In This Issue:

Austin Prep Enjoys Record Enrollment

 

While the global pandemic has changed much of the way we live, how we attend school, how we work, and socialize, it certainly  hasn’t stopped the steady flow of calls coming into the Austin Prep admissions office. With 760 students currently enrolled, there  continues to be a waitlist for families looking to enroll their children during the 2020-2021 academic year. 

“Families have been extremely impressed with how well Austin Prep has been able to continue to adapt and pivot to the current climate without missing a beat.” Director of Admissions Steve Silverthorn said.

The attraction of Austin Prep’s Remote Teaching and Learning (RTL) program is a key factor for families choosing to enroll at Austin Prep. The RTL environment follows a modified rotating block schedule which includes Austin Prep’s stellar advisory program, ensuring that faculty and students continue to feel a sense of community and belonging, and most importantly, stability during this global pandemic.

Classes are 45-minutes in length which allows teachers to interact with their students in real-time to discuss concepts, skills, and assessments, and one to one time for guidance and mentoring. 

A successful Day of Giving in the spring was an invaluable source to securing the technology and infrastructure for a safe return to the classroom both in-person and remotely in September.

Mr. Silverthorn continues, “As a school, our ability to continue to provide an exceptional experience for our students is a direct reflection of the leadership Dr. Hickey and the Board of Trustees have provided; the countless hours all of our staff have put in to prepare for this academic year and our faculty who are the cornerstone of Austin Prep. We know families have a lot of choices within the surrounding area and feel very fortunate that they see the value of an Austin Prep education.”

214 new students were welcomed into the Austin Prep community, virtually, by many of our student leaders this fall. School-Wide Student Government President TJ Dysart '21 moderated a student-led Freshman and New Upper School Student Orientation in early September to help kick off the 2020-2021 school year. In similar fashion Middle School leaders welcomed new middle school students by hosting grade level zoom meet and greets.

We are grateful for the technology that enables our students to continue to engage with one another. The student hosts did an amazing job and provided a great opportunity for classmates to get to know each other early in the school year.

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Austin Prep Presents Webinar Series Continues

 

The global pandemic has not slowed the work of the Office of Alumni Relations! In November, Austin Prep Presents was launched to the entire Austin Prep Community. This virtual speaker series was designed to provide a platform for distinguished Austin Prep alumni to connect with fellow alumni, current Austin Prep students, parents, faculty, and staff, while reflecting on Austin Prep experiences that helped shape their lives. The series debuted in November with two notable alumni: Jim Knowlton '78, the current Director of Athletics at the University of California, Berkeley and Joe Sciacca ’75, Enterprise Editor for 7News WHDH-TV Boston. The series gives alumni from across the country the opportunity to stay connected and engaged with the Austin Prep community synchronously.

The next presentation “How to Create Your Own Podcast” is this Tuesday, December 22nd at 7:00 p.m. featuring podcast experts Alissa Galligani ’14 and Gianna Gravalese ’16. These alumni will be hosted by current students Marvin Twombley ’21 and TJ Dysart ’21. The link will be available on Facebook and via email on December 22 at 7:00 p.m.

Upcoming programs in the Austin Prep Presents series include:

 

The Green Key Ambassador program is a hallmark of Austin Prep Admissions, creating an opportunity for current students to meet with prospective families and share their own Austin Prep experience, and to take on leadership roles outside of the classroom. In early October, 200 Austin Prep Green Key Ambassadors participated in workshops conducted by Core Trainings. An annual training, this year the training was conducted virtually. These workshops focused on understanding leadership and relational leadership concepts. Each session was customized to support this year’s School theme of “I pray that they will all be one," (John 17:21) and each student participated in two and a half hours of training. In the training sessions, students focused on how leaders see beyond their perceptions, beliefs, and biases, and the value in mentoring others, especially their peers and younger students. 

Using their training, our Green Key Ambassadors have been off-and-running with hosting virtual shadow days for prospective students  and participating in virtual open house panels throughout the fall semester!

 

Mrs. Marla Pascucci-Byrne P’26, Art and Design Faculty Chair and Ms. Celia Barletta, World Language Faculty Chair were named this year’s recipients of Austin Prep’s St. Augustine Lumen Award. The Lumen Award was established by the Austin Prep Board of Trustees to recognize outstanding faculty and staff.

 

Trustee Joey Carregal ’05 introduced and announced both winners, adding a unique perspective as an alum celebrating his former teachers. Head of School James Hickey, Ph.D. and Board of Trustees Chair Dan Bouchard P’10, P’14, P’15 presented Mrs. Pascucci-Byrne and Ms. Barletta with a certificate and stipend to fund future professional development opportunities for themselves and an Austin Prep colleague.

The award was presented December 8th at a social distanced faculty meeting, which was attended by faculty, staff, and members of the Austin Prep Board of Trustees. Previous winners of the Lumen Award include: Rob Taylor, Roger Stone, Vincent Parrella, Bob Hennessy, Gary Mackiewicz, and Elizabeth Farrell.

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Virtual Austin Prep Open House 

 

This year, the annual fall Austin Prep Open House happened virtually. The goal of the virtual open house was to give prospective families a better understanding of Austin Prep and share how we remain steadfast and grounded by our mission: to inspire hearts to unite, minds to inquire and hands to serve, even during a public health crisis.

Over the course of one week, families attended a series of evening webinars focusing on the different aspects of Austin Prep. Families in attendance heard from administration, faculty, current students and current parents about the Austin Prep experience, and had an opportunity to ask questions at the end of each program. 

Families who missed the Open House were offered additional opportunities to hear from student panels and senior leadership.

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Third Time's a Charm: Austin Prep Wins Another Nason Award

 

For the third consecutive year, and despite the cancellation of the spring season, Austin Prep has been named  the recipient of the 2019-2020 Boston Globe Nason Award. This award recognizes overall athletics excellence among Catholic co-educational schools across the Commonwealth, with overall, regular-season winning percentage as the criteria for selection. Congratulations to all our student-athletes and coaches for their unparalleled success over the past three academic years. For more information on all the Boston Globe Scholastic Awards, including the Nason Award, click here.

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Austin Prep Traditions Continue Even During Pandemic

 

Determined not to let current challenges interrupt our most cherished annual events, and working within social distancing rules, students, faculty, and staff forged forward with the commitment that “the show must go on.” The annual tradition of Lessons and Carols streamed live for the Austin Prep community from the Chapel of St. Augustine on December 11th while the festive tradition of the Nutcracker was viewed live on December 16th in a modified production. 

 

Austin Prep has the technology and infrastructure in place to hold live streaming performances due in part to the tremendous support from our community through the Annual Fund and our Day of Giving on May 28, 2020.

To learn more about how Austin Prep pursues our mission even during a public health crisis, please read our monthly Austin Prep: Journey of the Heart e-newsletter.

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Support the Annual Fund as Year Comes to a Close

As we advance into the Christmas Season and a New Year, we continue to ask all those in the Austin Prep community to remember Austin Prep in your year-end-giving plans. For year-end tax purposes, all checks dated in the month of December 2020 must be received at Austin Prep by January 5, 2021.  We will process December checks through January 5, 2021 and issue tax receipts accordingly.  Credit Card payments must be dated in the month of December 2020.

Click Here to Make a Gift to the Annual Fund

The Annual Fund ensures excellence! From every aspect of a student’s experience, the Annual Fund bridges aspiration and possibility, making innovative learning available throughout the year. The investment we make in our students remains our most important priority. 

From academics to the arts to athletics to a myriad of extra-curricular experiences, the Annual Fund is the gateway and the platform to a highly inspired education. An Austin Prep education is a foundation for a lifetime, an invaluable investment. 

In this particular year, our financial requirements have increased substantially due to the challenges and interruptions imposed by COVID. Annual Fund gifts continue to provide the financial resources to invest in remote instructional formats, and all of the associated software, hardware and technological resources these online experiences require.

Additionally, the Annual Fund provides teachers with the necessary professional development and training to ensure they have all the educational tools to generate high level, uninterrupted learning experiences. Moreover, Annual Fund donations help us invest in and commit to diversity and social justice programs and lectures. 

In this unique year, we have accomplished a great deal, largely due to Annual Fund support. We are more resilient than ever and we are forever grateful! Austin Prep is the anchor of stability in students’ lives. In this time of complexity and uncertainty, our students enjoy an experience upon which they can rely with faith and confidence. This is an experience we are committed to sustain—and invest in together. 

