May 2025
5.3.25
May 3, 2025
Next Community Mass is Tomorrow
The Chapel of St. Augustine was home to several activities during the recent Augustinian Values Institute, including this group photo. The Austin Prep delegation can be seen in the front right.
The next Monthly Community Mass will be held tomorrow, Sunday, May 4th 9:00 a.m. in the Chapel of St. Augustine. We encourage our school families who regularly attend Sunday Mass at their local parish to consider joining us for this monthly Sunday Mass. The Mass will give us an opportunity to meet each other and pray together, at least occasionally. We will join for a time of fellowship in the Dining Hall after Mass. To help us with our planning, we would ask families to RSVP by clicking here so we can take an appropriate count for the Coffee and Donut Hour.
Students are required to attend with their parents. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow as we strengthen each other through this act of celebrating Mass together.
Last Chance for Senior Tribute Yearbook Advertisements
Be sure to get your Senior Tribute Advertisement submitted for the year book by Monday.
The deadline to create a Senior Tribute Advertisement for your child in the 2025 Omega Yearbook was extended to Monday, May 5th.
Tribute ads are a great way to celebrate your child's achievements and include a personal message, such as pictures that show your child's growth throughout the years. The Yearbook Innovation website is designed to easily help you create an ad even if you don't feel very comfortable with technology. To order a Tribute Ad, click the button below.
Pricing:
- Full page: $500
- 1/2 page: $375
- 1/4 page: $200
- 1/8 page: $125
Tribute ad payments are made through the Yearbook Innovation website, which is accessible through this link.
Please note: each graduating Senior will receive one courtesy yearbook from the School. There is no need to purchase a yearbook at a later date. Yearbooks will be shipped to your home late summer. Please do not hesitate to email Ms. Nicolle Renick, Art & Design Faculty, with any questions at nrenick@austinprep.org.
Last Chance for Annual Golf Open
Bring a foursome to this year's Austin Prep Golf Open on May 19th.
Registration for the Austin Prep Annual Golf Tournament, taking place May 19th, remains open and we are excited to invite you to support the tournament. This is a fantastic way to show your school spirit while helping raise funds for STEM Innovation. Click here to check out all the opportunities to support the 37th Annual Austin Open! There are a few foursomes left before the flight is full, sign up today!
Fr. Jeremy Visits for Vocations Mass
Victoria Liwanag '25 performs "A Rightful Place" in her final Austin Prep choir performance during Tuesday's Mass.
Austin Prep celebrated an all school Mass for Augustinian Vocations Tuesday with Fr. Jeremy Hiers, O.S.A., Director of Vocations for the Augustinian Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova. It was Fr. Jeremy’s second trip to Austin Prep this month, as he attended the recent Augustinian Values Institute hosted by Austin Prep April 11-13.
“Life might throw you a curveball or present a mystery,” Fr. Jeremy noted in his homily. “But the common message is that God has a plan for you. If you do what is right, right now, God will reveal His future for you over the course of time.”
During the Mass, we also prayed or the repose of the soul of Mr. Stephen Williams, whose presence in our school community will be deeply missed, as well as Pope Francis. Austin Prep had a special connection with Pope Francis as a result of two choir pilgrimages to Rome, where students performed at some of the most sacred churches in the Eternal City and sang in the Piazza San Pietro for the Pope. The Mass ended with Father Patrick Armano, School Chaplain, recognizing the senior members of the choir who performed in their final All School Mass.
You can view photos from the Mass here.
St. Augustine Lecture Focuses on...St. Augustine
On Wednesday, Austin Prep hosted its annual St. Augustine Lecture and welcomed Dr. Joseph Kelley, Professor of Religious and Theological Studies at Merrimack College and most recently, Austin Prep’s Augustine Scholar in Residence, to campus for this community event. You can view photos from the lecture here.
The Lecture Series began in 2015 and is considered one of the signature events to enrich the intellectual life of Austin Prep by introducing students to accomplished individuals who share their lived experiences and life lessons.
Dr. Kelley has worked at Merrimack since 1974 and has had a myriad of roles and responsibilities across campus ministry, academics, student life and development. A widely recognized scholar of St. Augustine, Dr. Kelley has been celebrated for his commitment to generations of students, his colleagues and Merrimack College.
The basis of Dr. Kelley’s lecture focused on St. Augustine’s words “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You,” which are among the most famous religious quotes in the world. Dr. Kelley helped us gain a deeper understanding of the meaning St. Augustine intended when he wrote them. At the end of the lecture, Dr. Kelley fielded questions from a panel of students.
“On the way, but not there yet,” is how Dr. Kelley paraphrased the term that starts every day at Austin Prep. “No one will be a displaced person until we rest in You.”
Students Inducted Into World Language Honor Societies
Spanish Honor Society inductees with Dr. Hickey.
On Monday the World Languages department hosted their annual World Languages Honor Societies Induction Ceremony and reception for those students inducted into their respective world language honor societies. Austin Prep is proud of these students' accomplishments in learning world languages and gaining a greater appreciation of the varied cultures of the world. You can view photos from the night here.
