S T. S EBASTIAN’S FALL 2019
M AGAZINE
2019-2020 Board of Trustees Seán Cardinal O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap. Chairman William L. Burke, III P’95,’97,’00,’04 Executive Officer, Headmaster James L. Elcock ’77, P’08 President Patrick J. Hegarty ’89, P’23 Vice President Kathleen A. Murphy P’21 Secretary David M. Calabro ’78, P’16 Treasurer Members: Timothy J. Connelly P’17,’19 Barbara E. Connolly P’10,’12,’17 John G. Cox P’22,’25 Timothy P. Doherty ‘87, P’17 Rev. Michael E. Drea Stephen DuFour P’14,’18,’21 William B. Evans ‘77, P’17 Dana W. Fulham P’14,’23 John W. Hueber ‘71 Kathleen F. Ix P’22 Susanne C. Joyce P’20,’23 Carolyn M. Lemone P’16,’18 Shawn D. Martin P’17,’18,’19 Wesley D. Mateo ‘03 Peter J. McLaughlin ‘55, GP’13,’19 John E. McNamara ‘81, P’14,’18 James F. Mooney, III P’18 Michael P. Muldowney P’12,’16,’22 Mark L. O’Friel ‘79 John A. Piccione ‘76 Robert M. Reardon P’15 Randall P. Seidl P’17,’19 Rev. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P. Troy L. Stanfield P’21 Kurt R. Steinkrauss ‘91, P’19 Mary L. Supple P’09,’10,’15 Stephen Ward ‘96, P’24,’25 Andrew Wasynczuk P’14,’17 Catherine C. Daniel P’15,’18,’20 President, Guild of St. Irene Samuel Hodgson P’12,’20 President, Men’s Association Charles Haley ’92 President, Alumni Association Trustees Emeriti: James A. Cotter, Jr. ’57 David F. Gately ’73 J. Brad Griffith ’58, GP’19,’23
FALL 2019
S T. S EBASTIAN’ S M AGAZINE
FEATURES
Assistant Headmaster Michael P. Nerbonne
IN EVERY ISSUE
16 Our Year of Faith
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Headmaster’s Letter
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Around Campus
Headmaster Burke’s remarks on “Faith,” the one-word theme for the academic year
20 The Innovation Lab
St. Sebastian’s newest facility provides a hands-on experience for our students
24 Spirit & People Campaign The Campaign update features an interview on endowment as well as two major gifts
30 25 Years of Service
Brendan Sullivan, Steve Dagdigian & Jim Ferguson mark 25 years at St. Sebastian's
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New Faculty
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New Trustees
38
Fine Arts
40
Fall Sports
46
Event Highlights
48
Alumni Events
53
Class Notes
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In Memoriam
Director of Advancement Richard F. Arms P’14
Editor and Designer Christine Y. Robertson, Director of Communications Principal Photographer Brett Crawford, Visual Media Coordinator Contributor Michaela Chapman, Communications Associate Editorial Advisor Michael Deschenes, Director of Library & Information Services
48 Alumni Dinner 2019
Headmaster William L. Burke, III P’95,’97,’00,’04
St. Sebastian’s Magazine is published three times a year by the Communications Office.
Alumni gather to celebrate Coach Bob Souza and Chris Galligan '69
Correspondence concerning the magazine should be sent to: communications@stsebs.org
Alumni Dinner
St. Sebastian’s School 1191 Greendale Avenue Needham, MA 02492 781.449.5200 www.stsebs.org COVER: The Innovation Lab
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St. Sebastian’s School Mission Statement A Catholic independent school, St. Sebastian’s seeks to engage young men in the pursuit of truth through faith and reason. By embracing Gospel values in an inclusive, nurturing community and by inspiring intellectual excellence in a structured liberal arts curriculum, St. Sebastian’s strives to empower students for success in college and in life. The ideal St. Sebastian’s graduate will be a moral and just person, a gentleman of courage, honor, and wisdom, a life-long learner who continues to grow in his capacity to know, to love, and to serve God and neighbor.
Outfitted with advanced technology, our new Innovation Lab, which opened this fall, empowers and inspires Arrows to take their ideas to the next level.
INSIDE COVER: Students give prospective families a tour of the Art Building at St. Sebastian's Admissions Open House.
From the desk of the headmaster W illia m L . Bu r k e III
“We must love them both, those whose opinions we share and those whose opinions we reject, for both have labored in the search for truth, and both have helped us in finding it.” — St. Thomas Aquinas We are called, we are blessed, and we are honored to advance our most important mission—the pursuit of truth through faith and reason—in a loving culture of deep moral reflection, honest intellectual inquiry, and open, respectful dialogue. May the love of learning for its own sake, true viewpoint diversity, and the free exchange of ideas forever hold sway here. As the saying goes: “What is right is more important than who is right.” We read, we write, we balance and solve, we listen, we probe the depths, and we learn so very much from one another in our joyful, supportive community of perpetual discovery. My colleagues and I delight in partnering with our students’ parents, who so wondrously fulfill their roles as primary educators. Together, we evoke and fan into flame all that is good, true, and beautiful in our young men as we call them to ever rising peaks of excellence in body, mind, and spirit. I believe that John Adams was right on the money way back in 1798, when he asserted that “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” By educating and graduating young men who continue to grow in their capacity “to know, to love, and to serve God and neighbor,” we seek to strengthen our Church, our country, and our world. Please know that we are eternally grateful to all members of the St. Sebastian’s family who give so freely and fully of yourselves in support of our students and those who serve them. We appreciate your countless gifts of love so much more than we could ever say. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! May we connect soon and often, and may God continue to bless you and your loved ones every sacred step of the way. With love and gratitude,
William L. Burke III Headmaster
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News & Notes from Our School Community FALL 2019
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Celebrating Founder’s Day
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TOP: Presidential historian Jon Meacham meets with students and faculty in the McKinlay Room prior to his speech in front of the school. BOTTOM LEFT: In conjunction with Meacham’s visit, a crew from Kunhardt Films was present on campus for the production of a documentary on the author; BOTTOM RIGHT: Meacham delivers an enlightening and entertaining speech in front of the school in Ward Hall.
Author Jon Meacham Inspires Our Souls Jon Meacham, author of this year’s All School Read, the #1 New York Times bestseller, The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels, addressed students and faculty in Ward Hall during St. Sebastian’s annual Summer Reading Assembly on September 11, 2019. A highly sought-after commentator, the Presidential historian and Pulitzer Prize-winning author is also a contributor to Time and The New York Times Book Review and is a regular guest on CNN and MSNBC. From his vast breadth and depth of knowledge of the topics of politics, religion and current affairs, Meacham spoke about how the past informs the present and how hope triumphs over fear. Acknowledging his appreciation for St. Sebastian’s traditions of faith and reason, he noted, “We have been given the gift of reason for a reason and I urge you to think historically as much as possible.” He continued, “History is not a GPS, it’s not an intellectual Uber. You can’t call it and go somewhere. But it is an orienting force. It gives you a sense of what has been possible in the past and therefore what might be possible today.” Referencing pivotal moments in our country’s history, he asked the boys, “What do you want the future to say about us?” A theme of empathy, opening doors and not closing them, was woven into his inspirational speech.
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n recognition of St. Sebastian’s first-ever day of classes on Nonantum Hill in September 1941, the School celebrated Founder’s Day on September 27. Trustee Bill Evans ’77, P’17, Executive Director of Public Safety & Chief of Police for Boston College, served as the keynote speaker. Evans, who formerly served as the Boston Police Commissioner, shared how he overcame adversity during his childhood after losing his parents, as well as a brother, at a young age. Raised by his four older brothers, he was given the chance to go to school at St. Sebastian’s and noted that this opportunity played a major role in shaping his life. Evans continued his story, sharing how he developed an interest in law enforcement after attending Suffolk University and his journey from a police cadet to the Commissioner of the Boston Police Department, to his current position at Boston College. In closing, he shared, “I owe all my success to the fact that St. Sebastian’s taught me values and they educated me well. I’m forever grateful, I wouldn’t be the man I am today if it wasn’t for St. Sebastian’s.”
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Five Seniors Recognized as
National Scholars Congratulations to the following seniors who have been recognized by the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program as Commended Students: Patrick McDonald, Patrick Rourke, Jeffrey Serowik, Nathan Piecyk, and Michael Treseler. Students named as Commended Students are recognized for their exceptional academic promise, placing among the top three percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2020 competition by taking the 2018 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) last fall.
St. Sebastian’s Hosts Annual Novice Debate Tournament
Aidan Mulvey ’21, Dean of Students Brendan Sullivan, Julie Mulvey P’17,’21, Celeste, a student from Watts, LAPD Officer Eric Ortiz, and Headmaster Bill Burke pose for a photo.
Watts 2 Boston Provides Opportunity On October 2, Julie Mulvey P’17,’21 addressed the St. Sebastian’s community, sharing how her family is making a difference for youth who have not been given equal opportunities in their lives. In May 2019, the Mulveys founded the Watts 2 Boston Foundation (W2B), a non-profit inspired by the work of two LAPD Officers, Jay Coughlin and Eric Ortiz, who mentor kids from Watts, a poor area of Los Angeles plagued with heavy gang violence. The goal of Operation Progress is to pair students with a police mentor, send them to a private school and give them access to opportunities and resources they wouldn’t have otherwise. The Mulveys founded W2B as a way to provide support from the East Coast by helping youth from Watts to find summer jobs in Boston and giving them a break from the violence in their community. The Mulveys host the students at their home in Scituate, while providing monetary, educational, and occupational support. Julie spoke about how W2B is hoping to impact the lives of many kids from Watts and continue to help them when they go off to college. During the assembly, students also heard from Officer Ortiz about what life is like in Watts. Celeste, a teen who attends a private Catholic school through financial aid from her mentors, Officers Ortiz and Coughlin, shared her story about growing up in the troubled area and the struggles she faces on a daily basis. Thank you to the Mulvey family for inspiring our students to make a difference.
St. Sebastian’s hosted a home tournament for novice debaters from independent schools throughout the league on October 13. Congratulations to Tommy Cronin ’22 and Cotter Walsh ’22, who won Speaker’s Prizes for their individual performances. Over 120 students and faculty from 12 Independent Schools participated in the Tournament, including: BB&N, Belmont Hill, Choate Rosemary Hall, Commonwealth School, Deerfield Academy, Ethel Walker School, Groton School, Loomis Chaffee, Nobles, Northfield Mt. Hermon, Roxbury Latin and St. Sebastian’s.
Assistant Headmaster Michael Nerbonne stands with Tommy Cronin ’22 and Cotter Walsh ’22, who won Speaker’s Prizes at the Annual Novice Debate on October 13, 2019.
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Patriots’ Matthew Slater Shares a Message of Faith New England Patriots’ Special Teamer Matthew Slater surprised St. Sebastian’s students with a special guest speaking appearance on December 10. The school community gathered in Ward Hall to listen to the 7-time Pro Bowler speak about his life of faith and his relationship with God. He challenged the students to apply Jesus’ principles to their daily lives. He told the boys that having a life focused on Jesus should teach them to be men of principle, which in turn should call them to be leaders. Following his talk, Slater took photos and chatted with students and faculty.
Faculty member Jed Doherty ’86, Assistant Headmaster Michael Nerbonne, Headmaster Bill Burke, Carmela and Richard Dalton P’97, James Dalton, Stacey Dalton Cook and her husband Jonathan, and Jean Lynch, former Director of Health Services gather after the Unity Day Assembly.
Unity Day Addresses Substance Abuse
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his year’s Unity Day focused on some of the many dangers facing our youth, covering the topics of party culture, substance abuse and addiction. As part of the morning’s events on October 18, Richard Dalton P’97 gave a moving speech to students and faculty about his son, Michael, a 1997 graduate of St. Sebastian’s, who died of an accidental overdose while he was in treatment for opioid addiction in January 2018. Richard shared many wonderful memories of his son, recalling his days as a three-season Arrows athlete, #17, and especially his love of hockey. Michael, a Colby College graduate, had everything going for him, including a strong network of family and friends. Richard shared with the boys that he never imagined this would happen to his son and encouraged the students to think carefully when tempted to engage in risky behaviors. In the wake of this tragedy, the Daltons have turned their grief into action, establishing Think of Michael. The nonprofit, founded in January 2019, picks up the $800 tab for a month at a sober house for income-eligible substance abuse patients who have completed treatment. This is just one of the many ways the Daltons have been working to help others facing substance abuse.
Juniors Tour Our Nation’s Capital The Class of 2021 spent Veterans Day weekend on the annual junior class trip to Washington, D.C. Over the course of three days, they visited inspiring national monuments, impressive museums and historic government buildings. The students were fortunate to visit the National Museum of the Marine Corps for its 244th birthday celebration. Another highlight of the trip was a night tour of the monuments. During a visit to Arlington National Cemetery, class officers Joseph Pandit and Teddy Harrington took part in a wreathlaying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The trip was a great experience and one this class will always remember. 6 |
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Honoring Our Veterans On November 8, St. Sebastian’s held a Veterans Day Assembly, launching a new annual tradition by inviting a veteran to address the school community in observance of the holiday. Colonel Chris Conley ’94, who has served in the Army since graduating from West Point in 1998, served as the keynote speaker. His message to the students focused on citizenship and service to our nation. He asked the boys, “Is the nation going to be better for you having been in it?” and challenged them to think about what they can do now and in the future for that to be true. Following the assembly, the 7th and 8th graders headed to their weekly class Chapel meeting, where they received a special surprise. A bagpiper processed into St. Sebastian’s Chapel, filling the space with the beautiful sound as he played Amazing Grace and the Marines Hymn as a tribute to Fr. John Arens and David Cornish, who both served in the Marines Corp. On Veterans Day, Michael McLoughlin ’20 delivered an eloquent speech at the Needham Veterans Day Ceremony at Memorial Park to honor and thank those who have so bravely defended our country. Michael’s brothers, James ’09 and Tucker ’14, are currently serving in the military, one as an Army Ranger and the other in the 82nd Airborne Division, and his grandfather, Don Lee, served in World War II.
56 Students Inducted into
the National Honor Society This fall, 56 St. Sebastian’s students were inducted into the Sr. Evelyn C. Barrett, O.P. Chapter of the National Honor Society. The National Honor Society aims to create an enthusiasm for scholarship, stimulate a desire to render service, promote leadership, and develop character.
CLASS OF 2020 Thomas A. Flatley
Austin J. Persons
Luke P. Garrity
Evan G. Prince
Cole R. Hanifin
Jack M. Torrence
Christopher N. Hatem
Nicholas J. Urban
Harry J. Karavolas
CLASS OF 2021
TOP LEFT: Seniors Michael McLoughlin, Ryan MacDermott, Timmy Williams, and Jared Arevian with Assistant Headmaster Mike Nerbonne at the Needham Veterans Day Ceremony at Memorial Park, where McLoughlin gave a speech. TOP RIGHT: Colonel Chris Conley ’94 gives a keynote address to the St. Sebastian’s community during the Veterans Day Assembly. BOTTOM: 7th and 8th graders look on as a bagpiper processes through St. Sebastian’s Chapel.
Connor P. Arcara Alessandro G. Barbiellini John P. Bresnahan Cameron M. Collins Sean E. Duffy Ryan J. DuFour Lyndel T. Erold Seamus C. Foley James E. Freehill III Samuel J. Frisoli Carlos M. Garcia-Marxuach Henry L. Gennari William D. Goldman Joseph M. Hamilton III Edward D. Harrington Brett T. Hogan John M. Hornyak David Jones Jonathan D. Jones-Booker Colm M. Kearney Daniel Y. Ko Colin M. Lapus John E. Mahoney
Braeden P. McCabe Nolan T. McGovern Nicholas J. Merageas Thomas J. Messineo Aidan G. Mulvey Conor T. Mynahan Juan P. Oliva Aaron N. Pace Joseph D. Pandit Will D. Perri Michael C. Phelps Steven A. Purpura Timothy J. Ragnoni Samuel J. Randall Mark F. Rice Lucas D. Rioux Max O. Samulka Isaiah P. Stanfield Gabriel A. Twohig Nicholas J. Vallace Paul B. Vallace Patrick J. Wade Mark T. Wilson
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Parents Provide Insight into the World of Finance As part of the Finance Academy’s speaker series, club members had the opportunity to hear from two current parents about their experiences in the world of business and finance. On October 7, the Finance Academy hosted Jeff Morris P’15,’20, Head of North American Equities for Aberdeen Standard Investments. After sharing his career background, Morris described the responsibilities of an equity research analyst and shared some key lessons for success in analytics as well as numerous valuable life lessons which could be applied to any career in business and beyond. On November 20, Jay Feeney P’20 spoke to the Finance Academy about his roles as Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer at Boston Partners and the growth of the company, which he cofounded with 33 other people. During his presentation, Feeney went over the basics of investing and gave advice on which criteria to use when making investments, including the valuation of the company, the quality of the company, and the momentum of the company.