Please join us this year with a gift to the Annual Fund. Let’s continue to make this challenging year also a year our students enjoy steady, everlasting success.    

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Survey for Austin Prep Reunions for Classes Ending in 0 & 5 and 1 & 6

In 2020, reunions for classes ending in 0 & 5 were postponed due to the global pandemic. We look forward to rescheduling these milestone gatherings in 2021, and also celebrating the classes ending in 1 & 6.

Please take a couple of minutes now to share your feedback on the reunion experience you wish to have, and how you would like to be involved using this link.

Your feedback is invaluable to the Office of Alumni Relations as we collaborate with you on your reunion. We encourage you to share this survey with your classmates in an effort to hear from everyone.

This survey will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on February 28th.

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Stay Connected Through Social Media | Submit Class Notes for Journey Magazine

We want to follow your Journey beyond Austin Prep. Please share updates including academic and sports honors, career milestones, marriages, births, or any of life’s other big announcements.  Send a Class Note or update your contact information to stay connected to Austin Prep.

Keep up to date with all the current events at Austin Prep by following us on our official social media accounts below: 

@AustinPrep

Alumni group is “Austin Preparatory School Alumni”
Each Austin Prep Reunion Class has a Facebook group: “Austin Prep Class of XXXX.”

 

@AustinPrep

@AP_MiddleSchool

@AustinPrepAD

 

austinprepschool

austinprepmiddleschool

austinprepad

Austin Prep Celebrates Convocation Mass

Despite occurring later in the year than usual, the Austin Prep community came together on Tuesday, November 17^th for the annual tradition of Convocation Mass, which marked the official start of Austin Prep’s 59^th academic year. The Senior Class of 2021 was joined by Cohort A members of the sixth grade Class of 2027 and a small delegation of School faculty and staff in Richard J. Meelia Hall for the Mass. Due to restrictions placed on gatherings, the Mass was livestreamed to the remaining Austin Prep students, either in classrooms on campus or learning remotely from home, as well as the parent community.

With banners representing all seven Austin Prep classes surrounding the stage, TJ Dysart ’21, School-Wide President, welcomed his fellow classmates. Dysart acknowledged that while recent months have been difficult, and settling into a routine to start the school year has been a challenge, our School community moves forward guided by our mission and values.

“Our mission isn’t measured in miles, meters, yards, or even six feet. Our mission is measured by the goodness in our hearts and contributions that we make in our communities,” Dysart said. “It’s important for us to not just speak about our mission, but to live it.”

Each academic year, Austin Prep adopts a theme to advance the School’s mission. For the 2020-2021 academic year, Austin Prep’s theme comes from the words of Jesus from St. John’s Gospel: “I pray that they all may be one.” The theme resonated throughout the Convocation Mass, with Fr. Patrick Armano, School Chaplain, referencing the theme during his homily.

“We are one community that is made up of individuals, and in order to truly become united, in order to truly become one, each of us has to put our best effort towards that unity by what we do in our own lives,” Fr. Armano said. “That unity requires the effort of each of us, to focus on the bettering of ourselves, so that we can focus on building those around us up.”

Head of School, James Hickey, Ph.D. noted that as another academic year begins, our nation is divided, but Austin Prep’s enduring mission helps support our pursuit of unity. “Think about that: It was the prayer of the son of God that we should all come together,” Dr. Hickey said, referring to this year’s school theme. “We can do that by honoring the command of Jesus, to treat others the way we would want to be treated.”

“As an Augustinian community committed to veritas, unitas, and caritas, we need to model behavior and acts of kindness and compassion that bring people together,” Dr. Hickey added.

During his remarks, Dr. Hickey acknowledged two Faculty members, Assistant Head and Head of Upper School Dr. William Driscoll, ’87 and Science Chair Dr. Maria Blewitt, who earned their doctoral degrees last spring but unfortunately could not participate in their respective commencement ceremonies due to the pandemic. To honor their achievement, Dr. Hickey invited Dr. Driscoll and Dr. Blewitt to wear their doctoral gowns to Convocation. In a touching moment, Dr. Hickey offered his gown to be worn by Dr. Blewitt, who could not secure hers in time for Convocation.

At the conclusion of the Mass, the Senior Class of 2021, led by Senior Class Officers Kayla Russell ’21 and Arya Gupta ’21, continued with tradition and hoisted its class banner to the rafters of Meelia Hall, where it will remain until being lowered at Baccalaureate Mass in May, 2021.

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Diversity, Equity and Social Justice with Tom Bourdon

 

Austin Prep continues its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives by advancing our cultural proficiency through faculty and staff professional development. Members of our administration and faculty participated in webinars run by the University of Notre Dame, Boston College, NAIS, AISNE, NEASC, and the NCEA. The course, specifically designed for Austin Prep, was taught by Merrimack College faculty member Tom Bourdon. 

The class focused on building community among the twelve teachers by discussing their experience and comfort level with the topic, followed by work on defining the terms diversity, equity and social justice so that they all have a shared understanding of the terms. During the first week, participants discussed implicit bias as faculty took the Harvard Test. This served to help grapple with issues of race, specifically with the subject of engagement on school campuses. Faculty examined the difference between culture and climate and proposed ideas of how Austin Prep can continue to enhance the levels of engagement and inclusion for Students of Color. Austin Prep Faculty and Staff who attended the class include, Ms. Kerry Barrett, Dr. Maria Blewitt, Ms. Alexandra Dell'Anno, Dr. William Driscoll, Mr. Raymond Kabunga, Mrs. Nicole Luongo, Mr. Michael McLaughlin, Ms. Sarah Meier, Mr. Jaycob Morales, Mrs. Nicole Putney, Mrs. Lisa Theriault, Ms. Alicia Varraso, and Ms. Heather Veit.

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Autumn At Austin: A Virtual Homecoming Experience

While alumni had the opportunity to return to campus for the tradition of Homecoming, this year due to the pandemic, it involved a drone and Zoom. The weekend of October 24th and 25th included several virtual experiences to bring our alumni back to campus. If you missed Autumn at Austin, check out the virtual homecoming experience using the links below:

• Willow Street to the World

• Midweek-END Update with APS Media: featuring alumni who are current faculty

• Virtual Campus Tour

• Sunday Mass

• St. Augustine Lecturer Dr. Crystal Kukendall

• Aerial Campus Tour

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Jeanne Maurand Retires After 19 years of Service

 

Long time faculty Ms. Jeanne Maurand retired earlier this month after serving 19 years with the science department. Ms. Maurand came to Austin Prep in 2001. She may be best known for her annual field trips to the seashore of Gloucester and the New England Aquarium with her marine science students. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Maurand's musical and artistic talents were shared with the community as a member of the Austin Prep faculty chorus, and as the club moderator for both the Conservation and Art clubs.

We look forward to celebrating Ms. Maurand in person at an event once the current pandemic restrictions are lifted. Meanwhile, those who would like to honor Ms. Maurand or any of our recently retired legends are encouraged to support the Austin Scholars Program in their honor.

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Austin Prep Faculty Participate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Event

Members of the Austin Prep faculty attended the AISNE Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conference on October 19-22. The virtual event included four days of interactive experiences with other independent school leaders across New England, focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion topics in our schools. For highlights from the conference click here.

Austin Prep faculty participants: Mr. Nick Reynolds, Ms. Kerry Barrett, Ms. Kristen Donnelly, Ms. Heather Veit, and Mr. Jaycob Morales.

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Austin Prep Presents Debuts with Retired Army Colonel, NCAA Division I Athletic Director

Austin Prep Presents,  a virtual speaker series designed to provide a platform for distinguished Austin Prep alumni to connect with fellow alumni, current Austin Prep students, parents, faculty, and staff, while reflecting on Austin Prep experiences that helped shape their lives, debuted on November 10th with Jim Knowlton '78, the current Director of Athletics at the University of California, Berkeley. A Retired Army Colonel, Mr. Knowlton served as the Director of Athletics at RPI and the U.S. Air Force Academy before arriving at Cal. He is currently just one of 65 Power 5 Conference (Pac-12, Big 12, Big Ten, SEC, ACC) Athletic Directors in the country. Click Here to View the Webinar

The webinar focused on challenges that the Covid-19 pandemic has created for leaders in the field of intercollegiate athletics. Mr. Knowlton also discussed, among other things, leadership traits learned at both Austin Prep and in the military, and how those traits have benefitted him in his career development.