Latin Honor Society inductees with Dr. Hickey.
National French Society Inductees with Dr. Hickey, Mrs. Barry, and Dr. Lawrence.
National French Society Inductees with Dr. Hickey and Mrs. Tian.
"To be inducted into Austin Prep’s Chapter of the language society is no easy task," World Languages Department Chair Linda Sherry P'24, '27 noted. "It is one to be truly celebrated. To be considered for induction, a student must have earned an A- or higher for three consecutive semesters, actively participate in their respective language peer tutoring program, intend to study at the highest level possible – for most of the students that will be the fourth year of the chosen language – and most importantly they must receive the recommendation of their current teacher with regard to character."
Austin Prep Inducts 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame Class
The 2009 Football Team headlined last Saturday's Athletic Hall of Fame induction.
The Austin Prep Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2025 was inducted in a ceremony last Saturday, April 26th on campus.
This year’s inductees include:
It was great to welcome so many alums and families back to campus. Congratulations to all! View photos from the night here.
O'Koniewski '25 Receives West Point Appointment
Tait O'Koniewski with parents Robert O'Koniewski and Martha Leavitt.
Tait O'Koniewski ’25, was presented on Friday with an offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point with the Class of 2029. Retired Lt. Col. Edward Collazzo and retired Lt. Col. Leanne Collazzo, both West Point graduates, were on hand for the presentation. Tait was also joined in the Chapel of St. Augustine by the entire Class of 2025, members of the football team, his advisory, select faculty and staff, and family. Father Patrick Armano, School Chaplain, offered a prayer and blessing to begin the ceremony. Congrats, Tait, and best of luck at West Point! You can view photos from the ceremony here.
Retreat Leaders Visit St. Monica School
Austin Prep students at St. Monica School.
On Thursday students in the Retreat Leader Program led a meaningful and successful retreat for 5th and 6th graders at St. Monica School in Methuen. The retreat centered around the theme "Anchored in Christ, We Venture with Hope," which our students chose to reflect the school-wide theme at Austin Prep—one that holds deep significance for them.
A variety of creative and engaging activities were designed around this theme, including Treasure Map Workshop, All Hands on Deck, Navigating Rough Waters, Hidden Treasure, and Ship’s Celebration. Each activity invited the younger students to reflect on their faith, explore their spiritual journey, and build community in a fun and thoughtful way.
Special thanks Sr. Maria G. Nassali, Assistant Head of School for Mission and Ministry for arranging this opportunity, to our retreat leaders for their dedication, creativity, and for generously sharing their faith with the students of St. Monica School.
Armenian Genocide Remembered with Guest Speaker
Sheriff Peter Koutoujian visited with freshman students on Monday.
Austin Prep had the privilege of welcoming back Sheriff Peter Koutoujian, who shared his wisdom with freshmen on Monday.
Sheriff Koutoujian embodies the values we cherish at Austin Prep - service, leadership, and a profound commitment to justice. As one of our nation's most prominent Armenian American officials, he has been recognized with the prestigious U.S. Ellis Island Medal of Honor and both the Mkhitar Gosh Medal and Medal of Gratitude from the Armenian government.
During his visit, Sheriff Koutoujian spoke eloquently about the role of the sheriff in our community and shared the inspiring journey of his grandparents who fled the Armenian Genocide to seek refuge in America. He connected his life of public service to Matthew 25, emphasizing our responsibility to serve "the least of our brothers and sisters" - a message that resonates deeply with our Austin Prep mission.
The freshman class benefited greatly from his insights on leadership and service, as well as the practical advice he offered for their own journeys. Sheriff Koutoujian's visit was a powerful reminder of how personal history can inspire a lifetime of meaningful public service and compassionate leadership.
We are grateful to Sheriff Koutoujian for sharing his time and story with our community.
Everything You Need From Prom is Right Here
Click here for promenade photos!
Click on the video above to hear from Ms. Nina Bramante '19, Assistant Director of Communications, and students during the pre-prom promenade!
5.10.25
May 10, 2025
Habemus Papam!
Austin Prep shares in the joy of the Augustinian family and joins with Catholics around the world in offering our prayers for His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV.
The following was sent to the Austin Prep Community Thursday evening after the announcement that Pope Leo XIV was elected as the first American – and Augustinian – pontiff.
Dear Austin Prep Community,
Today was a historic day in the Catholic Church as Cardinal Robert Prevost, O.S.A., an Augustinian Friar of Chicago, IL, was elected the first American Pope. Shortly after the white smoke appeared from the rooftop of the Sistine Chapel this afternoon, faculty, students, and staff formed watch parties here on campus in offices, classrooms, and the Fr. Arthur F. Smith, O.S.A. Library and Media Center waiting for the announcement of the new Pope. You can imagine the surprise and excitement when we watched Pope Leo XIV, an Augustinian Friar, emerge on the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica! Austin Prep shares in the joy of the Augustinian family and joins with Catholics around the world in offering our prayers for His Holiness.