Delivering Shakespeare Two events in December gave students the opportunity to showcase their recitation of works by William Shakespeare. On December 10, students in grades 9-12 were invited to demonstrate their acting prowess and memorization skills by performing a speech from one of the Bard’s plays in the Shakespeare Competition. Faculty judges Mark Rogers, Michael Deschenes, and Christopher Lynch chose Alessandro Barbiellini ’21 to represent St. Sebastian’s for the third year in a row. He will move on to compete at the regional semifinals of the ESU’s (English Speaking Union) national high school competition held at Mt. Ida College on February 1. On December 19, the sophomore English classes congregated for the annual Macbeth Competition. Adding props and costumes,the students competed for the prize of being the witchiest weird sister, the ghostliest poor player, or the greatest gory-locked Banquo. Ultimately, the panel of faculty judges awarded 1st place to Andy Hassey ’22 and Ryan Donovan ’22. Joey Santosuosso ’22 won an individual prize for best actor for the grade.
Celebrating Christmas in Harmony On December 20, the St. Sebastian’s community celebrated the season with a festive and spiritual Christmas Program that joined both scripture and song. From traditional hymns to upbeat holiday tunes, the School community was entertained by outstanding performances from the Jazz Ensemble, Rock Band, Chamber Ensemble, St. Sebastian’s Schola, Mass Ensemble and Faculty Chorale. Special guest singer Alexa Serowik, sister of Jeff Serowik ’20, sang her rendition of “Little Drummer Boy.” The students and faculty joined in singing “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” always a crowd favorite.
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Serving
Our Neighbors
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ntegral to the St. Sebastian’s mission, our Service Program lives the order of the day of loving God, working hard, and taking good care of one another. Below are just a few of the many ways our students have served our neighbors recently.
National Honor Society Hosts Two Successful Drives The National Honor Society sponsored St. Sebastian’s annual Thanksgiving Food Drive and Christmas Warmth Drive to benefit Catholic Charities. Both drives were a huge success due to the generosity of the St. Sebastian’s community, helping to restock shelves for those in need of food in the days following Thanksgiving and keeping our neighbors warm with donations of hundreds of gloves, hats, scarves and socks.
Backpacks Collected for San Miguel On September 3, members of the Classes of 2022 and 2023 gathered to fill 64 backpacks with school supplies for students at the San Miguel School in Providence, RI, and then traveled to San Miguel to deliver the fully stocked backpacks. All of the items, including the backpacks, were donated by St. Sebastian’s families to ease the financial hardship faced by our brothers at San Miguel. Special thanks to Mary Beth Persons P’20 for her excellent leadership of this project over the past three years, and the many students and parents who contributed.
Art Students Visit NewBridge St. Sebastian’s art students brought joy to a group of seniors at NewBridge, a continuing care retirement community in Dedham, during a series of visits. The students spent time with the seniors, shared experiences about their artistic endeavors and challenges and created some art together while exchanging stories. The Fine Arts Department hopes to make these visits to nearby assisted living facilities a new tradition—a wonderful way to serve our neighbors!
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new on
Campus DEAN ADAMS
ROBERT BRADY
Faculty, English
Faculty, Religion
Dean graduated from Boston College in 2019 with a B.A. in English. While in school, he worked full time as a strength and nutrition coach at Compete Strength and Conditioning in Norwood. After spending a semester abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland, Dean fell back in love with literature and learning, and decided to transition to teaching. In addition to teaching English and Writing, Dean is coaching 9th grade football, 7th grade hockey, and JV lacrosse. Beyond the classroom, he loves to write, read, play hockey, and constantly work toward brewing the world’s best cup of coffee.
Bob has been teaching for about fifteen years. Before joining the faculty at St. Sebastian’s, he spent the last decade teaching religion, English, history and physical education to inner-city kids for the Archdiocese of Boston. Prior to that, he spent five years in the public school system in special education. Before he became a teacher, Bob worked many years in the newspaper business and was once in a touring rock band. He is married to his college sweetheart and has three daughters and one son who is an 8th grader at St. Sebastian’s. He is happy to be at St. Sebastian’s as a member of the Religion Department.
JAMES BARRON
MATTHEW BURKE ’00
Director of Planned Giving
Innovation Lab Director
Before joining St. Sebastian’s, James spent 35 years in banking/global markets, working with financial institutions and corporations. He has been married to Anamaria for 25 years and he and his wife have raised three sons—Brendan, Matthew ’16 and Patrick ’19—in Jamaica Plain. In addition to St. Sebastian’s, he has worked in many volunteer leadership positions at Education Partners Nigeria, Mount Alvernia Academy, the City of Boston and St. Lawrence Church. He is a graduate of Stonehill College, and attended the Instituto de Estudios Superiores de Administración in Caracas, Venezuela, where also he lived and worked. James speaks fluent Spanish, enjoys history, travel and loves to be located out on or near the water.
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St. Sebastian’s is pleased to welcome its newest faculty and staff members, a talented group who are already making an impact in the classrooms and on the School community.
ST. SEBASTIAN’S MAGAZINE
Matt, a member of the Class of 2000, is excited to be back at St. Sebastian’s. He graduated from Middlebury College in 2004 with a BA in American Civilization, while also studying Art and Film. For the last 15 years, he worked in L.A. as an actor, writer, director, animator, editor, and graphic designer while also teaching and tutoring students in math and science. Matt now lives in Boston with his wife, Jeannette, and his son, Mack. He recently studied Additive Manufacturing for Innovative Design at MIT and is directing the new Innovation Lab while also working in the Academic Support office as a tutor and coaching the 7th grade hockey team.
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AP Scholar Awards BRETT CRAWFORD Visual Media Coordinator
Brett earned his B.S. in Communications Media from Fitchburg State University with a concentration in photography in 2006. Following college, he went on to work as a photojournalist for the Sentinel & Enterprise in Fitchburg and then for Gatehouse Media in the Metro Boston area. After a nearly 10-year career in the newspaper industry, Brett worked in the Communications Department at Dexter Southfield before moving on to St. Sebastian’s. He also owns Brett Crawford Photography and specializes in wedding, family, and portraiture photography. Outside of work, Brett pursues photography as a hobby, mountain biking, spending time with his wife and two children, being in the outdoors, and traveling.
ELLEN HINMAN Director of College Counseling
Ellen arrives at St. Sebastian’s with over 20 years of experience in independent schools across New England. Most recently, she was the Head of Upper School at Dexter Southfield for five years followed by a year-long stint teaching English and Latin at Thayer Academy. Ellen earned her B.A. from Dartmouth College, an M.A. in Classics from Boston College, and an M.Ed. in Private School Leadership from the Klingenstein Center at Columbia Teachers College. Already a faculty spouse to Athletic Director Dave Hinman, and mom to Arrows Sam ’22 and Charlie ’25, as Director of College Counseling, Ellen looks forward to supporting students as they reflect on their many achievements at St. Sebastian’s and set their goals for college and beyond. In her spare time, Ellen enjoys cooking, baking, and running.
ANTHONY SCORDINO Faculty, Religion
Tony majored in Philosophy and Theology at Boston College, graduating in 2017. When not immersed in books, he played for the lacrosse team, coached youth lacrosse, and volunteered at Franciscan Children’s Hospital. During a semester abroad in southern France, he met his wife-to-be, Michelle, and the two married in May 2018. He pursued graduate studies at Boston College, earning an M.A. in Philosophy and Theology through the Bernard Lonergan Fellowship program. Introduced to St. Sebastian’s through his younger brothers, Dominic ’20 and Thomas ’22, Tony is excited to join the Religion Department. He also coaches 7th grade basketball, 7th grade lacrosse, and varsity lacrosse. Tony and Michelle reside in Wellesley, eagerly awaiting the birth of their first child in February.
The following students and recent graduates earned AP Scholar Awards from the College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) Program. Roughly 20% of the 2.1 million students worldwide who took AP Exams at the end of the 2018-19 school year performed at a sufficient level to earn this recognition.
National Scholar (scoring 4 or higher on all AP exams taken, with an average score of at least 4 on 8 or more of these exams) John H. Randall ’19
Scholar with Distinction (scoring 3 or higher on at least 5 exams, with an average score of at least 3.5) Michael D. Dailey ’19 William R. Hentschel ’19 Theodore J. Hoppe ’19 John B. Moffatt ’19 Ellis P. O’Donnell ’19 Keun W. Oh ’19
Anthony A. Perez ’19 Jared H. Price ’19 Nolan M. Prince ’19 John H. Randall ’19 Miguel J. Vega ’19 Griffin C. Wagner ’19
Scholar with Honor (scoring 3 or higher on at least 4 exams, with an average score of at least 3.25) Michael P. Farinacci ’20 Patrick W. McDonald ’20 Evan T. Nordby ’20 Jack S. Gallagher ’19 Ryan W. Heffernan ’19
Andrew Y. Ko ’19 Joseph G. Maalouf ’19 Jack P. Milbury ’19 Brendan M. Murphy ’19
Scholar (scoring 3 or higher on at least 3 exams) Connor J. Bertsch ’19 Peter J. Blake ’19 Jose Maria Castelo ’20 Michael J. Colgan ’20 Dylan J. Crandall ’20 John R. Dumouchel ’19 James M. Esperne ’19 John P. Farley ’19 John P. Feeney ’20 Luke P. Garrity ’20 Andrew C. Giacchetto ’19 Trace R. Gotham ’20 Stepan N. Kapreilian ’19 Nathaniel T. Kocho ’19 Jack R. LeBlanc ’19 Thomas J. Lyons ’19 Owen P. Martin ’19
Thomas J. McCarthy ’20 Emmanuel Messele ’19 Andrew F. Michienzi ’19 Austin J. Persons ’20 Brian C. Piatelli ’19 Nathan J. Piecyk ’20 Evan G. Prince ’20 Zachary S. Salvatore ’19 Dominic T. Scordino ’20 Jeffrey M. Serowik ’20 Robert T. Smith ’19 Wesley J. Stanton ’20 Ryan J. Steinkrauss ’19 Cole C. Tremblay ’19 Michael T. Treseler ’20 Timothy A. Williams ’20
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Students exit the church on the first day of school.
A GLIMPSE
along Greendale Avenue Arrows compete in the Monster Mile, a fun Halloween tradition.
Students and faculty write thoughtful notes to each other during the Christmas Card Assembly.
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7th graders participate in a team-building activity during orientation at Hale Reservation.
The fall foliage is in full bloom behind the rotunda of the West Campus Center.
Students demonstrate a science experiment for prospective families during Curriculum Night.
Student Council President Jeff Serowik '20 models the Arrows blazer created for the 2019 Christmas Auction while making announcements. FALL 2019
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Welcome
to Our New Trustees Timothy J. Connelly P’17 ’19
Tim and his wife, Amie, live in Wellesley and have three sons: Ryan, Nicholas ’17, a junior at Kenyon College, and Matthew ’19, a freshman at Bates College. Currently a Limited Partner at Brown Brothers Harriman and Co (BBH), Tim enjoyed a 30-year career at BBH where he was a General Partner for 15 years. Tim is a graduate of Williams College (B.A. History), holds an MBA from Northeastern University and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). He currently serves on the following Boards of Trustees: The United Way of Mass Bay and Merrimack Valley, The Cotting School, The Carroll School and New England Disabled Sports. He is also an Executive in Residence at Northeastern University’s D’Amore-McKim School of Business and previously served as CEO of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative. The Connelly’s have been active volunteers at St. Sebastian’s, including serving as co-chairs of the 2019 Annual Fund.
John G. Cox P’22 ’25 John and his wife, Ivette, live in Sudbury and have two sons, John Jr.’22 and Lucas ’25, and two daughters, Alena and Ambar, who graduated from Newton Country Day of the Sacred Heart. Alena is attending North Carolina State and Ambar is attending The College of the Holy Cross. John currently serves as CEO of Torque Therapeutics, a cellular immune-oncology clinical stage company. He also currently serves as the Executive Chairman of Minovia Therapeutics, a privately held mitochondrial cell therapeutics company. John is the former Chief Executive Officer of Bioverativ Corporation. He holds an MBA from the University of Michigan, an MS in Cell Biology from California State University and a BS in Biology from Arizona State University.
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St. Sebastian’s is very fortunate to have an exceptional group of parents, alumni, and friends of the School who give generously of their time and share their wisdom as members of the Board of Trustees. We are pleased to welcome the six new members joining our board.
Catherine C. Daniel P’15 ’18 ’20
President, Guild of St. Irene Cathy and her husband, John, reside in Wellesley with their six children. Matthew ’15 is a graduate of Middlebury College, Billy ’18 is a sophomore at Trinity College and Teddy is in the St. Sebastian’s class of 2020. Their daughters have all attended Wellesley High School. Midge is a graduate of Trinity College, Carly graduated in 2016 from Boston College and Mary is a high school junior. Cathy is a 1984 graduate of Brown University and was employed by the Brown University Sports Foundation for a number of years. She then went to work at the investment firm of Carolan & Co., Inc. before raising her family. Cathy and John are active St. Sebastian’s volunteers, having served on the Parent Annual Fund Committee since 2012. Additionally, Cathy has been involved in each of her children’s schools and has helped with their athletic programs.
Dana W. Fulham P’14 ’23 Dana and her husband, Dan, live in Newton and have four sons. The youngest two are Arrows, Daniel ’14 and Brendan ’23. The older two, Peter and Anthony, attended high school when they were living in Buffalo. Peter is a graduate of Georgetown University, Anthony is a graduate of Dartmouth College and Daniel is a graduate of Middlebury College. Dana grew up in Washington, D.C., where she attended Stone Ridge Country Day School of the Sacred Heart. She received a BA in English from Willliams College and then went on to work as a newspaper reporter at several papers, including The Baltimore Evening Sun and The Boston Globe, where she covered education. Dana has been a very active volunteer at all the schools her sons have attended.
John A. Piccione ’76 John and his wife, Dr. Noreen Ferrante, live in Weston. They have three daughters, Olivia, Victoria and Madeline, and a son, Thomas. Olivia and Victoria are graduates of Harvard University and Madeline is a senior at The College of the Holy Cross. Thomas is a senior at Weston High School. John has served as a Vice President, Deputy General Counsel at Thermo Fisher since 1998 and as Chief Counsel– Mergers & Acquisitions since November 2006 when Thermo Electron Corporation merged with Fisher Scientific International Inc. to create Thermo Fisher. As Chief Counsel–Mergers & Acquisitions, he manages the legal aspects of the company’s acquisitions and divestitures. John is a 1980 graduate of Harvard College and a 1983 graduate of Boston University School of Law.
Stephen Ward ’96, P’24 ’25 Stephen and his wife Roberta live in Needham, having recently relocated from Cape Cod. They have four sons: Luke ’24 and Nick ’25 attend St. Sebastian’s and Sam and Jake attend Saint Joe’s in Needham. Stephen is the Owner and President of Cape Dairy Group of MA, a multi-location wholesale dairy distributor that serves New England. He is a 1996 graduate of St. Sebastian’s and a 2000 graduate of The College of the Holy Cross. Stephen has been an active alumnus, including serving as the Alumni Association President from 2007 to 2009 and as a member of the Board of Trustees from 2009 to 2018.
ACADEMIC WORKSHOPS Writing | Robotics | Debate
Summer 2020
Sessions run from 9am-12pm for either one or two weeks.
Open to all boys entering grades 5–9 These three distinct workshops, run by our experienced St. Sebastian’s faculty, are an enriching learning opportunity for students looking for a challenging and fun summer experience.
For dates and to register:
stsebs.org/workshops FALL 2018
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FALL 2017
Faith OUR YEAR OF
September 9, 2019 / Opening remarks for the academic year BY HEADMASTER WILLIAM L. BURKE III
P
erhaps you’ve heard the story of Mother Teresa’s conversation with a Congressman at a White House reception held in her honor. The Congressman praised her for her heroic service on behalf of the poorest of the poor in India and then asked whether she believed that her work was making any significant difference. Given the tremendous magnitude of the poverty problem with so many people dying on the streets of hunger and disease every day, did she really believe that she was being successful? Mother Teresa responded by telling the lawmaker that God doesn’t ask us to be successful. He asks us to be faithful. And so we launch our year of Faith. Faith is the first of the three theological virtues: Faith, Hope, and Love. All three live in the here and now and concern themselves with the beyond and forever. A life devoid of faith, hope, and love would be very small, so terribly barren, and abjectly sad. Years ago, I read an article written by a Jesuit priest named William O’Malley, who had just celebrated a milestone birthday. What have I learned in these 60 years, he mused? These three things, he hoped: The difference between certitude and faith, the difference between optimism and hope, and the difference between sinlessness and love.
