View past issues of the Alumni Courier here! There is always something exciting happening at Austin Prep so feel free to share this email with your family and friends.
The Class of 2025 Joins the Ranks of Austin Prep Alums
Alumni Career Day Recap
Austin Prep Inducts 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame Class
Class of 1975 |50th Reunion
Austin Open Golf Tournament Another Huge Success
Austin Prep Contributes Over $38K to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Class of 2005 |20th reunion
Pollard '97, Fernandes '25 Reach 100 Career Wins
Alumni Baseball Game
Austin Prep Lifers Get Married
Austin Prep Students Travel to Bermuda, Japan, and Washington D.C.
Help Austin Prep Continue to Grow and Thrive!
Brick Walkway
Stay Connected
The 2024-2025 Academic Year Comes to a Close
6th graders no more! These guys are now on to the 7th grade after celebrating with a fun Field Day on the final day of school June 6th.
That’s a wrap for the 2024-2025 Academic Year! We would like to thank our entire alumni community for your continued support of your alma mater. Read below for a recap of recent happening on campus and with our alums!
The Class of 2025 Joins the Ranks of Austin Prep Alums
Austin Prep celebrated the Baccalaureate Liturgy and Commencement for the Class of 2025, Friday, May 16th on Father Seymour Field. Friends, family, faculty, staff, Austin Prep Board of Trustees and 131 graduates came together for Mass and the conferring of diplomas for members of the Class of 2025. A full program for the Baccalaureate Liturgy can be found here.
Fr. Art Johnson, O.S.A., remarkably celebrated his first graduation mass in his over 60 year affiliation with Austin Prep.
In his homily, Celebrant Rev. Art Johnson, O.S.A., who was one of Austin Prep's founding fathers when the school welcomed students in 1963, drew connections between the historic election the week before of Pope Leo XIV – an Augustinian Friar – and the experiences of the students in the Class of 2025. "As an Austin Prep student, you have learned some of the same skills that has made Pope Leo successful, what has made him so special." Fr. Johnson said. "He paid attention to his faith and his Augustinian heritage, and those words, veritas, unitas, and caritas. He used the same teachings of St. Augustine that you learned about here at Austin Prep."
"I hope you just don't remember those words: veritas, unitas, and caritas. They were Pope Leo's pathway to success, and they can be part of your success, too."
Despite Fr. Art's long history with Austin Prep, and his presence at many significant milestone events on campus over the years, the Baccalaureate Liturgy was remarkably the first graduation mass he celebrated in his over 60 year affiliation with the School.
Austin Prep Class of 2025 Salutatorian Bruce McGinley.
Bruce McGinley, Class of 2025 Salutatorian, focused on the process of trial and error and the importance of being able to make a mistake while continuing with the task at hand by trying something new. "It is a mindset to be harnessed. It's the ability to embrace uncertainty, to take risks, and to understand that failure is not the opposite of success, but rather a crucial part of it," Bruce said. "Every mistake, every setback, every rejection is just another step toward something greater."
Austin Prep Class of 2025 Valedictorian James Bergeron.
Class of 2025 Valedictorian, James Bergeron, had a similar reflection, focusing on the journey, and not necessarily always on results. "Results are not defined by memories, but defined by the path you took to reach them," James said. "We have all gone through an amazing journey together at this school, and in the process, obtained the knowledge, the character, and the work ethic to be exceptional individuals."
Dr. Hickey in the Chapel of St. Augustine with the Class of 2025 before Commencement.
While addressing the graduates, Head of School James Hickey, Ph.D. P’22, ’23, ’24, '27, like Fr. Art,took the opportunity to reflect on the significance of Pope Leo's election.
"The election of Pope Leo XIV roughly coincides with the graduation of Austin Prep’s Class of 2025 – you are the next regiment of the Augustinian cavalry who will continue their journey beyond 101 Willow Street – with veritas, unitas, and caritas, imprinted on your hearts – ready to make the world more just using Augustinian values as your moral compass. Like Pope Leo, you are sons and daughters of St. Augustine," Dr. Hickey said.
"In the same way that Pope Leo’s formation as an Augustinian will inspire his journey and his leadership as our Holy Father, I am beyond confident the Augustinian charism will guide you in the right ways in the days ahead."
Austin Prep Board of Trustees Vice Chair, Mr. Thomas Flynn '83.
The event also included remarks from Austin Prep Board of Trustees Vice Chair, Mr. Thomas Flynn '83. "As an alumnus, I can tell you from experience that the lessons you’ve learned at Austin Prep will stay for a lifetime. Some of those lessons might have been hard to understand in the moment, like the times you might have felt overwhelmed or unsure, but trust me when I tell you that they have shaped you into the strong, capable individuals that you are today," Mr. Flynn said.
"The education that you have received here, at the school that has given so much to me, has prepared you for more than just the next step of a journey, Austin Prep has prepared you to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impression on the world."
Mr. Flynn also congratulated the Class of 2025 for being accepted to some of the top colleges and universities in the United States, and for being awarded over $45 million in scholarships.
Austin Prep Hosts Career Day
John Guanci '92 and David Quirk '84 lead a panel discussion during Alumni Career Day. Mr. Quirk, owner of Quirk Construction Corp, has had a major impact on the physical footprint of campus, having led construction efforts at Fr. Seymour Field and the Lower Field Athletics Complex.
On Thursday, April 3rd Austin Prep hosted Career Day, welcoming over 30 alumni to campus to share their professional experiences with students through panel discussions organized by profession, and a career fair to end the day. Students in grades 10, 11, and 12 participated in the day, with faculty and staff serving as moderators. Students had the opportunity to attend two panel discussion sessions, covering a wide variety of professions, and enjoyed individual conversations with our Alumni.
Panel discussion sessions, broadly covered the following professions: Broadcasting/Media, Education, Engineering, Entrepreneurship/Business, Finance, First Responders, Government Relations/Politics, Health & Wellness, Legal Services, Marketing/Communications, Military, Performing Arts, Real Estate/Sales, Sciences, Technology, and Writing/Journalism.
As a part of Commencement Weekend, we welcomed back the Class of 1975 for their 50th Austin Prep Reunion. A special thank you to Fr. Art Johnson O.S.A., who not only celebrated Baccalaureate Mass for the Class of 2025 on Friday, May 16th, but a special mass for the Class of 1975 on Thursday before. It was great to welcome everyone back to campus! View photos from the event here.
Austin Open Golf Tournament Another Huge Success
There were many familiar faces from the alumni community at the Annual Golf Open.
The Annual Golf Tournament is vital in our efforts to continue to provide exceptional educational experiences for all our students. A special thank you to alumni families for their 2025 Title Sponsorships: Pimentel Construction and Quirk Construction Corp. The proceeds from the Austin Prep Open have always helped ensure that Austin Prep students are provided an extraordinary experience rich in academics, extra-curricular activities, community and faith. This year, tournament proceeds will support STEM initiatives on campus. Your participation and support makes extraordinary possible at Austin Prep.
View all our Title, Lunch, Breakfast, Player Gift and Cart Sponsors here.
If you have questions about future golf sponsorships and events, please contact Ms. Susan Belanger, Assistant Head for Administration at sbelanger@austinprep.org.
Austin Prep Contributes Nearly $38k to St. Jude
Members of Austin Prep's Student Government and Mr. Jonathan Pollard '97, Associate Head of School, present a check for $37,804 to Emily Brooks, Development Specialist at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
At a Community Meeting before Easter Break it was announced that Austin Prep raised $37,804 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during the three Spirit Weeks this academic year. The mission of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is to advance cures, prevention, research and treatment for pediatric catastrophic diseases, and the Hospital has been the beneficiary of Austin Prep’s charitable efforts in recent years. We appreciate the generosity of our families, and thank St. Jude for their continued efforts in treating the toughest childhood diseases. Austin Prep raised an additional $7,211 for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to help support those impacted by the tragic wildfires in the greater Los Angeles area.
Class of 2005 | 20th Reunion
The Class of 2005 celebrated their 20-Year Reunion on Saturday, May 31st at Kings in Lynnfield. It was great to see over 30 alumni in attendance! A special thank you to Joey Carregal '05 TR for making this night a great success!
Pollard '97, Fernandes'25 Reach 100 Career Wins
Dr.Hickey, Coach Pollard '97, and Alex Fernandes '25 celebrate 100 wins.
Austin Prep's 3-1 victory vs. Phillips Exeter on May 19th took the Austin Prep Baseball team to 18-2 on the season (they finished the season 20-2 ). It also marked Head Coach Jonathan Pollard's '97 100th career win, and Alex Fernandes' '25 100th win with the program. After the game, Head of School James Hickey, Ph.D. presented Coach Pollard with a new “Belt” for the program and custom bat signifying the milestone. Alex was presented with a custom bat noting his 100th career win, as well. Congrats to Alex and Coach Pollard!
This summer, Coach Pollard returns to USA Baseball to coach the 2025 Athlete Development Program. The ADP is a four-day developmental opportunity for the best baseball players in the country, held at the National Training Complex in Cary, North Carolina. Read more about the team here.
On the Note: Alumni Baseball Game and Luncheon
Baseball alums, have you been to the new Little Field yet? This is your chance!
This summer, we are excited to host the inaugural Alumni Baseball Game and Luncheon on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. Our hope is to make this an annual tradition. An official invitation was recently sent out to all varsity baseball alumni via email. If you have questions, please reach out to Darren Stewart, Director of Alumni Relations, at darren.stewart@austinprep.org.
Austin Prep Lifers Get Married
Grace McCarthy ’16 married Michael Nigro ’16 on February 1, 2025. Grace and Michael both
attended Austin Prep together beginning in 6th grade. The photo features the following alumni in attendance from left to right: Frankie Pagano’16, Christina (McLellan) Pagano’16, Robert Pagano’15, Katelin Nigro’14, Stephen Reddy’18, Nino Pingaro’16, Cas Gast’16, Michael Nigro’16, Grace (McCarthy) Nigro’16, Kyle Havey’15, Mike Reddy’16, Sarah Klucznik’16, Katie Kiley’16, Nicole Rosania’16, Emily Rakers’16, Lily Burkett’17, Emily O’Connor’16.
Austin Prep Students Travel to Bermuda, Japan, and Washington D.C.
Austin Prep Students in Bermuda.
At Austin Prep, every student has the unique opportunity to enhance their educational journey by participating in our global travel experiences. During the 2025 March Break, a select group of students embarked on an unforgettable adventure to the island of Bermuda, where they explored the world of Marine Science and engaged in hands-on research. From studying plankton beneath a microscope to swimming in crystal-clear caves, their days were filled with discovery and excitement.
Austin Prep students and staff in Japan.
Not to be outdone, also during the March break, another group of Austin Prep students embarked on an unforgettable two-week adventure to Japan. Their journey took them to the vibrant cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, where they explored cutting-edge innovations at the STEM Hub Tokyo and delved into the rich cultural history of Kyoto. The trip also included a visit to Disneyland, where they were amazed at how technology and entertainment can work together. Students were immersed in a world of discovery and innovation. This trip not only expanded their understanding of STEM fields but also fostered a deep appreciation for the diverse and dynamic world around them.
Austin Prep students Alex Killilea '29, Sonya Vaysman '29, and Myles McEwen '29, with Head of Middle School Mr. Michael McLaughlin, had the honor of participating in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Just before the March Break, The Class of 2029 traveled to Washington, D.C. this week for their Class Capstone Trip. Students visited a number of monuments and sites celebrating the history and heritage of the United States. While at sites like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, students delivered presentations to their classmates about the significance of the site and notable features of the monument. The experience of students learning from each other represents the immersive way in which teachers designed lessons prior to the trip and experiences in the itinerary to provide students with ownership of their learning and contribute their voices to the program. Students also explored a number of Smithsonian Museums, and visited the new interactive "People's House" exhibit.
A highlight of the trip was the visit to Arlington National Cemetery, where Austin Prep students Alex Killilea ‘29, Sonya Vaysman ‘29, and Myles McEwen ‘29, and Head of Middle School Michael McLaughlin, had the honor of participating in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. You can view the ceremony here.
The Class Trip was a unifying experience for the students with experiences like a class dinner at the Hard Rock Café, the celebration of Ash Wednesday Mass at St. Peter's on Capitol Hill, and a dinner and dance for students at the hotel to close the trip.
Help Austin Prep Continue to Grow and Thrive!
The strength of Austin Prep lies in our supportive community. Each year, the gifts to the Austin Prep Fund help to sustain the impactful programs and opportunities that keep Austin Prep at the forefront of educational excellence, both inside and outside the classroom.
The 2024-2025 Austin Prep Fund Campaign ends on Monday, June 30th. If you have yet to make your tax-deductible donation, please join the alumni community and make a gift today by clicking here. Thank you to all who made their gift already!
Alumni Brick Walkway
Hundreds of families and alumni have literally etched their names permanently into Austin Prep’s
history with an engraved brick in the Alumni Walkway. Located from the main entrance doors down to and around Richard Meelia’67 Hall, the walkway connects Austin Prep’s past to its promising future. The walkway contains bricks with the names of alumni from the six decades of our history. It’s never too late to add a brick from any class year! Bricks are $500 and can be reserved with a gift to the Austin Prep Fund. Purchase Your Brick Today!
Stay Connected
The Office of Alumni Engagement wants to stay in touch with you and let you know what is happening at Austin Prep, as well as share your personal updates with fellow alumni. Please share updates including academic and sports honors, career milestones, marriages, births/adoptions, or any of life’s other big announcements.
Austin Prep Celebrates Christmas Holiday Traditions in Style
School Community Demonstrates Caritas this Holiday Season
The Class of 2024 Returns for Alumni Breakfast
Dr. & Mrs. James Hickey Receive Special Augustinian Honor
St. Augustine Lumen Award is presented to Faculty and Staff
Unitas Leadership Academy Visits WCVB Channel 5 Boston
International Travel Program Kicks Off With Trip to Quebec City
Thank You for a Successful Day of Giving
Support the Austin Prep Fund Before December 31st
Austin Prep Strategic Planning Updates
Austin Prep Reunion Updates
Alumni Career Day April 3rd
2025 Athletic Hall Of Fame Class Announced in January
Stay Connected
Austin Prep Celebrates Christmas Holiday Traditions in Style
The past few weeks at Austin Prep have been filled with many traditions of the Advent and Christmas season. Unitas has been expressed in unmistakable ways – in community masses, shared holiday experiences and celebrations, student performances, and many social interactions bound by faith and reason.
The Austin Prep community gathered for two showings of the annual Christmas tradition of Lessons and Carols, first with a performance for students and staff in Richard J. Meelia '67 Hall on Wednesday, December 4th, followed by a performance for parents of choir and band members in the Chapel of St. Augustine on Monday, December 9th. The shows included traditional Christmas hymns and carols by the Austin Prep Choir and Austin Prep Band, as well as scripture readings and short passages about the true meaning of the season. Photos from the Meelia Hall showcan be viewed here. Photos from the Chapel of St. Augustine showcan be viewed here.
Students Impress With Two Performances of The Nutcracker
Austin Prep then continued its over 30 year Christmas tradition of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, with performances at theCollins Center in Andover on Monday, December 16th and Tuesday, December 17th. Nearly 200 students participated in the shows. You can view photos from the Monday night performance hereand theTuesday night performance here. You can watch the performance of Monday's first act finale, "Waltz of the Snowflakes," by clicking above. A special thank you to all those in the School community who help take the show on the road.
Austin Prep Community Celebrates Lighting of Christmas Tree
Santa Claus with students after the Christmas Tree lighting.
On Thursday, December 6th, the community embraced the festive spirit as Austin Prep celebrated its newest school Christmas tradition – the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Led by prayers read by Fr. Patrick Armano, School Chaplain, and Sr. Maria Gorreth Nassali, Assistant Head of School for Mission and Ministry, and a welcome from Head of School, James Hickey, Ph.D., the community gathered in front of the Dining Hall Patio to witness the magic unfold as we illuminated our magnificent tree. Following the lighting we continued the celebration with hot cocoa and Christmas cookies in the Dining Hall, with an appearance from Santa Claus. It was a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season together in a spirit of unity and joy.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, and for the generous support of Alex and Janine Martinelli P'28, '29 who sponsored the Christmas Tree this year. View photos from the night here.
School Community Demonstrates Caritas This Holiday Season
Mr. Jaycob Morales, Coordinator of Community Engagement and Inclusion, and Sr. Maria Nassali, Assistant Head of School for Mission and Ministry, help to organize gifts for the Christmas Gift Drive.
This Thanksgiving season Austin Prep students and staff assembled and donated over 80 Thanksgiving baskets to families from St. Mary the Assumption Parish in Lawrence, a parish with deep ties to the Augustinian Friars who founded Austin Prep in 1961. Austin Prep collected food and supplies to provide Thanksgiving dinners for 80 families totaling more than $15,000. Students delivered the baskets two days before Thanksgiving. Shortly after that, during this Christmas season student advisory groups assembled gift packages which were also delivered to St. Mary of the Assumption parish right before Christmas. Austin Prep is grateful to all our families for supporting this important holiday initiative. Their generosity reflects the words of Jesus: “Whatever you do for the least of my brothers, you do for me” (Matthew 25:40). Each donation, no matter how small, has made a significant impact on the lives of the families we supported.
The Class Of 2024 Returns for Traditional Alumni Breakfast
The Class of 2024 on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.
Austin Prep continued the tradition of welcoming back the past year's graduating class for an alumni breakfast the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. On Wednesday November 27th, members of the Class of 2024 gathered in the Dining Hall to connect with classmates, faculty and staff as a kick-off to the holiday weekend. Thank you to all who returned back to campus!
Dr. & Mrs. James Hickey Receive Special Augustinian Honor
On Monday, December 9th, Austin Prep welcomed Fr. Art Johnson, O.S.A., to campus to celebrate the Mass of the Immaculate Conception. This Mass was extra special as Dr. James Hickey, Head of School, and his wife, Mrs. Cindy Hickey P’22, ’23, ’24, ’27, became affiliated to the Order of St. Augustine, Province of St. Thomas of Villanova.