The Augustinian way of life dates back nearly 1,700 years to St. Augustine – a towering figure in human civilization who wrote more than five millions words that are still being studied and dissected today. Although his teachings are nearly seventeen centuries old, the wisdom of St. Augustine is timeless and the Augustinian virtues of veritas, unitas, and caritas – truth, unity, and love – are needed more than ever to prevail against the lies, division, and hate that all too often manifests in our world today.
The election of Pope Leo XIV roughly coincides with the graduation of Austin Prep’s Class of 2025 – the next regiment of the Augustinian cavalry who will continue their journey beyond 101 Willow Street – with veritas, unitas, and caritas, imprinted on their hearts – ready to make the world more just using Augustinian values as their moral compass. At the same time, Pope Leo XVI’s formation as an Augustinian will inspire his journey and his leadership as our Holy Father to, among his first words as Pope, “build bridges.”
I often refer to the importance of the “unwritten curriculum” – those experiences which can’t be found in any book or classroom. I suspect that one of those experiences will be a lasting memory of being on campus with classmates when the first Augustinian Pope was announced. Although Pope Leo XIV has no direct connection to Austin Prep (I have uncovered an indirect connection), it somehow felt like a member of our immediate family was elected successor of St. Peter.
“You have made us for yourself O Lord, and hearts are restless until they rest in You.”
Sincerely,
James Hickey, Ph.D.
Head of School
Austin Prep Featured in Extensive Pope Leo XIV Coverage
Dr. Hickey, Merrimack College Vice President and Austin Prep Trustee Fr. Ray Dlugos O.S.A., Catherine Antonelli '26, Cecilia Goldsmith '26 and Colin Walsh '25 were featured in WCVB 5 Boston news stories Thursday and Friday as part of their continuing coverage of Pope Leo XIV. The stories focused on Austin Prep's unique connection to the new pontiff and our shared Augustinian values. You can view photos from Channel 5's day on campus with anchor and reporter Jennifer Eagan here.
Baccalaureate Liturgy and Commencement Set for May 16th
Class of 2025 Enjoy Fun Filled Senior Week
Seniors chalk their parking spots before departing campus Friday.
Thursday was the last day of classes for our seniors, and this past week was Senior Week for the Class of 2025! While it wasn't the best week for weather, seniors still came together to tie-dye and sign shirts and decorate parking spots before departing campus midday Friday. We hope it was a great week and that you found time to enjoy your friends, classmates, and faculty members who have walked with you on your journey. We look forward to seeing you again at Commencement! You can view photos from the week here.
Band and Choir Students Perform at Spring Concert
The Austin Prep Band and Choirs performed Tuesday at the annual Spring Concert at the Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham. A special recognition goes out to our graduating seniors. Thank you for all your contributions to the Austin Prep Arts program! You can view photos from the concert here.
Third Quarter Honor Roll Announced
The list of students who earned honors in the third quarter of Austin Prep's 2024-2025 academic year has been released. Congratulations to the students who earned this prestigious recognition in their pursuit of truth. #Veritas
Relive High School Musical Here
High School Musical, Night One.
High School Musical, Night Two.
The Austin Prep Drama Club had two outstanding presentations of High School Musical! back in April at the Collins Center in Andover. Both shows can be viewed by clicking the videos above. Enjoy!
Best Buddies Club Supports Special Olympics Event
Austin Prep students at the Special Olympics Massachusetts Unified Game Day.
Twenty students in the Austin Prep Best Buddies club recently attended the 7th Annual Special Olympics of Massachusetts Unified Game day in Wilmington, MA.
Students ran the Olympic Town station throughout the day, working with over 175 K-Postgrad students with intellectual and physical disabilities. Students came together with other student leaders, athletes, and agents for inclusion within school communities to make the event a success. Athletes competed in multi-station athletics and activities throughout the day and enjoyed some downtime at Austin Prep’s “Olympic Town,” enjoying popcorn, playing games, and doing crafts. A special recognition goes to Ava Daniel '27 for designing and making all the shirts for Austin Prep volunteers!
Celebrating our Mothers During the Month of Mary
Happy Mother's Day to all those in the Austin Prep Community.
The month of May holds special significance in the Catholic tradition as it is dedicated to honoring Mary, the mother of Jesus. Throughout this month, the faithful are encouraged to pray the Rosary, reflecting on the life of Christ through the loving heart of His mother. May is also a time when we celebrate Mother’s Day, offering gratitude and love to the women who nurture, guide, and care for us.
This celebration beautifully mirrors our devotion to Mary, who serves as the perfect model of maternal love, faith, and compassion. As we honor our earthly mothers, we are also reminded to turn to Mary with love and trust, seeking her intercession and guidance.
During the month of May, a time dedicated to honoring our Blessed Virgin Mary, Austin Prep will come together for a school-wide Rosary on May 23th.
In addition, our 7th grade students will lead a special May Crowning ceremony on May 14th to pay tribute to Mary and her role as our spiritual mother.
Happy Mother's Day. 🌷