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We’ll tackle just the first one this morning: the difference between certitude and faith. Certitude or certainty exists in reason’s realm. Two and two equals four. The sun rises in the East. The Patriots defeated the Steelers last night. These statements can be tested, verified, proven true or false. Not so, faith, which is often associated with the heart and has been defined as complete trust or confidence in someone or something and as strong belief in God. Loyalty and fidelity, morality and trust, humility and belief travel with faith. Faith and reason perform different functions, and we need them both. Faith is soul stuff, immeasurable. 17th century French mathematician and Catholic theologian, Blaise Pascal, shares: “The heart has its reasons which reason knows not of.” And he asserts: “It is the heart which experiences God, and not the reason. This, then, is faith; God felt by the heart, not by reason.” There are so many definitions of faith. I especially like one expressed by Thomas Keating, an American Catholic monk and priest, who passed last year at the age of 95. When he was in your age range, he was a student at Deerfield Academy. Here’s his definition: Faith is opening and surrendering to God. Opening and surrendering. We spoke much of opening 15 years ago, when Open was our theme. I remember sharing then that I had chosen Open because it was the word I
overheard myself using most often when speaking with a person struggling with his or her faith life. I’d often say something such as: “Just be open to the possibility that there is a God who loves you more than you can love. You’re a smart person. You’ll figure it out.” To learn and grow and be productive, fulfilled, and complete, we need to have open minds and open hearts. Faith is opening and surrendering to God. I don’t happen to be in Alcoholics Anonymous, which is frequently referred to as AA, but I have many good friends who are, and I learn so very much from them. AA is sometimes referred to as The Program, as indeed a 12-step program is central to its mission. The first three steps can be expressed simply as: I can’t. God can. So I’ll let Him. The “so I’ll let Him” is what is meant by surrender. Faith is opening and surrendering to God in hope and in love. “So I’ll let Him.” I have to tell you that I really like the word so. In fact, I have even written a short poem titled “So.” Here it is: So You pierce our Patron with Arrows So we sew them on our crest You nail our Savior to the Cross So I wear one on my chest That little word so almost shouts, “This is what I’m going to do about it!” I can’t. God can. So I’ll let Him. As Father John Arens and Mr. David Cornish will tell you, Semper Fi, the motto of their United States Marine Corps, is the shortened version of Semper Fidelis, which is Latin for “Always Faithful.” Believe me, it is our great hope and expectation that you gentlemen will live your lives in such a way that we can write, with true conviction, in our college letters of recommendation that you are always faithful. When walking from our West Campus Center to the Birmingham Academic Building, we pass between two stone pillars and rock walls. Engraved in one of those walls are these words: Fides et Ratio. Faith and Reason. The first sentence of our mission statement reads: “A Catholic independent School, St. Sebastian’s seeks to engage young men in the pursuit of truth through faith and reason.” We are totally committed to calling you gentlemen to the highest levels of academic excellence, to sparking the life of
the mind, to fanning into flame your intellectual curiosity, and to inspiring the full development of your reasoning powers, but we’re also totally committed to engaging and evoking and deepening more, much, much more than your minds in our quest for truth. Faith and reason are complementary, not opposing, forces. As Thomas Aquinas asserts: “Both the light of reason and the light of faith come from God. Therefore, there can be no contradiction between them.” When we make our way from Ward Hall to and through the math corridor, which we have named St. Sebastian’s Way, we encounter three panels on our right, each emblazoned with words and images expressive of our spirit and mission. On the middle panel we find these words: “The power of St. Sebastian’s is the synergy of faith and reason in the focused, determined, inexorable pursuit of truth.” Bishop Robert Barron shares: “To have faith is to allow oneself to be overwhelmed by the power of God, to permit the divine energy to reign at all levels of one’s being.” Note the verbs: allow and permit. God, who is love, loves us first and wants us to be able to love Him in return, so He has given us freedom, freedom of choice. We can turn away from God, or we can say yes to love, to hope, to faith. To have God’s power and energy rule in us, we have to allow it; we have to permit it. We have to mean it when we say, “Thy will be done.”
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After the Transfiguration, Jesus comes down from the mountain with Peter, James, and John to rejoin the other disciples. Here’s what happens next: When they came to the disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and scribes arguing with them. Immediately on seeing him, the whole crowd was utterly amazed. They ran up to him and greeted him. He asked them, “What are you arguing about with them?” Someone from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I have brought to you my son possessed by a mute spirit. Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down; he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive it out, but they were unable to do so.” He said to them in reply, “O faithless generation, how long will I be with you? How long will I endure you? Bring him to me.” They brought the boy to him. And when he saw him, the spirit immediately threw the boy into convulsions. As he fell to the ground, he began to roll around and foam at the mouth. Then he questioned the father, “How long has this been happening to him?” He replied, “Since childhood. It has often thrown him into fire and into water to kill him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” Jesus said to him, “‘If you can!’ Everything is possible to one who has faith.” Then the boy’s father cried out, “I do believe, help my unbelief!” Jesus, on seeing a crowd rapidly gathering, rebuked the unclean spirit and said to it, “Mute and deaf spirit, I command you: come out of him and never enter him again!” Shouting and throwing the boy into convulsions, it came out. He became like a corpse, which caused many to say, “He is dead!” But Jesus took him by the hand, raised him, and he stood up. When they entered the house, his disciples asked him in private, “Why could we not drive it out?” He said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer.” (Mark 9: 14-29) Everything is possible to one who has faith. May we all grow in faith. I do believe. Help my unbelief. No matter how much we grow in faith, we will never have enough, so let’s keep asking God for more of it. This kind can only come out through prayer. And let’s step up our prayer lives. Let’s find time to be alone with God and to find God deep in our hearts. Let’s listen to Him. Let’s say yes. I believe. Help my unbelief. I recommend that we consider committing to memory a sentence from every good book we read. Here’s one from Father Eugene Boylan’s wonderful book, This Tremendous Lover: “Confidence and humility always go together.” To have confidence in our ability to balance and solve an equation, memorize lines for a play, or hit a curve ball, is 18 |
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quite literally to approach and perform each task with faith. Humility, the opposite of arrogance or sinful pride, is, as Boylan suggests, all about truth and reverence for God. Pride, in the words of Father Keating, attributes to oneself the gifts of God. Tomorrow in Mass, when we recite these words—Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof—we are being truthful, grounded; we are practicing humility. And when we follow with these words—But only say the word, and I shall be healed—we are expressing confidence, faith in God, the Giver of all good gifts. Everything is possible to one who has faith. Confidence and humility always go together. So we want to be open to God; we want to grow in faith, but what about our doubts? We all have them. It’s normal to doubt, even good, as Sister Wendy Beckett shares here: “Doubt is often an excellent thing. Credulity is infantile: we all have to weigh evidence and make up our mind, and until we do, there is honest doubt, surely. But honest doubt is not willful doubt. Willful doubt is wrong precisely because it is not honest. It has an agenda: it is evading truth for its own reasons.” I do believe. Help my unbelief. As we often share at this school, we seek to inspire the integrated happy, healthy, holy life that God wants us to live. Happy, healthy, holy—these are concepts that speak for themselves. Integrated, however, calls for some analysis. In the early 1990’s, we were blessed to have noted child psychiatrist, prolific author, and Harvard professor, Robert Coles, address our community. He told the story of Ruby Bridges, the first African-American child to desegregate the
Last year, I attended the Massachusetts Football Hall of Fame banquet at which two of our Arrows and a number of other secondary school athletes were honored. One of the athletes shared that his coach called him and his teammates to greatness several times a day with this refrain: “All I want is all you got!” And I thought, isn’t that what God asks of us? All He wants is all we’ve got, our fully integrated whole selves. Hang with me on this one. In 1873, Matthew Arnold writes in his famous essay Literature and Dogma: “...faith is neither the submission of the Reason, nor is it the acceptance, simply and absolutely upon testimony, of what wisdom cannot reach. Faith is: the being able to cleave to a power of goodness appealing to our higher and real self, not to our lower and apparent self.” And so we have a link to our All School Read’s title: The Soul of America ~ The Battle for our Better Angels. On March 4, 1861, with the Civil War about to erupt between our country’s North and South, President Abraham Lincoln stood and delivered these words at the conclusion of his first inaugural address: all-white William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana during the New Orleans school desegregation crisis in 1960. Coles happened to be in New Orleans on the first day that 6-year-old Ruby entered her new school. He reported that the little girl had to be escorted by federal marshals, as they made their way through a roiling sea of angry protesters, chanting: “2-4-6-8. We don’t want to integrate!” Coles, a master storyteller, paused and wryly offered an aside in these or similar words: “You know, we psychiatrists and psychologists happen to think that integration is a good thing.” And, of course, we do, too. To integrate is to unify, to connect, to become one. We seek to engage young men in the pursuit of truth through faith and reason. Truly, everything we do here calls us to nurture and deepen and develop and integrate our spiritual lives with our intellectual lives. What a great opportunity we have! 2-4-6-8 most schools don’t seek to integrate faith and reason, worship and intellectual inquiry, but we do, and we thank God for it. As our friend, Reverend Thomas Keating, proclaims: “The goal is to integrate and unify various levels of one’s being and to surrender that integrated and unified being to God.”
“Truly, everything we do here calls us to nurture and deepen and develop and integrate our spiritual lives with our intellectual lives.”
I am loath to close. We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature. What Matthew Arnold calls our higher and real self, Lincoln refers to as the better angels of our nature. In today’s culture, we speak of our true self and our false self and we speak of striving to become the best versions of ourselves, and at St. Sebastian’s, where we pursue truth through faith and reason, we proclaim our commitment to love God, to work hard, and to take good care of one another. We are made in the image and likeness of God, so there is a way we ought to be and a way we ought not to be, and we ought to be honest and kind and loving people of faith and honor. We read in Mr. Meacham’s book that among President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s last words were these: “Let us move forward with strong and active faith.” May we all move forward with strong and active faith, so that we may lead integrated, joyful, fulfilling lives of love and service and, at the end of our time on earth, be able to speak these words of St. Paul: “I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7) And upon our passing hear these words: “Well done, my good and faithful servant. Come share your Master’s joy.” (Matthew 15:21) May God continue to bless you all every sacred step of the way.
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The
Innovation
LAB BY CHRISTINE Y. ROBERTSON
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From the first Science Fair on Nonantum Hill in 1947 to today’s Robotics Club, St. Sebastian’s has always had students who want to create, build and problem solve. Our new Innovation Lab, which opened this fall, empowers and inspires Arrows to take their ideas to the next level. Outfitted with advanced technology, the creative interdisciplinary space provides a hands-on experience that encourages students’ passions while advancing their knowledge in the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) disciplines.
S
t. Sebastian’s joins a growing number of schools across the country who are investing in dedicated spaces and technology that promote innovative thinking. Indeed, more and more students come to St. Sebastian’s from schools where they’ve had access to innovation spaces and are looking to continue building those skills here. Our robust Robotics program has provided the greatest access to this tangible type of learning, but the desire to do more and to expand the program to other disciplines became a clear priority for the School. Thanks to the generosity of current parents at the 2018 Christmas Auction & Dinner, the vision for an Innovation Lab became a reality. The Science Department, led by department chair David Wilbur, did a great deal of research and visited schools across all levels, from K-8 to public and independent high schools and colleges, to determine the best combination of equipment for our lab, as well as
the physical set-up. Utilizing already existing spaces, a plan fell into place to outfit two specific labs for different stages of the creative process. The main lab area, located in Lynch Hall —the rotunda at the end of the science wing—serves as the space for designing, prototyping and testing. There are several whiteboards for initial brainstorming and rough draft design, and two 65-inch touch-screen computers with design software and a digital whiteboard interface for further development and sharing of ideas. When ready, students use Computer Aided Design or graphic design software to digitally create a 3-dimensional object which can then be sent to one of our 3D printers, or 2-dimensional designs to be sent to the laser cutters/ engravers. The 3D printers allow for rapid prototyping so students can test their designs, get peer feedback, and then re-design, re-print, and re-test until they finalize a finished piece. A photo station in the lab allows students to document and record their design and fabrication process from beginning to end.
OPPOSITE: Hexagons made by the laser engraver and cutter represent the process of creating something in the Innovation Lab; TOP: A view of the main lab area from the 2nd floor overlook in Lynch Hall; BOTTOM: Innovation Lab Director Matt Burke advises Joey Pandit '21 as he creates custom parts for his mousetrap car.
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“The Innovation Lab is not just for juniors or seniors or the Robotics Team, anybody can use it and I think that’s really awesome.” —Ray Hilvert ’20
The second facet of the Innovation Lab is the machine room, located in one of the Science Department’s dedicated project rooms. This space is currently equipped with a vertical band saw, a drill press, a much larger and more powerful laser cutter/engraver than the one in the main lab, a liquid resin 3D printer which produces a print with much higher definition and detail than the 3D printers in the main lab, and a 3 axis CNC milling machine. This is an area where a student can take his finalized and test-proven design and fabricate a finished part out of stronger materials like metal. The goal of the Innovation Lab is to create an environment where a student can let his imagination and creativity soar. “We’re giving students the tools and knowledge and experience that they need to go do whatever it is that they want to go do,” shared Matt Burke, Director of the Innovation Lab. “I’m here to guide them when they need
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help, but it’s an open space.” The loftiness and natural light of the rotunda in the main lab literally create an openness that has proven to be a perfect fit for the nature of the work that happens there. “It’s inspirational. The octagonal shape puts a different spin in your brain from being in a cubic space all day,” noted Wilbur. “Although we didn’t know it at the time, it’s as if Lynch Hall was built for this.” In addition to creativity, the Innovation Lab also promotes critical thinking skills. Although teachers are encouraged to incorporate the Lab into their curriculum, it’s primarily intended to be an extracurricular space. Students can come during a free period or after school to pursue their idea without the boundaries placed on them in a traditional classroom setting. “Removing these limits, so they can just go explore and invent with no grade attached, is not only great for
their creative minds and building their confidence, but helps them learn to problem solve,” observed Wilbur. By creating a student-driven space, the Lab facilitates peer-to-peer exchange of knowledge, passion, expertise and ideas. Some of the seniors who have experience with CAD software through robotics have been showing underclassmen what they can do and then challenging them to go build something. “One of my goals for the space was to have students teaching students,” shared Burke. “To see that happening organically has been great.” The Innovation Lab is designed to enable students to explore any discipline, particularly science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Members of the Robotics
“The ability to design a piece in the CAD software and then have it brought to light using the 3D printer is pretty special.” —Tim Souza ’20
From left to right: Ray Hilvert ’20 explains the new hinge system he created for the Robotics Team’s robot using the 3D printer; 7th grade students create custom coins using the laser engraver and cutter in the machine room; Tim Souza ’20 brainstorms on a whiteboard in the Lab; James Joyce '24 uses one of the Lab’s laptops to design an art project.
team are using the Lab to design and manufacture custom parts for their robot, from a hinge mechanism to an attachment that allows the chassis of the robot to be lowered. Students are using the equipment to help build their mousetrap cars, a science project which exposes them to engineering. From a 3D model of a plant cell to a friction lab and a balloon car experiment, science classes have been finding creative ways to use the software and equipment as part of their classwork. The math department is brainstorming how to use the Lab to demonstrate concepts in calculus or algebra. While the Lab lends itself naturally to the science curriculum, Burke, an artist himself, is eager to engage art students in taking advantage of all the facilities have to offer. From the graphic design software to the 3D printer and laser cutter and engraver, the students have access to powerful and versatile tools and the possibilities of what can
be created are exciting. A pottery class is planning to make stamps to add designs to clay. The AP Photography class is exploring the idea of laser engraving photos into wood. Students have come in on their own just to play around, from etching a name into a phone case to making 3D objects. Burke’s mission is to get students into the Lab who might not otherwise come on their own. “Once they get in here with a class, they are inspired to come do other projects, whether it’s art or engineering.” By investing in STEAM education, St. Sebastian’s is preparing its students for success in college and beyond. For those who pursue a career in a related discipline, whether as an engineer, architect or entrepreneur, the technical experience acquired in the Lab will give them a head start at the next level. “Of
course, colleges want students to have their fundamental sciences, but they also want problem solvers. They want team players,” noted Wilbur. “These spaces allow those things to happen at a much faster rate than they do inside a classroom in a lot of ways.” Regardless of which field they end up in, the skills students develop in the Lab —from critical thinking to creativity and collaboration—can be applied to anything they do. They learn to think “outside the box,” to take risks, and when they fail, to try again.