Friars can nominate individuals for affiliation because of their exemplary service to the Order. The community of friars at St. Augustine Church in Andover, including Fr. Art, Fr. Peter Gori, O.S.A., Austin Prep Class of 1970, and Fr. John Dello Russo, O.S.A., where Dr. and Mrs. Hickey are parishioners, nominated them for their commitment to Augustinian education and the Augustinian way of life.
Affiliation is the highest honor that the Order can bestow on a lay person. According to the Constitutions of the Order of St. Augustine, “The Order has the faculty of affiliating to itself the faithful who merit special recognition because of their distinguished cooperation for the good of the Order. By reason of this affiliation, they belong to the Augustinian Family and share in all of the spiritual benefits of the Order.” After their nomination was approved by the Provincial Council in Villanova, PA, the affiliation of Dr. and Mrs. Hickey was approved in Rome by the Prior General of the Order of St. Augustine.
Through her own vocation as an educator and steadfast mom, Cindy Hickey has supported the work of her husband, volunteered countless hours for Austin Prep, and been a quiet source of inspiration for many, especially the staff at St. Augustine School where she worked for many years.
It was a milestone event for Austin Prep, and many members of the school community offered congratulatory words to the Hickeys, which you can view above.
We are grateful for the spiritual bond that the Hickey’s will share with the Augustinians and we were honored to celebrate with them.
St. Augustine Lumen Awards Presented to Faculty and Staff
Kasey Field, Leeann Blais, and Lisa Simmons (left to right) are the 2024 recipients of the St. Augustine Lumen Award.
The annual St. Augustine Lumen Award recognizes exemplary faculty and staff who embody the mission of Austin Prep. Dr. James Hickey, Head of School, was joined by Mr. Thomas Flynn '83, Board Vice Chair, Mrs. Barbara Marchetti P’17, and other members of the Board of Trustees as they presented the 2024 St. Augustine Lumen Awards to English faculty member Mrs. Leeann Blais, Director of Admissions Mrs. Lisa Simmons P’24, ’25, ’27, '30, and Admissions Administrative Assistant Mrs. Kasey Field P’29. Congratulations to Mrs. Blais, Mrs. Simmons, and Mrs. Field, and thank you for all that you do for our students and school community.
The award was presented Tuesday, December 3rd in front of faculty, staff, and members of the Austin Prep Board of Trustees.
Unitas Leadership Academy Visits WCVB Channel 5 Boston
ULA students in the WCVB Studio on Thursday.
On Thursday, December 12th, Austin Prep’s Unitas Leadership Academy (ULA) visited WCVB Channel 5 Boston for a behind the scenes look at the television news operation. A special thank you goes to investigative reporter Karen Anderson for speaking to our students about the search for truth and integrity in the news industry. You can view photos from the day here.
International Travel Program Kicks Off With Trip to Quebec City
Austin Prep Students in Québec City in November.
As a part of the twenty-second annual National French Week from November 6th-12th, Austin Prep took its first international trip of the 2024-2025 academic year. 40 students and 15 adults visited Québec over the Veterans Day holiday weekend. Click hereto learn more about what students loved about Québec. You can view photos from the trip here.
The Québec trip provided students with a rich immersion in French culture and cuisine. The trip itinerary included visits to historical and cultural sites like the Huron-Wendat Museum, the Citadel, and the Montmorency Falls. A favorite stop for many students was the beautiful Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré on the Saint Lawrence River. The students had fun practicing their French vocabulary during a scavenger hunt at the local market and flexed their acting skills at an Improv show and a theatrical workshop. The walking tour of Vieux Québec, the old walled section of the city, gave the group a first-hand view of Québec's rich history.
Truly the trip was a gastronomic experience. Students started each morning with delectable pastries like croissants at Café Paillard or brunch at the iconic Château Frontenac hotel. Meals highlighted the region's culinary specialties, including a traditional indigenous-inspired feast at Restaurant La Traite, savory burgers and poutine at Chez Victor, and a maple syrup-themed dinner complete with music and dance.
The Quebec adventure provided students with a well-rounded immersion in the area's rich heritage and vibrant contemporary culture - and students returned to campus excited to share their tales from the trails with classmates and teachers.
The Austin Prep International Student Travel Program continues in March with trips to Japan and Bermuda.
Thank You for a Successful Day of Giving
We are thrilled to share that our 7th annual Day of Giving was a tremendous success! Your generous support and enthusiasm have made a powerful impact on our students, faculty, and staff. Thanks to you, our community has come together once again to advance the mission of Austin Prep and strengthen the educational experience we provide.
Our students are excited to share their gratitude with you as well — please enjoy this special video as a token of our appreciation for your leadership and participation. Thank you again for your partnership and support. We couldn’t do this without you!
Miss Day of Giving? Support the Austin Prep Fund Before December 31!
Thank you to everyone who has generously supported the Austin Prep Fund in 2024. If you haven’t yet made a gift, there’s still time before the clock strikes midnight on December 31st! You can make your gift click here, or for gifts of stock, please email John Weber, Chief Financial Officer at jweber@austinprep.org or contact the Development Office at (781) 944- 4900.
Please note: Gifts must be postmarked, or shares received in our Vanguard account, by midnight on December 31st to qualify for 2024 tax benefits.
Austin Prep Strategic Planning Updates
In the spring of 2024, the Board of Trustees commenced a strategic planning process. This initiative was part of a seamless transition from the last five-year strategic plan, which was launched in 2019 and completed in 2024. In the early fall of this year, the Board of Trustees approved Austin Prep’s next five-year Strategic Plan, 2024-2029. The new plan was developed to lead Austin Prep into another decade of continuous achievement, fueling the school’s long-term, sustained commitment to remain in the vanguard of Catholic education. In Austin Prep’s 2024-2029 Strategic Plan, Austin Prep will continue to chase excellence in the footsteps of St. Augustine and advance our unwavering commitment to Catholic education and Catholic teaching.
The central aspect of strategic planning is to assist our students in reaching their full potential through the mission-promise of Austin Prep. In recent years, Austin Prep has made wide-ranging financial investments totaling more than $22 million that has impacted every aspect of the School community, including a comprehensive campus modernization program, a competitive faculty compensation model, an expansion of student life and athletic programs, and the construction of newly designed science facilities supporting the growth of STEM education.
The accelerating growth of the School over the last several years through community-based strategic planning has united preparation with opportunity, generating transformative educational opportunities. The 2024-2029 Strategic Plan, which includes long-term goals and action plans, will build on our strengths, and express our aspirations in innovative and exciting ways. The plan is rooted in mission, continuing the trajectory of growth, and expanding Austin Prep’s coveted value proposition.
With a new strategic vision of the future, Austin Prep is well positioned to accelerate our evolution as a leading Catholic institution. The new strategic plan will help elevate academic experience, expand educational opportunity, enhance our campus infrastructure, and fortify Austin Prep as a leading influence in secondary education. We will be in touch in the New Year with additional strategic planning updates.
Austin Prep Class Reunion Updates
Class of 1975 to celebrate 50th Reunion during Commencement Weekend
Welcoming alumni back to campus for the 50th Reunion is always a highlight of the year end Baccalaureate Liturgy and Commencement.
We look forward to celebrating the 50th Reunion for the class of 1975 this coming May. Activities are being planned for May 15-16, 2025. Save the dates and invitations will follow in the new year. If you would like to help find missing classmates or have any questions please contact Director of Alumni Engagement and Giving, Darren Stewart, darren.stewart@austinprep.org, or 781.944.4900 x4862.
The Class of 2019 Celebrates 5-Year Reunion
The Class of 2019 celebrated their 5-Year Reunion on Friday, November 29th at Sissy K’s in Boston. A special thank you to Tara King '19 and Gianna Corrente '19 for helping to organize this fun night!
The Class of 2014 Celebrates 10-Year Reunion
The Class of 2014 celebrated their 10-Year Reunion on Saturday, December 17th at Great American Beer Hall in Medford. A special thank you to Jonathan Saurman '14 for helping to coordinate the event!
Save the Date: Alumni Career Day is April 3rd
The Office of Alumni Engagement is excited for the return of Alumni Career Day on April 3, 2025. Career Day is a terrific opportunity for our alumni to share their professional experiences with our current Austin Prep students. We will have panel discussions based on vocation/industry followed by a career fair with opportunities to speak with students one on one. This is one of the most notable events for students and alumni to connect, it can be a life changing experience. If you would like to participate in Career
Day, please contact Director of Alumni Engagement and Giving, Darren Stewart, darren.stewart@austinprep.org, or 781.944.4900 x4862.
2025 Athletic Hall of Fame Class to be Announced in January
The Athletic Hall of Fame Committee will announce the 2025 inductees in January of 2025 and on Saturday, April 26, they will be inducted during a dinner ceremony at Austin Prep. Tickets for this event will go on sale in January 2025, and there will be opportunities to send the honorees a congratulatory note, or purchase an advertisement in the commemorative program book. Should you have any questions, please be in touch with Ms. Susan Belanger, Assistant Head of School - Administration & Special Projects at sbelanger@austinprep.org.
Alumni Winter Gathering at Bunratty Tavern
We are excited to begin a series of local alumni gatherings! Please join us on Thursday, January 30th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Bunratty Tavern in Reading Center. It will be a great time to connect with fellow Austin Prep alums. Please register in advance here, there is no cost to attend.
Stay Connected
The Office of Alumni Engagement wants to stay in touch with you and let you know what is happening at Austin Prep, as well as share your personal updates with fellow alumni. Please share updates including academic and sports honors, career milestones, marriages, births/adoptions, or any of life’s other big announcements.
Annual Convocation Liturgy Marks Official Start of the Academic Year
Austin Prep Faculty Participate in Summer Sabbatical Program
Sr. Maria Promoted to Assistant Head for Mission and Ministry
Welcome Alumni Engagement Director
Career Day
Reunions
Brick Walkway
Hall of Fame Nominations
Day of Giving
Open House | Save the Date
Stay Connected
The 2024-2025 Academic Year is Underway
Head of School, James Hickey, Ph.D., welcomed the Class of 2025 to campus on the first day of their senior year.
Another academic year at Austin Prep is underway! Students arrived Tuesday, August 27th welcomed by faculty and staff and reunited with classmates as we kicked off the next year of our Austin Prep journey together. As is the case with every academic year, Austin Prep adopted a theme to help community members advance our mission and live our faith. The theme for the 2024-2025 academic year that we’ll use to advance the mission of Austin Prep is adapted from Hebrews (6: 17-19): Anchored in Christ, We Venture in Hope. The New Testament Book of Hebrews encourages dispirited Christians to journey forward in faith. Through this optimistic theme, we will focus our fellowship, activities, and lessons on advancing veritas, unitas, and caritas.
Austin Prep took this past summer to replace the windows on the main School building.
The main building at Austin Prep has a new look. As part of a multi-year classroom modernization and campus upgrade project, Austin Prep took this past summer to replace the School’s windows, most of which are more than 60 years old. To complement the new heating and cooling system we installed last summer, these new windows are “green” and will maximize the energy efficiency of the new HVAC system. The project is considerable and will take two summers to complete. A bit smaller in scope, Austin Prep also refurbished the lavatories and boys and girls locker rooms in Richard J. Meelia ’67 Hall.
Summers stay busy at Austin Prep. In 2022, critical components of the campus electrical grid which included new transformers and generators were replaced. Also that summer, Austin Prep built a new STEM lab with an Anatomage Table and refurbished the Chapel of St. Augustine.
Annual Convocation Liturgy Marks Official Start of the Academic Year
Complete with the pageantry expected of Convocation – including the procession of students carrying class banners, welcomed by faculty in academic regalia to the sounds of the Boston Police Gaelic Column of Pipes and Drums – this year's liturgy continued to include a parade of flags representing the national heritages of those in our school community. Over 90 national flags were included.
Janna Vounessea '25
Janna Vounessea '25, School-Wide Student GovernmentPresident, began the ceremony by addressing her classmates and referencing the School theme for the year: Anchored in Christ, We Venture in Hope.
"In our Austin Prep Journey, we are all lucky enough to have a strong support system. Whether it's in academics, athletics, arts, or just about anything else, our friends, teachers, coaches, and administration all want us to be successful and are all committed to helping us achieve our goals," Janna said. "While they are our support system, Jesus Christ is also Anchored with us at all times. He gives us courage and strength when we need it and will love us during both good and bad times. Which is why during this upcoming school year, we need to venture in hope because God always has a plan for us."
Father Robert Hagan, O.S.A. Augustinian Prior Provincial of Province of St. Thomas of Villanova.
Father Hagan began his remarks by noting that while he had never been to Austin Prep, "as Augustinians we are family. So thank you for welcoming me home as we share the same values of veritas, unitas, and caritas."
After spending many years as an Associate Athletic Director in the athletics department at Villanova University, Father Hagan went on to tell the story of a walk-on basketball player for the University. The player had packed his bag for a game and brought two left shoes. Not expecting to play in the game, the player did not think it would be a concern, until he was ultimately called into game action.
"We are on a Journey and we must pack well for this trip. In life you have to go with what is in your bag. Go with what you've got. For St. Augustine, he would substitute his heart for the bag. Make sure you go with what is in your heart," Father Hagan concluded.
Head Of School, Dr. James Hickey P'22,'23,'24,'27
Head of School, Dr. James Hickey P'22, '23, '24 ,'27, kicked off Austin Prep's 62nd academic year by welcoming those in attendance, and framing his comments around the School's 2024-2025 academic year theme. "Hope is not a strategy, unless that hope is anchored to a solid plan, an unmatched work ethic, or a solid foundation."
Dr. Hickey noted later, "In those circumstances beyond our control, there is one solid strategy we can use: prayer. And it anchors us to Christ."
To mark the occasion, Senior Class Representatives Nicholas Kuntz ‘25 and Sailet Galvis ‘25 raised the Class of 2025 banner, which will eventually be hoisted to the rafters of Meelia Hall, where it will remain until being lowered at Baccalaureate Mass in May, 2025.
Austin Prep Faculty Participate in Summer Sabbatical Program
The Austin Prep Summer Sabbatical program was established in 2016 and funds proposals allowing faculty members to pursue their passions while making important advancements in their areas of study, thus reinvigorating their future classroom instruction with new findings and ideas. Professional development opportunities are heavily supported by gifts to the Austin Prep fund, and we are grateful for the community’s commitment to advancing teaching and learning excellence at Austin Prep. This summer Austin Prep funded three summer sabbaticals.
Mrs. Nicole Putney
English Faculty Mrs. Nicole Putney took a three-week road trip from the Florida Keys to Maine, focusing on exploring the lives and writings of prominent American authors. The trip was an educational exploration into the rich tapestry of American literary history by visiting museums, universities, libraries, and authors’ homes, and networking with literary critics, authors, and writers-in-residence.
Mrs. Kerianne Barry
World Languages Faculty Mrs. Kerianne Barry attended the American Association of Teachers of French Convention in San Diego to network with French teachers from across the country, which was followed by a language immersion program run by the French Embassy. The focus was on Francophone culture and was invaluable in preparing students for a trip to Quebec during the 2024-2025 School Year.
Mr. Nathan Piccini '93
History Faculty Mr. Nathan Piccini’s sabbatical focused on deepening student understanding of Roman culture in Britain. Mr. Piccini traveled throughout Britain from London to Bath, including stops at museums and ruins, and Hadrian’s Wall. These locations are key components of the Roman occupation of Brittania in the first century AD.
Sr. Maria Promoted to Assistant Head for Mission and Ministry
Sister Maria Gorreth Nassali, D.M. at the Baccalaureate Liturgy and Commencement for the Class of 2024.
James Hickey, Ph.D., Head of School, announced the appointment of Sister Maria Gorreth Nassali, D.M. as Assistant Head for Mission and Ministry, effective September 16th.
Sr. Maria joined Austin Prep in the summer of 2022, a year after we welcomed the Bannabikira Sisters – the Daughters of Mary – to Austin Prep. As our Director of Campus Ministry, Sr. Maria has transformed the student retreat experience, provided critical leadership in advancing the mission of Austin Prep, worked in close partnership with faculty to support our commitment to Christian service, promoted diversity and inclusion, and supported the teaching faculty in using Augustinian education as a framework for instruction. In her new role, Sr. Maria will work closely with Mr. Jaycob Morales, Coordinator of Community Engagement and Inclusion, as Austin Prep continues to advance our diversity and inclusion efforts.
Prior to Sister’s appointment as Assistant Head for Mission and Ministry, the work of mission and ministry was a part of the Office of Academic Affairs. With Sr. Maria assuming direct responsibility and oversight for all things mission and ministry, the Office of Academic Affairs can focus even greater attention on implementing the best practices in teaching and learning with the assurance that Sr. Maria’s leadership will deepen the mission of Austin Prep.
A native of Masaka, Uganda, Sr. Maria holds her doctorate from Seattle University in Educational Leadership, in addition to a Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Arts degree, also from Seattle University. Before arriving at Austin Prep, Sr. Maria taught middle and elementary school math and religion at several Seattle, WA area Catholic schools.
Welcome Alumni Engagement Director
Austin Prep’s newDirector of Alumni Engagement & Giving, Darren Stewart.
We are pleased to introduce Austin Prep’s new Director of Alumni Engagement & Giving, Darren Stewart. Darren comes to Austin Prep from Endicott College, where he served as Chairman of the Misselwood Concours d’Elegance, and the Director of Operations for Misselwood Events. In these roles Darren demonstrated his leadership in event planning and execution, marketing and communications, and cultivating and stewarding relationships with donors, sponsors, friends, and the Endicott alumni community. We are thrilled to have Darren join Austin Prep to engage with our dedicated alumni community in new and creative ways and strengthen your affinity for Austin Prep.
Career Day Returns
The Office of Alumni Engagement is excited for the return of Career Day in 2025. Career Day is a terrific opportunity for our alumni to share their professional experiences with our current Austin Prep students. We will have panel discussions based on vocation/industry followed by a career fair with opportunities to speak with students one on one. This is one of the most notable events for students and alumni to connect, it can be a life changing experience. If you would like to participate in Career Day, please contact Darren Stewart at darren.stewart@austinprep.org or 781.944.4900 x4862.