Perhaps of most interest to current Austin Prep families, Mr. Knowlton addressed the recruiting process for high school student-athletes.

"I certainly feel bad for current high school juniors and seniors not being able to visit schools. So much about selecting a college is about the visit and seeing how you fit in. Our coaches have become incredibly creative using the resources we have – more videos, virtual tours, more photos and graphics – to give students a feel for Cal. To our amazement, our football program has had the best recruiting year they've ever had. My advice to juniors and seniors is to be diligent in your research and be proactive to reach out to get to know coaches, departments and academic programs the best that you can. Schools are offering their own virtual tours for all students. Visit campus websites to get a feel for the school," Mr. Knowlton said.

"But most importantly, take care of business in the classroom," Same here Knowlton added. "It opens or closes doors."

Austin Prep Presents will continue on November 24th at 7:00 p.m. with Joe Sciacca ’75, who serves as Enterprise Editor for 7News WHDH TV, and formerly worked as the Editor in Chief at the Boston Herald. Joe's presentation, entitled "Crisis Communications: Navigating the Media During Tumultuous Times," will address being a good news consumer, credibility of the media during a crisis, and how to work with the press no matter what industry you work in.

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Austin Prep Names New Board Member: Ruben Reyes, M.D., P'24, P'26

We are excited to welcome the newest member to the Austin Prep Board of Trustees. Ruben Reyes, M.D., P'24, P'26 is the parent of two current Austin Prep students. A board certified hematologist, he has extensive experience in Hematology and Oncology clinical practice, clinical research and drug development. 

Dr. Reyes currently serves as Senior Medical Director, Global Head Hematology Therapeutic Area at Paraxel International, a global biopharmaceutical services company.  In this role, Dr. Reyes has served as the global or North American regional medical monitor for phase I, II and III studies on acute myeloid leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphomas, melanoma, and ovarian, lung, pancreatic and gastric cancers. He also served as the lead physician for the creation of the Gene & Cell Therapy Working Group at Paraxel, and as the principal investigator on an extensive list of grants and clinical trial contracts.

Prior to that, Dr. Reyes served as an Assistant Professor of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, at the University of Kansas Medical Center. In this role, Dr. Reyes taught medical students, residents and fellows, and supervised pharmacy and psychology students rotating in the hospital ward. His philosophy of teaching was based on active learning with an emphasis in honest decisions and compassionate care.

Dr. Reyes has served on advisory boards for Millenium, Alexion, and Pfizer, and is a member of The American Society of Hematology, The American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the SouthWest Oncology Group.  

Dr. Reyes received his M.D. from the Higher Institute of Medical Science of Santiago de Cuba, where he was named the Golden Diploma Graduate, which is the most prestigious award in Cuban Higher Education. He has completed fellowships and residencies at the University of Miami, the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and East Carolina University. He currently resides in Andover with his wife Emma, daughter Paula '24 and son Steven '26.

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Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrated at Austin Prep

 

The Austin Prep community celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 to October 15. The month-long celebration was an opportunity to embrace and highlight individual aspects of different cultures, and in particular, the significant role of Hispanic culture within American history.

Below is a snapshot of activities our students and faculty participated in in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month:

• Freshman in Mrs. Nicole Putney's P'26 English class read The House on Mango Street. Over the month of October, students in Mrs. Putney's class studied the work of many Hispanic American writers, especially Sandra Cisneros, and mimicked her writing style to reflect on the origin of their own names. This activity celebrated the importance of individuality and heritage. 

• Students enjoyed cuisine from around the world. One meal included pollo guisado (Puerto Rican braised chicken thighs), Puerto Rican grilled flank steak, Puerto Rican pink beans, and sauteed zucchini with tomato sauce. 

• Students in Mrs. Linda Filadoro's P'22, P'23 Spanish 1 CP class created a project based learning assignment. This teaching method incorporates not only a culture centric connection to the Aztec history going back to 1521 before they were defeated by the Spaniards, but the students gained knowledge and skills by working with the days of the week, month, and holidays including their birthday in Spanish.

November is Native American Heritage Month and the Austin Prep community will honor our past by learning more about our own ancestry as we celebrate the 400th Anniversary of the English settlement in Plymouth.

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Students Connect Real Life Experiences to Summer Reading Assignment

 

This past summer, students read Outcasts United by Warren St. John as the Austin Prep summer reading assignment. The non-fiction book, announced in May 2020 by the School as the summer reading assignment, chronicles the journey of Luma Mufleh, an American-educated Jordanian woman who founded a youth soccer team to unify Clarkston, Georgia’s refugee children. The players include refugees from over 24 war-torn countries around the world such as Burma, Bosnia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Cuba, Sudan, Somalia, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Eritrea.

As has been done in past years with the summer reading project, Austin Prep will revisit this story throughout the year through our academic and community programming. One such exercise is currently taking place within our English department, where students are working with Google Voyager, a technology using Google Earth, that allows students to virtually visit locations around the globe. In class, students took a virtual journey to the many different countries that the refugees came from and the town in Georgia to which they were relocated. To view the map using Google Voyager, click here.

To further supplement the reading assessment, students will create their own voyage. Students will share important settings in their lives and connect their experiences in these settings with those of the refugees featured in Outcasts United. The project will include places where they felt at home, places where they felt “out of place” or unwelcome, and places where they accomplished a goal as a team. Throughout the year the Austin Prep community will continue to revisit the story of Coach Luma and the Fugees (the name of the soccer team) in order to learn more about diverse cultures and become more aware of the plight of refugees throughout the world.

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Dr. Crystal Kuykendall Returned to Campus

 

Dr. Crystal Kuykendall, educator, human relations expert, legal analyst/litigator, author and loving mother, was back on campus during the last week of October and led five presentations for the student community: one presentation for the Middle School and one presentation for each Upper School class. Additionally, Dr. Kuykendall engaged with faculty and staff, continuing recent dialogue to advance diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives on campus. A central theme of Dr. Kuykendall's presentation revolved around our own individual stories, and how we fail to notice stereotypes if we listen to only one story. Dr. Kuykendall closed the presentation emphasizing to students the importance of CPR: Compassion and Courage, Patience and Persistence, and Respect and Resiliency.

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International Students Share Their Tradition

 

In October, many international students in the Austin Prep community participated in the Chinese Moon Festival, a day similar to the United States Thanksgiving holiday. In World Language Faculty Dr. PoChun Wang's Middle School Mandarin 1 class, international students Doris Du '23 and Sylvia Chen '21 presented to the class about traditions and how their families celebrate this special day. Doris showed the class a picture of the traditional mooncake her grandmother made.

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Britt ‘Lightning’ Denaro ’03 Hosts Alice Cooper on Rock N Roll Fantasy Camp’s Masterclass Series

Student body President TJ Dysart ’21 had the experience of a lifetime on October 31st when he was invited to be a guest by alum Britt Denaro ’03 on the live online and interactive Q&A series where 20-25 “campers” learn directly from the masters themselves such as Alice Cooper, Roger Daltrey, and Joe Elliott of Def Leppard, to name a few. Britt, who serves as the program moderator, allowed for each of the 20 guests to ask at least one question of Alice. 

TJ was ready when it came time for him to question Alice: "Being someone that has exposed themselves to the right people to get you to the top, what advice would you tell younger generations to expose themselves to "make it big" in the world of entertainment. With the constant changing of the world, what would you say is the best way to put yourself out there?" Alice Cooper’s response was direct and not sugar coated: “If you want to get somebody’s attention, you have to walk out there as a star. ‘You’re gonna love me tonight,’ not with the attitude of, ‘Gosh I hope you like me tonight.’ --- It’s ‘You’re gonna love me tonight,’ or ‘You’re gonna hate me tonight.’ --- There is no middle.” 

With the advice of a rock and roll master in his pocket, and a newly established connection with Austin Prep alum Britt Denaro, TJ is on the upward trajectory of making a name for himself in the world of podcasting and media.

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Stay Connected Through Social Media | Submit Class Notes for Journey Magazine

We want to follow your Journey beyond Austin Prep. Please share updates including academic and sports honors, career milestones, marriages, births, or any of life’s other big announcements.  Send a Class Note or update your contact information to stay connected to Austin Prep.

Keep up to date with all the current events at Austin Prep by following us on our official social media accounts below: 

@AustinPrep

Alumni group is “Austin Preparatory School Alumni”
Each Austin Prep Reunion Class has a Facebook group: “Austin Prep Class of XXXX.”