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Spirit & People Campaign West Campus Center
$31,000,000
Endowment
$22,550,000
Campaign Administration
$1,450,000
Total Campaign Funds
$55,000,000
GIFTS & PLEDGES As of December 31, 2019
Unrestricted
$30,144,221 Restricted to Endowment
$19,061,258
Restricted - Athletics/Other
$2,075,000
Left to Raise
$3,719,521
Left to Raise Restricted to Endowment Restricted - Athletics/Other Unrestricted Gifts
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T
he Spirit & People Campaign is a $55 million initiative which officially commenced in January 2016. Under the leadership of our tireless campaign committee, co-chaired by Jack Connors GP’20,’23,’24,’24 and Bill O’Malley P’09,’10,’13 and with the generous support of 280 donors, the Campaign Committee has successfully raised $51.3 million in total gifts and pledges as of December 31, 2019. Of the $55 million to be raised, $31 million in gifts and pledges has been allocated to construct the West Campus Center. Opened for the start of the winter sports season in November 2018, this stunning building has become a true campus hub for students after school and serves as a welcome gathering spot for parents, alumni and faculty for games, meetings, drama productions and social events. The potential uses for the West Campus Center are truly limitless! Endowment is the second component of the Campaign and plays a crucial role in the operating budget each and every year. For St. Sebastian’s, increasing the endowment is an operating imperative and will ensure that a St. Sebastian’s education is a possibility for future generations of young Arrows. As we enter the fifth year of our stated five-year Campaign, the Committee will be reaching out to more parents and alumni to help complete this important and record-setting initiative for St. Sebastian’s School!
$51.3M As of December 31, 2019
$55M Campaign Goal
SPIRIT & PEOPLE CAMPAIGN
Why do endowments matter? To help provide a better understanding of our endowment, what it is, how it works and its tremendous importance, we sat down with Headmaster Bill Burke, Jack Doherty ’62, Business Manager, and Mark O'Friel ’79, Chairman of the Endowment Committee, to get their thoughts.
Let’s start with the fundamentals. What is an endowment? Jack: Quite simply, an endowment is a vast sum of money set aside to produce income. Bill: The endowment is typically thought of in terms of money, but land can be an endowment as well. We usually think of endowment as a sum of money that you have in your savings account, set aside for specific uses. You spend a certain percentage of it every year and the more it grows, the more you have to spend in the future. Mark: A financial endowment is a legal structure for managing, in perpetuity, a pool of assets for a specific purpose. So we have a set of assets we’re managing in perpetuity for the purpose of the school.
ENDOWMENT FUND PROFILE Academic Programs
5.1% Faculty
2.5%
16.4% 41.9%
Financial Aid
34.1%
Bill: The bigger the endowment, the better you can take care of your people. I’ve tried to look at all of this in terms of spirit and people. The endowment will help us control the overall tuition of the School, fund financial aid, and compensate our faculty and staff well. We can thank Frank and Eileen Ward (P’96, GP’09,’11,’24,’25) for essentially starting our endowment in the 90’s with their $5 million campaign gift to the New Century Fund restricted to faculty salaries. Jack: Our endowment provides funds that allow us to continue to grow our diverse student body. Why is a substantial endowment so important, given that it’s not a pot of money that can be withdrawn for any reason and its purposes can be restricted? Bill: An endowment is important for excellence and opportunity. It can also be important for survival in really tough times. It’s securing our future. When we agreed to go ahead with this campaign, Rob Wadsworth, who was then the treasurer of the Board said, “We’re going to address needs and secure future.” The secure future part is in the endowment.
As of June 30, 2019 Property Reserve
Why do endowments exist and how do the endowments affect faculty and students?
Unrestricted
Jack: A large endowment also helps when you are doing major construction projects. If we need to borrow money, the bigger our endowment is, the more leverage we have to secure better interest rates. Mark: Our general spending policy is 4%. That is, no more than 4% can be withdrawn from a fund in any given year. If managed properly, our endowment will continue to grow and generate additional income that we can then use to support our students and faculty.
ons
y Reserve
l Aid
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SPIRIT & PEOPLE CAMPAIGN
What are some common misunderstandings about endowments for secondary schools? Bill: One misperception might be that the bigger the endowment, the less need there is for donations. I can assure the St. Sebastian’s family that although our endowment has grown significantly over 25 years, particularly in the last ten years, it is still quite small compared to our competitors. We need to increase our position to protect our School.
What role does the endowment play in the budget? Jack: It helps balance our annual budget. Endowment income this year accounted for 8.1% of our budget. If we didn’t have the endowment draw and the Annual Fund proceeds, our tuition would be $10,000 higher than it is now.
2019 ENDOWMENT PER STUDENT FOR ISL SCHOOL COMPETITORS $500,000
Mark: Endowment is about the whole program, supporting our people and maintaining our facilities. Part of what we’re raising money for in the Spirit & People Campaign is to set aside enough in the endowment ($8.6 million) to pay for the upkeep and maintenance of the new West Campus Center. It covers all the essential annual costs of operating the new building. It’s the fiscally prudent way to go.
$475,410
ENDOWMENT DRAW AS A PERCENTAGE OF OPERATING EXPENSES
$400,000 $311,669
$300,000
8.1%
$1,500,000
$257,060
$200,000
$1,200,000
6.3%
$111,939 $78,973
$100,000
0
6.1%
$68,032
$54,454
5.4%
$900,000
4.6%
School A
School B School C
St. School D Sebastian’s
School E
School F
$600,000
2.8%
3.3%
3.3%
2011
2012
3.6%
3.6%
2013
2014
$300,000
Mark: Incorrectly, some people might think it’s a savings account that can be spent any time for any purpose, that they can take from the endowment if they need it. We have strong safeguards in place with a conservative spending policy of 4%. If we wanted to change that, it would take a super majority Board vote. The endowment has grown from $30,000 to over $45 million in the last 30 years. How has this growth made St. Sebastian’s a better school? Bill: We’ve been able to attract and retain great faculty and our ability to fund financial aid for deserving students improves our overall program immensely. Jack: A strong endowment is key to providing at least 25% of the student body with partial or full financial aid. This high level of funding for students who qualify ensures that we have a diverse student body.
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0
2010
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Bill: Endowment, in essence, enables us to charge our families less and pay our people more. Mark: Our endowment draw has grown from $330,000 to $1.4 million over the last ten years—a 337.6% increase, which is just fantastic! We forecast our endowment returns will be 5% per year and we hope for continuing generosity from our donors. We’ve done very well; however, when we compare ourselves to our competitors and others in the league, we still have a long way to go. We’ve taken a major step; now we need to keep it going. The Board’s priority is to grow our endowment. It will certainly be a part of any campaign in the future.
SPIRIT & PEOPLE CAMPAIGN
OPERATING REVENUE
ENDOWMENT PERFORMANCE VS. BENCHMARKS
As of June 30, 2019 Auxilary Other Activities Income Endowment
2.7%
7.7% Annual Fund
2.6%
Endowment Returns
1 Year
3 Year
5 Year
10 Year
St. Sebastian's Endowment
7.6%*
9.4%
6.7%*
9.5%*
Cambridge Associates Endowment—Top Quartile
5.9%
9.8%
5.8%
9.1%
Cambridge Associates Endowment—Median
4.9%
8.8%
5.1%
8.5%
70/30 MSCI ACWI/ Barclays Global Aggregate
6.1%
8.7%
4.8%
8.1%
12.7%
74.3%
Tuition & Fees (net)
* St. Sebastian's endowment returns among top quartile returns of Cambridge Associates universe of college and university endowments
me
vi es
t General Institutional
d
ees (Net)
Jack: When the endowment first started, we had an investment firm manage the Endowment Fund with the Board of Trustees’ Endowment Committee monitoring the results. As a cost-saving measure, we then switched course and the Endowment Committee manages the Fund utilizing index funds in a balanced approach that is 70% equity and 30% fixed income. The Endowment Committee has done a phenomenal job, as is evidenced by the endowment performance benchmark chart.
OPERATING EXPENSES As of June 30, 2019
8.0% Maintenance
General Administration
Auxilary Activities
2.2%
11.2%
Why do we need parents and alumni to donate to the endowment? 20.2%
58.4%
Faculty Instruction & Student Expense
vi es
ce
When we look at our endowment returns over the last ten years, how do we compare to other endowments?
Mark: We utilize passive products to implement our investment strategy. Data from a recent study by Cambridge Associates shows that for fiscal year 2019, we are in the top ministra on quartile for one-year, five-year and ten-year returns for ruc on & Studentcollege Expense and university endowments.
tu onal
Bill: We have a very special school that we want to do everything we can to preserve—we are the only Catholic school in the ISL. There is a reason that longtime good schools have strong endowments. They have the resources to advance their excellence in the good financial times and in the bad. We need to do everything we can to secure our future! Jack: One phrase I like that’s helpful is, “You don’t give to St. Sebastian’s, you give St. Sebastian’s to somebody else.” In other words, your gift to the endowment makes it possible for deserving students to benefit from a St. Sebastian’s education. Mark: I often think of the phrase, “To whom much is given, much is expected.” I hope my fellow alumni will consider giving back to this great school when the time is right for them.
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SPIRIT & PEOPLE CAMPAIGN
With
Gratitude
As part of St. Sebastian’s Spirit & People Campaign, two major donors have made gifts to support the endowment, establishing new traditions.
Tim and Amie Connelly Distinguished Chair in Classics Tim and Amie Connelly P’17,’19 have established the first endowed chair in St. Sebastian’s history: the Tim and Amie Connelly Distinguished Chair in Classics. Two of the Connellys’ sons— Nicholas ’17 and Matthew ’19—had wonderful experiences as students and their oldest son, Ryan, is an honorary Arrow. “As a family, we’re so grateful to St. Sebastian’s and how the school transformed our sons into men, both in the classrooms and on the athletic fields,” shared Amie. The Connellys wanted to give back to St. Sebastian’s in a way that captured both of their sons’ experiences and after giving it considerable thought, decided to focus their campaign gift on the exceptional faculty. “We wanted to
recognize in some way the special sauce that is St. Sebastian’s,” said Tim, who joined the Board of Trustees this year. “While there’s a lot of great things about the school, we kept coming back to how impressed we were with the faculty.” Although both boys had enjoyed courses and teachers across the departments, they landed on the Classics Department, with chair Sean Albertson serving as the catalyst for tipping them in this direction. “Sean was the mentor-advisor for Matthew and he was the head of the department that Nicholas loved,” noted Tim. At the Faculty-Trustee Dinner on November 7, Tim took the podium to announce the Tim and Amie Connelly Distinguished Chair in Classics, recognizing Sean,
the first chair to hold the title, and the entire department for their outstanding contributions. The Connellys believe that endowed chairs are a strategic way to strengthen an academic institution and hope their gift to the Spirit & People Campaign paves the way for additional gifts of this type. “We wanted to do something that might serve as an example for others who are so inspired by certain teachers or mentors or academic experiences,” noted Tim. “It’s a vision that gets at the heart of the sustainability of this wonderful school.” The new conference room on the second floor of the West Campus Center will also be named the Connelly Family Conference Room.
LEFT: Tim and Amie Connelly, Classics Chair Sean Albertson, Headmaster Bill Burke and Board President Jim Elcock gather at the Faculty-Trustee Dinner following a speech given by Tim to announce the Tim and Amie Connelly Distinguished Chair in Classics. RIGHT: Tim with sons Nicholas ’17 and Matthew ’19 at Commencement 2019.
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SPIRIT & PEOPLE CAMPAIGN
LEFT: John Galligan ‘65, standing with Fr. Gilmartin, accepts the John B. Ennis Award for his achievements as a scholar-athlete during his senior year. RIGHT: The Galligan Brothers—Peter’ 74, Martin ’73, John ’65, Chris ’69 and Tom ’62—gather at the 2019 Alumni Dinner;
The Galligan Family Scholarship Fund The Galligan Family Scholarship Fund, established by John ’65 and Kathy Galligan, is St. Sebastian’s first-ever fund named for an alumni family. John, along with his brothers—Tom ’62, Chris ’69, Martin ’73, and Peter ’74— remembers his days as an Arrow fondly and was looking for a meaningful way to give back to the school that has meant so much to his family. This most generous gift to the Spirit & People Campaign will go into the endowment and provide financial aid to future deserving students. The Galligan Brothers hope to continue contributing to this fund which pays tribute to their mother and father. “We wanted to honor our parents —Lauretta & Tom— who sacrificed greatly in the early years to send their five sons to St. Sebastian’s and to provide a charitable focus to keep the brothers together as we approach our ‘Golden Years,’” reflected John. Inspired by the great energy in Ward Hall, and with all his brothers in
attendance, John took the podium at the Alumni Dinner in October to announce the major gift to the School on behalf of the Galligan Family. The special evening honored his brother, Chris, with the 2019 Alumni Service Award, as well as Coach Bob Souza for his 41 seasons as head football coach. “The Alumni Dinner is a great event and I hope our gift becomes an annual tradition for other alumni to follow going forward,” shared John. “Coach Souza and Chris have donated their time and talent to the School. I am happy to contribute in a different way by ‘tithing’ some of the good fortune my business and investing career have provided.” During his days as an Arrow, John excelled in the classroom and on the football field, as well as the basketball court where he recalls, “Grady O’Malley and the late Jimmie Conlon and Henry Cashin led the team to the ISL Championship!” He also served as the Class Treasurer and wrote for The
Walrus and The Arrow yearbook. He received many well-deserved accolades for his efforts, including the John. B. Ennis Award, a coveted top honor given annually to a scholar-athlete. Following St. Sebastian’s, he attended Boston College, also the alma mater of his four brothers, served as a Vista Volunteer in Kansas City tutoring under privileged students and received an MBA from Harvard Business School. Fifty-five years later, John is impressed by the school St. Sebastian’s has become today, from the campus to the academic program. “For my generation, we are all very proud of the growth and development of St. Sebastian’s from Nonantum Hill to Greendale Avenue under the leadership of Headmaster Burke— Truly Remarkable!” Gifts to the endowment such as the Galligan Family Scholarship Fund will further strengthen the School and sustain its unwavering mission.
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25 years of service Dean of Students Brendan Sullivan and faculty members Steve Dagdigian and Jim Ferguson join the Wall of Honor in recognition of their 25 years of service to St. Sebastian’s School
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A
BRENDAN SULLIVAN When Brendan Sullivan accepted a teaching position at St. Sebastian’s, it was with the intention of staying for one year only. That one year has stretched into 25 years and counting —14 as Dean of Students—during which he has served the school and our students, parents and faculty as a dedicated mentor, caring confidant and faithful leader.
Princeton grad, Brendan had been taking graduate level science courses in preparation for medical school when he applied for the open position in the Science Department in 1994. A great interview, along with a recommendation from Jean Lynch, the Director of Health Services at the time, landed him the job, despite his declaration that it would only be for a year. That first year was full of new challenges as Brendan took on the responsibilities of teaching three middle school science classes, two biology classes and one chemistry class, as well as coaching varsity football, JV basketball, and JV baseball. With invaluable guidance from his colleagues in the Science Department, including Pat Colton, Peter Kittler and department chair Lea Mannion, as well as young faculty members Jed Doherty ’86 and Matt Noone ’81, who were also graduates of the school, he learned the ropes in the classroom and on the fields. “It was a great first year,” recalled Brendan. “Everything I was doing had me fully engaged.” In the end, Brendan never applied to medical school, realizing he had found his true calling at St. Sebastian’s. “A fabulous biology teacher and a truly great coach, Brendan came out of the blocks exceptionally well,” noted Headmaster Bill Burke. “And he just keeps getting better and better and better.” Over the years, Brendan has taught seven different science classes, from seventh grade science to honors chemistry, and continued to enjoy great relationships with his colleagues in the department. “I have been a part of many successful teams at St. Sebastian’s and science is one of them,” said Brendan. “I’ve also been so fortunate to be a part of the incredible athletic tradition here, coaching alongside legends and good friends.”