This Year We Celebrate Reunions for Classes Ending in 4 and 9
Join fellow alums at the next reunion!
We look forward to celebrating the reunion classes ending in 4 and 9 this fall. We are currently looking for Reunion Class Agents to help plan respective class gatherings. Let us help you create a special event to celebrate your milestone reunion with your peers from Austin Prep! If interested, please contact Director of Alumni Engagement and Giving, Darren Stewart, darren.stewart@austinprep.org, or 781.944.4900 x4862.
Etch Your Name in the Alumni Brick Walkway
Austin Prep's Alumni Brick Walkway
Hundreds of families and alumni have literally etched their names permanently into Austin Prep’s history with an engraved brick in the Alumni Walkway. Located from the main entrance doors down to and around Richard J. Meelia '67 Hall, the walkway connects Austin Prep’s past to its promising future. The walkway contains bricks with the names of alumni from the six decades of our history. It’s never too late to add a brick from any class year and honor an alum. Bricks are $500. Those who purchase bricks will also be recognized as members of the Head of School’s Circle. You can purchase a brick here.
Athletic Hall of Fame Nominations Now Open
Relive old Austin Prep sports memories and submit an Athletic Hall of Fame nomination today.
Austin Prep is set to honor individuals and teams who have made significant and lasting contributions in Cougar sports history. Nominations are now open for the 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame. Candidates who graduated before June 2020 are eligible. If you are interested in making a nomination, click the button for a full list of eligibility criteria and the form.
Deadline for nominations is Tuesday, November 12, 2024. The Athletic Hall of Fame Committee will announce the 2025 inductees in January of 2025 and on Saturday, April 26th, they will be inducted during a dinner ceremony at Austin Prep.
Save the Date for the Annual Day of Giving
Celebrate our patron St. Augustine's birthday during our Day of Giving on November 13, 2024.
Save the date for our 7th Annual Day of Giving, November 13, 2024, in honor of our patron St. Augustine’s birthday. Our Annual Day of Giving is an opportunity for our community to come together as one and show our pride in Austin Prep with a gift. Your participation matters! All gifts support the Austin Prep Fund, which provides resources for professional development for our treasured faculty members, curricular and co-curricular programs for students and tuition assistance. More details to come...
Open House | Save the Date
The Office of Admissions is hosting the annual Fall Open House on Sunday, October 20th from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for future students interested in grades 6 - 11. Guests should pre-register for the open house on the Austin Prep Admissions page.
Open House visitors will have the opportunity to meet Middle and Upper School faculty, school leaders, coaches, and take tours of our campus with Green Key Student Ambassadors.
Some of our best referrals come from those within the Austin Prep community. Did your Austin Prep Journey prepare you for the world beyond 101 Willow Street? If so, we would be most grateful if you spread the word to those in your community about the Open House event and your own Austin Prep experience.
You can also help us advertise the Austin Prep Open House by proudly displaying a yard sign at your home. Reach out to the Office of Admissions to coordinate a time to pick up a sign. We appreciate your support!
Stay Connected
The Office of Alumni Engagement wants to stay in touch with you and let you know what is happening at Austin Prep. Please share updates including academic and sports honors, career milestones, marriages, births/adoptions, or any of life’s other big announcements.
Faculty an Staff Attend Augustinian Values Institute
Hall of Heroes Honors Veterans
Science Seminar Series Introduced
Students Attend Race Amity Conference
Class of 2023 Returns to Campus for Thanksgiving
Thank you for Your Day of Giving Support
Mrs. Dell'Anno '12 and Mrs. Colannino Receive Lumen Awards
Students Take Part in Malvern Prep Exchange
Austin Prep Celebrates New Christmas Tradition
Let’s Stay Connected
Calling Austin Prep Alumni | Join us April 27th
Over the past six decades, Austin Prep has witnessed incredible growth, achievements, and transformative experiences for countless individuals, and we believe it's only fitting to commemorate this extraordinary journey with our alumni community.
As part of the grand celebrations for Austin Prep's 60th Anniversary, we invite Austin Prep alums to "Save the Date"to come back to campus and see how your school has evolved over the last 60 years. This is not a fundraiser; it's an opportunity to reconnect with old friends, relive your school memories and celebrate the vibrant community that has been an integral part of the Austin Prep journey. More details coming soon!
Ice Hockey Locker Rooms Unveiled at Home Rink Ristuccia Arena
The Austin Prep Girls Ice Hockey Locker Room at Ristuccia Arena.
Austin Prep Welcomes New Ice Hockey Coaches for 2023-24 Season
This year, Austin Prep announced new head coaches for both the Boys and Girls Ice Hockey Teams. Kerry Brennan was named Austin Prep’s Head Varsity Girls Hockey Coach in October. Coach Brennan took the helm of the program after achieving considerable playing and coaching success, and administrative experience in age-based hockey.
A Charlestown native, Coach Brennan comes to Austin Prep from the North Shore Vipers Hockey Program, where she serves as the Program Director focusing on player development and the college placement of her athletes. Additionally, she serves as the Director of the Wilmington Youth Lacrosse Girls program.
Before her time at the North Shore Vipers Program, Coach Brennan held the position of Assistant Director and Youth Counselor for the Gavin Foundation: Speakers of Hope Program.
Prior to beginning her coaching career, Coach Brennan played ice hockey collegiately at Southern Maine and UMass Boston after a stellar high school career at Boston Latin School, where she earned Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic Honors, in addition to the Boston Globe Female Ice Hockey Player of the Year and Samuel Morse Leadership Awards.
In addition to her coaching duties, Coach Brennan serves as the Administrative Assistant in the Office of College Counseling at Austin Prep.
In November, Austin Prep announced the appointment of Mr. Patrick Driscoll '97 as Austin Prep’s Head Varsity Boys Hockey Coach. Also Austin Prep Director of Athletics, Driscoll served as an assistant coach with the program during the 2022-2023 season.
Driscoll began his tenure at Austin Prep in 2019 as Assistant Director of Athletics before being promoted to Director of Athletics later that year. During that time, Austin Prep has achieved great success, capturing five MIAA state titles and two NEPSAC titles. Most notably, Driscoll successfully guided Austin Prep's transition to the New England Preparatory School Council (NEPSAC) in 2022 while also being named the Massachusetts Secondary School Athletic Directors Association (MSSADA) District 6 Athletic Director of the Year.
In line with his administrative accomplishments, Driscoll has amassed significant coaching experience and success during his career in athletics. Prior to arriving at Austin Prep, Driscoll spent 18 years at Malden Catholic where he served as the Lancer’s Head Baseball Coach and as the Associate Head Varsity Hockey Coach. As a coach at Malden Catholic, he was a part of eight MIAA State Championship games, winning six, and also captured six Catholic Conference Championships.
Driscoll earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Assumption College, and holds two Masters Degree, one from Boston College and one from Lasell College.
Hear from both coaches, and learn a little more about the new ice hockey facility, in the video here.
Austin Prep Faculty Attend Augustinian Values Institute
Austin Prep was represented at the Augustinian Values Institute by (standing left to right): Trustee Anthony Zizza P'26, '29; Carly Cavanagh, Science; Sr. Immaculate Kyampeire; Dr. Bill Driscoll '89, Dean of Faculty; Chris Capone, Science; Eric Smith, Theology; Cassandra Thompson, English; and Trevor Jones, Humanities.
Austin Prep sent a delegation to the 20th gathering of the Augustinian Values Institute on October 19th-23rd hosted by Austin Catholic High School in Detroit, Michigan. The Augustinian Secondary Education Association sponsors the conference with the purpose of bringing together educators from all of the Augustinian Schools in North America. The conference creates clarity and fosters a deeper understanding of the Augustinian mission for its educators so they can return back to their schools energized and with their “hearts on fire." This year schools from Austria and England were also in attendance.
Teachers, faculty, and administrators join together to share their experiences and explain how they apply the mission in their respective schools and to learn how others apply the core values of the Augustinian Order. The conference includes prayer, liturgy, lecture, breakout sessions, reflection, and guest speakers to develop educators in focusing on how they might live their vocations in an Augustinian way. Upon reflection from the weekend, English Faculty Cassandra Thompson shared “I am thankful for an amazing weekend and sharing in a faith-filled experience with the Austin Prep delegation. I feel so blessed to work at such a compassionate school with a supportive community of people.” Humanities teacher Trevor Jones added, “I learned so much that will shape how I go about teaching and knowing that I am connected to a greater purpose.”
The host school Austin Catholic, founded in 2011, is the youngest school in the network and demonstrates that the message of Augustinian education continues to resonate with educators, students, and parents around the country. The school is located in a suburb outside of Detroit and the Austin Prep delegation was treated to a visit to a car museum filled with antique vehicles as pictured above.
Austin Prep Celebrates Veterans Day Through Hall of Heroes
Students in the eighth-grade class of 2028 contributed to an installation called "The Hallway of Heroes" in the middle school wing to celebrate Veterans' Day. As part of their civics class, students interviewed family members or researched local community members, and compiled tributes that recognized and commemorated the service of these veterans. This project was both a meaningful homage to veterans and an opportunity for students to practice research skills. The gallery was on display all week and remained up during our Parent-Teacher Conferences the following week to allow students and community members to reflect on the heroism of these men and women and the stories of sacrifice that underpin the freedoms we cherish each day. A special thanks to Mr. Jack Brady, History Faculty, for coordinating this year's installation.
Austin Prep Introduces the Scientist Seminar Series
Austin Prep was proud to introduce our Scientist Seminar Series this semester. The goal of the program is to build connections between students’ classroom learning and real-world applications by showcasing how scientists from various fields are applying content and skills to explore and understand our world. This series aims to provide students with a broader perspective on the practical implications of their academic studies and inspire them to see the relevance and impact of scientific research.
This academic initiative has been developed over the past year to enhance the student experience in the sciences. We are grateful to the many scientists at esteemed universities and research facilities who have contributed their time and expertise in guiding Austin Prep in creating this experience for our students.
Over the next few months, every Austin Prep student will have the opportunity to hear from a practicing scientist about their professional Journey and current research. Our esteemed guests are on the faculty at some of the world’s top-flight hospitals and universities that are at the vanguard of research on a variety of topics. Among our guests are members of the faculty at Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University, Duke University, and the University of California at Santa Barbara.
The inaugural lecture in the Scientist Seminar Series occurred on January 11th. We were pleased to welcome Dr. Conor Evans, associate professor at the Harvard Medical School and head of the laboratory for the Wellman Center for Photomedicine at Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Evans is a world-recognized leader in "smart” wearable sensing technologies for wound healing and drug delivery. His lab research is focused on the development and clinical translation of microscopy.
Dr. Evans presented to our sophomore Chemistry and Advanced Placement Chemistry students about his research and the applicability of students’ classroom lessons to the medical research that he leads at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Students Attend Race Amity Conference
Austin Prep Race Amity Conference Delegates from left to right: Aidan O’Neill '26, Jay Voica '24, Amelia Amadin '26, Grace Ditchfield '26, Jack Sweeney '24, and George Mamakos '24.
Austin Prep sent a delegation of students to the National Center for Race Amity Conference in Atlanta, Georgia during Veterans Day weekend. NCRA is an organization dedicated to promoting racial unity and friendships to move the public discourse on race from the “blame/grievance/rejection” cycle to one of “amity/collaboration/access and equity.” Convention organizers invited Austin Prep because students have dedicated hours of service throughout the past few years.
The conference featured leaders of industry, education, athletics, art, and business who are renowned for their impact on our communities. Our students engaged with University of Kentucky Men's Basketball Coach John Calipari, best-selling author Debby Irving, Dr. Bob Johnson, best known for his consultative work with Wegmans, and philanthropist and entrepreneur Steve Sarowitz, the founder of Paylocity. These keynote speakers and presenters provided outstanding examples of how our students can make a difference and move from theory to action. George Mamakos '26 explained that he enjoyed a reenactment of Frederick Douglass because “it was so real that it gave me chills.” Amelia Amadin '26 reported that she appreciated “the opportunity for an experience I will never forget.”
A highlight of the trip was a tour of Atlanta which provided students with the opportunity to visit the childhood home of Martin Luther King Jr., the famous Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached, the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, and the historic Atlanta Fire Department Building No. 6 that housed the first integrated fire company in the city. Our delegation was also amazed to see the Nobel Peace Prize 1964 at the King Center. The delegation ended their visit solemnly at the resting place of Coretta Scott King and Martin Luther King, Jr. Hear from our students and learn more about the trip and the continued legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. in this video.
The Class of 2023 Returns for Thanksgiving Eve Breakfast
The Class of 2023 at their Thanksgiving Eve Breakfast.
Austin Prep continued the tradition of welcoming back the past year's graduating class for an alumni breakfast the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. On Wednesday, November 23rd, members of the Class of 2023 gathered in the Dining Hall to connect with classmates, faculty and staff as a kick-off to the holiday weekend. Thank you to all who returned back to campus!
Thank You for your Day of Giving Support
On behalf of the Austin Prep community, we are so grateful for all the support during our Annual Day of Giving, which took place November 13th-14th. It was truly inspirational to have a community rally behind us in raising funds to provide resources for our students, faculty, and staff upholding our mission of inspiring hearts to unite, minds to inquire, and hands to serve.
Austin Prep is a special place. The opportunities here are boundless. Our patron, St. Augustine, embarked on a journey of truth. At our core is an institution on the same journey, committed to exemplary teaching and learning. We celebrated St. Augustine’s birthday with an investment in his teachings –and with an investment in the hearts and minds of all our students.
In sincere appreciation, we thank you for contributing to this year’s Day of Giving!
Claudia Colannino and Alexandra Dell'Anno are the 2023 recipients of the St. Augustine Lumen Award.
The annual St. Augustine Lumen Award recognizes exemplary faculty and staff who embody the mission of Austin Prep. Dr. Hickey was joined by Mr. Thomas Flynn ‘83, Board Vice Chair, and members of the Board of Trustees as they presented the 2023 St. Augustine Lumen Award to English faculty member Ms. Alexandra Dell'Anno '12. New this year, Austin Prep also presented a St. Augustine Lumen Award to a member of the administrative staff. This year’s recipient was registrar Mrs. Claudia Colannino. Congratulations were in order to Ms. Dell’Anno and Mrs. Colannino. We appreciate all that they do for our students and school community.
The award was presented in front of faculty, staff, and members of the Austin Prep Board of Trustees.
Students Take Part in Exchange With Malvern Prep
Mark-Henry Novas ’26, Derek Langenau ’26, Shane Miller ’26, and Colin Walsh ’25 with Malvern Prep Students.
As a member of the Augustinian Secondary Educational Association (ASEA), Austin Prep shares a common heritage with nine other schools in North America. Recently, four of our students, Derek Langenau ’26, Shane Miller ’26, Mark-Henry Novas ’26, and Colin Walsh ’25, visited Malvern Prep, our fellow school located in the suburbs of Philadelphia, and spent time attending classes with host students. The visit was from December 5th-9th and featured several opportunities to learn from one another.
The purpose of the student exchange was to deepen Augustinian connections. As an all-boys school, Malvern Prep emphasizes the bonds of brotherhood and relies heavily on the prevailing message of St. Augustine's teachings that education is about relationships. The bonds that were forged throughout this week solidified and amplified our commitment to the Augustinian values of veritas, unitas, and caritas.
The delegation began with a tour of the campus of Villanova University where they cheered the Women’s Basketball team on to a victory over the University of Pennsylvania. The students completed a few days' worth of classes, shadowing their host students and engaging with the 600 students who make Malvern their home. Our students were warmly welcomed and embraced by the student body and teachers alike who were hungry to learn about the Boston area and Austin Prep. The students also worked on a service project by visiting an early childhood center for preschool children who are underserved.
On Friday, December 8th students joined together as an entire community to share in worship and to express our Catholic heritage in the celebration of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. Before it began, Mark-Henry Novas shared an Adeodatus reflection. The Mass was celebrated by the Head of School Emeritus Fr. Donald Reilly, O.S.A. His homily focused on the year's theme set by Malvern Prep: "Become What You Are Not Yet." His poignant remarks focused on the challenge inherent in that quote from Augustine because it calls upon us to live our ideals and move ever closer to fulfilling our promise as children of God.
As the week ended, our students were revered as celebrities by the Middle School students. A class of 8th graders passed by our group as they were doing a final tour and shouted out "Hey it is the Austin Prep kids!" It was an amazing week that we will replicate when we host Malvern Prep students in April.
We concluded the visit with a Boys Basketball game on the campus of West Chester University. A raucous Malvern crowd cheered the team onto a convincing 20-point victory. Our ambassadors led the first exchange in our Augustinian network and we hope that this week will become a framework for our other affiliates to engage in promoting our values through the friendships that form during student exchanges. We are deeply grateful for their service to the school and for proudly representing our community.
Austin Prep Celebrates Christmas Traditions and Introduces Another
This December the school community embraced the festive spirit as Austin Prep inaugurated a new school tradition – the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Led by prayers read by Fr. Patrick Armano, School Chaplain, and Sr. Maria Gorreth Nassali, Director of Campus Ministry, and a welcome from Head of School, James Hickey, Ph.D., the community gathered in front of the Dining Hall Patio to witness the magic unfold as we illuminated our magnificent tree. Following the lighting we continued the celebration with hot cocoa and Christmas cookies in the Dining Hall, with an appearance from Santa Claus. It was a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season together in a spirit of unity and joy. Alumni are welcome to join us next year! You can view photos from the event here, and a video of the installation of the tree here.
The month of December at Austin Prep is always filled with activities grounded in faith, fellowship, and some holiday fun, bringing to life the Augustinian keystones of veritas, unitas, and caritas. What is your favorite Austin Prep Christmas tradition? Take a look at this video to learn what members of our community value most at Austin Prep during the Christmas season.
Let's Stay Connected
Time to update your emails! The Office of Alumni Affairs wants to stay in touch with you and share exciting updates! Please take a moment to update your email address with our office. Please email Kasey Field at kasey.field@austinprep.org.