 

@AustinPrep

@AP_MiddleSchool

@AustinPrepAD

 

austinprepschool

austinprepmiddleschool

austinprepad

ALUMNI COURIER
FALL 2020

Celebrating Our Retirees with Quotes from Alumni and Friends

As the last academic year came to a close, we said goodbye to five legendary figures in the Austin Prep community. The 2019-2020 academic year marked the final year at Austin Prep for Mr. Bill Maradei, P'11, '12, Mr. Gary Mackiewicz, Mr. Bob Hennessy, Mrs. Maureen DiPerna P'08, and Mrs. Teresa Wallace P'93, '96, who are retiring with a collective 171 years of service to Austin Prep.  For us to be able to honor five retirees with such distinguished service is humbling and we are grateful. 

We look forward to honoring these five legacies with a campus celebration as soon as we have the ability to do so in a manner that will allow us to gather family, friends, former students and colleagues in an acknowledgement fitting for their service. In the meantime, for those who have inquired into sending gifts to Austin Prep in their honor, in lieu of sending personal gifts to the school, donations may be made to the Austin Scholars Program, formally known as the Inner City Scholarship Fund.  Through your support, this fund is used to help provide scholarships to deserving inner-city students who otherwise would not be able to experience the Austin Prep journey. To learn more about the Austin Scholars Program, as well as other scholarships at Austin Prep, click here.  Donations to the Austin Scholars Program can be made by clicking here.

We recently acknowledged the retirees on social media and compiled below is a selection of responses:

Maureen Dipierna P’08, taught in the theology & foreign language department for 19 years. “Your warmth and compassion were a steady presence at Austin.”

Teresa Wallace P'93, '96, assisted students in the Fr. Arthur F. Smith, O.S.A. Library & Media Center for 31 years. “The most kind hearted and honest woman. Honored I was able to work with you.”

William “Coach” Maradei P’11,’12, who retired from coaching football in 2018 most recently retired from teaching in the science department for 27 years. “You made such a great impression on me from middle school. Football coach never missed any of the arts shows, whether it was the cheering comp, or the musicals.”

Gary Mackiewicz, taught in the world language department for 47 years. “What an incredible human. Mr. Mackiewicz taught so much more than foreign language- he taught life lessons, world culture and truly cared about his students.”

Robert “Bob” Hennessy, taught in the world language department for 47 years. “Thank you for opening up the world to your students and helping them to understand that humans are more alike than different. You played a significant role in shaping the unifiers!”

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Austin Prep Continues to Advance Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiatives

In their Pastoral Letter on Racism, the United Conference of Catholic Bishops were unmistakable in their teaching: “Racism is not merely one sin among many; it is a radical evil that divides the human family and denies the new creation of a redeemed world. To struggle against it demands an equally radical transformation, in our own minds and hearts as well as in the structure of our society.” Austin Prep condemns racism, bigotry, or intolerance in any form and our Catholic faith calls us to action to do all we can to defeat racism and foster greater respect and justice for all.

 

As a part of Austin Prep’s expanding commitment to advance equity and inclusion, Austin Prep is directing more resources to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and training. As was announced in July, this academic year Austin Prep has partnered with Dr. Crystal Kuykendall, the 2020 St. Augustine Lecture Series speaker and an accomplished educator, attorney, author, and recognized expert to assist us with our diversity programming and initiatives. Dr. Kuykendall was on campus during faculty orientation week to conduct training for the faculty and staff to heighten awareness around the damaging impact of implicit bias.

Austin Prep has also expanded the staff to support the important work of making Austin Prep more inclusive and equitable. Earlier this summer, Mr. Jaycob Morales was hired as our new Coordinator of Community and Inclusion. More recently, Austin Prep announced the appointment of Father Jorge Reyes, O.S.A., an Augustinian Friar, as Director of Mission and Inclusion.  Mr. Morales and Father Reyes will team with  Father Patrick Armano, School Chaplain, to focus efforts on advancing mission and making Austin Prep a more inclusive and equitable community.

Currently, Father Reyes works for the Bishop of Albany as the Director of the Spanish Apostolate. Over the next few months, Father Reyes will be at Austin Prep on a part-time basis. A native of Cuba, Father Reyes has spent much of his career as a pastor in communities of color including in the Dominican Republic and St. Mary of the Assumption in Lawrence. Additionally, Fr. Reyes was the head of a secondary school for several years in the Dominican Republic.

In his ministry, Fr. Reyes has provided counseling for those who struggle with addiction, worked with refugees, and provided rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities. As the Director of Mission and Inclusion at Austin Prep, Father will focus his efforts on advancing mission and making Austin Prep a more inclusive and equitable community. In the words of Fr. Reyes, “as a pastor, my job is to open hearts and make everyone feel included and loved.”

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The 2020-2021 Academic Year is Underway at Austin Prep

 

After nearly six months away from campus, and following many weeks of planning this spring and summer, Austin Prep welcomed students back to campus on Tuesday, September 8th for the first day of classes. Students in Cohort A participated in on campus learning, while classmates in Cohort B joined classrooms remotely. On Thursday, September 10th, students in Cohort B were on campus and Cohort A participated remotely. Cohorts rotate weekly with a specific cohort on campus three days one week, followed by two days the next week. To view photos from the first week of class, click here.

Austin Prep administrators worked throughout the summer to recreate, reframe, and reimagine life on campus to keep the Austin Prep community as safe as possible during the global pandemic. During this short period of time, every aspect of school operations – from campus arrival and dismissal, to dining hall protocol, and academic schedules – were reevaluated with the health and safety of community members the priority.

 

“Any decision we make for Austin Prep always will rely upon our unwavering commitment to examine challenges through the prism of Austin Prep’s mission, uncompromisingly keep the health and safety of the Austin Prep community paramount, and continue to deliver the singular educational experience for which Austin Prep is known,” Head of School, James Hickey, Ph.D. said. “Our reopening plan provides a flexible roadmap for our journey in the days and months ahead. It was specifically crafted to provide Austin Prep with the flexibility to adapt to the changing conditions that the pandemic will require us to meet.”

Preparations made for both on campus and remote learning have been extensive. Due in part to our generous community and the very successful Day of Giving in May, we were able to implement campus upgrades in advance of the school year investing nearly $1,000,000, which has included improvements to technology, advanced disinfecting equipment, additional personnel – including a second school nurse – and campus infrastructure such as new HEPA filters and HVAC upgrades.

Additionally, classrooms have been set up to mitigate the spread of illness and increase social distancing. Each classroom has unique configurations and distancing, and the School has worked closely with Reading’s Department of Public Health in regards to dining hall sanitation, occupancy, and food distribution.

Remote teaching and learning was first introduced by Austin Prep in March after the school closure mandate in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and was well regarded across the school community, creating a standard of best practices and an educational model that many schools replicated. With an already existing 1:1 iPad program for students – which provides each student their own iPad – remote learning will be bolstered this year with improved network capabilities and new equipment in each classroom, allowing students and faculty to interact with even greater ease.

"The significant investment that we have made in technology will provide students with the opportunity to engage with their classmates and teachers in real time. This technology includes upgrades in cameras and microphones that will enhance the remote learning experience,” Assistant Head of School and Head of Upper School William Driscoll, Ed.D. said.

Parents, who were invited to participate in a community wide webinar shortly after the release of the reopening plan in August, were excited to have their children return to campus.

 “In such an unsettling time, it gives us great comfort to know that our children were able to return to the Austin Prep campus this fall and have a sense of normalcy,” Amy Sperling, P’22, ‘25 said.  “It is very clear to us that the School has put a lot of time, effort and resources into a very thorough and safe reopening plan. We are confident that our children are in the hands of caring and capable professionals.”

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Class of 2020 College Journeys During a Pandemic  

We are following the journeys of our most recent graduates as they navigate their future and their education during this pandemic. While many of our youngest alumni have moved onto their college campuses to attend in-person classes, a large percentage are learning remotely. This year, we are seeing the graduates making the difficult choice to take a gap year, with some alums taking on internships,  entering the workforce, or volunteering with local organizations. Read about how the Class of 2020 continues to show their resiliency, using the foundation of veritas, unitas and caritas to define their unique journeys:

 

Lauren Sablone '20, Princeton University, “After finding out that Princeton would be remote this fall, I decided to take a gap year in order to get the most out of my 4-year college experience. In an effort to feel connected to campus still, I decided to move into an apartment just outside of Princeton for the fall season. I'm currently living with 4 of my teammates who are taking online classes as I begin a volunteer internship. We are all able to practice softball together on our Princeton field, and we are able to do our workouts together as if we were living on campus. In a few days, I will be volunteering for a professor at Jefferson University in Philadelphia as she begins a research project in the public health field.”