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“Always ready to do whatever needs to be done and always with the kids’ best interests at heart, Brendan never asks for or wants credit for the thousand things he does each day to keep St. Sebastian’s functioning as well as it does.” —Dan Burke, Asst. Dean of Students
In the fall of 2006, Brendan transitioned into the Dean of Students role, following in the footsteps of the revered Morris Kittler, who had served in the position for 25 years. He also had a stint as the Athletic Director and continues to teach one biology class each year, using his experience in the classroom and on the fields to guide him in his role as an administrator. Brendan has become a legend in his own right: the respect, admiration, and affection students have for him could never be expressed in words. Despite getting pulled in many directions each school day, Brendan makes time for everyone. “His patience is unmatched,” noted Nancy Sanderson, who began working in the front office in Brendan’s first year as Dean of Students. “I can’t begin to count the number of times I’ve heard people ask him ‘Do you have a minute?’ Be it students, faculty, staff, parents, neighbors of the school, the answer is always ‘Sure, come on in.’” Dan Burke ’97, who has served as Brendan’s Assistant Dean of Students for the past ten years, concurred: “Always ready to do whatever needs to be done and always with the kids’ best interests 32 |
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TOP: Brendan teaches a science class in the 1990s. BOTTOM LEFT: Coach Sullivan gives feedback to one of his players on the football field in 2006. BOTTOM RIGHT: Brendan enjoys catching up with former student and friend Nick Soivilien '98 at Reunion in May 2013.
at heart, Brendan never asks for or wants credit for the thousand things he does each day to keep St. Sebastian’s functioning as well as it does.” Brendan not only serves as a leader for the students, but acts as an important resource for the parents as well. In his time as dean, technology has changed the nature—and speed—of communication, creating both positive benefits and new challenges. One thing that has stayed the same is the sense of partnership he has with the parents. “Our parents are on the same team and have the same goals,” said Brendan. “They choose this school because of the mission. They have trust in what we’re doing.” This partnership has played a central role in enabling him to not only do his job, but to enjoy it as well.
While there have been countless moments of joy, Brendan has also been a rock for students during times of sadness. Having lost his own father at age 12, he has been an invaluable support to students who have also lost a parent. His mother did an amazing job of continuing to raise six children on her own and he has tried to live up to that standard. “The model that all of us children had growing up was my true hero, my mother, Martha,” said Brendan. “The theme for this year at St. Sebastian’s is Faith and there is no greater model of faith than my mother.” Brendan has also never forgotten the faculty and friends at BC High who helped him through such a difficult time. He makes sure to pass on this message to the students,
encouraging them to help one another. “I want them to understand they have a great power in them to lift someone up even when they don’t get the acknowledgment of it.” This academic year, Brendan became the parent of an Arrow, adding a new dimension to his experience at St. Sebastian’s. He and his wife, Rebecca, have three children: Eliza, who attends Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart; Joseph, a member of the Class of 2025 at St. Sebastian’s, and future Arrow, Patrick. Brendan has enjoyed being able to see the school through Joseph’s eyes as an eager and enthusiastic 7th grader. “He loves to talk about his teachers; he just thinks that they’re so special,” shared Brendan. “And he holds the seniors in such high esteem. Every Monday when we’re driving home, he talks about their Chapel speeches.” Although each academic year has brought new memories, Brendan also loves the rhythm from year to year, starting with the first week of school and ending with Commencement Day. “I love being in New England, watching the full seasons. It’s the same thing about an academic year, there’s just a flow to it. From butterflies that first week to saying goodbye to our seniors, there are certain things that you anticipate and emotions that you feel as the year goes on.” As Dean of Students, Brendan is in a unique position to watch each student develop not only over the course of each year, but during their entire time at St. Sebastian’s. “It’s amazing to think of what happens to an individual during that six-year period and it’s an honor to be part of those changes,” shared Brendan. Even after students graduate, he enjoys watching all the ways they continue to grow and reconnecting with them at events like Homecoming and Reunion. With a packed schedule and many balls to juggle on any given day, there is never a dull moment for Brendan. He is grateful to have the support of his “elite front office squad,” Nancy Sanderson
and Penny Reilly. “Penny has been at the school since 1987 and she still comes in with the brightest attitude and an infectious smile each day. And I wouldn’t be able to do anything without Nancy,” noted Brendan. He also feels blessed to be surrounded by an outstanding administrative team, most of whom he’s been working with throughout his tenure as Dean of Students. At the annual Faculty-Trustee Dinner, Brendan took the opportunity to acknowledge and tell stories about the “amazing people who have made this such a fun, full and fantastic 25 years.”
He also spoke fondly of his family, including his five siblings, his mother and his wife and children, most of whom were there to celebrate with him. “This dinner has given me the opportunity to reflect on my family, all the special days, the competitions, the wins and losses, the transitions, the common goals, the shared experiences, those who have joined us, those who have left, and those that have left enduring marks on us,” remarked Brendan. “I can’t imagine being surrounded by a better family— but St. Sebastian’s is a close second.”
TOP LEFT: At Commencement 2019, Headmaster Bill Burke announces Brendan as the recipient of the Joseph P. McDonald Award for outstanding service to the school. TOP RIGHT: Brendan shakes the hand of each graduate as they exit the church; BOTTOM ROW: Brendan with his wife, Rebecca, and children, Eliza, Joseph '25 and Patrick, and his mother, Martha, at the Faculty-Trustee Dinner.
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J
JIM FERGUSON From the time Jim Ferguson first arrived on campus in 1994, he knew he was in the right place. He’d found a school where he could combine his love of the Classics with his passion for teaching and his strong Catholic faith. A life-long learner with a keen intellect, Jim remains committed as ever to sharing all the discipline has to offer, from language to literature and philosophy. 34 |
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im first fell in love with the Classics while studying at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. Upon his return from Ireland, he was recruited by a good friend who had been elected to the state legislature to serve as his staff director. After working at the State House for several years, Jim decided to pursue teaching and received his masters degree in Classics from Boston University. While Jim was finishing his student teaching at Boston Latin, he learned of a job opening for a Latin teacher at St. Sebastian’s. He can still vividly recall that first meeting with Mike Nerbonne (who was Classics Chair at the time), current Classics Chair Sean Albertson and Headmaster Bill Burke and how comfortable it felt. “The thing that sold me on St. Sebastian’s was how evident it was that both the head of school and the dean of studies were really, really supportive of Classics,” said Jim. “It was like an epiphany that this was the place for me.” Over the years, Jim has taught Latin across all grades and levels, from laying the foundation for 7th and 8th graders to guiding seniors in intensive, college-level courses. A firm believer in the value of Classics, his instruction provides a foundation in far more than Latin grammar, helping students to strengthen skills in reading, writing, analyzing and speaking. “Jim is one of the most erudite, well-read classicists that I know,” said Assistant Headmaster Mike Nerbonne. “His students benefit each day from his knowledge and his infectious love of the discipline.” As a life-long learner, Jim is always taking courses and classes, reading and researching to build on his knowledge of Latin and Greek. “Classics is such a wide-ranging discipline; it touches on almost everything—history, archaeology, art, history, politics, science,” said Jim. “There’s always something new to explore and that makes it fun to teach.” Jim’s teaching style is more like a conversation than a lecture. As he sits around the table with his students, he
poses questions and encourages them to do the same. “One of Jim’s greatest gifts is that he simply asks his students the very same questions that intrigue him,” observed Albertson. Although Jim finds ways to keep a “dead language” very much alive for his students, he also appreciates that at its core, the curriculum and the mission of the Classics Department have remained constant. “I love the fact that Classics is valued at St. Sebastian’s. At a lot of schools, it is tucked away in a world languages department,” said Jim. “It’s at the heart of so many of our traditions, whether it’s Chapel speeches or the church life in the parish.” Jim believes this is also a reflection of St. Sebastian’s steadfast mission. “The school looks a lot different, but in the important ways, it feels the same and to me, that’s a good thing.” For the past 15 years, Jim has led the Chapel Speaking program for the senior class, working with each student on the writing and delivery of his Chapel speech. Every Monday morning during Corporate Chapel, two to three seniors share their speeches and at the end of the year, Jim collates them into a book for the graduates to have as a keepsake. “The study of Classics really has a direct influence on our Chapel Speaking program,” observed Jim. “It connects the spiritual life of the school and the tradition of students writing and
speaking in a powerful way.” Albertson credits Jim with playing a crucial role in preparing our students for this St. Sebastian’s milestone: “His wisdom and guidance help our seniors say the things that need to be said.” Outside of the classroom, Jim also coaches freshman basketball and freshman baseball and serves as a moderator of the Latin Club. Traveling to Rome with Latin Club students during the 2010 March break remains a highlight of his 25 years at St. Sebastian’s. “For our boys to be able see all the sites that they’ve read about and at the same time realize it’s embedded in this fascinating modern city is really cool.” Jim is not only a well-loved teacher, but also esteemed by his fellow faculty members who feel blessed to count him as both a colleague and friend. He especially enjoys a great bond with the members of the Classics Department who share their love of Latin. “We have had a lot of experiences, conversations, and laughs over the years,” noted Albertson. Jim’s wonderful sense of humor is appreciated among his co-workers and students alike. “It is no secret among our students that Jim and I like to trade barbs,” shared Nerbonne. “I know that they love this banter as they are always looking for opportunities to get one of us to comment on the other!”
“Jim is one of the most erudite, well-read classicists that I know. His students benefit each day from his knowledge and his infectious love of the discipline.” —Assistant Headmaster Mike Nerbonne
In looking back on the past 25 years, Jim reflected that it “went by so fast,” adding that he feels humbled to be joining the Wall of Honor. “The faces up there represent some great, great teachers, most of whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with and really respect.” Jim will make a wonderful addition to the amazing group of educators who’ve reached this milestone. As Nerbonne expressed, “Although he did not graduate from St. Sebastian’s, I consider Jim Ferguson to be a perfect example of our ideal graduate: a moral and just person, a gentleman of courage, honor and wisdom, a life-long learner who continues to grow in his capacity to know, to love, and to serve God and neighbor.”
LEFT: A 1994 yearbook headshot of Jim as a new faculty member. MIDDLE & RIGHT: Some twenty-five years later, Jim gives direction to his players on the basketball court and leads a classroom discussion. FALL 2019
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B
STEVE DAGDIGIAN When Steve Dagdigian joined the faculty at St. Sebastian’s in the fall of 1994, the School gained a bright teacher, committed coach and loyal colleague. From lessons on geography to drills on the ice and soccer fields, he has been guided by his belief that every student and every player has something to contribute. 36 |
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orn and raised in Needham, Steve relished the opportunity to come “home” and teach in the community where he grew up and his parents and other family members still lived. After attending Needham High and graduating from Harvard College in 1975, he taught for several years at two different independent schools —the Peddie School in New Jersey and Choate Rosemary Hall School in Connecticut —and served as the Assistant Coach at Clarkson University, in addition to a year of playing pro hockey in Green Bay, Wisconsin. After years of teaching and coaching hockey, Steve settled easily into his new role at St. Sebastian’s. Over the past 25 years, he’s shared his love of history with students, teaching many different subjects. “His classes are upbeat and his observations of his students show a real concern not only for their academic progress, but for their emotional wellbeing as well,” shared Denis Cleary, Chair of the History Department. For many of those years, Steve has taught boys in 7th and 8th grade, laying a foundation for them with subjects like ancient history, while also trying to weave in current events to familiarize them with the world. “I enjoy teaching the younger students and getting them at the beginning of the funnel,” noted Steve. “It’s never dull!” Outside of the classroom, he assisted Cleary with the Moot Court competition each spring, never missing a trial over the course of a decade. “He always had really spot-on observations on the quality of the students’ presentations,” said Cleary. “His comments showed his appreciation for every nuance of the legal arguments students provided.” Some of Steve’s favorite memories were made on the ice while coaching the varsity hockey team for 15 seasons, from 1993 to 2009. He was known for his extensive list of drills and those drills paid off. At the end of the 2000-01
LEFT: Coach Didge (far right) celebrates with the 2001-02 varsity hockey team after winning the NEPSAC Championship; RIGHT: Steve gathers with his daughter Mats, wife Barb, son Jake '09, Headmaster Bill Burke and Board President Jim Elcock at the Faculty-Trustee Dinner.
season, the team captured the ISL title and the New England Prep School Division 1 Championship, the first New England hockey championship in the School’s history. The hockey team repeated the feat in 2001-02, winning both the ISL and NEPSAC Championships, and claimed the ISL title again in 2002-03, narrowly missing a third consecutive NEPSAC title by losing the championship game to Deerfield in overtime. Following the championship wins in 2001, Steve said, “It has been a tremendous satisfaction that our kids played so well and accomplished everything they wanted to… We are all still quietly smiling.” Indeed Steve, also know as “Coach Didge,” always has a smile on his face at the mention of hockey. “Didge inspired his students and players with a unique blend of intensity and levity, with a roaring fire in his belly and a joyful twinkle in his eye,” recalled Will Burke ’95. Assistant Coach Jed Doherty ’86 remembers the joy Steve felt in seeing their players succeed at St. Sebastian’s and beyond: “Having gone through all his successes at Needham High, he knew what those New England championships would mean to the team long after their
playing days were done as far as the bonds they would always share.” These days, Steve introduces young athletes to the world of sports at St. Sebastian’s by coaching 7th grade soccer. Steve’s other passion is his family: his wife, Barb, and his children, Mats and Jake ’09. “As excited as he is about hockey, ask about the famous Barb or Jake or Mats and he is truly in his element,” said Cleary. A devoted father, Steve enjoyed watching his son become an Arrow, noting, “Jake has best friends from that time. It’s still very important to him.” Steve’s colleagues over the years also mean a great deal to him. “We’ve had some tremendous people who have been here and tremendous people who are here. There’s a good camaraderie throughout the faculty.” Thank you, Steve, for being a part of this special community for the past 25 years. Headmaster Bill Burke, who came to know Steve through coaching summer hockey in the 1970s, summed it up perfectly at the Faculty-Trustee Dinner: “Didge is just a great guy.”
WALL OF
HONOR BY THE NUMBERS
19
The number of current employees who have worked at St. Sebastian’s for 25 years or more
44
The number of faculty, staff and trustees who have achieved this honor in St. Sebastian’s 79-year history
48
The record for longest number of years on the faculty, held by Dan Williams ’64. Fr. Paris is not far behind at 46 years.
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FINE ARTS
RECENT WORKS FROM
ARROWS ARTISTS
From painting and ceramics to photography, St. Sebastian’s students have been busy in the art studio and behind the lens.
FAITH IN LIGHT Derron St. Marie '24 adds the finishing touches to his painting which was featured on the 2019 St. Sebastian's Christmas card, along with his poem, "Faith in Light." ASYMMETRICAL ART This ceramic mask by Jacob Pichay ’24 is inspired by the work of artist Kimmy Cantrell. Cantrell creates large asymmetrical, colorful masks that reconnect him to his childhood. “I want to show the beauty within flaws,” Cantrell explains. “Imperfections tell stories that are far more compelling than perfection.”
COOKBOOK PHOTOSHOOT
Members of the AP Photography class worked with photography teacher Courtney Bent to simulate a professional photoshoot. The students took artistic photos of recipes featured in Food & Faith, a cookbook sold at the Christmas Auction.
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MIXED MEDIA Will Perri ’21 created a pencil drawing of his own hand, based on a photograph he took, and then used ink to add texture to the hand, as well as a series of repeat patterns.
FINE ARTS
Robin Hood
The Slings & Arrows Players presented a performance of Robin Hood on November 1 and 2. It was a great success having the first theatrical performance in the new Video Classroom with its theater-style seating. Director Mark Rogers and the cast did a fantastic job of bringing the story of the heroic outlaw who stole from the rich and gave to the poor to life through the use of costumes, props, accents, lighting, sound and backgrounds.