Never a dull moment on our social media accounts! Ensure you follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
Students ready to get back to work on the first day of school.
The new academic year provides Austin Prep students and families – current and new – the opportunity to connect with returning members of our community. The Office of Alumni Relations extends this invitation to you, our alumni community. You can engage with Austin Prep in many ways, whether joining a campus activity, attending a milestone class reunion event, following us on social media, submitting Class Notes, or praying for our students, faculty, and staff. The opportunities are endless! On behalf of Austin Prep, thank you for being a valued community member.
Benefactors and Classroom Modernization Project
Austin Prep undertook a massive building modernization project this past summer.
Over the summer, Austin Prep began an ambitious project to modernize classrooms. Phase one of capital upgrades included a new heating system and air conditioning, new lighting, ceilings, technology, and interactive whiteboards. This project was of mammoth proportions and had a very tight schedule to accomplish before students returned. However, with teamwork and great partners and vendors, our students arrived on September 5th to modernize – and fully air- conditioned -- instructional spaces for learning. And we are not finished! Down the road, the next part of the classroom modernization project will include a new science lab, windows, flooring, and doors. Please contact the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs to learn more about these efforts and how you can support them through a charitable donation to the Faith and Reason Campaign.
Austin Prep Opens Academic Year with Convocation Liturgy
Seán Cardinal O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston, was the principal celebrant and homilist at Convocation.
On Thursday, September 14th, Austin Prep marked the official start of the academic year with the celebration of the annual Convocation Liturgy. Austin Prep welcomed Seán Cardinal O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston, as the principal celebrant and homilist. The event, open to parents and livestreamed to the school community, was a part of Austin Prep's 60th Anniversary Celebration. You can view photos from the day here.
Complete with the pageantry expected of Convocation – including the procession of students carrying class banners, welcomed by faculty in academic regalia to the sounds of the Boston Police Gaelic Column of Pipes and Drums – this year's liturgy continued to include a parade of flags representing the national heritages of those in our school community. Over 80 national flags were included.
Ava Intoppa '24, School-Wide Student GovernmentPresident, during the procession of flags.
Ava Intoppa '24, School-Wide Student GovernmentPresident, began the ceremony by addressing her classmates. "I am honored to have the opportunity to welcome Cardinal O’Malley to campus today to celebrate this special mass and bless the school year as we close out our 60th anniversary, and look forward to a new chapter of our story, " Ava said. "I am also honored to address all of you, my teachers, classmates, and friends here today to celebrate our membership in this community and our love for God and one another. I am extremely excited for the year that is to come, and even more excited to be able to experience it with all of you and to see what each member of this student community will do."
Cardinal O'Malley begin his remarks by thanking all those who over the past 60 years have helped make Austin Prep the institution that it is, then reflected on the importance of Catholic education.
"In a time of more people living alone, a part of Catholic education is bringing us together to discover our connectedness," Cardinal O'Malley said. "It is our faith that allows us to discover the meaning and value and things. Who we are made in the image and likeness of God. What is our mission? What is our purpose? All of this is so important in Catholic Education."
Head of School, Dr. James Hickey P'22, '23, '24 '27, welcomed those in attendance, thanked Cardinal Seán for his support of Austin Prep over the years, and congratulated him on recently celebrating 20 years as the Archbishop of Boston. Dr. Hickey made note of the attendance of Augustinian Friars Fr. Art Johnson, O.S.A., Fr. Peter Gori '70, and TrusteeFr. Ray Dlugos, O.S.A. and the Augustinians of the Assumption, who joined the Austin Prep community this year.
"60 years is certainly a significant milestone, but when you place those 60 years in the context of St. Augustine's heritage, the milestone is a bit diminished, " Dr. Hickey said. "St. Augustine was born in 354, and for nearly 1700 years his legacy has endured. Our 60 years is only one tiny part of 17 centuries. Our restless Journey in the footsteps of Augustine has kept Austin Prep steady, and determined, and resolute. We have much to celebrate, and much to be proud of."
Dr. Hickey then added, that despite our successes, “St. Augustine told us that 'humility must be with us everywhere. For as soon as we glory in our good works, they are of no further value to our advancement to virtue.'"
To mark the occasion, Senior Class Officers Ryan O'Malley '24 and Lauren Neal '24 presented the Class of 2024 banner, which will eventually be hoisted to the rafters of Meelia Hall, where it will remain until being lowered at Baccalaureate Mass in May, 2024. View the raising of the banner here.
Celebrating Austin Prep's 60 Years
Austin Prep's first students arrived on campus in September 1963, and this year marked our 60th Anniversary. Our year long celebration has allowed our community the opportunity to embrace our Augustinian heritage while reflecting on the accomplishments of yesterday, embracing the opportunities of today, and imagining the future with pride, confidence, and optimism.
To celebrate the milestone, we produced a video piece documenting our strong history with an eye towards the future. You can view the video by clicking the video icon above. We are grateful for all our students, staff, parents, past parents, alumni, Trustees, friends and more, for the six decades of unwavering support and for being an essential part of our school’s legacy. We look forward to many more years of partnership and success.
Summer Sabbaticals
Two faculty participated in Summer Sabbaticals this summer – Natalie Petrillo P'10, Mathematics Faculty, and Kristen Donnelly, History Faculty. Please enjoy the following from them on their summer sabbatical.
Natalie Petrillo, P’10, Mathematics Faculty
“In my over 20 years of experience at Austin Preparatory School teaching mathematics, I have found that the students are eager to learn and participate whenever I incorporate a creative activity with mathematics. STEAM projects benefit all students because they are independent of mathematical ability. My proposal for my summer sabbatical was to enhance my projects by introducing cubism and 3D design into my Geometry curriculum. I studied cubism and visited the Picasso Museum to see the artwork in person in Barcelona. The trip was phenomenal, and I learned so much by viewing his work. I have designed a project for my classes based on a display at the Picasso Museum of Picasso’s transformation of Las Meninas using cubism.”
Kristen Donnelly, History Faculty
“For my summer sabbatical, I was fortunate to attend the International Summer Programme at Cambridge University in the United Kingdom. This one-week experience allows me to live and study at Cambridge University and take two classes, Flowing of the Middle Ages and Five Renaissance Cities, taught by leading academics in medieval history. I also attended various lectures led by many notable figures, including Sir Tony Brenton, the former British Prime Minister to Russia, and author Yvonne Battle Felton. This opportunity gave me a chance to meet people from all over the world as well as expert historians in the field of Medieval and Renaissance studies. In addition to attending classes at Cambridge University, I was also able to spend time in London and visit historical sites like the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey. One highlight of my time was meeting the AP Middle School students on the ISCA Trip for an afternoon in Covent Garden. I hope to take this experience and create new, dynamic lessons to enhance the 7th-grade history curriculum.”
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
At the first Community Meeting of the Year, Mr. Jaycob Morales, Coordinator of Community Engagement and Inclusion, spoke to students about Hispanic Heritage Month Programming.
The Austin Prep community celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15th – October 15th. During this time, we will recognize 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. The campus will honor this celebration through programming at the campus-wide community meeting, experiencing different Spanish cuisine in the dining hall, and so much more!
Join us for Mass on Campus
Join us for Mass in the recently refurbished Chapel of St. Augustine.
Do you live locally? If so, join us for Mass on campus in the Chapel of St. Augustine on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 7:20 a.m. In addition, we will continue to host a monthly community Mass; stay tuned for those dates and times!
Our 6th Annual Day of Giving is November 13-14
In honor of St. Augustine's 1,669th birthday, we will be celebrating with our 6th Annual Day of Giving on November 13th and 14th! Our Annual Day of Giving is an opportunity for our community to come together as one and show our pride in Austin Prep and our students’ education with a gift. Your participation matters! All gifts support the Austin Prep Fund, which provides resources for professional development for our treasured faculty members, curricular and co-curricular programs for students and tuition assistance. More details to come...
Reunions -- Save the Date
The Class of 2022 at last Thanksgiving Break's Alumni Breakfast. This year we welcome the Class of 2023!
We have several milestone reunion classes planning their upcoming gatherings. However, we are still looking for Reunion Class Agents for several classes to help plan reunions ending in 3 & 8 for 2023 and 4 & 9 for 2024. Let us help you create a memorial event to celebrate your milestone reunion with your peers from Austin Prep!
A special reminder to the Class of 2023: as our most recent graduation class, please mark your calendars for the annual Thanksgiving Break gathering. This tradition for our newly graduated Cougars is a great way to gather with your fellow recent grads through Mass and breakfast. Stay tuned for information on how to register for this event!
Let's Stay Connected
Time to update your emails! The Office of Alumni Affairs wants to stay in touch with you and share exciting updates! Please take a moment to update your email address with our office. Please email Kasey Field at kasey.field@austinprep.org.
Never a dull moment on our social media accounts! Ensure you follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Friday, May 19th was a beautiful day on the campus of Austin Prep as the community came together to celebrate the Baccalaureate Liturgy and Commencement for the Class of 2023. Prior to that, during Senior Week, the Senior Class gathered for a class photo, shown above with seniors in sweatshirts representing their college or university of choice. We wish them the best of luck as their Journey continues. #AustinAlways.
In case you missed Commencement, all the details from the Baccalaureate Liturgy and Commencement for the Class of 2023 can be found here.
Class of 1973 Celebrates 50th Reunion
As a part of Commencement Weekend, we welcomed back the Class of 1973 for their 50th Austin Prep Reunion, as well as the Classes of 1966-1972. It was great to welcome them back to campus! #AustinAlways Photos from the reunion can be found here.
Benefactors and Students Recognized at Memorial Scholarship Ceremony
We were honored to announce Memorial Scholarship recipients for the 2023-2024 academic year at a special breakfast and ceremony on Thursday, May 25th. A program for the event can be found here. Students in Grades 9-11 were eligible to apply for the awards and recipients demonstrated significant academic achievement and service contributions to the Austin Prep community, among other qualities. Memorial Scholarships are available to our students due to the generosity of Austin Prep families and friends who have created funds in memory of a loved one. We are proud of our students and grateful for the support of those who make these scholarships possible. You can view photos from the event here. Thank you to all who make these scholarships possible. #Caritas
35th Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament a Success
We were blessed with a beautiful day on Monday, May 22nd for the 35th Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament, held at Indian Ridge Country Club. The event was a great success with a full-flight of golfers! You can view photos from the day here.
The Annual Golf Tournament is vital in our efforts to continue to provide exceptional educational experiences for all our students. A special thank you to alumni families for their 2023 Title Sponsorships: Pimentel Construction and Quirk Construction Corp. This year, proceeds from the golf tournament will help support the new heating system upgrades and the addition of air conditioning in McLaughlin Hall to provide a comfortable learning environment in the classroom for our students and faculty.
View all our Title, Lunch, Breakfast, Player Gift and Cart Sponsors here.
If you have questions about future golf sponsorships and events, please contact Ms. Susan Belanger, Assistant Head for Administration at sbelanger@austinprep.org.
Recent Champions Celebrated with Ring Presentations
Alums Colby Medeiros '22, Steven Galatis '22, Nico Fanuele '22 and Tristan Miller '23 received championship rings for their MIAA 4x400 meter relay championships.
On Monday, June 12th Austin Prep celebrated recent MIAA and NEPSAC champions with the presentation of championship rings followed by a breakfast with family and friends. Champions included:
The 2022 MIAA Division IV Indoor Boys 4x400m team
The 2022 MIAA Division V Outdoor Boys 4x400m team (Tristan Miller '23, 2022 MIAA Division V Outdoor Boys 400m Champion)
The 2022 Girls Cross Country Division 2 NEPSAC Champions
Help Close Out the Austin Prep Fund Campaign Strong!
The strength of Austin Prep is its supportive community.
This year, parents, past parents, grandparents, alumni and friends of the School have joined together to make a gift to the Austin Prep Fund. This meaningful show of support is the fulfillment of our unitas ethos.
A gift to the Austin Prep Fund helps sustain the small class sizes and the enriching opportunities and programs that make an Austin Prep education exceptional today, and in years to come.
The 2022-2023 Austin Prep Fund Campaign ends on Friday, June 30th. If you have yet to make your tax-deductible donation, please join the alumni community and make a gift to the Austin Prep Fund by clicking the button below.
It is the act of giving, not the amount of the gift, that is meaningful.
Note: Looking to double or triple your gift? Many companies match their employees with charitable donations. Fidelity, State Street, Bank of America, Raytheon, Sanofi, Liberty Mutual just to name a few. Email APMatchingGifts@austinprep.org to see if your company offers a matching gift program.
Farewell and Thank You, Jennifer Hodgdon
Jennifer Hodgdon at the 50th Reunion in May, 2023.
Over the past five years, Jennifer Hodgdon has served as Austin Prep's Director of Alumni Engagement and Giving, often sharing noteworthy news with Austin Prep's alumni community. We would like to take this opportunity to share the news that, after five years of dedicated service to Austin Prep, Jen has decided to spend more time at home so that she can care for her family full-time.
During her time at Austin Prep, Jen was deeply committed to strengthening bonds in the alumni community through her work hosting class reunions, planning alumni career fairs for students, welcoming alumni back to campus, and supporting various other school initiatives. Austin Prep is grateful for Jen’s service and is committed to the continued growth and development of alumni programming.
Please join us in thanking Jen and wishing her well. We will provide additional updates in regards to the Office of Alumni Relations in the next Alumni Courier, but in the meantime, please feel free to reach out to Sue Belanger, Assistant Head of School for Administration and Special Projectswith any questions about alumni activities.
Save the Date: 60th Anniversary Gala
The doors of Austin Prep opened to students in September 1963. For the last 60 years, Austin Prep has been on an enduring and restless journey of excellence in the footsteps of St. Augustine. In that time, we have built a sturdy foundation and fortified it with the Augustinian values of veritas, unitas, and caritas.
So let's celebrate our Journey! Save the date for our 60th Anniversary Gala, a night of celebration and reminiscing. This event will be one for the books, so remember to mark the date of Friday, September 15th because you don't want to miss it. Keep an eye out for ticket information coming in July, and get ready to celebrate Austin Prep!
Alumni Events and Happenings
We look forward to celebrating the reunion classes ending in 3 and 8 in 2023! Contact Kasey Field, Development Administrative Assistant, at kasey.field@austinprep.org if you would like to be part of the planning process.
Also, save the date for the Class of 2023 Alumni Mass and Breakfast on November 22, 2023!
Stay Connected
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.
If you are getting married, we invite you to borrow our Austin Prep Alumni banner for the big celebration!
If you are expecting or recently welcomed a new Austin Prep cougar into your family, let us know so we can send along an AP baby onesie.
Keep up to date with all the current events at Austin Prep by following us on our official social media accounts below:
The 1999 Football Team, as well as Bill Maradei P'11, '12 (center), were among the Class of 2023 Inductees into the Austin Prep Hall of Fame.
The Austin Prep Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes those individuals and teams who have made significant and lasting contributions to Austin Prep athletics and have achieved a high standard of athletic success.
The Austin Prep Athletic Hall of Fame Committee is proud to honor the athletes and coaches selected for the Austin Prep Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2023:
Arianna Rigano '06 | Girls Ice Hockey
Bill Maradei P '11, '12 | Head Football Coach
Jim McAdam | Head Ice Hockey Coach
Kevin Yahnian '79 | Track and Field
1999 Football Team
2013 Girls Soccer Team
The Class was inducted on Saturday, April 29th at a ceremony on campus. Photos from the ceremony can be viewed here.
Class of 1973 Will Celebrate 50th Reunion with Classes of 1966 through 1972
We are looking forward to celebrating the 50th Reunion for the Class of 1973 on May 18th and 19th. In celebration of 50+ years, Golden Cougars from the Classes of 1966 through 1972 will be part of the festivities. Click here for the full schedule.
Below is a list of alumni who have confirmed their attendance (as of May 3):
Recent Graduate Becomes a Published Illustrator: Arianna Shaloub ’22
Our Austin Prep alumni continually impress us with their motivation, talent, and spirit. Congratulations to class of 2022 alumna Arianna Shalhoub for illustrating this book which will be available this summer!
Austin Prep Celebrates Women's History Month
Women's History Month Programming Culminates with "Alumni Conversation" and Acoustic Open Mic Night with Britt “Lightning” Denaro ’03
On March 23rd, Class of 2003 alumna Britt Denaro, also known as Britt Lightning, the Lead Guitarist for Vixen and the first-ever female Music Director of Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp was our guest for an active and engaging conversation about being a female in the male-dominated rock & roll industry.
Later that evening, Denaro hosted an Acoustic Open Mic Night. The program for the event can be found here.
As part of our continued celebration of Black History and Women's History Months, the Office of Alumni Relations continued the series of Alumni Conversations: Celebrating 60 Years with Alumni! Throughout these months, influential alumni have returned to campus to speak with students about their Austin Prep experiences and their personal and professional journeys beyond Austin Prep:
JT Harold ’05
Eliana Nader Griffith ’02
Taisha Walker DeSouza ’02
Mia Lazarewicz ’02
Kristen Nuttall Swartz ’00
Steve Solano ’94
Student-Athletes Make College Commitments
Isabella Tenreiro '23 (front row, second from right), and family.
College bound student-athletes have begun making their commitments to continue their athletic career at the intercollegiate level. To date, commitments include:
Sophia DiNanno '23, Stonehill College, cross country and track and field
Isabella Tenreiro '23, Wentworth Institute of Technology, soccer
Caroline Melanson '23, Worcester State, ice hockey
Hunter Weldon '23, University of New England, football
Jillian Whitney '23, Trinity College, soccer
Ainsley Golini '23, Clark University, soccer
Tristan Miller '23, College of Holy Cross, track and field
Dan Cory '23, WPI, swimming
Lee Poulin '23, Pace University, lacrosse
Riley Abbott '23, Wentworth Institute of Technology, lacrosse
Phil Renzullo '23, Endicott College, soccer
In the Classroom and Beyond
Students Attend Seminarian Dinner with Cardinal Sean
Members of the Austin Prep community traveled to St John's Seminary for a night of prayer and reflection. Students joined the seminarians in adoration and evening prayer, had dinner, took part in discussions with seminarians about their journey towards the priesthood, and received a tour of the seminary. The night also included a reflection from Cardinal Seán O'Malley, who also answered questions from students. Our prayers are with all the seminarians preparing for the priesthood and the communities they will be shepherding.