Meghan Anderson '20, College of the Holy Cross, “After I found out I couldn’t move onto campus, I decided that I would take a gap year. I am nannying and washing dogs at a dog groomer. I wish I was at school but I’m having the best time! Best jobs ever!”

 

Josh Azor '20, College of the Holy Cross, "When Holy Cross initially decided to go fully remote, I was definitely frustrated. After contemplating my options, I reluctantly decided to take online classes, and looking back on it, it was the best decision I could have made. I am not only enjoying my classes and making new friends, but being home allows me to determine my own schedule when I am not in class. Outside of the Zoom classroom, I can be found working long shifts at Jos.A Bank or Angelo's Ristorante and if not there then definitely at the gym. I am taking everything day by day, and although I can not wait to get on campus to get involved and meet everyone, I have also begun to see the silver lining amongst all the chaos in today's world."

"Being off-campus so far this semester has allowed me to spend so much more time with my younger sister, in turn improving our relationship ten-fold. I have also taken the time at home to help several friends learn the ways of nutrition and working out... socially distanced of course. Although with all this going on, and with managing work and classes as well, I feel as if my work ethic has vastly improved along with my time management, although it is cliché, I truly do think everything happens for a reason."

Abigail Brown '20, University of Vermont “Since May 29th, a lot has happened. The summer flew by, and I now find myself up in Vermont at UVM. I’ve settled into dorm life and made friends while balancing classes and exploring the area, and while I’ve been embracing change with open arms, I sometimes think back to my time at Austin. I can’t help missing the days of spending time with friends after school in the library, dropping by Mrs. P’s room just to have a chat, attending dances at Meelia, or even just the feeling of the last class on a Friday afternoon, when everyone was so ready to head home and enjoy the weekend. I can confidently say that Austin prepared me for the workload and effort expected of me in college, and that the transition was so seamless due in part to the rigorous material and strong academic atmosphere. Although I sometimes wish to go back to freshman year, when I was a fresh-faced 14 year old taking on the world, I feel so lucky to have received such a memorable education, and I will never quite forget my time at Austin Prep.”

 

Jonathan Whooley '20, WPI “This fall my college, WPI, has offered classes in a hybrid fashion. I have chosen to take my classes in person on campus. The transition to college was easier than I thought. Having successfully traversed through high school both academically, socially, and athletically all helped me get to where I am now. College is rigorous, especially when you only have 7 week terms, which is how WPI does it, unlike most. Nevertheless, my love for the small school atmosphere of Austin Prep is what led me to choose a college of similar caliber.”

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Austin Prep Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Austin Prep is celebrating diverse cultures, starting with Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15th to October 15th. During this time, we are recognizing the contributions, achievements and influence of Hispanic Americans on the history and culture of the United States. This month is significant as it includes the date of independence for many Hispanic countries.

As a community we are committed to providing Latinx identifying individuals the opportunity to reflect on their cultural roots and help other students who are unfamiliar with the culture to learn more about what Latinx individuals have contributed to our society. 

Throughout the month we will provide students with opportunities to embrace and celebrate Hispanic culture. In the coming weeks, students will be able to indulge in different Spanish cuisine at lunch in the dining hall. Meals will include dishes from various Hispanic countries including Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Panama, and Cuba, and fun facts about each country will be found around the dining hall. Additionally, each week we will highlight an individual person who has made an impact within the Hispanic Community.

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Field Hockey Added as a Varsity Sport

When athletics makes its long awaited return to Austin Prep, there will be a new sport offering for the fall. Girls Field Hockey will begin its inaugural season this year, with the first game on October 12th. To date, 34 students have registered for tryouts, which begin September 29th, and it is anticipated that Austin Prep will carry both a varsity and developmental sub-varsity program. Girls Field Hockey was a club sport during the 2019-2020 academic year.

The team will be coached by Ms. Brianna Robbins, a former collegiate field hockey player who also serves as the Executive Assistant and Events Coordinator in the Office of External Affairs. The team has a 10 game schedule with 6 home games scheduled to take place on Father Seymour Field. "What I am most excited for this season is seeing our team grow, and for us to finally play as Austin Prep’s first Varsity Field Hockey team,"  Patricia Bibeau '22 said. "As our program numbers continue to grow, the more our team comes together."

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SAVE THE DATE
Autumn at Austin: A Virtual Homecoming Experience for Alumni

We look forward to seeing our alumni throughout the weekend of October 23 - 25 for our Autumn at Austin Virtual Homecoming Experience! There is something for everyone! Autumn at Austin highlights include:

From Willow Street to the World ~ Michael McLaughlin, Head of Middle School will take you on a journey recapping the travels of Austin Prep students through service trips and study abroad programs. Hosted by alum Matthew Deeble ’20 and Pedro Castro '17.

Mass with Fr. Patrick Armano and Fr. Jorge Reyes in the Chapel of St. Augustine

More information to follow at austinprep.org and on Facebook.

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Reunion for Classes Ending in 0 and 5
Class Representatives Needed

The pandemic has altered the way Austin Prep traditionally celebrates reunion milestones with our alumni. We look forward to hosting virtual reunions for the classes ending in 0 and 5 in November. But to host these events, generate excitement and capture outstanding levels of participation, we need help from representatives from each of the classes.  If you would like to be part of the planning for your class reunion, please contact Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations and Giving by October 1st, jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org. We look forward to celebrating YOU this reunion year!

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Upcoming Virtual Admissions Events

 

We are approaching the Open House season at Austin Prep, and we will be offering virtual admissions events in the coming weeks. On Monday, September 28th at 9:00 a.m. we hosted a Middle School event, and on Tuesday, September 29th at 9:00 a.m. we will host an Upper School event. If you or a friend have a child interested in attending Austin Prep, start your legacy journey today and contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@austinprep.org for more information about upcoming events.

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Class of 2020 Reflects on Their Experience

As we embark on a new academic year, we can't help but remember the impact of our most recent graduating class, the Class of 2020.  In this video, several members of the class speak to what made their Austin Prep experience special to them. #Veritas #Unitas #Caritas #AustinAlways.

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Stay Connected Through Social Media | Submit Class Notes for Journey Magazine

 

We want to follow your Journey beyond Austin Prep. Please share updates including academic and sports honors, career milestones, marriages, births, or any of life’s other big announcements. Send a Class Note by October 15th to be included in the fall issue of Journey Magazine. 

Keep up to date with all the current events at Austin Prep by following us on our official social media accounts below: 

@AustinPrep

 

Alumni group is “Austin Preparatory School Alumni”
Each Austin Prep Reunion Class has a Facebook group: “Austin Prep Class of XXXX.”

 

@AustinPrep

@AP_MiddleSchool

@AustinPrepAD

 

austinprepschool

austinprepmiddleschool

austinprepad

Alumni Making Headlines

On June 2nd, the FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) in the U.S. for Siemens laboratory-based total antibody test to detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies including IgM and IgG in blood. Siemens designed this high-quality, highly accurate antibody test with the capacity and reach necessary to help address a critical societal need. Their test data demonstrated 100 percent sensitivity and 99.8 percent specificity. The total antibody test allows for identification of patients who have developed an adaptive immune response, which indicates recent infection or prior exposure. You can learn more about the test here.  Jim Martin ’70, Senior Research Scientist at Siemens, is part of the global team that helped to develop assay(s) and support analyzers that they are associated with testing. The team also trains/supports customers and Sales in all associated areas of Clinical Diagnostics.

Lt. Col. Mike Lynch ’98 will relinquish command of the 337 Air Control Squadron at Tyndall Air Force Base to Lt Col Donald VanSlyke . Lt. Col. Lynch is headed to the Pentagon to work on the Air Force Headquarters Staff. The Virtual Change of Command Ceremony will be streamed LIVE this Friday morning, June 5th at 9:30 a.m. EST. To watch the ceremony, click here.

After graduating with a degree in songwriting at Berkeley College of Music last year, Jillian Barrows ’13 released her debut EP Truly, Madly, Deeply on May 15th.  Click here to give it a listen!

Caty Flagg ’16 was highlighted in the Noontime Senior Salute on New England Sports Coverage on May 8th. Click here to read more.