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FALL SPORTS
Varsity Football BY COACH DAN BURKE
The varsity football team finished the 2019 season with a 5-3 record, good for third place in the ISL. Only returning three starters from the 2018 ISL Championship team, and starting out the season 0-2, the 2019 Arrows football team showed resilience and improved tremendously as the season progressed. Senior captains Dylan Crandall, Teddy Daniel and Kristian Rosario led the way, along with a dedicated, selfless group of players in the Class of 2020, and each class contributed significantly to the team’s success. All bought in to the team first motto, making this a great team even 40 |
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without the winning record. Tough, gritty, selfless, talented—this team was fun to coach and fun to watch. After a successful preseason, we opened with two opponents who ended up finishing in second and first place respectively in the league. First up was Governor’s Academy who came to St. Sebastian’s on a hot September day. Both teams battled hard and had typical first game miscues in an evenly played contest that Governor’s eked out, 13-7. Coming off of this tough loss, the Arrows traveled to Milton Academy to battle the eventual ISL Champions. After an inauspicious start to the game, St. Sebastian’s proved their resilience, answering each of Milton’s scores and eventually taking the lead 21-20 at the end of the third quarter. Losing the lead with just over five minutes left
in the game, fatigue set in and Milton scored again resulting in a 34-21 loss. Despite losing both games, this Arrows team proved that they could compete with anyone and that they would not get down on themselves no matter the score or opponent. In week three, we traveled to Nobles to face a 2-0 team that had size and momentum on their side. This dauntless Arrows football team, however, never defeated by size or self-doubt, came into the game ready to play and expecting to win. On the first play of the second offensive series, Zion Simmons ’23 took an inside handoff and ran untouched for a 58yard touchdown to give the Arrows the lead. While Nobles was able to respond with a score of their own, it was all Arrows from there as the defense was stifling and Michael Phelps ’21 threw touchdown passes to Louis Hansen ’21, Sam Frisoli ’21, and Teddy Daniel ’20, and Daniel also added another touchdown on a fumble recovery, resulting in a 35-7 victory. Next up, the Arrows hosted Lawrence Academy at Homecoming, a game that started with honoring the 1969 team on the 50th anniversary of their undefeated season. Inspired by the Arrows of the past, the 2019 Arrows used an old school run attack to earn their second consecutive victory. Nick Vallace ’21 led the way on the ground, rushing for 203 yards and three touchdowns on the way to a 27-6 victory. Now 2-2, the Arrows looked to get above .500 in an away game versus Roxbury Latin. The Arrows started fast with a touchdown pass from Michael Phelps to Aidan Harrington ’21 on the opening drive, followed by a blocked punt by Kristian Rosario ’20 that was recovered and returned for a touchdown by Mark Rice ’21 on R.L.’s next possession. When Phelps found Sam Frisoli in the endzone on the Arrows’ next possession, the Arrows took a 21-0 first quarter lead.
FALL SPORTS
R.L. mounted a comeback, scoring twice, but St. Sebastian’s closed out the game with shut down defense and a touchdown run from Phelps and another touchdown pass from Phelps to Hansen to finish with a 35-13 victory. In game six, BB&N took the opening kickoff back for a touchdown and then jumped out to a 17-0 lead. Again, this resilient Arrows team kept battling and ended up trailing 24-20 late in the game with a chance to take the lead deep in BB&N territory. As dusk fell, though, so too did the Arrows’ hopes as BB&N held on to eke out the win. Now 3-3, the Arrows traveled to rival Belmont Hill who was 5-1 and who had beaten the Arrows in the past three seasons. In what turned out to be one of the best football games in recent memory, the Arrows took the lead early and held on to it until the last minute and a half of the game. Belmont Hill scored but missed their extra point to take a 16-14 lead. Having just a minute left on the clock, the Arrows offense took the ball at their own 25-yard line with one more chance to try to take the lead back. A big catch and run by Zion
Simmons, two great throws and catches from Phelps to Hansen, and a nice run from Phelps brought the Arrows all the way down to the Belmont Hill 9-yard line. With only four seconds left on the clock, Matty Joyce ’20 stepped up to attempt his first career field goal. While most would be nervous in such a high pressure situation, Joyce calmly stepped up and drilled the 26-yard field goal as time expired to give St. Sebastian’s a 17-16 victory. Fans rushed the field to celebrate the exciting win. To end the season, the Arrows hosted Thayer Academy on a frigid Saturday morning. As was the case all season long, the Arrows’ tough, relentless defense played incredibly well and limited Thayer to just one score. On the other side of the ball, two touchdown runs by Vallace and one by Harrington to go along with touchdown receptions by Simmons and Sam Frisoli led the Arrows to a 32-7 victory to send the seniors off with a victory on Senior Day. It was a tribute to the leadership of the seniors on the team that we were able to win five out of our last six games
down the stretch to finish with the 5-3 record overall. Outstanding defense, explosive offense, and tough, resilient play by all made this an exciting Arrows team to watch. We are sad to see the seniors go, but their impact will be felt again next year when the returning players come back to pick up where they left off.
OPPOSITE: Matt Joyce ’20 celebrates with coaches and teammates after kicking the winning, 26-yard field goal to defeat Belmont Hill 17-16. (photo: Meredith Murphy) TOP: Teddy Daniel ’20 looks for extra yardage as he shakes off a Governor’s Academy tackle. BOTTOM LEFT: Dylan Crandall ’20 carries the ball upfield as BB&N’s defense moves in. BOTTOM RIGHT: Kristian Rosario ’20 runs with the ball for a big gain on the play..
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FALL SPORTS
LEFT: Jose Castelo ’20 defensively heads the ball out of St. Sebastian’s end during a game against Belmont Hill. RIGHT: Owen Smyth ’20 (right) threw on sunglasses to celebrate his first goal of the game against Nobles, alongside teammate Krishna Thach ’20.
Varsity Soccer BY COACH WOODY REDPATH
The varsity soccer team experienced a roller coaster of a season this fall, with a lot of “almost” and “close” moments, but the boys fought game in and game out. The first half of the Arrows season may be the toughest in the ISL, playing six New England Tournament bound teams, including Worcester Academy, Nobles and Milton (all of whom made it to the championship games). Despite staring these New England giants in the face, St. Sebastian’s came out with desire and heart. Gabe Twohig ’21 had the lone goal in our loss to Worcester, and outstanding saves by goalie Will Torrence ’20 kept hope alive, which would be a theme for him throughout the season. The boys lost a heartbreaker to Nobles after going ahead in the first half on a gritty goal from captain Owen Smyth ’20. Unfortunate to “turn off” for a seven42 |
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minute stretch in the 2nd half in which Nobles scored twice, St. Sebastian’s looked dangerous throughout, often threatening to find the equalizer. The Arrows got their first victory of the season against Governor’s Academy. Jack Mahoney ’21 and Colm Kearney ’21 both notched their first varsity goals in the come-from-behind, last gasp win. The boys had a strong run of play through the heart of the season, going 2-1-2. In a back and forth battle against Brooks, Austin Persons ’20 set the standard for goal-of-the-year, curling a shot into the upper 90 from 20 yards out. Kearney also notched his second goal of the year rising above everyone else at the back post to find a late equalizer. The Arrows welcomed Belmont Hill to campus for a Homecoming showdown. The Arrows went down 1-0 late in the first half, but didn’t give in. Minutes after the goal, Belmont Hill fouled a St. Seb’s player just outside the penalty box on the left side. Captain Jose Castelo ’20, for the second time of the year, served the ball with purpose,
finding the far post side netting for the equalizer. Both sides had chances to get the full three points, but neither side could find a crack in the back lines. Build in confidence and good play, the Arrows scored two early goals against Lawrence Academy, both coming from Twohig. His two tallies were accompanied by great assists from our third captain Krishna Thach ’20 on the first goal and Evan Prince ’20 for the second. St. Seb’s held on for the win as Lawrence pushed to get back to equal. After a setback against a strong Middlesex team, the Arrows found their way against St. Mark’s. Will Adams ’22 had a goal and the game winning assist to propel the Arrows forward. In the final minutes, after giving up the lead late, Adams drove down the sideline, beating his defender with pace and eventually slotting the ball back into the box for an on rushing Twohig who scored to snatch back the three points. The Arrows had a tough end to the year, giving up three leads in a row
FALL SPORTS
that resulted in difficult losses against Tabor, Groton and Roxbury Latin. Each game had the potential to go our way, but late goals cost us. Every player on the varsity team contributed this year, including three freshmen Oliver O’Donnell, Alex Baynes and Charlie Hoffman, and one 8th grader Nick Adams. All four have bright futures as Arrows. The three sophomores, Will Adams, Aidan Noonan and Aidan McCarthy contributed in positive ways. Noonan was one of the toughest tacklers on the team and possibly in the ISL. McCarthy, injured for much of the year, demonstrated that he will have a major impact on the field. Juniors Paul Vallace, Juan Oliva, Nolan McGovern, Jack Mahoney, Gabe Twohig and Colm Kearney will be the heart and soul of the team next season. We will look to these veteran members
to provide leadership, guidance and strength. A huge thank you to our seniors: Tim Malloy, Christopher Hatem, Owen Smyth, Quin Feeney, Austin Persons, Michael Farinacci, Jose Castelo, Krishna Thach, Wes Stanton, Jack Cusack, Evan Prince and Will Torrence. Malloy and Prince were also nominated for goals-of-the-year for their strikers against Thayer and Tabor respectively. Feeney stepped up defensively, causing the other teams frustration! Hatem was an animal every time he stepped on the field, causing our opponents all sorts of problems with tenacious play. Farinacci was fantastic all year, playing every position on the field except goalie. And our season wouldn’t have been the same if it weren’t for Stanton and Cusack on the field. A huge thank you to all our supporters, especially the parents!
NEW THIS SUMMER
ATHLETIC CLINICS SOCCER | BASKETBALL | LACROSSE
FALL ATHLETIC AWARDS The following student-athletes were recognized for their performance during the fall season at an Athletic Awards Assembly on November 27.
FOOTBALL ISL All League Award Cole Hanifin ’20, Louis Hansen ’21, Michael Phelps ’21, Kristian Rosario ’20
ISL Honorable Mention Scotty Behman ’21, Dylan Crandall ’20, Teddy Daniel ’20, Nick Vallace ’21
Ennis Award Presented to a senior who displays the qualities of commitment, teamwork, and dedication to the football program. Jack Hodgson ’20, Tommy McCarthy ’20
Big Hit Award Presented to the player who makes a positive impact on our opponents. Kristian Rosario ’20
SOCCER ISL All League Award Gabe Twohig ’21
ISL Honorable Mention Jose Castelo ’20
Peter Kerr Award Presented to the soccer player who displays sportsmanship, dedication, and commitment to the soccer program. Krishna Thach ’20
NEPSSA Junior All-Star Gabe Twohig ’21
NEPSSA Senior All-Star Jose Castelo ’20
These one-week clinics, run by our experienced St. Sebastian's faculty, are designed to sharpen the skills of student-athletes. Grade-based sessions open to all boys entering grades 4-12 For more information, include dates & rates:
stsebs.org/clinics
CROSS COUNTRY ISL All League Award Patrick McDonald ’20
Coaches Award Patrick McDonald ’20
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Varsity Cross Country BY COACH JOSEF CRESSOTTI
The Fall of 2019 was a breakout season for the St. Sebastian’s varsity cross country team. After a disappointing regular season, the Arrows finished 6th out of 16 teams in the ISL Championships, the team’s best result in over 20 years. The Arrows were led by returning captain Patrick McDonald ’20 and three-year letterman Tom Flatley ’20. They were joined by returning juniors Alessandro Barbiellini ’21, Henry Gennari ’21, Joey Pandit ’21, and Mark Wilson ’21. Daniel Ko ’21, Ryan Albertson ’22, and Sam Hinman ’22 came out to the sport for the first time. Will Hansen ’23, Matthew Choumenkovitch ’23, and Michael Kalinichenko ’23 joined
the team as freshmen runners. And 8th grader Jack Connors ’24, injured for most of the season, ran for the team in the ISL championship. During the regular season, the Arrows lost close races to Belmont Hill, Nobles, Thayer, and Governor’s. Because of their small roster, the Arrows found it difficult to compete against deeper teams, especially when affected by injury or illness to runners. Nonetheless, they enjoyed victories against Lexington Christian, Brooks and St. George’s. Their most thrilling victory occurred at Homecoming. On a new course behind the Rashi School, the Arrows defeated BB&N in cold and rainy conditions. As always, Henry’s Corner came out in force, despite the inclement weather. With a large crowd of fans cheering behind the fence along the home stretch, McDonald narrowly defeated his BB&N rival. Flatley, Hinman, and Pandit took third, fourth, and fifth places respectively, securing the team a victory at 25-32.
LEFT: Thomas Flatley ’20 runs to the finish line with great support from classmates on the sideline during Homecoming Weekend.
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After the excitement of this victory, the Arrows returned to training with new hope and a commitment to finish the year strong. For the next couple of weeks, training intensified. For the second year in a row, the lower school and varsity teams combined for an intra-squad competition, the Cutler Cross Country Cookie Run (CCCC) at Kendrick Pond. Each runner was given a staggered start-time and raced around the 1.6 mile loop. 9th Grader Rob Craven ’23, perhaps given an overly-generous handicap, destroyed the competition, earning a delectable treat from Mr. Rest. The Arrows also continued the tradition of Ultimate Frisbee Fridays and the annual Adventure Run at Caryl Park. By far the highlight of the season was the team’s performance at the ISL Championships at St. Mark’s. With a full team together for the first time all year, the Arrows came in 6th place. (They tied 5th place Tabor, 2018 champion, though Tabor came ahead on the tie-breaker.) This was the team’s best result since 1998. Nine runners ran personal records on this occasion. Five runners ran under 19 minutes, including McDonald (18:18), Hinman (18:24), Flatley (18:25), Connors (18:40), and Pandit (18:53). The Arrows showed in this race that they can compete against some of the elite teams of the league. For the second year in a row, Patrick McDonald was selected for first team All-ISL. He also received the Cross Country Coaches Award. Both McDonald and fellow senior, Tom Flatley, will be hard to replace next year. But with only two runners graduating, and a number of younger runners coming up to the varsity level, the future of St. Sebastian’s cross country is bright. Joey Pandit, voted captain by his teammates and coaches, will be leading the team, alongside a solid core of junior runners.
HOMECOMING
A
lumni, students, parents and faculty filled the sidelines on Saturday, October 12, to celebrate St. Sebastian’s Homecoming and to cheer on the varsity football and soccer teams. Before kickoff, Headmaster Burke said a few words and then the Arrowheads sang the National Anthem. The 1969 varsity football team was also recognized for their undefeated season 50 years ago (see pg. 56). The Arrows came to play, with the football team defeating Lawrence Academy, and the soccer team’s match against Belmont Hill ending in a tie, 1-1.Thank you to everyone who came out to support St. Sebastian’s!
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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS 24th Annual Boston Business Breakfast
John and Mary Boyle P’23 with Board President James Elcock ’77, P’08.
Current parents, alumni, parents of alumni, and friends of St. Sebastian’s gathered at the Boston College Club for the 23rd annual Boston Business Breakfast on November 20. Joe Amorosino P’24, the sports director at 7NEWS Sports and host of the weekly Sunday night show “Sports Xtra” at WHDH-TV in Boston, served as the keynote speaker. Amorosino expressed how happy he and his wife, Tiffany, are to have their son, Rhys ’24, attending St. Sebastian’s and how welcome his family has felt since coming to the school. A Boston native, he captured the room’s attention with Boston sports trivia about every major league team in the city and shared memorable stories while covering them for 7NEWS Sports.
Headmaster’s Leadership Reception The Headmaster’s Leadership Reception on September 29 brought together more than 150 current and past parents, grandparents, alumni and friends to recognize and celebrate Leadership donors for their tremendous, continued support of the Annual Fund for St. Sebastian’s.
HOMECOMING
MASS & RECEPTION The Guild of St. Irene and the Men’s Association hosted the Opening Mass & Reception on October 10. Fr. John Arens started off the night with Mass and guests gathered afterwards in Ward Hall where they enjoyed a tailgatethemed evening in anticipation of Homecoming on October 12. Parents showed off their Arrows pride by wearing red and black and sporting St. Sebastian’s gear.
Kathleen Bragdon P’23, Lisa Tryder P’23 and Kristina Hatem P’20.
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TOP: Joe Amorosino P’24 addresses the alumni and parents gathered at the Boston Business Breakfast. BOTTOM: Vin Gandalfo ’73 shares a conversation with Michael Hoff ’13, Johnny Rodriguez ’11 and Tommy Hoff ’11 over breakfast.
A
Merry & Bright Night for St. Sebastian’s
O
ver 400 parents and members of the St. Sebastian’s Community attended the annual Christmas Auction & Dinner on December 7, 2019, at the Seaport World Trade Center. Always a fun and festive event, the auction supports our beloved School. The evening featured silent and live auctions, which included hundreds of items, from hand-stitched St. Sebastian’s ornaments to professional sports experiences and premier vacation getaways. Bidding went into the night with the funds supporting St. Sebastian’s students. Guests were entertained throughout the night by current parent auctioneers, Marty Kane ’84, P’22 and John Merageas P’21, ’24. This year’s “Raise the Paddle” proceeds all went to establish a new Arrows Scholarship Fund. After hearing a message from Headmaster Burke about the importance of
financial aid and then watching a powerful video featuring several alumni and staff members who were themselves recipients of financial aid, the crowd donated a record $235,500 to create this new fund. St. Sebastian’s would like to thank all those who contributed to making this evening a tremendous success, particularly our Auction Co-Chairs Jill Purpura P’21, ’22, and Tina Souza P’21, and Guild of St. Irene President Cathy Daniel P’15, ’18, ’20. We are especially grateful to the more than 90 mothers who generously offered their time, talent, and resources as part of the Guild of St. Irene Auction Committee. We also extend a special thank you to the donors, sponsors, advertisers, student volunteers and all those who attended and bid. What a wonderful way for our parents to gather and celebrate the Christmas season!