Austin Prep Welcomes Grandparents to Campus
Austin Prep welcomed guests to campus on Friday, March 24th for Grandparents' Day. Over 250 grandparents arrived on campus for continental breakfast and fellowship, before being joined by their Austin Prep grandchildren for a special prayer service in Richard J. Meelia '67 Hall. The day celebrating the special bond between grandparent and grandchild concluded with a grandchild-led tour of campus. The program for the prayer service can be found here. You can view photos from Grandparents Day here.
Juniors and Seniors Enjoy Campus Ministry Retreat
The Office of Campus Ministry hosted a meaningful off-campus retreat in March for juniors and seniors, providing an opportunity for reflection and for connecting with classmates. The retreat took place at the Franciscan Retreat Center in Kennebunkport, Maine. The retreat was conducted by Fr. Michael Senfuma, who is familiar to the Austin Prep community as he celebrated November's All Saints Day Mass. Over 30 students were accompanied on the retreat by Director of Campus Ministry Sr. Maria Nassali, Dean of Faculty Dr. Bill Driscoll, Math and Theology Faculty and Deacon Bill Reidy, Theology Faculty Mr. Raymond Kabunga, Technology Specialist David McPherson, and Theology Faculty Ms. Kayla Greenwood.
"I was so touched by how much the students shared during the retreat, " Sr. Maria said. "There were different activities students engaged in and every student actively participated. Some students said they are going to recruit more students to join next year because they had a great experience."
Speakers Share Professional Insight with Austin Prep Students
WBZ / CBS Boston's Steve Burton.
Austin Prep was honored to welcome Steve Burton of WBZ / CBS Boston to campus March 7th to speak to the school community. Mr. Burton detailed his experiences in athletics, sportscasting, and raising a family, and conveyed to students the importance of hard work while being a person of great faith and character. An important theme within his message was, "Learn how to draw a crowd, then learn how to withdraw from a crowd, when the crowd isn't going to do you any good.” Mr. Burton invited students to take part in a mock live report before concluding the presentation by answering questions from a student panel. Mr. Burton left students with this final tip: "Practice when everyone else is practicing. Then practice when everyone else is sleeping."
Former Suffolk County District Attorney Ralph Martin.
Austin Prep welcomed former Suffolk County District Attorney Ralph Martin to campus March 21st to speak to the school community. Mr. Martin – whose career also included time as Northeastern University's general counsel and as managing partner of the Boston law office of Bingham McCutchen – detailed the continuum of experiences that helped shape his life, including the influence of his 3rd grade teacher, his father, mentors in the law enforcement field, and even the Bloody Sunday March in Selma, Alabama in 1965.
“I’ve always tried to take a minimalistic approach to being a lawyer, and enjoyed wrestling with concepts that don’t have precise answers,” Mr. Martin said. “It is important to be comfortable in unclear and ambiguous circumstances, and try to help others understand where the truth is and where our commonality is.”
Former State Politician and Life Science Advocate Robert Coughlin.
On Wednesday, March 29th, Austin Prep welcomed former Massachusetts State Representative, and current real estate and life sciences executive Robert Coughlin to campus to speak to the school community. The theme of Mr. Coughlin’s lecture was the “State of Possibility” which focused on his efforts to attract companies in the life sciences and biotechnology to establish their headquarters in Massachusetts. He related his efforts to the student community by challenging students to imagine new possibilities.
Mr. Coughlin's life work was framed by the impact of his unborn son being diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. While a three-term State Representative to the 11th Norfolk district, Mr. Coughlin used that news to pivot to a life of advocacy to find a cure for the disease. It led Mr. Coughlin to become involved in the efforts of Boston Children’s Hospital to find a cure for cystic fibrosis, as well as a career in life science related legislation.
Mr. Coughlin served as President and CEO of the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council, the leading trade association and policy advocacy group in New England. Before joining MassBio, he served as the Undersecretary of Economic Development within Governor Deval Patrick's administration, where he prioritized both healthcare and economic development issues and was a strong advocate for the life sciences industry in Massachusetts.
He is currently the Managing Director of the JLL’s Life Sciences industry practice. The firm works closely with Biotech companies as a partner who identify opportunities in real estate assets so they can focus on research, development and solving unmet medical needs for patients.
5th Annual Day of Giving a Success!
Thank you for helping Make Extraordinary Possible!
Thank you! On March 30 Austin Prep held its 5th Annual Day of Giving. It was a tremendous day in support of Austin Prep. Your generosity helps support the academics and extracurricular experiences that make an Austin Prep education so enriching for students. We are especially grateful to our parents and alumni that initiated challenges to their peers to bolster participation. Alumni participation accounted for over 20% of the overall donors on Day of Giving. Thanks to you we set an overall participation record for the Day of Giving (382 donors)! This incredible accomplishment would not have been possible without the tremendous support of our alumni!
Tribute Gifts
Especially on the Day of Giving, our community took the opportunity to honor and memorialize people who have impacted their lives and their Austin Prep journeys. This link includes a list of Tribute Gifts made between July 1, 2022 and our Day of Giving on April 7, 2023. The full Annual Report for July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 will be available in the fall 2023.
Austin Prep Fund
Your gift makes an impact. We are grateful to all who have participated in the Austin Prep Fund to-date. If you wish to make a gift by June 30, scan the QR code below and include “Make Extraordinary Possible” in the payment details. To donate via credit card, ApplePay or PayPal click here.
Note: Looking to double or triple your gift? Many companies match their employees with charitable donations. Fidelity, State Street, Bank of America, Raytheon, Sanofi, Liberty Mutual just to name a few. Email APMatchingGifts@austinprep.org to see if your company offers a matching gift program.
Austin Prep Celebrates 60th Anniversary
Help us celebrate Austin Prep and our 60th Anniversary! Save-the-Date: 60th Anniversary Celebration, Friday, September 15th, 2023. More details to follow.
We look forward to celebrating the reunion classes ending in 3 and 8 in 2023! Contact Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations and Giving if you would like to be part of the planning process jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org.
For up-to-the-date information and registration links for events and happenings, please visit theAlumni page of our websiteand social media.
Stay Connected
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.
If you are getting married, we invite you to borrow our Austin Prep Alumni banner for the big celebration!
If you are expecting or recently welcomed a new Austin Prep cougar into your family, let us know so we can send along an AP baby onesie.
Keep up to date with all the current events at Austin Prep by following us on our official social media accounts below:
Fr. Art Johnson Celebrates 60 Years as priest - and Lenten Mass
Boys Ski Team Claims NEPSAC Title
Save the Date: Day of Giving
Faculty and Staff Participate in February Break Professional Development
60th Anniversary
Alumni Events & Happenings
Stay Connected
The Class of 2012 celebrated their 10-Year Reunion on December 22nd, 2022 at Kowloon. Over 50 alumni attended an evening filled with fabulous food, dancing, and plenty of reminiscing. Coach Bill Maradei P’11,’12 and English Faculty Mrs. Leeann Blais were on hand to catch-up.
The 50th Reunion for the Class of 1973 will be held on May 18th and 19th, 2023 at Austin Prep. More information will follow in the coming weeks.
We look forward to celebrating the reunion classes ending in 3 and 8 in 2023! Contact Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations and Giving if you would like to be part of the planning process jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org.
Alumni Women’s Ice Hockey Returns for 2022!
Coach Stephanie Wood gathered alumni from across the years for another outing on the ice at Merrimack College before Christmas.
Boys and Girls Basketball Teams Play at TD Garden
The Austin Prep Boys and Girls Basketball Teams participated in this year's edition of the Andrew James Lawson Foundation Invitational against Milton Academy at TD Garden in January. This was an exciting and memorable opportunity for our student-athletes and their families, and we appreciate all the fans that made their way into Boston to cheer on the teams. You can view photos from the game here.
Celebrating Black History and Women’s History Months with Alumni Conversations
JT Harold '05 kicked off the Alumni Conversations series in early February.
Austin Prep celebrates Black History and Women’s History Months with a series of educational, extracurricular, and school wide events organized around the school’s yearlong theme of "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out," (Proverbs 10:9) as is embedded in our Augustinian heritage and Catholic tradition.
As part of an overarching program within Mission & Inclusion during both Black History Month and Women's History Month, the Office of Alumni Relations will offer “Alumni Conversations” with influential alumni. Our alumni will share their Austin Prep experience along with their personal and professional journeys beyond 101 Willow Street. Currently scheduled to join our students and faculty for these conversations are:
JT Harold ’05
Eliana Nader Griffith ’02
Taisha Walker DeSouza ’02
Mia Lazarewicz ’02
Kristen Nuttall Swartz ’00
Britt Denaro ’03
Acoustic Mic Night with Host and Headliner Britt "Lightning" Denaro '03
The Offices of Alumni Relations in collaboration with Art and Design invites you to be part of the Acoustic Open Mic Night with host and headliner Britt "Lightning" Denaro '03 on Thursday, March 23rd at 7:00 p.m. Back by popular demand, class of 2003 alumna Britt Denaro, also known as Britt Lightning, is the Lead Guitarist for Vixen and the first-ever Music Director of Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp. Alumni are welcome to join us for the program! Please contact Jennifer Hodgdon to RSVPjennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org
In the Classroom and Beyond
Novel Writing Class Welcomes Author Parent
Students in English FacultyMrs. Nicole Putney's P'26,'28 Novel Writing class rounded out the first semester by having a zoom guest speaker. Austin Prep parent, Mrs. Jane Healy P'21,'24, is the author of four novels. Mrs. Healey is a bestselling author of several historical fiction books including The Beantown Girls, a Washington Post and Amazon Charts bestseller. The Secret Stealers, a WWII spy thriller, was an Amazon First Reads Editor’s Pick, one of the New York Post’s Best New Books, a Historical Novel Society’s Editors’ Choice pick and was also on Frolic’s 25 Best Books of Spring 2021. Her latest novel, Goodnight from Paris, will be published in March 2023. Mrs. Healey answered questions and shared work with students.
Students Attend the Inaugural Girls in STEAM Leadership Summit
Members of the Austin Prep community attended the inaugural Girls in STEAM Leadership Summit on January 30th at Cushing Academy. The Summit included six different workshops in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics. The day included students attending three of the six workshops. Over 75 students from NEPSAC schools around New England were in attendance, including Austin Prep students Casey Ahlin '23, Marissa Gallozzi '23, Katherine Millett '24, Fiona Hyland '25, Elena Oulton '24 and Lauren Neal '24.
Katherine shared that, "We all thought it was amazing to be in an environment surrounded by so many aspiring and accomplished women in science. It was truly an empowering experience."
In addition to the six students who attended the conference, one of the six workshops was hosted by Assistant Varsity Field Hockey Coach, Jessica Driscoll, who works for Sanofi as a Senior Medical Science Liaison in Hematologic Oncology. Information on the presenters can be found here.
Service Club Welcomes Vietnam Veteran
In January, the Service Club hosted Mr. Paul Cardello who is an Air Force Veteran of the Vietnam Conflict. Mr. Cardello visited to recognize members of the Service Club for writing letters to Veterans in nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities, as well as members of our community who have gone to visit those Veterans and hand out materials. Mr. Cardello presented Austin Prep with a citation from the House of Representatives offered by State Representative David A. Robertson. He also highlighted the unwavering support of Sebastian Guerra '23 who was recognized for his dedication to iPods for Wounded Veterans at fundraiser events held in South Boston, Billerica, and Woburn.
The iPods for Wounded Veterans organization provides MP3 players, tablets, headphones magazines, letters and more to improve the quality of life for our wounded Veterans. The intensive rehabilitation they require can take months, even years. These materials provide a diversion, easing the boredom and repetition of the rehabilitation and recovery process. The group personally delivers these gifts to Military and Veterans hospitals, where we interact with veterans and their families one-on-one.
Seventh Grade Students Complete NaNoWriMo 10,000 Word Challenge
These seventh graders exceeded 15,000 words in their NaNoWriMo writing assignment.
The NaNoWriMo Project is a capstone experience in seventh grade English. During the month of November, students are challenged to compose a minimum 10,000-word novel. Students are supported in this endeavor with an extensive planning period in the fall and incentives throughout November. English teachers Mrs. Leeann Blais and Dr. Christy Lawrence joined Head of Middle School Mr. Michael McLaughlin to celebrate the students' work as descriptions of each novel were read for the class. Additionally, students who exceeded 15,000 words were also recognized. Siena Fantozzi '28 penned over 32,000 words. Well done, seventh grade! And thank you to Mrs. Blais, for her work on this annual initiative. We have no doubt you'll be finding many Austin Prep authors' work on the shelves of a bookstore near you in the future!
Journey of the Heart Returns
As we do with every new year, we are pleased to introduce the next series of Journey of the Heart, our highlight of programs, activities, and initiatives at Austin Prep that exemplify our core values. Journey of the Heart is published on our website, where members of the faculty and staff will share their insights. Archived installments are available on our website, as well. You can read Journey of the Heart here.
This latest edition is unique in that for the first time Journey of the Heart is authored by an Austin Prep student, Olivia Ferri '23. An accomplished dancer, Olivia details her journey to a different playing field through Baseball Operations, a student group established in 2020 to help provide sports management opportunities for students. Olivia reflects on how the experience has broadened perspectives, expanded skill sets, and created an appreciation for the diverse individual strengths and talents of Austin Prep students, on and off the field.
In the previous edition, Mrs. Michelle Connor, Interim Assistant Head of School and Head of Upper School; Ms. Alicia Varraso, Dean of Students; and Mrs. Marla Pascucci-Byrne, Art and Design Department Chair detail their recent professional development experience atthe Heads Network Women in Leadership Conference in Philadelphia, which was designed to further their leadership skills and advance their careers. They reflect on their experience at the conference, which has inspired them to grow both personally and within our School community.
WBZ / CBS Boston's Steve Burton Speaks to the School Community
Well known Boston sportscaster encourages hard work and embracing struggle
Steve Burton with student panelists Elena Oulton '24, Fiona Cullen '23, Nick Blessing '23, and Thomas Hayes '23.
Austin Prep was honored to welcome Steve Burton of WBZ / CBS News Boston to campus on Tuesday to speak to the school community. Mr. Burton detailed his experiences in athletics, sportscasting, and raising a family, and conveyed to students the importance of hard work while being a person of great faith and character. An important theme within his message was, "Learn how to draw a crowd, then learn how to withdraw from a crowd, when the crowd isn't going to do you any good."
Mr. Burton invited students to take part in a mock live report before concluding the presentation by answering questions from a student panel. Mr. Burton left students with this final tip: "Practice when everyone else is practicing. Then practice when everyone else is sleeping."
Athletic Hall of Fame Committee Announces Class of 2023 Inductees
The Austin Preparatory School Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes those individuals and teams who have made significant and lasting contributions to Cougar sports, and have achieved a high standard of athletic success.
Through the work of a dedicated committee, the Austin Prep Athletic Hall of Fame preserves records of individuals and teams, and helps to promote the values and tradition of sports as a positive influence on the Austin Prep community.
The nomination process was made public last summer, and we are grateful for the number of qualified nominees that were presented to the committee. We are proud to announce the Austin Prep Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2023 as follows:
Arianna Rigano '06 Ice Hockey Player
Bill Maradei P '11, '12 Football Coach
Jim McAdam Ice Hockey Coach
Kevin Yahnian '79 Spring Track Player
1999 Varsity Football Team
2013 Girls Soccer Team
If you were part of the 1999 Varsity Football Team or the 2013 Girls Soccer Team, please be sure to update your contact info with us here.
The Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2023 Induction ceremony is Saturday, April 29th, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. and will be held at Austin Prep.
To attend or sponsor the event, or pay tribute to a classmate, please click the button below:
Fr. Art Johnson and Fr. Peter Gori Welcomed to Campus for Lenten Mass
Dr. Hickey recognizes Fr. Art's 60 years of priesthood at conclusion of Mass
Fr. Art Johnson, O.S.A. celebrated Mass on Monday. He is joined by Deacon Bill Reidy (left) and Fr. Peter Gori '70 O.S.A. (right).
Austin Prep welcomed Fr. Art Johnson O.S.A. and Fr. Peter Gori '70 O.S.A. to campus Monday, March 6th for an all-school Lenten Mass. Fr. Art encouraged students during Lent to do what St. Augustine said: "Lord Jesus, let me know myself so I may know You." You can view photos from the Mass here.
Fr. Art recently celebrated 60 years as a priest – his Golden Jubilee. At the end of Mass Head of School Dr. James Hickey reflected on Fr. Art's impact on the Austin Prep community. "Fr. Art literally opened the doors to Austin Prep when students arrived in September 1963. He has been a consequential part of Austin Prep's restless journey for more than 60 years and no other person in the school's history can match Fr. Art's abiding presence."
Austin Prep Boys Ski Team Takes Home NEPSAC Championship
The NEPSAC Class C Champion Austin Prep Boys Ski Team.
The Austin Prep Boys Ski team captured the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) Class C Championship on Wednesday at Crotched Mountain in New Hampshire. Additionally, the girls ski team also fared well, taking second place in the team competition.
"The team displayed hard work and determination all season and earned this NEPSAC Class C Championship," Head Boys Ski Coach and World Languages Faculty Member Linda Filadoro said. "They competed against seasoned racers from both the New England region and different parts of the world like Spain and Italy. Each racer played a strategic role and our entire team should be proud of this impressive accomplishment in their NEPSAC debut."
In the giant slalom event, Luke Bartley '23 and Nareg Minassian '26 led the way for Austin Prep. In the slalom race, Luke was joined by Dario Filadoro '23 at the top of the results.
The Boys Ski Team victory is Austin Prep's second title in the School's inaugural year in the NEPSAC, with Girls Cross Country claiming the Division 2 championship in November.
Save-the-Date: March 30, 2023
The countdown is on to Austin Prep’s 5th Annual Day of Giving
For 60 years, Austin Prep has provided students with a rich, academic experience. This milestone is possible thanks to the continued support from the alumni community that our School has relied on year after year.