Austin Prep’s 2018 state championship team catcher Peter Burns ’18 was recently named to the Boston Herald All-Decade MIAA Eastern Mass. baseball team Pt. II.

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Over $258,000 Raised During Day of Giving 

THANK YOU!!!  We are so incredibly thankful to everyone who supported us on Austin Prep's Day of Giving! The Austin Prep Community contributed over $258,000 to help support the Annual Fund. Your generosity this year will have an incredible impact as we aim to secure the necessary funding to continue to support the training and technological needs of our remote teaching and learning efforts, and to provide greater financial assistance to our families in need. 

If you missed our Day of Giving, you can still contribute. Our goal is to raise $300,000 by the end of the fiscal year (June 30) to help support the aforementioned initiatives, so we still need your help. If you would like to make a gift, or to learn more about our Day of Giving, click here now. Your gift –no matter the size—makes an impact!

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Austin Open Golf Tournament Tentatively Scheduled for August 24th

We are pleased to announce a tentative, rescheduled date for the 33rd Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament. That date is August 24th at Indian Ridge Country Club in Andover, Ma., with a start time of 7:30 a.m. Stay tuned for additional details.

The Annual Golf Tournament is vital in our efforts to continue to provide exceptional educational experiences for all our students. Proceeds from past golf tournaments have funded numerous campus initiatives, including the recently renovated David E. Nelson '81 Fitness Center. Now, more than ever, we welcome your participation in the event, either as a golfer or sponsor. Event sponsorships help make our event a success, and a wide array of sponsorships are available on our website here. We appreciate all those who have already committed to helping us make this a great event, and look forward to having additional members of the community join us.

If you have questions about golf sponsorships or the event in general, please contact Ms. Susan Belanger, Assistant Headmaster for External Affairs.

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Baccalaureate Mass for the Class of 2020

Friday, May 29th was a beautiful day on the campus of Austin Prep as the community came together to celebrate Baccalaureate Mass in honor of the Class of 2020. All the details from the day can be found here.

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New Summer Session at Austin Prep

We are excited to share the details about Austin Prep Summer Session 2020 with you. Building off the successful launch of Austin Prep’s Remote Teaching and Learning environment this spring, our Summer Session is an innovative virtual program for both Upper and Middle School students that includes a series of engaging courses designed to sustain students’ enthusiasm for learning and maintain connections between students during the summer months.

A menu of enrichment courses approach a familiar discipline through a unique lens. Geography through the Zombie Apocalypse or Baseball and 20th Century American History will provide students with an opportunity to take a deep dive into topics as they think critically and creatively.

Introductory and review-style courses provide a sense of structure and support as students sharpen their skills and strengthen their academic foundation in Mathematics and World Language.

With classes capped at 15 students and led by a member of the Austin Prep faculty, students benefit from an engaging environment that will help keep their academic goals on track. In addition to fellow Austin Prep students, classmates may include students from other Augustinian schools or other schools spread throughout the country, creating an opportunity to broaden perspectives not only about content but on the world itself. We invite you to learn more about Austin Prep Summer Session and peruse the Summer Session Catalog here. Registration is now open, and classes will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Summer Session is being coordinated by Head of Middle School Mr. Michael McLaughlin. He can be reached directly with any questions about the program or any of the specific courses.

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Lower Fields Athletic Complex Project

 

 

Construction on the lower field athletic complex has progressed this Spring, and the outcome is amazing. We would like to thank again all our generous benefactors for helping make the project a reality. The baseball field is complete, and the tennis courts are ready to be surfaced. We look forward to welcoming our students back to campus and watching them in action on this great new facility.

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Austin Prep Still Enrolling for the 2020-2021 Academic Year

Do you have a family member of friend who would be a great addition to the Austin Prep Community? Some of our best referrals come from individuals who know first hand the impact of the Austin Prep experience. If you know someone who might be interested in learning more about Austin Prep, please reach out to Steve Silverthorn, Director of Admissions, at (781) 944-4900 x830 or by email. Prospective families - or alumni who haven't been back to campus in a while - should take a look at this great virtual tour, produced by our Office of Admissions. Enjoy!

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Remote Teaching and Learning Continues for All

Even our faculty are continuing their education remotely! Congratulations to Science Department Chair, Mrs. Maria Blewitt, Ed.D., who successfully defended her doctoral dissertation remotely. Dr. Blewitt’s dissertation was entitled "High School Science Teacher's Beliefs and Practices for Scientific Literacy During Enactment of a Citizen Science Project." She earned her Doctorate in Science Education from the University of Massachusetts Lowell. 

Additionally,  recently appointed Assistant Headmaster and Head of Upper School, William Driscoll, Ed.D '89, also successfully defended his doctoral dissertation remotely. Dr. Driscoll earned his Doctor of Education Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision from Boston College's Lynch School of Education. His dissertation was entitled "Leadership for Inclusive Practices: Border Crossing for Refugee Students." Dr. Driscoll begins his new role at Austin Prep on July 1. To learn more about Dr. Driscoll, click here.

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Alumni in Athletics Recap

On April 21st Austin Prep students were invited to attend a virtual panel: Alumni in Athletics. The panel was hosted by Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations and Giving, and moderated by Patrick Driscoll ’97, Director of Athletics and Summer Programming. Four alumni shared their personal and professional journeys with our community:

Tom Fitzgerald '86, Interim General Manager for the New Jersey Devils (NHL)

Abby Jamieson '11, Division I Women's Softball at UMass Lowell; Registered Nurse

Dave Pasquale '89, Head Men's Hockey Coach at Wake Forest University (ACCHL)

Molly Waitt '11, Varsity Girls Basketball Coach, Medford High School; 1st Grade 

Full bios for participants can be found here.

During the discussion, these alumni whose careers have taken them in all different directions, reflected on their participation in Austin Prep athletics and how it taught them to overcome adversity, to work as a team, and to be a good teammate. They credited faculty for being instrumental in giving them their strong foundations they now have as adults. The panelists reflected on the lessons they learned from faculty such as Mr. Miller and Ms. Pascucci-Byrne P'26, and how dedication and commitment are invaluable in anything you do in life, whether you continue in athletics or not. The webinar came to a close with the alumni sharing their gratitude for the lifelong friendship with teammates and classmates.

Since mid-March, Austin Prep Alumni have also been visiting our remote classrooms and speaking with our students. If you would like an opportunity to share your professional experience with current Austin Prep students, please contact Director of Alumni Relations and Giving, Jennifer Hodgdon at jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org.

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Are you on the Frontlines?

If you are working or volunteering on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic, we invite you to share your story with our community. We want to hear from our alumni medical professionals, essential employees, volunteers who are delivering meals, teachers who continue to instruct students remotely, and all alumni who carry on the Augustinian values of unitas and caritas during this difficult time. Please use this link to upload your story and a photo. 

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Save the Date: Giving Day 2020 is Coming

On Thursday, May 28th, 2020 our community will come together for a Day of Giving. Be on the look out for more information about this initiative. If you would like to make a gift now, click here to learn more about the Annual Fund!  

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Sage Update

Looking to add something new onto your family dinner menu? SAGE Dining continues to offer delicious recipes to the Austin Prep community through their Instagram account.

Our Director of Dining Services Todd Moriarty shared one of his favorites, Steak Rolls, with us here.

ALUMNI COURIER
SPRING 2020

Live Streamed Services Continue Through Holy Week

Sunday began the most important week of the year for Christians, Holy Week, in which we remember the events of our redemption. This year, sadly, our churches are closed, and we find ourselves confined to our homes. Yet, the entire world, in an unusual way, is sharing in the Passion of Christ. 

We invite you to join us virtually from the Austin Prep's Chapel of St. Augustine for two events celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord.

Good Friday, April 10th, we will have a brief service at 12:00 Noon. Join us here. 

Easter Sunday, April 12th, we will celebrate Easter Sunday Mass at 10:00 a.m. Join us here.

These times of prayer will afford us the opportunity of gathering, although at a distance, together in prayer and unity for ourselves, our families, but especially for so many who have been invited this year to bear on their bodies the wounds of Christ (Galatians 6:17). 

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Remote Teaching and Learning at Austin Prep

When Governor Charlie Baker announced in response to the growing COVID-19 crisis a three week suspension of school operations at all public and private elementary and secondary (K-12) schools in the Commonwealth, plans were already well in place to implement a remote teaching and learning plan at Austin Prep.     