TOP ROW: Guests received an ornament featuring the one-word theme of the year, “Faith,” designed and produced by Innovation Lab Director Matt Burke; Auctioneers Marty Kane ’84, P’22 (at the podium) and John Merageas P’21,’24 (on the scooter) keep things lively during the live auction; Guild of St. Irene President Cathly Daniel P’15,’18,’20 (center) and Auction Co-Chairs Tina Souza P’21 and Jill Purpura P’21,’22; BOTTOM ROW: ornaments hand-stitched by members of the Guild are on display in the silent auction; parents raise their bid cards in support of St. Sebastian’s during the live auction; a drone photograph of the Class of 2020 standing on the football field serves as a unique auction item. FALL 2019
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ALUMNI EVENTS
ALUMNI DINNER
St. Sebastian’s hosted its Alumni Dinner on October 24, filling Ward Hall with more than 150 Arrows from across the decades. During the event, Chris Galligan ’69 was honored with this year’s Alumni Service Award and Bob Souza, former head coach of the varsity football team, was celebrated for his 41 seasons of devotion to the football program.
Honoring a Loyal Arrow Chris Galligan’s days as an Arrow date back to the fall of 1963 when he arrived on Nonantum Hill as a 7th grader, following in the footsteps of his older brothers, Tom ’62 and John ’65. His younger brothers, Marty ’73 and Peter ’76, also attended St. Sebastian’s. A talented and energetic student, Chris was a member of the 1967 undefeated football team and the starting goalie on the 1968-69 hockey team, guided by legendary coaches, Henry O’Brien and Henry Lane. Since graduating from St. Sebastian’s in 1969, Chris has been a loyal Arrow over the years, helping to organize class reunions and attending almost every one of them. In the months leading up to his 50th Reunion in May 2019, he assumed a leadership role on the 50th Reunion Committee, helping his classmates to achieve 63% participation and spearheading a Class Gift in excess of $100,000.
From left to right, top to bottom: Chris Galligan ’69 receives a round of applause; the Galligan family; Chris delivers remarks; Alumni Association President Charles Haley, Headmaster Bill Burke, Board President Jim Elcock with Chris in his St. Sebastian’s chair.
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During his introduction, Headmaster Bill Burke noted that “Chris was a rock-solid, invaluable member of the St. Sebastian’s family from day one as a student and he has remained ever thus throughout every sacred moment of his life as an alumnus.” Headmaster Burke went on to praise Chris and his wife, Andi, for their “upbeat, happy, and positive nature, their great sense of faith and honor, and how they always give freely and fully of themselves—much to the great benefit and delight of their school.” Chris then shared a few words, reminiscing about his experience at St. Sebastian’s, the connections he made with classmates and teammates, which continue today, and especially his memories of skating for Coach Lane on the outdoor hockey rink. Along with his wife, Andi, he acknowledged his four Arrow brothers, who were all in attendance, stating, “The five of us are very grateful to our parents for giving us the opportunity to attend St. Sebastian’s.” Chris also expressed his amazement at the extraordinary transformation of the campus while noting “the mission of St. Sebastian’s continues as strong, steady and focused as ever.”
ALUMNI EVENTS
From left to right, top to bottom: Coach Bob Souza embraces Sedale Threatt ’03 after he gives a heartwarming speech; John Fiore ’79, P’14,’19 and Joe Lawler ’81, P’20 present Bob with a clock; Bob and his wife, Pat; Bob with his family and ISL trophies in the foreground.
Celebrating a Beloved Coach Following dinner, it was Coach Souza’s turn to be in the spotlight. A three-sport varsity athlete in high school who went on to play football at West Point, Bob has had a life-long love of the game. In the fall of 1978, he joined the ranks at St. Sebastian’s to serve as head coach of the varsity football team as well as to teach social studies. After Henry Lane retired as Athletic Director in 1997, Bob took on this role for many years and continues to serve as Athletic Coordinator. He is also the proud parent of two Arrows, Matt ’93 and Mike ’96. Over the course of four decades, Coach Souza was the face, backbone, and leader of the Arrows football team, always modeling and demanding hard work, integrity, and toughness. Under his guidance, St. Sebastian’s won seven ISL championships—1982, 1990, 1994, 1999, 2001, 2012, and 2018—and led the team to five NEPSAC Super Bowls, capturing the trophy in 2012 and 2014. He has received several awards, including induction into the Massachusetts High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame in 2010 and recognition as Coach of the Year by the Gridiron Club of Boston in 2012. The celebration of Bob’s 41 seasons at the helm kicked off with a presentation of a football helmet clock by alumni
fathers John Fiore ’79, P’14,’19 and Joe Lawler ’81, P’20— two members of his first team in 1978 whose sons played on Coach Souza’s final team in 2018. Guests then enjoyed a video highlighting Bob’s career as head football coach, including old photos, game footage and interviews with former players Matt Noone ’81, P’19, ’22, Connor Strachan ’14, and Joe Hulbig ’92. George Tahan, Director of Athletics for Belmont Hill School, launched the speaking portion of the event, sharing his great respect for Bob and thanking him for his guidance and friendship. George presented Bob with an ISL service plaque, as well as a gift from Belmont Hill, a wooden panel featuring the two rivals’ school seals and the following words: “Thank you for 41 seasons of friendship, sportsmanship, competition, and coaching excellence.”
“For 41 years, the last words I said to every team before we left the locker room were, ‘Let’s go have some fun.’” —Coach Bob Souza
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ALUMNI EVENTS
Brian Strachan P’11,’14, whose two sons played for Bob, shared three of his favorite stories, noting that “there’s a million Coach Souza stories.” Sedale Threatt, Jr. ’03, then took the microphone, expressing his deep gratitude to his former coach: “So many of us have been honored to have you poured into our lives. I am the man I am today because of your love and your dedication to this community, this family, this brotherhood.” Bob’s son, Mike Souza ’96, gave a heartfelt speech, noting what a rare gift it’s been to see his father through a different set of eyes and the many lessons he learned from his dad on the football field. “You teach us that it’s great to win, but that there’s a way to win that’s much more important than actual victory. It’s all the things I just talked about—hard work, respect, accountability, being there for each other, integrity, courage.” Bob then reflected on his 41 seasons as the varsity football head coach, sharing many memories with a packed Ward Hall filled with many of his former players and students from over the past four decades. “St. Sebastian’s
From his first season as head coach of St. Sebastian’s varsity football team in 1979 to his last in 2018, photos of Coach Bob Souza from across the decades.
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has provided me with a very rich and rewarding experience,” shared Bob. “It goes without saying that it’s been a labor of love.” Bob recalled how early on in his career at St. Sebastian’s he created goals for the football program that have served as his guiding principles over the past four decades: to win, but to do it in a way that would earn the respect of the opponent; to always be competitive, while striving to be the best and continually working to get better; to provide a positive experience for the players; and to build leaders who would serve as role models within the school community. Headmaster Burke closed out the night. In his speech, he said about Bob: “And there he was last fall in the gathering darkness after his last game, ignoring the noise and speaking from his heart to his boys of the day and to his boys of yesterday, to his boys who love him, to his boys who would run through a wall for him, to his boys who will never forget the lessons they learned from him. How do you thank a man for 41 years of all of that?”
ARROWS
CONNECT
Commercial Real Estate Networking Event On December 3, forty members of the St. Sebastian’s community gathered at the offices of CBRE for a commercial real estate networking event. Alex Cook ’91, Chairman of the Alumni Board’s Professional Networking Committee, led a panel discussion on the changes facing the commercial real estate industry. Tony Coskren ’01, of Newmark Knight Frank, Brian Daly ’05, of Boston Properties, John Hynes ’06, of Boston Global Investors, Brian McKenzie P’18,’20, of CBRE, and Theodore Touloukian P’23, of Touloukian Touloukian Inc., all shared insights and outlooks based on their diverse experiences in the sector. Thanks to our panelists for making it a thought-provoking and successful evening and to all of the alumni and parents who attended.
Alumni Professional Networking Events The St. Sebastian’s community has always recognized the strength of our connections and gathered regularly at networking breakfasts over the years. The Alumni Board’s newly minted Professional Networking Committee has taken a rifle approach to this long standing tradition by organizing two events per year focused on a particular industry. Following a successful commercial real estate panel discussion, the Committee is currently planning a technology industry event scheduled for April 14 to bring together St. Sebastian’s participants from this dynamic and forward thinking sector.
Looking for an internship, industry contacts, first job, next job, or career advice? The Arrows Connect network is the place to start. Arrows Connect is our own networking directory connecting members of the St. Sebastian’s community to each other. Your profile has already been set up by the Alumni Office. Just upload your LinkedIn profile to the site, answer a few short questions and your profile will be complete. As a member of Arrows Connect, you can access an extensive directory of professionals, find qualified candidates to hire, post job offerings, volunteer to be a mentor, and more. Register today to make the most of your St. Sebastian’s network!
arrowsconnect.org
Be on the lookout for future industry-specific events brought to you by the Alumni Board.
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ALUMNI EVENTS
ARROWS’ GATHERINGS Receptions in DC & NYC On November 11, members of the Class of 2021 on their Junior Class Trip joined alumni and members of the extended St. Sebastian’s family at the annual Washington, D.C. Alumni Reception. Following an address by Headmaster Burke, the Class of 2021 received advice and inspiration from an outstanding lineup of speakers including current Georgetown freshman, Jared Price ’19, Thayer Wade ’13, and US Army Col. Christopher Conley ’94. St. Sebastian’s alumni were hosted by Mark O’Friel ’79 at the Harvard Club for this year’s New York Reception on November 12. As always, a good crowd was in attendance to hear an update on their alma mater and enjoy the company of fellow Arrows.
Alumni Sports Day In keeping with the Thanksgiving-week tradition, the St. Sebastian’s School Alumni Office hosted its annual Alumni Sports Day on November 24. Alumni returned to campus for a great day of athletic competition and camaraderie on the hockey rink, basketball court and squash courts.
Class of 2019 Yearbook Reception
TOP: Brothers Thayer ’13 and Patrick '21 Wade at the Washington, DC Reception; BOTTOM: Brothers Tyler ’15 and Connor ’11 Wiik at the New York Reception.
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While home from college for Thanksgiving, the Class of 2019 returned to St. Sebastian’s on November 27 for the annual Yearbook Reception. Our most recent alumni received their copy of the yearbook, which was dedicated to Coach Bob Souza. After a lunch spent reminiscing with old classmates and catching up with faculty, last year’s seniors were presented with their Class of 2019 plaque, which will join the 74 other class plaques lining Alumni Hall.
CLASS NOTES
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CLASS NOTES
WHAT’S
NEW? Keep your classmates up to date on your accomplishments, family members, travels, or anything else new in your life. Send us photos, too!
Submit class notes and photos online at:
stsebs.org/classnotes Deadline for next issue:
APRIL 1, 2020
Photos will be published based on quality and available space. Please be sure to send the highest quality image possible and identify everyone in the photo.
Share your IDEAS for Alumni Profiles
1950
James Harnedy writes: “It doesn’t seem possible that I and my Class of ’50 will be celebrating our 70th year as Arrows in 2020. Over the late summer and fall, I have been in touch with Jim Allan, Jim Delay and Gerry Powers. I’m still working as editor of Activities Guide of Maine. It’s an adventure magazine with a readership of 41,000. The winter edition went to press on the day before Thanksgiving. My 10th book, Forgotten Tales of Down East Maine, was released by The History Press in mid-May and Goose River Press 2019 Anthology for the holiday season just came out with one of my essays: “The Scent of Winter,” which defines the transition Mainers make for their long winters. I’m still holding down the fort here in Bucks Harbor, Machiasport, with Duncan, my wonderful canine companion. I still often think of my days on The Hill, but I’m sure others of my classmates have their memories of those longago days.”
1966
George DeMambro reports: “I recently have joined Schooley Mitchell as a Business Optimization Specialist. Our core service is pretty simple. We save your business money in these areas, merchant services, telecom, and shipping. I am very excited to be part of this organization.”
1972
Mark Sullivan retired in November and relocated to Sarasota, Florida. He notes, “I am assuming that since my health is still good, I will end up looking to do something either part time and with less stress.”
1973
Vincent Gandalfo shares that his classmates, Andy Maloney, Mark Canavan, and Tom Cook and their wives gathered at Vincent’s home on October 19, 2019, to welcome
’65
Do you know an alumnus you would like to see profiled in an issue of St. Sebastian’s Magazine? Tell us about it! Send an email with your suggestions to our Communications Office at communications@stsebs.org.
’75 LEFT: 1965 classmates Mike Lajoie, Gerry Riley (Riles), and Ed Davis on Riles’s porch in Kennybunk. RIGHT: Thomas Giblin ’75 with his fiancée, Jennifer Arsenault.
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CLASS NOTES
him and his wife, Lisa, back to Boston after 37 years in New York (see photo). Vincent notes, “Glad to be back home!”
1975
Thomas Giblin reports: “I’m living in a new house in Shrewsbury. Great town! Still practicing law when I have to. I referee FIBA/FIMBA, college and high school basketball and high school lacrosse. It is what keeps me sane and provides great friends. I have done a few Arrow games in both. For those of you who did not hear, we lost my dad a year ago to Parkinson’s. He lived 91 strong and super years. His shoes are extremely hard to fill, but I keep trying! He loved all my classmates and reveled in St. Seb’s memories. I am engaged to a super woman, Jennifer Arsenault. We have not figured out a date for the next step but suffice it to say, I am a very lucky guy!! I get together with Ed McDermott and Rich Murphy and relive the old days as often as possible. Both are doing great. Ed has battled through a few minor health issues to still be one of the greats from our class. Coaching debate team at Holy Cross and still has a sharp sense of humor! Murph just retired from many years in the special education field in Central MA. He is a very well-respected authority in the field, but remains a humble and super friend. Saw Joe Fahy at our 40th Holy Cross Reunion. The guy never ages!! He was doing great and still living in the Chicago area. My kids, Gus and Annika, are doing great at 21 and 17 respectively. Parenting has been an education and the most wonderful inconvenience a guy could ever have. Again, I am blessed. Hope to see or hear from my classmates whenever they are around or need legal assistance or a referee!”
Third Annual Nonantum Cup Challenge The third annual Nonantum Cup was held in July at Granite Links Golf Club, continuing the tradition of a competition on the links between the Classes of 1970 and 1971. Once again the lads from 1971 were victorious with a score of 3-2. A great time was had by all and it was a wonderful way to kick off the 50th Reunion celebration for the Class of 1970.
’73
1973 classmates Andy Maloney, Mark Canavan, Tom Cook and Vincent Gandolfo gather at Vincent's home in October 2019.
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CLASS NOTES
MARCH RECEPTIONS
in Florida
If you live in Florida or are looking for a great excuse to head to warmer climates, join us! All members of the St. Sebastian’s community are welcome, including alumni, parents, and grandparents.
3/12 Vero Beach 3/13 Jupiter 3/16 Naples For more details and to RSVP, visit stsebs.org/vero, stsebs.org/jupiter, or stsebs.org/naples.
Save the Date Recent Alumni
SOCIAL for the Classes of
2000-2015 April 7, 2020
7:00-9:00 PM
Park Avenue Tavern
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The 1969 Football Team Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Their Undefeated Season Prior to the Homecoming game on Saturday, October 12, the 1969 football team was recognized for its undefeated season. Thirty alumni, including football players and classmates from 1970, 1971 and 1972, joined in celebrating this great feat. Joe Duffey ’70 talked about the make-up and character of the team. He spoke of big plays made by different teammates in key games. Paul Costello ’68 also addressed the group. Paul had the unique opportunity to play on the 1967 undefeated team, as well as be part of Henry O’Brien’s coaching staff for the 1969 team. The program closed with a moment of silence for the eight deceased team members. Following the reception, members of the 1969 team met on the 50-yard line for the playing of the national anthem. The celebration culminated with the pre-game coin toss. Colonel Brian Campbell ’71 asked the referee if he would consider using his Army Challenge Coin, which was presented to Col. Campbell during his first tour of duty in Iraq for outstanding support of the 399 Combat Support Hospital. The referee’s response was, “only if you toss the coin.” It was a fitting end to a memorable celebration for the 1969 football team.
REUNION
2020 MAY 15 & 16
CLASS NOTES
Calling all 5’s and 0’s!
Reserve your seat for Reunion weekend. Mark your calendar now and help us fill your class table! If you would like to be involved in the Reunion planning, please contact your class agent. We can’t wait to see you in May!