Austin Prep’s 5th Annual Day of Giving is on March 30th and is an opportunity for our community to come together once again to our commitment to providing 800+ students with an extraordinary and memorable academic experience.
Note: Looking to double or triple your gift? Many companies match their employees charitable donations. Fidelity, State Street, Bank of America, Raytheon, Sanofi, Liberty Mutual just to name a few. Email APMatchingGifts@austinprep.org to see if your company offers a matching gift program.
Austin Prep Faculty and Staff Participate in Professional Development Over February Break
Austin Prep Delegation Attends National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Annual Conference
Austin Prep Faculty and Staff at the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) annual conference in Las Vegas.
The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) held their annual conference February 22nd - 24th in Las Vegas, Nevada. Among the presenters at the conference was Dr. James Hickey, Head of School. Also attending the conference was AJ Benning, Dean of Students; Stephanie Choate, English Department Chair; Michelle Connor, Interim Assistant Head of School and Head of Upper School; Francesco Donato, Science Faculty; Alison Fish, Math Department Chair; Tyler Fleming, Director of Communications; and Laurie Gillis, Director of Annual Giving.
Meanwhile, Austin Prep Faculty and Staff Attend Augustinian Values Institute (AVI)
Austin Prep sent a delegation of faculty, staff and administration to the 19th Gathering of the Augustinian Values Institute on February 17th-20th hosted by St. Augustine High School in San Diego. The conference is sponsored by the Augustinian Secondary Education Associate. The purpose is to bring together educators from all of the Augustinian Schools in North America to create clarity and develop a deeper understanding of the Augustinian mission. This year schools from Austria and Ireland were also in attendance.
Teachers, faculty, and administrators join together to share their experience and explain how they apply the mission in their respective school and to learn how others apply the core values of the Augustinian Order. The conference includes prayer, reflection, and guest speakers to further support educators in focusing on how they might live their vocations. Upon reflection from the weekend World Languages Faculty Cori Russo shared that “I learned a wealth of information and inspiration relating to Augustinian education over the course of the weekend, and I'm so grateful that I had the opportunity to connect on a personal level with the cohort from Austin Prep.”
Those who attended included: Nicole Barletta, Main Office Administrative Assistant; Rebecca Martiniello, World Languages Faculty; Sr. Immaculate Kyampeire, Science Faculty; Sr, Maria Nassali, Director of Campus Ministry; Jon Whalen, History Faculty; Cori Russo, World Languages Faculty; Dr. William Driscoll, Dean of Faculty; Dustin Batista, Theology Department Chair; Fr. Patrick Armano, School Chaplain; and Dr. Hickey, Head of School.
60th Anniversary
Help us celebrate Austin Prep and our 60th Anniversary! We have new 60th Anniversary Austin Prep magnets for your car or home. You can pick them up in the Main Office while supplies last, or email Jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org! Save-the-Date: 60th Anniversary Celebration, Friday, September 15th, 2023. More details to follow.
Alumni Events and Happenings
Annual Day of Giving, March 30th
Athletic Hall of Fame at Austin Prep, April 29th
Class of 1973: 50th Reunion at Austin Prep, May 18th & 19th
Austin Open Golf Tournament at Indian Ridge Country Club, May 22nd
For up-to-the-date information and registration links for events and happenings, please visit the Alumni page of our websiteand social media.
Stay Connected
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.
If you are getting married, we invite you to borrow our Austin Prep Alumni banner for the big celebration!
If you are expecting or recently welcomed a new Austin Prep cougar into your family, let us know so we can send along an AP baby onesie.
Keep up to date with all the current events at Austin Prep by following us on our official social media accounts below:
Girls Cross Country Claims Austin Prep's First NEPSAC Title
Dr. Hickey Leadership Medal Established in Honor of 10th Year of Service
Ms. Doreen Fuller P’09, ’13 Honored with St. Augustine Lumen Award
Epic Thanksgiving Eve for the Athletic Department
Reunion Recap: 2017 and 2022
"In the Classroom & Beyond"
Austin Prep Fund
Alumni Events & Happenings
Stay Connected
Austin Prep Celebrates 60th Anniversary
Help us celebrate Austin Prep and our 60th Anniversary! We have new 60th Anniversary Austin Prep magnets for your car or home. You can pick them up in the Main Office while supplies last, or email Jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org! Save the Date: 60th Anniversary Celebration, Saturday, September 15, 2023. More details to follow.
Austin Prep Holiday Traditions Continue
The Austin Prep Band and Choir after Monday's Lessons and Carols performance at the Greater Boston Stage Company.
The Austin Prep community gathered for two showings of the annual Christmas tradition of Lessons and Carols, first with a performance for parents at the Greater Boston Stage Company Theatre on Monday, December 5th, followed by a performance for students and staff on campus on Tuesday, December 6th.The shows included traditional Christmas hymns and carols by the Austin Prep Choir and Austin Prep Band, as well as scripture readings and short passages about the true meaning of the season. The performances showcased the talents of Austin Prep students, who were led throughout the shows by Art and Design Faculty Mr. Joe Leary and Mr. Stephen Williams. Photos from the Monday show can be viewed here. Photos from the Tuesday show can be viewed here.
Students Impress With Two Performances of The Nutcracker
Austin Prep then continued its nearly 30 year Christmas tradition of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, with performances at theCollins Center at Andover High School on Monday, December 12th and Tuesday, December 13th. Over 150 students participated in the shows, which were widely received as perhaps Austin Prep's best performances to date. You can view photos from the Monday night performance here. You can watch the performance of the Tuesday's first act finale, "Waltz of the Snowflakes," by clicking above. A special thank you to Mrs. Marla Pascucci-Byrne P'26 and the Austin Prep Facilities team and Event Crew for managing the details of taking our arts performance on the road.
Campus Renovations Support Faith and Reason Initiative
As with every summer, Austin Prep is committed to the improvement of physical space on campus to enhance the student experience. This past summer, a desire to expand science teaching and learning intersected with Austin Prep’s Catholic identity and Augustinian heritage, supporting the School’s Faith and Reason Initiative.
Late last academic year, following brainstorming sessions with science faculty and parents with professional backgrounds in STEM, Austin Prep committed to investing greater resources to expanding the footprint of our science labs. The resulting summer work involved converting instructional space that was not previously a science lab into space that is now a state of the art classroom. Based on current best practices, this first lab is modular and flexible to support teaching and learning in the life, chemical, and physical sciences in both the Upper and Middle Schools. Ready for students when they returned this fall, this renovation was a first step in a multi-year plan to upgrade science facilities to ensure that Austin Prep students will be well prepared for college and beyond.
The highlight of the new science lab is a new Anatomage Table, which is a 3D anatomy and virtual dissection table used in colleges and medical schools. From the beginning of the academic year, Austin Prep students in freshman biology and forensics classes have explored various lessons including a case study involving a tibial fracture. Features of the table not only allow for faculty and students to explore gross anatomy, or those organs and tissues visible to the naked eye, but to dissect and study into the deepest systems including the nervous system and the brain.
During discussions with parents about the importance of science, conversations organically expanded to include the importance of Austin Prep’s Catholic identity and Augustinian heritage. Many parents stated they invest in an Austin Prep education because it is a faith-based education – a compelling message that faith and reason are inseparable. As a result, Austin Prep committed to renovating the Chapel of St. Augustine, the center of spiritual life on campus.
Chapel renovations included a special twist: new seating that included a center aisle, something the Chapel has never had before. The Chapel's new pews were obtained through a partnership with the Sisters of Divine Providence who closed their high school, Sacred Heart High School in Kingston, MA. Once the school closed, an arrangement was made for the pews to be repurposed in the Chapel of St. Augustine at Austin Prep.
The Chapel renovation also included restoration of the original Austin Prep altar, including the marble predella. The Chapel’s predella was previously covered by a platform, which was installed in the early 1970’s to serve as a stage for Austin Prep’s student theater group, which was no longer needed as other performing arts areas have been developed on campus. The Chapel’s tabernacle now sits on the restored predella.
Furthermore, upgrades to the Chapel also include banners representing the other Augustinian secondary schools in North America, and the St. Augustine quote which is the center of the daily prayer at Austin Prep: “You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.”
The construction of the first science lab and the renovation of the Chapel of St. Augustine was completely funded by the generosity of current parents. Projects such as these are funded by philanthropy, and in order to expand programming, launch new initiatives, or build new science labs we rely on the generosity of parents and benefactors to support these endeavors. The exploration of faith and reason in the years ahead at Austin Prep is the outgrowth of the generosity of parents, and we are grateful for those who made gifts to advance the growth of teaching and learning and the commitment to our Catholic heritage.
Girls Cross Country Claims Austin Prep's First NEPSAC Title
The NEPSAC winning Austin Prep Girls Cross Country Team (left to right): Anya Budzinski, Cailin Fennessy, Victoria Tenreiro, Sophia DiNanno, Sydney Pilla, Colleen Simmons, Madi Valade.
The Austin Prep Girls Cross Country team captured the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) Division 2 Championship at St. Mark's School in dominating fashion, placing three runners in the top 10 and four runners in the top 15 in the team's first appearance in the championship event. With the transition of Austin Prep's athletics program to the NEPSAC to start the 2022-2023 academic year, the cross country victory brings Austin Prep its first NEPSAC title.
"It was an honor to be the first team to win a NEPSAC championship and hopefully it sets a trend for more to come," Head Cross Country Coach Nicolle Renick said. "It was a historical moment that we probably won't realize the magnitude of until many years down the road."
Renick, a faculty member in Austin Prep's Department of Art and Design, is assisted by Austin Prep's Director of Communications Tyler Fleming P'28 and World Language Faculty Member Mrs. Kerianne Barry P'28.
Click here to read complete details of this NEPSAC title.
Dr. James Hickey Leadership Medal Established in Honor of 10th Year
The 2022-2023 academic year marks Dr. James Hickey's 10th year as Head of School at Austin Prep. To commemorate this occasion, at the December 3rd Signature Event, the Austin Prep Board of Trustees commissioned a new award, the Dr. James Hickey Leadership Medal. Announced by Trustee Mr. Joey Carregal '05 on behalf of Board Chair Mr. Dan Bouchard P'10, '14, '15, this medal will be awarded annually at commencement to the student who best exemplifies the following characteristics: ambition, integrity, and service before self. The award will honor a graduating senior who has exhibited the capacity to lead and serve, demonstrated an unwavering commitment to mission, and has had a significant impact on the Austin Prep community.
Deeply committed to the mission of Austin Prep, over the last decade Dr. Hickey has led the school through successful transformation, innovation and growth, and his leadership has contributed to the overall success, strength, and stability that Austin Prep maintains today. At the Signature Event, a video was played which reflected on Dr. Hickey's tenure at Austin Prep. The video can be viewed above. Austin Prep continues on the upward trajectory of excellence and we are grateful for Dr. Hickey's leadership.
Ms. Doreen Fuller P’09, ’13 Honored with St. Augustine Lumen Award
The annual St. Augustine Lumen Award recognizes exemplary teachers who embody the mission of Austin Prep. In early December, Dr. Hickey was joined by Dan Bouchard P’10, ’14, ’15, Board Chair, and members of the Board of Trustees including alumni Kate McHugh ’99, Joey Carregal ’05, Jennifer (Thorp) Fantozzi ’97, Mike Barry ’79, and Mark Duggan ’72 as they presented the 2022 St. Augustine Lumen Award to Mathematics faculty member Ms. Doreen Fuller. Congratulations to Ms. Fuller and thank you for all that you do for our students.
Epic Thanksgiving Eve for the Athletic Department
State Champion Girls Ice Hockey and Baseball Teams Honored; Football Visits Fenway
The 2022 MIAA Division I State Champion Austin Prep Girls Ice Hockey Team.
The Wednesday before Thanksgiving, members of the 2022 MIAA Division I State Champion Austin Prep Girls Ice Hockey Team received their State Championship Rings and the Head of School Medallions. The Head of School Medallion is reserved for distinct occasions and rare moments to salute those who unquestionably exemplify Austin Prep's Augustinian values of veritas, unitas and caritas. You can view photos from the ceremony here.
The Austin Prep Girls Ice Hockey team captured the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Division 1 State Championship with a 4-1 victory over Arlington High School on Sunday, March 20th at TD Garden. The win capped a historic season for the Cougars, finishing a perfect 27-0-0. Additionally, it marked the program's third state title, adding to the 2016 championship and the 2020 co-championship which was awarded to the team after the state final was halted as a result of the emerging Covid-19 pandemic.
The 2022 MIAA Division 3 State Champion Austin Prep Baseball Team.
Not to be outdone, members of the 2022 MIAA Division 3 State Champion Austin Prep Baseball Team received their State Championship Rings and the Head of School Medallions. Additionally, Associate Head of School and Head Varsity Baseball Coach Jonathan Pollard '97 was inducted into the Head of School Medallion Fellowship after his near decade of service to Austin Prep and achievements as Athletic Director, Head Baseball Coach, and Associate Head of School. You can view photos from the ceremony here.
The Austin Prep Baseball team captured the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Division 3 State Championship with a 2-1 victory over Newburyport High School on Saturday, June 18th at LeLacheur Park on the campus of UMass Lowell. The win capped a historic season for the team, finishing a perfect 25-0 which included a No. 24 national ranking by the National High School Baseball Coaches Association (NHSBCA) and an overall No. 1 ranking in the state by the Boston Globe. Additionally, it marked the program's second MIAA state title, adding to the 2018 championship.
The Austin Prep Football Team at Fenway Park.
Finally, the Austin Prep Football Team had the opportunity to kick off Thanksgiving weekend with a Wednesday afternoon game against St. Mary's at historic Fenway Park, providing memories to last a lifetime. You can view photos from the game here.
Reunion Recap: 2017 and 2022
Also on Wednesday, November 23rd, the Class of 2022 returned to Austin Prep for their Alumni Breakfast. Eighty-two alumni reunited for a delicious breakfast and the chance to catch-up with faculty and staff.
The Class of 2017 celebrated their 5-Year Reunion on the Friday after Thanksgiving at Sissy K’s in Boston. A special thank you to ’17 alumni Caroline Benson, Sara Bray and Louis Finocchiaro for organizing the lively night!
Looking Forward . . .
The Class of 2012 will gather for their 10-Year Reunion on Thursday, December 22 at Kowloon Restaurant.
The 50th Reunion for the Class of 1973 will be held on May 18 & 19, 2023 at Austin Prep. More information will follow in February.
We look forward to celebrating the reunion classes ending in 3 and 8 in 2023! Contact Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations and Giving if you would like to be part of the planning process jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org.
In the Classroom and Beyond
Mrs. Choate Contributes Book Review for MiddleWeb
Austin Prep Faculty continue their professional development outside of the classroom. In recent years, several faculty members have served as book reviewers for MiddleWeb, a website that provides resources for teachers, school leaders, parents and others interested in the success of young adolescents. English Faculty Ms. Stephanie Choate recently had her first book review published. Her review of Get Organized Digitally! The Educator’s Guide to Time Management, can be read here.We can expect to see additional Austin Prep MiddleWeb book reviews published over the course of the school year.
Middle School Students Participate in Campus Ministry Retreat
In October, the Campus Ministry Office provided middle school students with an opportunity for deeper reflection and for connecting with classmates through an on-campus retreat. The Campus Ministry Office partnered with NET Ministries to deliver this retreat for our students. NET Ministries is a Catholic Ministry made up of university-aged missionaries who devote a year of their lives to bring Christ to today’s youth. Students in the 6th and 7th grade participated in their retreat on Wednesday. The theme of their retreat was Love One Another. Students in the 8th grade participated in their retreat on Thursday. The theme of their retreat was True Presence (Eucharist). Throughout the activities of the day, students had the opportunity to reflect on our core values of veritas, unitas and caritas and reflect on Christ’s love for us.
Ms. Alex Dell'Anno’12 Acknowledged in Community Based Program
Thank you to Reading Orthodontics for sponsoring their Teacher Recognition Program acknowledging the great work of teachers in our community. Avery Balfe '29 nominated her English teacher and alumna Ms. Alex Dell'Anno '12!
Students Living Our Mission
Unitas is a key component of what distinguishes an Augustinian education from all others. We continue to look forward to working together to strengthen our community in a way that is reflective of our core values of veritas, unitas, and caritas. As we do so, the Office of Student Life aims to build students of strong character while recognizing exemplary behavior on campus. We recognize the work of Ryleigh Vadala ’27 and Alex Fernandes ’25. During orientation, Ryleigh welcomed new students into her advisory and made everyone feel part of the community. Alex earned the most merits of any student on campus during the first month of classes by helping teachers and athletic staff, and by working to keep our community clean. Their leadership and integrity are qualities we look for in our students.
Faculty Members Attend Women's Leadership Conference in Philadelphia
Austin Prep faculty including Mrs. Michelle Connor P'25 '28, Interim Assistant Head of School, Head of Upper School, Mrs. Marla Pascucci-Byrne P'26, Art and Design Department Chair, and Ms. Alicia Varraso, Assistant Dean of Students, attended the 2022 Heads Network Fall Women's Leadership Seminar at the William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia. This seminar, taught by a faculty of female heads of school from across the country, was designed to both equip and inspire independent school leaders. Seminar topics included: Women’s Ways of Leading; The School Culture: Balancing Multiple Constituencies; Finance/Reading & Building Budgets; Organizing the Board and Your Team; Interviewing and The Search Process; Mentor Paths to Leadership among other topics. This is another professional development opportunity made available to our faculty as a result of generous support of the Austin Prep Fund. We thank our loyal supporters for their part in making experiences such as this one possible.
Support the Austin Prep Fund This Holiday Season
In celebration of Austin Prep’s 60th Anniversary, please consider making a gift to the Austin Prep Fund this Christmas.
Your participation will support professional development opportunities for faculty members, tuition assistance, and provide the programs and resources students need to grow intellectually, socially, and spiritually.
We deeply appreciate all alumni who have already contributed to the Austin Prep Fund this year. Your gift helps make extraordinary possible at Austin Prep.