In the week before the statewide order, staff from the Austin Prep Department of Technology set up over 70 brand new Apple MacBook Air computers, configured with all the tools needed to teach remotely in case of a school-wide shut down. At the same time that Gov. Baker made his announcement on Sunday, March 15th, Austin Prep Faculty were participating in web tutorials led by the Austin Prep Office of Academic Affairs using the videoconferencing app Zoom Cloud Meetings.

From there, taking advantage of an already scheduled professional development day on Monday, March 16th, the laptop computers were deployed to faculty members on campus, and final plans were made for remote teaching and learning to commence on Wednesday, March 18th. Students were instructed to download the free Zoom Cloud Meetings App on their school issued iPads, and then received Google Calendar invitations from their advisors and teachers with individual links to enter virtual classrooms with their teachers and classmates. 

“I am extremely proud of and thankful for our faculty who are demonstrating ‘continuing education’ in action,” Head of Middle School Mr. Michael McLaughlin said. “Over the past couple of days, they have been learning how to navigate this videoconferencing technology in real time in order to be able to educate our students through frequent interaction and support.”

During this period of remote teaching and learning, Austin Prep is following a modified schedule of its Advisory Program and rotating academic block schedule. Classes are 45-minutes in length and allow for teachers to interact with their students and discuss concepts, skills, and assessments as well as maintain the connections students and teachers enjoy in class. There are four classes a day and advisory meets on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

“Our family would like to thank the entire Austin Prep faculty and staff for having the forethought, motivation and ability to get a distance learning program up and running for our students during the coronavirus outbreak,” Mrs. Karen Brabeck P’25 said. “Not only is it important to continue learning during this time, but it provides a sense of stability and ongoing community for our students who can remain connected with teachers, classmates and friends.”

Austin Prep Faculty have echoed that sentiment. “I am really grateful for the technology that we have at Austin Prep that allows me to be present in the lives of my students during this very challenging time,” English Department Chair Mrs. Nicole Putney P’26 said.

Despite the interruption to the traditional, in-person teaching schedule, the academic year has continued as planned, with the third quarter ending Friday, March 27^th and the fourth quarter beginning the following Monday, March 30^th.

“This is a challenging time and the strengths of Austin Prep will sustain us through uncertainty: our commitment to veritas, unitas, and caritas, our sense of community, small class size, and, of course, our faith,” Headmaster Dr. James Hickey P’22, ’23, ’24 said.

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Alumni Welcome to Join Classrooms Remotely

We look forward to welcoming our alumni into our virtual classrooms! If you would like an opportunity to share your professional experience with current Austin Prep students through the Remote Teaching & Learning program, please contact Mrs. Jen Hodgdon at jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org.

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Support Austin Prep Family Owned Businesses

The continuing to evolve COVID-19 situation is unprecedented in our society and has impacted many facets of our daily life. As a result of stay-at-home advisories and social distancing practices, many businesses have been deeply affected in various ways. Our thoughts go out to business owners and workers who are facing challenges in this uncertain time.

As a show of support, we would like to encourage the Austin Prep community to support Austin Prep family-owned businesses that remain open at this time. If you are a business owner, we invite you to fill out this simple form providing us with information about your business. This information will be posted here for the whole community to see.

Please visit these business websites, social media pages, or call for more information about hours of operations to determine how you can best support their business during this difficult time. There have been many sacrifices made in recent weeks, but through the strength of our community we will no doubt make it through the days ahead. 

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Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament Postponed

In consideration of existing stay-at-home mandates and the current school closure, the 33rd Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament, scheduled for May 18th, is being postponed. We are currently looking at available dates to reschedule in the future, and will be in touch as soon as those plans are confirmed. We hope to see you on the course for another great day with friends in support of Austin Prep.

The Annual Golf Tournament is vital in our efforts to continue to provide exceptional educational experiences for all our students. Proceeds from this year's tournament will help fund the expansion of parking on campus, and past golf tournaments have funded other campus initiatives, including the recently renovated David E. Nelson '81 Fitness Center. Now, more than ever, we welcome your participation in the event, either as a golfer or sponsor. Event sponsorships help make our event a success, and a wide array of sponsorships are available on our website here. We appreciate all those who have already committed to helping us make this a great event, and look forward to having additional members of the community join us.

If you have questions about golf sponsorships or the event in general, please contact Ms. Susan Belanger, Assistant Headmaster for External Affairs.

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Thank you, Alumni!

We would like to thank our generous alumni who have made a gift to the Annual Fund at Austin Prep this fiscal year. Many of the outstanding educational opportunities made available to our students, and professional development opportunities for our faculty, are a result of significant support from the Austin Prep alumni community. Your contributions allow us to continue to provide unique and distinctive learning experiences not only for our current students, but for future generations to come.

If you have not yet participated in supporting the Annual Fund, we encourage you to help us continue the upward trajectory of success at Austin Prep. Our fiscal year runs from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020. Please click here and consider making a gift today!

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Missing Campus?

We all are. But check out this great video put together by our Office of Admissions.  It gives prospective families a feel for what our campus is like, even though we currently can't be there. We hope you enjoy the video! What things on campus have changed since you were an Austin Prep student?

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Weddings and Onesies

Are you getting married? The Office of Alumni Relations will loan you an Austin Prep banner for photos at your wedding.    

Did you recently welcome a new cougar cub into your family? Let us know what size onesie your little cougar needs and the Office of Alumni Relations will send along one of our new Austin Prep baby onesies.

Contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 781-944-4900, ext. 852. 

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Spring 2020 Journey Magazine - Coming Soon!

The spring issue of Journey Magazine will be hitting mailboxes very soon! Once available, a digital version of the issue can found here, along with archived issues.

We will soon begin work on the Fall 2020 issue, so let your fellow Austin Prep alums know what you are up to by sharing a Class Note here. From weddings to births, new jobs to service work and everything in between. . . we would love to hear from you! 

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Stay Connected Through Social Media

Keep up to date with all the current events at Austin Prep by following us on our official social media accounts below: 

@AustinPrep

 

@AustinPrep

@DrJamesHickey

@AP_MiddleSchool

@AustinPrepAD

 

austinprepschool

austinprephead

austinprepmiddleschool

austinprepad

ALUMNI COURIER
WINTER 2020

Career Day Returns to Austin Prep

On Friday, Austin Prep welcomed the return of Career Day to campus. Over 43 alumni shared their professional experiences with students through panel discussions organized by profession, and a career fair including a resume-building help station.  Headmaster Dr. James Hickey, P'22, '23, '24 addressed students before breaking off into panel discussion groups. "Take advantage of this opportunity to interact and ask questions of our alumni. Have conversations not only with our alumni, but with each other." Hickey said. "Some things can't be learned from books alone."

Students had the opportunity to attend two panel discussion sessions, covering the following topics: Athletics, Broadcasting, Business Management/Finance, Career Services, Education, Engineering, Government, Health & Wellness/Science, Journalism/Writing/Communications, Law & Order, Performing Arts/Entertainment.

Career Day was made possible by our dedicated alumni who shared their journeys with our community, as well as through the support of the Annual Fund. Gifts to the Annual Fund from our generous alumni families, current families, faculty, staff and friends allow for Austin Prep to create opportunities such as Career Day. We look forward to continuing to bring invaluable experiences like these to our students and alumni.

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Appointment of William Driscoll '89

Assistant Headmaster and Head of Upper School

Austin Prep is pleased to announce that William Driscoll '89 has been appointed Assistant Headmaster and Head of Upper School. We look forward to welcoming Mr. Driscoll back to the Austin Prep Community! Click here to  read more.

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Annual Day of Service a Success

Austin Prep’s school-wide Annual Day of Service took place Thursday and was dedicated to supporting our Armed Forces, both active-duty troops and veterans. Students paid respect to the sacrifice so many have made in service to our country and took time to reflect as they crafted thoughtful notes of support, gratitude, and encouragement. Students also created care packages for active duty service members, veterans, and their families.

Additionally, Austin Prep welcomed three representatives from veteran outreach organizations. Francisco A. Ureña, Secretary of the Department of Veterans’ Services for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, thanked students for the work they were doing during the Day of Service, and emphasized the impact that care packages and notes of well-wishes have on members of our Armed Forces. An eight-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Ureña is a Purple Heart recipient from injuries sustained during the Operation Iraqi Freedom campaign. 

