustine, one of the Fathers of the Church. “TOLLE LEGE; TOLLE LEGE” (Take up and Read) were the words spoken by a voice heard by St. Augustine and which led him to his conversion.
SAPIENTIA ET SCIENTIA (Wisdom and Knowledge) is the traditional motto of Augustinian schools based on the knowledge and wisdom of St. Augustine. St. Augustine Preparatory School was founded in 1959.
In Richland’s proud and peaceful glen
Where friends and joy abound. Stands Alma Mater, home of men, A treasure nobly found. Wherever we may chance to be Nearby or far from you. We will not fail eternally
To sing your praises true.
REFRAIN
O St. Augustine’s mighty power
Of our triumphant youth
Watch over us each hour
With eyes of love and truth. And when our days with you are done. Still guide each grateful son.
—George F. Walsh, Sr.
“Setting hearts on fire with a passionate search for Truth, Unity, and Love”