Alumni Events and Happenings
Women’s Alumnae Hockey at Merrimack College, December 23
Basketball at TD Garden, January 21
Athletic Hall of Fame at Austin Prep, April 29
Class of 1973: 50th Reunion at Austin Prep, May 18 & 19
Austin Open Golf Tournament at Indian Ridge Country Club, May 22
For up-to-the-date information and registration links for events and happenings, please visit theAlumni page of our website and social media.
Stay Connected
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.
If you are getting married, we invite you to borrow our Austin Prep Alumni banner for the big celebration!
If you are expecting or recently welcomed a new Austin Prep cougar into your family, let us know so we can send along an AP baby onesie.
Keep up to date with all the current events at Austin Prep by following us on our official social media accounts below:
Recap: 50th Reunion for the Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972
Annual Fund Campaign Ends June 30th
Legacy Families
Recap: 34th Annual Austin Open
Pat Driscoll named Athletic Director of the Year
Colleen Owens Graham ’96 and National Honor Society
Journey Magazine
"In the Classroom & Beyond"
SAVI
8th Grade Science Expo
Model UN
Student-Athletes Sign with Colleges (12/15/21-to date)
Alumni Events & Happenings
Stay Connected
Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972 Reunite
On May 19-20, over 55 alumni from the classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972 and their guests were on campus to celebrate their 50th Reunion. The celebration kicked-off Thursday evening with a reception, class photos and dinner hosted by Head of School, James Hickey, Ph.D. It was an especially moving gathering as Fr. Art Johnson, O.S.A., a founding father of Austin Prep, and Faculty Mentor Roger Stone joined those in attendance.
Over the course of the reunion, alumni participated in a Memorial Mass, tours with Green Key Ambassador Students, lunch in the renovated dining hall, processional for Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement, a gathering at Strega and a round of golf at Hillview Golf Club.
You can view photos from the reunion on Facebook here.
We look forward to celebrating the 50th Reunion for the Class of 1973 in May 2023!
Austin Prep Students are Successful Because of YOU
On April 7th, Austin Prep held its 4th Annual Day of Giving, raising over $150,000 toward the overall goal for the 2021-2022 Annual Fund. This incredible accomplishment would not have been possible without the tremendous support of the Austin Prep Community. We are especially grateful to our parents and alumni that initiated challenges to their peers to bolster participation.
The fiscal year is not over! We are counting on the whole community to help us reach our goal by June 30th. Tuition covers the essentials, but an independent Catholic school’s ability to provide smaller class sizes and enriching programs is made possible by the resources provided by a robust annual fund.
If you have not yet participated in the 2021-2022 Annual Fund, please give a gift you are proud of today! Your gift is an investment in the extraordinary!
#AustinPrepProud
You can participate today by clicking the button below:
Two of our graduating seniors are part of Austin Prep legacy families. Check out these pictures of Class of 2022 graduates and their parents who are Austin Prep Alums. We are excited to have welcomed the Class of 2022 to the ranks of Austin Prep Alumni, and congratulations to the Filadoro and Caruso families!
Class of 2022 | A Final Farewell
It has been almost a month since the Baccalaureate Liturgy and Commencement for the Class of 2022 and we miss the Class already! During Senior Week, the Senior Class gathered for a class photo, shown above with seniors in sweatshirts representing their college or university of choice. We wish them the best of luck as their Journey continues as Austin Prep Alumni!
34th Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament a Success
We were blessed with a beautiful day on Monday, May 23rd for the 34th Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament, held at Indian Ridge Country Club. The event was a great success with a full-flight of golfers!
The Annual Golf Tournament is vital in our efforts to continue to provide exceptional educational experiences for all our students. A special thank you to alumni families for their 2022 Title Sponsorships: Pimentel Construction and Quirk Construction Corp. This year's tournament raised over $85,000 and will support the creation of a multi-purpose laboratory in our science wing which will be a best-in-class space for middle school and upper school science instruction.
If you have questions about future golf sponsorships and events, please contact Ms. Susan Belanger, Assistant Head for Administration at sbelanger@austinprep.org.
Driscoll Named Athletic Director of the Year
Pat Driscoll '97, center, was recently named the Massachusetts Secondary Schools Athletic Directors Association (MSSADA) District 6 Athletic Director of the Year.
Class of 1997 alumnus and Director of Athletics Patrick Driscoll is the Massachusetts Secondary Schools Athletic Directors Association (MSSADA) District 6 Athletic Director of the Year.
This award recognizes athletic administrators from across the state who have excelled in the profession, and those who have made significant contributions within the field of athletic administration at the local, state, and national levels.
"We are grateful for the leadership Mr. Driscoll provides our coaches and student-athletes as they pursue their goals in the classroom and on the fields of play." Dr. Hickey said. “We are very fortunate to have him as a member of our School community.”
National Honor Society Keynote Speaker: Colleen (Owens) Graham ’96
On April 26th 66 students were inducted into Austin Prep's Chapter of the National Honor Society. Inductees were joined by family in the Chapel of St. Augustine. The program for the evening can be viewed here.
National Honor Society member Patricia Bibeau '22 welcomed fellow members Jacqueline Plante '22, Jack Caruso '22, Liam Gildea '22 and Megan Silva '22, who reflected on the four pillars of NHS: character, service, scholarship, and leadership.
The evening closed with remarks from Colleen (Owens) Graham '96, who started at Austin Prep as a freshman in the fall of 1992 and graduated with the first group of female students. Graham is the Founder and CEO of Iridium Clinical, LLC serving as a Senior Clinical Operations Consultant. In the fall of 2022, Colleen’s journey will come full-circle when her two oldest children begin their journeys at Austin Prep in the 6th and 8th grades. She was joined at the induction by her husband, Rick, also an Austin Prep graduate of 1996, her children Jaxson, Cooper and Sydney, and her mother Cynthia.
Spring 2022 Journey Magazine Is Online
The latest edition of Journey Magazine is available online by clicking here.
We share news among our community and beyond through our alumni and student publication, Journey Magazine. The magazine includes updates from our alumni, students, faculty and parents. Journey is available in print and digital format. We hope you enjoy this glimpse into the life of our alumni and students.
Alumni are encouraged to e-mail your news, including family additions, relocations, career changes, recent travel and any other updates for the Austin Prep community to Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations & Giving, at jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org.
In the Classroom and Beyond
Student Augustinian Values Institute
This spring, an Austin Prep delegation spent a weekend at Villanova Prep in Ojai, California, for the Student Augustinian Values Institute (SAVI). While there, students examined our core values with students from other Augustinian schools. Our students returned home with an even greater understanding of our shared Augustinian values and a stronger appreciation of our school’s mission. Going forward, these students will begin implementing some of the ideas and takeaways from their time with our peer schools.
Eighth Graders Share Projects at Science Expo
From projects on solar and electric cars to wind turbines, water filtration, and greenhouse gas emissions, students in the Class of 2026 held a Science Expo in the Father Smith Library. During the third quarter, eighth graders explored concepts connected with sustainability and the environment, from pollution and emissions to reusable energy. Students developed research questions, conducted experiments, analyzed data, and drew conclusions as they made parallels to lessons learned in class. The Middle School Science Expo was an extension of the Middle School Strategic Plan for 2021-2026 and Austin Prep’s efforts to inspire and prepare students for experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
Austin Prep Freshmen Participate in Model UN Conference
The Class of 2025 simulated debates on Cold War crises during Austin Prep's first Model UN conference. Led by History Faculty memberMr. Jon Whalen and facilitated by History Faculty member Ms. Jess Swindell this exciting event was planned by the History Department. Students engaged in several weeks of extensive research and analysis. Students participated in ten crisis committees on events ranging from the Cuban Missile Crisis to the Falklands War. Debates were lively and the students worked hard to represent the perspective of their assigned nation. The History Department looks forward to hosting this event for many years to come!
College Signings Continue
Emma Guthrie '22 will continue her Ice Hockey career at Assumption University.
College bound student-athletes continue to make their commitments to continue their athletic career at the intercollegiate level. To-date, 16 senior student-athletes have committed to continue their athletics endeavors beyond Austin Prep, including:
Jack Iannibelli - Stonehill College - Baseball
Evan Blanco - University of Virginia - Baseball
Matt Bellis - St. Michael's College - Lacrosse
Jack Seibel - Nazareth College - Lacrosse
Maeve Carey - Stonehill - Ice Hockey
Kathryn Karo - Stonehill - Ice Hockey
Lauryn Hanafin - Stonehill - Ice Hockey
Andrew Fetten - Randolph Macon - Soccer
Catherine Gallagher - Wesleyen - Soccer
Tommy Skeffington - Endicott - Football
Colby Medeiros - Assumption University - Track and Field Steven Galatis - Stonehill College - Track and Field and Cross County
James Mahoney - Assumption University - Baseball Jodee Domey - DeSales University - Softball Emma Guthrie - Assumption University - Ice Hockey Nico Fanuele - Providence College - Track and Field
Alumni Events and Happenings
Join fellow alumni for an evening of catching-up and reminiscing! First drink is on us!
July 13: Alumni Summer at Bunratty Tavern, Reading Center, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
August 16: Alumni Summer at Bunratty Tavern, Reading Center, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
For up-to-the-date information and registration links for events and happenings, please visit the Alumni pageof our website and social media.
Stay Connected
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.
If you are getting married, we invite you to borrow our Austin Prep Alumni banner for the big celebration!
If you are expecting or recently welcomed a new Austin Prep cougar into your family, let us know so we can send along an Austin Prep baby onesie.
Keep up to date with all the current events at Austin Prep by following us on our official social media accounts below:
Save the Dates: 50th Reunion for the Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972
Annual Day of Giving
34th Annual Austin Open
Austin Prep Alumni Lead Professional Development
Girls Hockey and Boys Indoor Track Take State Titles
"In the Classroom & Beyond"
Model UN
Earth and Space Science
American Mathematics Contest 12 (AMC 12)
Student-Athletes Sign with Colleges (12/15/21-to date)
Summer Session
Alumni Events & Happenings
Stay Connected
Save the Dates: 50th Reunion for Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972
We look forward to bringing the Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972 back to Austin Prep in celebration of their 50th Reunions! Click here to register.
The schedule of events for May 19 through 21st includes:
Thursday, May 19th
At Austin Prep
Reception (in the newly renovated dining hall)
Class Photos
50th Reunion Dinner
Friday, May 20th
At Austin Prep
Alumni Memorial Mass
Lunch, dining hall
Green Key Student Ambassador Tours of the Campus
Head of School/Trustees Reception
Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement
Off Campus
Informal gathering at a local restaurant
Saturday, May 21st
Morning golf outing at Hillview Golf Club, North Reading (Separate Reservation)
In Case of Rain on Friday, May 20th
The Thursday Schedule Remains the Same as Above
Friday, May 20th
At Austin Prep
Alumni Memorial Mass
Lunch, dining hall
Green Key Student Ambassador Tours
Off Campus
Informal gathering at a local restaurant
Saturday, May 21st
At Austin Prep
Head of School/Trustees Reception
Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement
Annual Day of Giving
Thursday, April 7, is Austin Prep’s Day of Giving – the School’s biggest fundraising event of the year. It is our opportunity to support the academics and extracurricular experiences that make an Austin Prep education so enriching for today’s students and lays the groundwork for a successful future.
Annual giving by the Austin Prep community – parents, alumni, grandparents, and friends – supports small class sizes, dedicated teachers and funds experiences outside of the classroom that help our students grow intellectually and spiritually.
Show your Austin Prep Pride today.
Participation is easier than ever before. Visit our Campaign Page by clicking the button below to give by credit card, Venmo, PayPal, or ApplePay.
All donations are tax-deductible and please know every gift will make a difference in the Austin Prep experience.
Thank you for your continued support.
34th Austin Open Golf Tournament Returns May 23
The 34th Annual Golf Tournament will take place on May 23, 2022 at Indian Ridge Golf Country Club in Andover, MA. The flight of golfers is completely full but information on sponsorships can be found here. 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 renovated David E. Nelson '81 Fitness Center and expanded parking on campus. We welcome your participation in the event, either as a golfer or sponsor.
Business and Family Sponsorships help make our event a success, and a wide array of sponsorships are available. We appreciate all those who have already committed to helping us make this a great day, especially our alumni Title Sponsors Pimentel Construction and Quirk Construction Corp., and look forward to having additional members of the community join us and add their business or family name to the program.
On Monday, March 21st, Austin Prep faculty and staff took part in the first-ever Austin Conference. This day-long professional development experience included a mini-Lenten retreat, a Women’s History Month panel with our past Lumen Award Recipients: Celia Barletta, Stephanie Choate, Eilis Farrell, and Marla Pascucci-Byrne P’26, and workshops such as community-building cooking, dance, and painting classes; talks on current events; interactive labs; and sessions on pedagogical strategies, advising, and technology tips.
Several alumni faculty presented programs, including:
Chris Capone ’88, Environmental Lab: Hands-On Learning
Bill Driscoll ’89, Crucial Conversations: Conflict Management
Tony Biscardi ’88 and Ed MacKenzie ’99, The Cold War & the Ukraine Crisis
Brian Russo ’09, Summer Sabbatical Experience
Alex Dell’Anno’12, co-presented with Nicole Putney P’26, ’28 on “Top 10 Teaching with Tech” Tips
Below is a more in-depth look at two of the presentations by our alumni faculty:
Tony Biscardi ’88 and Ed MacKenzie ’99, The Cold War & the Ukraine Crisis
AP European History and AP Microeconomics faculty Tony Biscardi ’88 presented on the causes of the current war and the differences between economic sanctions and financial sanctions, while Ed MacKenzie ’99, United States Government and Politics, Civil War Era, and Demystifying the Middle East faculty, presented on all the possible outcomes based on historical examples of this type of situation. This well-attended session included an engaging discussion involving the expansion of NATO since 1990, how the U.S. has reacted to Russian influence in the western hemisphere over the past century, and the divide within Russia of who supports and who is against Putin. The long history of glorifying Russian leaders who expanded Russian borders was discussed as well as Putin's own love of Vladimir the Great from over a thousand years ago. When learning about financial sanctions leading to bank runs, one of the veteran faculty members exclaimed, "Where's George Bailey [It's a Wonderful Life] when they need him?!?"
Brian Russo ’09 Summer Sabbatical Experience
Every year, Austin Prep grants summer sabbatical awards to select faculty members to promote their growth as practitioners in the classroom and leaders in their fields to sustain best teaching practices. Humanities faculty Brian Russo '09 was the recipient of a summer sabbatical grant this past summer, and visited Yellowstone in August.
During the first-ever Austin Conference for professional development on March 21st, Russo shared with his colleagues the impact this experience has had on his teaching in the classroom.
Russo was drawn to visit Yellowstone because it is one of the largest areas of preserved wilderness in the United States. The park provides a timeless snapshot of what life was like for millions of years before humans dominated the environment.
Brian has integrated his experience into his teaching curriculum by not only educating his students on Yellowstone’s role as the first national park, but also on how Yellowstone inspired countries around the world to create protected parks of their own. Russo also incorporates science, history, and religion into his teachings around the Park. Yellowstone serves as an encouraging reminder to Austin Prep students that nature must be preserved for humanity to thrive.
Some of Russo’s favorite experiences were seeing the eruption of the Old Faithful Geyser, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and the rainbow coloration of Grand Prismatic Spring. He was also captivated by the bison which ruled the road in Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley. Russo was also able to visit the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center where he saw grizzlies and timber wolves up close.
Faculty experiences like this are made possible by your support through the Annual Fund. The faculty and students of Austin Prep appreciate your continued generosity.
Austin Prep Girls Ice Hockey Wins MIAA State Championship
The Austin Prep Girls Ice Hockey Team won the MIAA Division I Girls State Championship with a 4-1 victory over Arlington High School at TD Garden on Sunday night. The win capped an undefeated 27-0 season for the top seeded Cougars. You can read more about the victory hereand here.
Austin Prep’s 2022 Championship Girls Ice Hockey Team
Bree Anderson ‘25
Sabina Axelrod ‘22
Jaclyn Brand ‘23
Maeve Carey ‘22
McKenzie Cerrato ‘23
Grace Collins ‘26
Gianna DeFilippo ‘22
Fiona Doherty ‘25
Emma Guthrie ‘22
Lauryn Hanafin ‘22
Isabel Hulse ‘22
Aria Kader ‘25
Kathryn Karo ‘22
Keira Loporchio ‘23
Riley Loveland ‘25
Jessica Martinson ‘24
Nora Matthews ‘25
Kylie McDonald ‘24
Caroline Melanson ‘23
Katrina Michalak ‘22
Sarah Sampson ‘26
Emma Spengler ‘22
Faith Steiner ‘25
Molly Sullivan ‘25
Madison Vittands ‘24
Stephanie Wood, Head Coach
Madison Ricci, Assistant Coach
Nikki Petrich, Assistant Coach
Jenn Townsend, Assistant Coach
Boys Indoor Track and Field Takes Division 4 State Championship By Storm
Austin Prep’s Boys Indoor Track and Field team had an amazing accomplishment by capturing the Division 4 State Championship in the 4 x 400 meter relay event. The boys competed at the Reggie Lewis Center in Boston at the MIAA Indoor Track and Field Championship on Thursday, February 17, 2022. The team also represented Austin Prep at the New Balance Indoor Nationals Competition at the Armory in New York City, placing fifth while setting a school record in this national competition. It was the first time an Austin Prep team or athlete has medaled at this event.
Austin Prep’s 2022 Championship 4 x 400 Relay Team
Nico Fanuele ’22
Steven Galatis ’22
Colby Medeiros ’22
Tristan Miller ’23
Brad Harkins, Head Coach
Joseph Hickey, Assistant Coach
Nicolle Renick, Assistant Coach
Jack Brady, Assistant Coach
In the Classroom
In January, the Austin Prep Model United Nations team participated in the 69th session of Harvard's Model United Nations. Our students were joined by over 2,000 high school delegates and their faculty advisors with a staff of over 230 Harvard University undergraduates to learn about diplomacy, to connect with friends from around the world, and to offer solutions to some of the most pressing issues faced by our world today. Now, perhaps more than ever, the value of Model United Nations has never been clearer.