Ryan Casavant, Veteran Outreach Coordinator for the Home Base Program/Mass General Hospital & Red Sox Foundation, reminded students of the challenges that military veterans sometimes face when returning to civilian life.  Casavant served in the United States Marine Corps, including two combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. Accompanying Casavant on his visit to Austin Prep was his Home Base partner Gatsby, who joined the Home Base team as a Behavioral Health Facility Dog in November 2017 after undergoing months of training with Canine Companions for Independence. The Golden Retriever/Yellow Lab mix primarily works with the ICP (Intensive Clinical Program) and has an active role interacting with the Veterans and Family Members who come through this two-week program.

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Reunion Survey

This reunion year we celebrate Austin Prep classes ending in 0 and 5!

Alumni from the classes ending in 0 & 5 (1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015) are invited to use the QR code above or this link to participate in a brief survey to assist the Office of Alumni Relations in supporting this year's reunion events. The survey will be open until February 29th.

We appreciate your feedback!

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Upcoming Events and Happenings

Spring Musical

Austin Prep is excited for our spring musical, "Peter Pan." There are two performances: April 4th at 7:00 p.m. and April 5th at 2:00 p.m. We look forward to welcoming alumni back for this fun-filled performance! To reserve your tickets, please contact Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations & Giving. 

 

Alumni Charity Challenge Men’s and Women’s Hockey Games

Alumni and friends of Austin Prep are invited to participate in the annual Austin Prep Alumni Charity Challenge men's and women’s hockey games on Saturday, April 25th, 2020 at the Gallant Arena at Merrimack College in North Andover, MA. The Alumni Charity Challenge is an opportunity for alumni with a passion for hockey to hit the ice together with fellow alumni, and catch-up with one another on and off of the ice. 

Men’s Game, 12:00 - 1:15 p.m.

Women’s Game, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.

On the occasion of the Alumni Charity Challenge, we encourage alumni and friends to remember members of the Austin Prep community who left their mark, in particular in the hockey arena as players and fans. David E. Nelson ’81, Kristen M. Corbett ’08, and George “Matt” Miller embodied veritas, unitas and caritas.

To reserve a roster spot in one of the games, click here.

To donate to the Memorial Scholarship Program, click here. 

 

Class of 1970: 50th Reunion Weekend

There will be something for everyone as we celebrate the 50th Reunion for the Class of 1970 the weekend of May 15th - 17th! Formal invitations will be mailed to Class of 1970 alumni this week.

Friday, May 15th

4:00 p.m.~ Baccalaureate Mass, Richard J. Meelia Hall, Austin Prep

6:00 – 8:00 p.m.~ Class of 1970 informal gathering at Bunratty Tavern, 620 Main Street, Reading

Saturday, May 16th

1:00 p.m.~ Headmaster’s Reception, Dr. Hickey’s Office

2:00 p.m.~ Commencement Exercises

4:00 p.m.~ Class of 1970 Photo, followed by campus tour led by Green Key Student Ambassadors, Main Foyer

5:00 p.m.~ Class of 1970 Reunion Reception and Dinner hosted by the Headmaster, Gathering Room, Austin Prep

Sunday, May 17th

8:30 a.m.~ Mass in memory of deceased members of the Class of 1970, Saint Augustine Chapel, Austin Prep followed by continental breakfast in the main foyer

 

33rd Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament

The 33rd Annual Austin Open is just around the corner on Monday, May 18th and we want you and your business to be part of it!

Held at Indian Ridge Country Club in Andover, this event brings together our alumni, current families and friends for a spirited day of fundraising to directly benefit current students, and generations of Austin Prep families in years to come.

Check out our website here to learn about how you can participate as a golfer or event sponsor!

For information about sponsorship opportunities and foursomes, please contact Assistant Headmaster for External Affairs Sue Belanger at sbelanger@austinprep.org.

 

Summer 2020 Alumni Gatherings at Bunratty Tavern

The summer tradition continues as we look forward to connecting with Austin Prep alumni at our annual Alumni Informal Gatherings at Bunratty Tavern. Bunratty Tavern is located at  620 Main St., Reading Center. Gatherings will take place on June 24th and August 20th. Be on the look out for more information, including special guests!

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Save-the-Date for Austin Prep’s Day of Giving: April 29th

On April 29th, the Austin Prep community -- current families, alumni families, grandparents and friends-- will come together for a Day of Giving in support of the Annual Fund.

Many of the outstanding educational opportunities made available to our students, and professional development opportunities for our faculty, are a result of significant support from the Austin Prep alumni community. Your contributions allow us to continue to provide unique and distinctive learning experiences not only for our current students, but for future generations to come.

We would like to thank our generous alumni who have made a gift to the Annual Fund at Austin Prep this fiscal year (Our fiscal year runs from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020).

If you have not yet participated in supporting the Annual Fund, we encourage you to help us continue the upward trajectory of success at Austin Prep by participating in the Day of Giving on April 29th. 

You can also give early and make a gift today!

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Weddings and Onesies

Are you getting married? The Office of Alumni Relations will loan you an Austin Prep banner for photos at your wedding.

Did you recently welcome a new cougar cub into your family? Let us know what size onesie your little cougar needs and the Office of Alumni Relations will send along one of our new Austin Prep baby onesies.

Contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 781-944-4900, ext. 852. 

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Calling all Class Notes!

Spring issue of Journey Magazine is in production! Let your fellow AP alums know what you are up to by sharing a Class Note here. From weddings to births, new jobs to service work and everything in between. . . we would love to hear from you! 

Click here to check out the fall issue of Journey Magazine! 

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Alumni Brick Walkway

With graduation almost upon us, the deadline to order an engraved brick for our Alumni Walkway and have it installed in time for graduation is March 27th.

For more information and to order, click here.

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Stay Connected Through Social Media

Keep up to date with all the current events at Austin Prep by following us on our official social media accounts below:

@AustinPrep

 

@AustinPrep

@DrJamesHickey

@AP_MiddleSchool

@AustinPrepAD

 

austinprepschool

austinprephead

austinprepmiddleschool

austinprepad

 

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ALUMNI COURIER
FALL 2019

Class of 2019 Breakfast in the Dining Hall
Wednesday, November 27th
Dining Hall, Austin Prep
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Free. Breakfast includes: scrambled eggs, pancakes, sausage, bacon, home fries, coffee and juice.
Register here!

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Classes of 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994 & 1999
Friday, November 29th
Austin Prep
6:30 - 7:00 p.m. Tours with Green Key Student Ambassadors
7:00 - 9:30 p.m. Reception
$30 pp includes heavy hors d'oeuvres, open bar with beer, wine & soda, gratuity & processing fee, and alumni giveaways.
Business casual attire suggested.
Buy Tickets Today!

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Classes of 2004 & 2009
Saturday, November 30th
Landsdowne Pub, Boston
7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
$40 pp includes private room/bar* appetizers, 2 drink tickets, live band, gratuity & processing fee, and alumni giveaway.
*Private room/bar opens to the public at 10:00 p.m.
Please make every effort to arrive by 7:00 p.m. Guests arriving after 9:00 p.m. pay an additional $5 cover charge (separate from the ticket price) at the main door of Landsdowne Pub. 
Register Today!

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Class of 2014
Saturday, November 30th
Sissy K's, Boston
8:00 p.m.
$32 pp includes open bar for 2 hours*, appetizers, processing fees, and alumni giveaway.
*Bar opens to the public and becomes cash/charge at 10:00 p.m.
Tickets available here!

Please contact Director of Alumni Relations and Giving Jen Hodgdon at jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org today to be part of planning your class reunion.

Stay tuned to our website, social media and email as more information becomes available for these events and happenings:

• Welles Remy Crowther Red Bandanna 5K at Boston College, Saturday, October 26, 2019
  As a community, Austin Prep students, faculty and staff have read the inspirational story of Welles Crowther in award-winning ESPN correspondent Tom Rinaldi's The Red Bandanna. On October 26th, the community, including alumni, are welcome to join the Austin Preparatory School Cougars team and run or walk together. 
• Blue Mass for Local First Responders, Friday, November 1, 2019 -- all alumni first responders are welcome to join us for a Mass of Thanksgiving followed by breakfast in the Heritage Room. RSVP is required please.
• Class of 1970: 50th Class Reunion Weekend, May 15 -17, 2020
• 33rd Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament, May 18, 2020
• Career Day 2020, Friday, January 24, 2020 -- Alumni will return to campus to share their professional experience on panels and in discussions with current students.  

ALUMNI COURIER
WINTER 2019

ALUMNI COURIER
SPRING 2019

 

ALUMNI COURIER
FALL 2018