Register online at:
www.stsebs.org/reunion Sign up by March 15 and save $10 on the Clambake.
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CLASS NOTES
1979
Courtney Matthews writes: “On November 1st, I was promoted to Deputy Superintendent for the Boston Police Department. I am now the assistant bureau chief for the Bureau of Professional Standards.”
1982
Chris Kennedy shares: “Happy in realty. Gratefully recalling the challenges of HS which our two daughters are currently experiencing.”
1990
Rev. Dr. Virgil Glenn III reports: “I am now the pastor at Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church in Wichita, Kansas. Over the Thanksgiving Holiday, our family traveled to Charlotte, NC, to spend the holiday with my sister, her husband, our parents (who traveled from Brockton, MA), and a host of aunts, cousins and in-laws. A wonderful time was had by all.”
1992
Brian Faherty continues his acting career, playing an ill-fated Corrections Driver in the Season 7 Premiere of Showtime’s Ray Donovan on November 17th and shooting dice with Midge on the third episode of Season 3 of Amazon’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, which was released December 6th.
1994
Tim Foley reports: “After two years as the Communications Director for New York State Assembly member Amy Paulin, I’ll be taking on a new role in January 2020 as the Executive Director of the The Builders Institute (BI)/Building and Realty Institute (BRI), a building, realty and construction industry membership organization. The association, based in Armonk, has more than 1,800 members in 14 counties of New York State. The Board of Directors selected me to be only their third Executive Director in their 73-year history.”
STAY CONNECTED
1999
Chris Marich writes: “We are very blessed raising Ben (8), Hadley (7) and Lucy (3) in New Canaan, CT.”
2006
Andrew Conway continues to teach chemistry, coach squash and varsity tennis, and advise seniors on their college process at St. Sebastian’s. He and his wife, Lydia, are expecting their first child in January 2020—a little boy and hopeful future Arrow (class of 2038?). They have lived on Bunker Hill in Charlestown for nearly 5 years, but this December, they sold their home and are headed to Needham just in time for Christmas and the new baby. The Conways are surely due for a busy, but happy 2020!
This issue of St. Sebastian’s Magazine includes Class Notes submitted as of December 31, 2019.
’92
Follow us on Instagram @StSebastiansSchool Like us on Facebook /Stsebs Follow us on Twitter @StSebsNeedham Connect with us on LinkedIn St. Sebastian’s School Alumni, connect with us by joining our Facebook Group! Search “St. Sebastian’s School Alumni” or use the url www.facebook.com/groups/stsebastiansschoolalumni
Actor Brian Faherty '92 plays an ill-fated Corrections Driver in the Season 7 Premiere of Showtime's Ray Donovan.
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CLASS NOTES
’00
’90
’06
’04
Rev. Dr. Virgil Glenn III '90 with his family at Thanksgiving. n Tyler Coskren, son of Tim '00, celebrated his first birthday on December 12, 2019. n Rosalyn Olivia, born to Andrew '06 and Elizabeth Maxwell on March 22, 2019. n Mike Coskren ’04 married Anna Darbaidze on June 28, 2019 in Bellagio on Lake Como, Italy. The reception was held at the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. His brothers, Tim '00, Tony '01, and Nick '05, as well as several St. Sebastian's classmates, were in attendance for the festivities. n Three generations of Burkes, including Bill and Patty (far right), their four sons, Will '95, Dan '97, Matt '00, and Sam '04, their daughters-in-law, Gaia, Kathryn, Jeannette and Sophie, and their grandchildren, Liam, Isla, Jackson, Dillon, Mackey, Owen and Sean, gather in St. Sebastian's Chapel for the christening of Mackey and Sean.
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CLASS NOTES
’04
’17 Peter DeFalco ’04 married Kate O’Neil in a beautiful ceremony in the North End of Boston in August. Peter (far left) celebrates with his fellow Arrows alumni (from left to right), Andrew Baker ’04, Anthony Laham ’04, Jon DeFalco ’06, Garrett Mancini ’04, and Matt Nagatori ’06. n Bob Souza visited with Blake '17 and Bryce Gallagher'19 and their parents after their game vs. Ohio State at Northwestern in October 2019. n James Orscheln ’17, a junior at Wake Forest University, spent the fall semester abroad in Sydney, Australia. While there, he had the chance to spend some time with fellow classmate Jackson McKeigue’17, a junior at Georgetown, who also spent the semester in Australia. Arrows everywhere! n Tommy Seidl ’17, Timmy Noone ’19 and Maynel Fuentes’16 all played in the Oldtime Baseball Game on August 22, 2019, at St. Peter’s Field in Cambridge. The annual event featured Roger Clemens and was played as a fundraiser for Compassionate Care ALS and in honor of John Welch, the longtime Fenway Park security supervisor who died in December 2019 after an inspiring battle against ALS.
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CLASS NOTES
ARROWS BROTHERS
Back on Campus
ALUMNI GOLF OUTING May 15, 2020 / 8:00 am Shotgun Start South Shore Country Club, Hingham, MA Open to all St. Sebastian’s alumni
The Condron Brothers—Devin '92, Brett '95 and Casey '94—are back on campus together, a rare occasion, for Homecoming 2019.
ARROWS FOREVER DAY 5.28.20
Save the Date—St. Sebastian's 4th annual giving day is scheduled to take place on Thursday, May 28, 2020. On Arrows Forever Day, we ask our alumni and other members of the St. Sebastian's community to give in support of the Annual Fund. We hope you will help us make Arrows Forever Day a success again this year. Every gift counts!
Registration and sponsorship information:
www.stsebs.org/alumnigolf
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IN MEMORIAM Robert M. Birmingham ’62
Robert passed away peacefully at his beloved home in Osterville, MA, on November 3, 2019, at the age of 74. He attended St. Sebastian’s, the Canterbury School and Villanova University. Bob’s gift for connecting with people and his entrepreneurial spirit served him well in his career. In 1985, he bought Steinway & Sons with his brother, Jack ’59, and together they revitalized the company and restored Steinway pianos to their original and unparalleled excellence. From Oyster Harbors Club to Cape Cod Healthcare and the Cape Cod Symphony, Bob focused his many talents on improving the community around him. He loved nothing more than being with his friends and family. Bob is survived by his beloved wife Fran; children Kate, Maggie, Suzy and Michael; grandchildren Matthew, Eli and Ben; siblings Lois, Paul, and Mark ’70; nieces and nephews including Devin ’84, Mark Wrightson ’94, and Skip Wrightson ’97; and sister-in law Karen Birmingham P’84, GP’14, ’17. His brother, Jack, predeceased him.
Andrew Boschetto ’78
Andrew passed away surrounded by his loving family on October 25, 2019, at the age of 59. While at St. Sebastian’s, Andrew was on the golf team, as well as a part of the photography club and weightlifting club. He was labeled “one of the most ambitious men in the class” and a sharp dresser. Andrew is survived by his children, Andrew, Alan and Alexandra, sister Susan, grandchildren Rome and Lucca and his future 3 granddaughters.
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We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of the graduates and friends of St. Sebastian’s School whose deaths are reported with sorrow.
Thomas A. Cahill ’55
Thomas passed away on May 1, 2019, at the age of 82. While at St. Sebastian’s, Tom was involved in The Walrus, Debate Society, Altar Society and many more extracurriculars. He always had an interest in science and was considered one of the outstanding scholars of his class. He earned a bachelor’s degree at The College of the Holy Cross and a doctorate in physics at UCLA. In 1967, Tom joined the UC Davis faculty. During his five decades in research, he delighted in applying his physics expertise to problems in the public sphere, especially those in environmental science. He engaged in battles to save Mono Lake, remove lead from gasoline, protect air quality in national parks, and safeguard first responders following the 2001 World Trade Center disaster. Cahill is survived by his wife, Ginny; his daughter, Cathy and his son, Tom.
Hanford T. Crosby, Jr. ’55
Hanford, known as “Bing,” passed away on July 21, 2019, at the age of 83. While at St. Sebastian’s, he was a dedicated member of the golf team, and was also on the tennis, intermural basketball and softball teams. He was inspired by his favorite faculty member, Fr. Keating, to serve as a sacristan. After graduating from St. Sebastian's, Bing went on to college and founded a successful landscaping company. He then moved on to sales, working in the rubber and automotive industries. He was a long-time member of St. Linus Church in Natick. All of this he shared with his wife, Margaret, the love of his life, who passed away in 2011 after 41 years of marriage.
IN MEMORIAM
ALUMNI RELATIVES & FRIENDS
Gerald P. Hynes ’57
Jay passed away on October 3, 2019, at the age of 80. While at St. Sebastian’s, Jay was the co-captain of the golf team, as well as a member of the intermural basketball league. He was always an enthusiastic participant in all the school’s social functions and was known for his witty personality. After graduation, Jay attended Boston College, where he met his future wife, Rae Johnson. He was the owner of Interstate Drywall, Inc. of Wellesley Hills. He enjoyed work, golf, travel and music. Jay is survived by his wife, Rae, daughters, Elizabeth and Jennifer, and grandsons, Christopher, Zachary and JJ.
Herbert H. King ’53
Herbert passed peacefully on November 2, 2019, after bravely fighting breast cancer for 13 years. While at St. Sebastian’s, Herb was known for his sly wit and casual good humor. He was one of the best and most consistent basketball players in his class, and a member of the intermural softball team and debate team. After graduating from St. Sebastian’s, Herb attended Stonehill College where he met Denise, the love of his life. For almost 40 years, he worked in the field of public housing. Herb loved to travel and was an avid sports fan. In addition to Denise, he is also survived by his daughters, Maribeth and Deb, two sisters, Raymah and Maureen, six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. His daughter, Dina, predeceased him after her own valiant battle with breast cancer.
Dickran Babigian, Sr. December 3, 2019 Grandfather of Jacob ’20 Helen Balouris August 31, 2019 Grandmother of Nicholas Grover ’22 Kathleen Sullivan Blake September 30, 2019 Sister of Michael Sullivan ’67 Susan Chisholm July 15, 2019 Grandmother of John ’22 Sae R. Choi September 10, 2019 Grandfather of Matthew Choi ’22 Grace Foreman October 5, 2019 Grandmother of Jack Foreman ’24 Patrick Hoarty July 26, 2019 Father of Thomas ’75 and Brendan ’77 Jeanne Louise Kerzner September 4, 2019 Grandmother of John ’19 and Sam Randall ’21 Virginia Leonard November 2, 2019 Mother of Jay ’85 and Mark ’88, grandmother of Thomas Repetti ’06
Kevin Martin September 10, 2019 Grandfather of Kevin Martin ’12 Meghan Anne Martin August 24, 2019 Wife of Patrick ’99, sister-inlaw of Trustee Shawn Martin and aunt of Ryan ’17, C.J. ’17, Cameron ’18, Owen ’19, and Trevor ’19 Stephen F. McDonough August 20, 2019 Father of Brian Compagnone ’92 Mary L. McNamara August 23, 2019 Mother of Trustee John ’81 and the late Greg ’84, grandmother of Johnny ’14 and Billy ’18 Theresa Anne Myles August 19, 2019 Mother of Lee ’69 and Kevin ’72 Chad Andrew Pierce November 19, 2019 Stepson of Gil Carney ’70 Theresa Ronayne December 3, 2019 Grandmother of Aidan Garrity ’20
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IN MEMORIAM
James D. Malone ’48
James passed away on August 23, 2019. While at. St. Sebastian’s, Jim was the manager for the basketball team and played baseball and JV football. He was also a member of the French club, Science Club and Debate Society. His yearbook states, “he did much to contribute to the happiness of our St. Sebastian days.” Following his passing, Jim’s wife, Maureen, shared, “Jim was always promoting St. Sebastian’s to friends and relatives. He was proud to carry the distinction of being a St. Sebastian’s graduate.”
John F. McMorrow ’59
Jack passed away on November 16, 2019, at the age of 78. While at St. Sebastian’s, he was a member of the Dramatic Society, Debate Society, National Honor Society and JV basketball team. Jack was known for his wit and friendly personality. Following St. Sebastian’s, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Finance at Boston College and an MBA from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Jack worked for RCA, Polaroid and Union Pacific Corporation before turning his skills to the non-profit world of education, serving as CFO at the Council on Economic Education in NYC, the College of St. Joseph in Vermont, and St. Mary’s Ryken in Maryland. In retirement, he continued his consulting work in financial and compliance for non-profits and investment management. He lived an honorable life strong in his faith, sense of responsibility and love of his family, friends and community. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sheila; children John, Christine and Tyler; and siblings Joanne and Bill.
Michael D. Reilly ’05
Michael died peacefully in his sleep on December 1, 2019, at the age of 33. While at St. Sebastian’s, Michael was a member of the varsity basketball and golf teams. After graduating from Fairfield University, he spent some time in San Diego. Upon his move back to Boston, he began working with his Dad at Fernwood Investment Management in Quincy, working his way up to Portfolio Manager. Michael truly lived life to the fullest. He could light up any room with his amazing dance moves and self-proclaimed “voice of an angel.” His quick wit, wonderful humor and out of this world personality were sure to bring a smile to the face of everyone he met. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer; parents Dianne and Thomas; sisters Nicollette, Courtney and Kelsey; and six nieces and nephews.
Andrew J. Sisto ’97
Andy died suddenly at his home, at 40 years old. While at St. Sebastian’s, Andy was a member of the varsity football and baseball teams, as well as the International Club, SADD and Spanish Honor Society. After graduating from St. Sebastian’s, he attended Bates College where he received a BA in Political Science and Government and worked in the insurance industry. He was the proud father of Dominic and Isabella, and brother to Jeffrey ’93, Christopher and Cameron. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews, aunt and uncles, cousins and friends.
This listing contains deaths reported before December 15, 2019. To see a complete listing of alumni who have passed away within the past twelve months, please visit www.stsebs.org/inmemoriam. To report a death of a St. Sebastian’s alumnus or relative to the Development Office, contact Kelsey Kane at kelsey_kane@stsebs.org.
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Providing for Future Arrows Peter ’55 and Honey McLaughlin GP’13,’19,’24
can still recall vividly the day their oldest grandson, Jake ‘13, called to tell them he would be attending St. Sebastian’s School. They knew St. Sebastian’s was in the running, but it was not until Jake visited the campus and experienced the camaraderie among the students and faculty, that he was sold on becoming an Arrow like his grandfather. Although Peter had stayed connected to the school over the years through his role as a class agent and his friendship with Henry Lane ’47, that phone call was the beginning of a deeper relationship with St. Sebastian’s. When Jake started in the 7th grade in the fall of 2007, Peter joined the Alumni Board. Since then, two additional grandsons – Peter Blake ’19 and Nicolas ’24 – have become Arrows. In 2017, he joined the Board of Trustees and has also served as Chair of the Grandparents’ Fund for several years. Through his involvement, Peter has had the opportunity to see the value of a St. Sebastian’s education and believes it starts with the mission of the school. “What stands out in my mind is the sacred partnership between the school and parents to make every boy as good as God wants him to be in body, mind, and spirit,” noted Peter. “The commitment to the individual student is exceptional.” As grandparents, Peter and Honey are very proud of Jake, Peter and Nicolas and delighted with each of their experiences at St. Sebastian’s. “What I’m seeing is men of character that have a moral compass and concern for others. I think that’s a hallmark of the school,” shared Peter. Recalling two of his grandsons’ graduations, he added, “You just see the warmth between the teachers and the students when they walk down the aisle after getting their diploma.” Honey has been impressed by what she’s witnessed as well and loves coming to campus for games, Grandparents Day and other events. “It’s very much like family for us when we come here.” “I have great confidence in what the school is doing now and what it promises,” stated Peter. This belief has promoted the McLaughlins to make a generous bequest to the school. As members of the Monsignor Charles D. McInnis Society, they join a growing number of alumni, parents and grandparents who feel the same way and have chosen to support the school through their estate planning. By providing a legacy gift, the McLaughlins will help build the endowment and support future generations through financial aid, something they believe is a strategic priority for the school. Thank you, Peter and Honey, for your leadership, generosity and support!
For more information about gift planning and including St. Sebastian’s in your estate plans, contact James Barron P’16,’19 in the Office of Planned Giving at 781.247.0158 or james_barron@stsebs.org or visit plannedgiving.stsebs.org.
Monsignor Charles D. McInnis Society
1191 Greendale Avenue Needham, Massachusetts 02492
Nonprofit Org. US Postage PAID Boston, MA Permit No. 19943
Jon Meacham, author of this year’s All School Read, signs a copy of his book, The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels, for a student during his visit to campus.