Sixth grade students in the Earth and Space Science class learned how to test water for a number of different indicators such as salinity, alkalinity, and levels of nitrogen, copper, and iron. Throughout the spring, students will have the opportunity to collect water samples from the Aberjona River which bisects campus and perform these same tests.
Austin Prep once again administered the American Mathematics Contest 12 (AMC 12) for all Middle and High School students. The contest took place on Wednesday, November 10th, 2021. The AMC12 hosted by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) aims to strengthen the mathematical capabilities of the next generation of problem-solvers. Students practiced the analytical skills needed for future careers in an innovative society through classroom knowledge.
The following students should be recognized for their outstanding performance. Congratulations to all participants!
Highest Austin Prep Score:
1. Avanish Mishra ’24
2. Dilan Patel ’25
3. Mingwei Zhao ‘22
Student-Athletes Make College Commitments
Tommy Skeffington ’22, Endicott College
College bound student-athletes continue to make their commitments to continue their athletic career at the intercollegiate level. To-date, ten senior student-athletes have signed their National Letters of Intent to continue their athletics endeavors beyond Austin Prep, including:
Jack Iannibelli - Stonehill College - Baseball
Evan Blanco - University of Virginia - Baseball
Matt Bellis - St. Michael's College - Lacrosse
Jack Seibel - Nazareth College - Lacrosse
Maeve Carey - Stonehill - Ice Hockey
Kathryn Karo - Stonehill - Ice Hockey
Lauryn Hanafin - Stonehill - Ice Hockey
Andrew Fetten - Randolph Macon - Soccer
Catherine Gallagher - Wesleyen - Soccer
Tommy Skeffington - Endicott - Football
Summer Session Registration Is Open
View the catalog below to explore opportunities
We are excited to offer students the opportunity to accelerate and expand their learning this summer through our 2022 Summer Session.
Students in Austin Prep’s Summer Session will experience a flexible, tailored schedule of enriching coursework taught by distinguished members of the Austin Prep faculty. Local travel, topical electives, enrichment courses, and skills-based courses will provide students with the building blocks to customize an invigorating, individualized program to sustain their academic progress this summer.
In the course catalog, you’ll learn about Austin Prep’s menu of exciting summer offerings and meet some of the accomplished faculty at the vanguard of this program. The 2022 Summer Session will include a selection of virtual and in-person opportunities as well as our new Austin Adventures Program, a local travel program geared for Middle School students.
Whether your student is looking to strengthen foundational skills in World Languages or Mathematics, to take a deeper dive in discovering new topics, or to prepare for the next leg of their academic journey, the Summer Session at Austin Prep will empower your student through engaging academic sessions, faculty mentorship, and the spirit of community. We invite you to join us this summer!
We look forward to welcoming our alumni back to 101 Willow Street!
April 7: Annual Day of Giving
May 19-21: 50th Reunion for Classes of 1970, 1971 & 1972
May 23: 34th Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament
For up-to-the-date information and registration links for events and happenings, please visit the Alumni page of our website and social media.
Stay Connected
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:
Save the Dates: 50th Reunion for the Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972
"In the Classroom"
New Upper School Course Series to Evolve from Professional Development
College Bound Student-Athletes Make Commitments
Save the Date: Day of Giving is April 7, 2022
Alumni Events & Happenings
Stay Connected
Alumni Career Day
On January 28th, Austin Prep hosted Alumni Career Day, welcoming over 40 alumni to campus to share their professional experiences with students through panel discussions organized by profession and a career fair. Students in grades 10, 11, and 12 participated in the day, with faculty and staff serving as moderators.
Head of School James Hickey, Ph.D., after an opening welcome to visiting alumni, addressed students before they broke-off into panel discussion groups. "An important part of the unwritten curriculum are the days that you'll remember years from now, and today will be one of those days," Dr. Hickey said. "You'll hear from people further along in their journey than you with successful careers in various professions who are in a position to return to campus and share their experiences with you. Hopefully one day, you will return, too."
Mrs. Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations and Giving, organized the event, and encouraged students to be “present by listening to our speakers with open minds; and to ask meaningful, engaging questions. Career Day is your ‘today.’ It is your time to begin building on your future and preparing for your own journey as alumni.”
Students had the opportunity to attend two panel discussion sessions, broadly covering the following professions: Athletics, Broadcasting/Media, Education, Engineering, Entrepreneurship/Business/Finance, First Responders, Government Relations/Politics, Health & Wellness, Legal Services, Marketing/Communications, Military, Performing Arts, Real Estate/Sales, Sciences, Technology, and Writing/Journalism. Austin Prep Faculty served as moderators for these discussions. After the panel discussions, students were given time to interact on a more individual basis with alumni in Meelia Hall during the career fair.
Career Day brought some additional highlights. Taylor Vanderwoude-Anzidei '08, a Navy recruiter and nurse, flew in for the event. While she was here, she officially commissioned George S. Dyer, MD., an attending upper extremity surgeon on both the Hand and Upper Extremity Service and the Orthopedic Trauma Service at Mass General Brigham and an Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Harvard Medical School, as Commander into the Navy. Additionally, Britt Denaro '03, the lead guitarist for Vixen and Producer for Rock N Roll Fantasy Camp offered via a prerecorded portion of her panel discussion a surprise internship to a lucky Austin Prep student. The internship allows the student to shadow her on tour based on location and help manage her social media platforms.
Thank you to our alumni who participated in the Alumni Career Day:
McKayla Arnold ’15
Michael Baccari ’03
Tony Biscardi ’88
Gregory Bix ’89
Stephen Boghos ’08
Christopher Carbone ’93
Mac Cerullo ’08
Andrea (Crupi) Costa ’97
Patrick Delaney ’15
Britt Denaro ’03
Bill Driscoll ’89
Patrick Driscoll ’97
Louis DiRupo ’82
Jamie Dooley ’92
Renee Dudley ’03
Caty Flagg ’16
Nate Fuller ’09
Felicia Giuliano-Kennedy ’09
Gianna Gravalese ’16
Tim Igo ’95
Rusty Jordan ’86
Andrew Kiezulas ’99
Jennifer Leonardo ’05
Michael Lynch ’98
Catherine MacDonald ’10
Ed MacKenzie ’99
Michael Mandell ’03
Kasey (Mammola) Mastrocola ’10
Michael McDade ’85
Kate McHugh ’99
Katie McKendry ’05
Matt Mulcahy ’10
Michael Nuttall ’05
Nicole (Frattura) Paparian ’09
James Peterson ’76
Jonathan Pollard ’97
David Quirk ’84
Brian Russo ’09
David Salibian ’93
Ashley (Philbrick) Samperi ’04
Joe Sciacca, Sr. ’75
Joe Sciacca, Jr. ’13
Robert Surette ’95
Nick Tracia ’08
Alicia Triantos ’10
Taylor VanderWoude-Anzidei ’08
Daughters of Mary Highlighted in The Boston Globe
Austin Prep is grateful that the Daughters of Mary are a part of our community, and for their inspiring example for our students and staff. The Boston Globe and Tom Farragher, Associate Editor and Columnist, recently visited campus to learn more about the Sisters' ministry. Click here to learn more.(A subscription to The Boston Globe is required).
Austin Prep Presents
The Austin Prep Presents series returned on January 18th with “Balancing Your Overall Health Through Posture & Stretching” featuring Dr. Abbey Denaro ’05 and hosted by science faculty Dr. Ric Vanegas P'21, '24. The program addressed how families can combat stress by implementing daily stretching, working on posture habits, and when necessary, checking in with a doctor (specifically a chiropractor). To watch the recording of the program or to view previous webinars from the Austin Prep Presents series, please click here.
Save the Dates: 50th Reunion for Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972
We look forward to bringing the Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972 back to Austin Prep in celebration of their 50th Reunions! The schedule of events for May 19 through 21st includes:
Thursday, May 19th
At Austin Prep
Reception (in the newly renovated dining hall)
Class photos
50th Reunion Dinner
Friday, May 20th
At Austin Prep
Alumni Memorial Mass
Lunch, dining hall
Green Key Student Ambassador Tours of the Campus
Head of School/Trustees Reception
Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement
Off Campus
Informal gathering at a local restaurant
Saturday, May 21st
Morning golf outing at Hillview Golf Club, North Reading (Separate Reservation)
In Case of Rain on Friday, May 20th
The Thursday Schedule Remains the Same as Above
Friday, May 20th
At Austin Prep
Alumni Memorial Mass
Lunch, dining hall
Green Key Student Ambassador Tours
Off Campus
Informal gathering at a local restaurant
Saturday, May 21st
Golf outing at Hillview Golf Club, North Reading (Separate Reservation)
At Austin Prep
Head of School/Trustees Reception
Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement
Further details will follow in the formal invitation mailed in late February.
In The Classroom
Students in Pre-Calculus Honors classes recently completed an annual project combining their mathematical and artistic talents by creating art out of polar graphs. Take a look at some of the highlighted work here!
Annual NaNoWriMo Participants Celebrated
The NaNoWriMo Project is a capstone experience in Grade 7 English. During the month of November, students were challenged to compose a minimum 10,000-word novel. Students were supported in this endeavor with an extensive planning period in the fall and incentives throughout November. Over the past month, students have been polishing excerpts of their creativity and preparing them for publication in the annual 7th Grade Anthology. To celebrate the students' work, English teachers Mrs. Leeann Blais and Mrs. Kate Cavanaugh organized an Authors' Breakfast for the Class of 2027. After enjoying a pancake breakfast, students gathered in the Heritage Room to cheer each other on and to listen to portions of classmates' novels. Sydney Rech '27, author of "That's Not Me," and Celia Sensale '27, author of "Status: Classified" delighted their peers in sharing their stories from the podium. We have no doubt you'll be finding many Austin Prep authors' work on the shelves of a bookstore near you in the future!
Dr. Michael Barry '79, visited campus to speak with students in the Business Club
In January, Dr. Michael Barry '79, a member of Austin Prep's Board of Trustees, visited campus to speak with the Business Club. The Business Club is co-moderated by Mr. Nate Piccini '93 and Mrs. Kerianne Barry. Dr. Barry, a Finance Professor at Boston College, addressed the students about the current state of business, his personal path to arrive as a professor at Boston College, possible careers students can use with degrees in business, and advised students to take advantage of opportunities presented to them to network with alumni.
With the return of Alumni Career Day on January 28th, following Dr. Barry’s visit, he advised students to take business cards, ask questions and remember that alumni are grateful to give back and support students. He emphasized the importance of finding a career that is the right fit for you as an individual and to avoid being driven by groupthink. When considering internships, he told students to remember that their internship is a 12-week job interview where they will be challenged to work in the field and earn a job when it's over.
Students asked questions about his journey through Austin Prep and how they can find the perfect job. "If you find the perfect job, let me know," Dr. Barry said. His response was reflective of his earlier advice about the idea of finding the right "fit." We are grateful for Dr. Barry's visit to campus and his willingness to share his experience.
Family and Friends Enjoy Sixth Grade Egyptian Museum
One of the mile markers on the Austin Journey is the Grade 6 Egyptian Museum. Now in its sixth year, this academic capstone is the culmination of students' work in History and English. In students' Becoming Historians course, they took on the role of museum curators to create exhibits including models and posters on various aspects of Egyptian culture and history. In English, students selected books set in Egypt and then filmed and edited original book commercials about their chosen reading. At the Museum, students displayed this work and acted as docents, walking family and faculty through the displays and speaking in detail about such figures as King Tut and Cleopatra and on a variety of other topics. Four faculty were at the helm of the project and collaborated to promote students' interdisciplinary thinking: Mrs. Leeann Blais, English Faculty, Ms. Alexandra Dell'Anno '12, English Faculty, Mr. Brian Russo '09, History Faculty, and Ms. Alicia Varraso, Assistant Dean of Students for Middle School and member of the History Faculty. To view photos from the museum, click here.
New Upper School Course Series to Evolve from Professional Development
This spring, Jessica Swindell, History Faculty, and Alexandra Dell’Anno ‘12, English Faculty, will participate in the 2022 Study and Travel Institute’s Program on the Holocaust and Genocide. Offered through Salem State University, this intensive course will provide participants with comprehensive knowledge on the origins and history of the Holocaust and how to effectively translate that learning into an engaging curriculum for students. The course culminates with a week-long trip to Berlin, Germany during April break to visit historic sites, museums and memorials.
Mrs. Swindell will take her experience to develop a new course offering in the History Department for Upper School students. This fall, Mrs. Swindell will pilot a two-semester sequence. The fall semester will include a course in Research Methods designed to enhance critical thinking and proficiency around the research process – invaluable skills for college and beyond. A History class will follow in the spring semester. Drawing from Mrs. Swindell’s own studies and travel experience, the course will be a multi-disciplinary integration of civics, sociology, morality, ethics, and psychology that will examine the rich heritage of the Jewish culture before, during, and in the aftermath of the Holocaust. The course will culminate in a Remembrance project as students become the memory keepers to preserve the story and witness of survivors of the Holocaust.
On February 8th, Austin Prep was honored to host Holocaust survivor Kati Preston at Austin Prep. Her powerful message addressing loss, resilience, tolerance and love resonated across the entire school community, and helps ensure that the atrocities of the Holocaust are not forgotten. We look forward to continuing to honor Kati and the Jewish culture through the upcoming professional development and educational programming.
College Bound Student-Athletes Make Commitments
College Bound Student-Athletes were joined by family and friends as they made their commitments to continue their athletic career at the intercollegiate level.
Cat Gallagher '22 and family.
Lauryn Hanafin '22 and family.
Andrew Fetten '22 and family.
To-date, nine senior student-athletes have signed their National Letters of Intent to continue their athletics endeavors beyond Austin Prep, including:
Jack Iannibelli - Stonehill College (baseball)
Evan Blanco - University of Virginia (baseball)
Matt Bellis - St. Michael's College (lacrosse)
Jack Seibel - Nazareth College (lacrosse)
Maeve Carey - Stonehill College (ice hockey)
Kathryn Karo - Stonehill College (ice hockey)
Lauryn Hanafin - Stonehill College - (ice hockey)
Andrew Fetten - Randolph Macon - (soccer)
Catherine Gallagher - Wesleyan - (soccer)
Save the Date: Day of Giving is April 7, 2022
We deeply appreciate all who have made a gift to the 2021-2022 Austin Prep Fund. The money annually raised for this essential campaign makes an Austin Prep education exceptional. Along with providing resources for expanded academic activities, gifts to the Austin Prep Fund provide resources that support the arts, athletics, clubs and other activities that give students important opportunities to improve their skills and discover new interests.
We ask you to make Austin Prep a charitable priority in your year-end-giving plans by contributing to the Austin Prep Annual Fund. Your gift can be directed to Academics, Athletics, Mission and Inclusion, Student Life and Arts, Tuition Assistance or Austin Support (goes to the area of greatest need).
Please click here now to make a donation. Thank you in advance for your continued support of the Austin Prep Fund during the holiday season and beyond!
Alumni Events and Happenings
We look forward to welcoming our alumni back to 101 Willow Street!
March 5th: Classes of 1971 & 1972 Suite at Merrimack vs. Northeastern Men’s Hockey Game
April 7th: Annual Day of Giving
May 19th-21st: 50th Reunion for Classes of 1970, 1971 & 1972
May 23rd: 35th Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament
For up-to-the-date information and registration links for events and happenings, please visit theAlumni page of our website and social media.
Stay Connected
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:
Start Your Legacy Journey Now: Admissions Early Application Deadline
Alumni Career Day
Community Gathers for Liturgies for Peace and Justice
"In The Classroom"
Student-Athletes Participate in Signing Days
Augustinian Friar on Track for Sainthood
Support the Austin Fund this Holiday season
Alumni Events & Happenings
Stay Connected
Reunion Recap
We are grateful for the opportunity to safely bring alumni together over recent weeks after a quiet year without in-person alumni gatherings.
In October, alumni from the classes of 1980 and 1981 enjoyed a beautiful day on the greens at Hillview Golf Course, followed by a gathering at the Horseshoe Grill. A few of the alumni closed-out their 40th reunion with an exclusive tour of campus and pictures with some of their teachers. Thank you to Bob Baldassari ’80, John Shinney ’80, Kevin Murphy ’81 and Larry McQuaid ’81 for organizing the weekend.
On November 6th, 32 alumni from the classes of 1995 and 1996 toured Austin Prep, enjoyed homemade flatbreads straight out of the pizza oven, then headed over to The Charles at Bunratty in Reading Center to continue their 25th celebration. Coach Maradei was the guest of honor! Bob Surette ’95 and Gregg Dennis ’96 were instrumental in pulling their reunion together— thank you!
The Thanksgiving holiday brought five classes together to celebrate reunions:
On Wednesday, 76 members of the Class of 2020 returned to campus for their Alumni Breakfast. The last time this class was together was at their Baccalaureate Mass in May 2020.
Friday marked 20th and 10th reunions for the classes of 2001 and 2011, respectively. Forty alumni got together to celebrate and reminisce. Thank you to Libby (Dowd) Basile ’01, Bridget (Monagle) Kent ’01, Thomas Martin ’01 and Kasey Mazza ’11 for gathering your classmates together!
Class of 2011
Class of 2001
On Saturday evening a total of 98 alumni came together for the 5-year reunion for the class of 2015 and the 15 year reunion for the class of 2005. Gratefully, Ava Clemente ’15, John Smolak ’15 and Joey Carregal ’05 (with help from Ashley (McCarthy) Leo ’05) spearheaded the events. Faculty Nate Piccini ’93 and Marla Pascucci-Byrne P’26 stopped by to celebrate with the alumni.
Class of 2015
Class of 2005
The journeys we have all experienced are wide and varied; but the common thread of Austin Prep pulls us together. We look forward to continuing to welcome alumni back to campus! If you would like to help plan your class reunion, please contact Director of Alumni Relations & Giving Jennifer Hodgdon at Jennifer.Hodgdon@austinprep.org.
Blue Mass Returns
Austin Prep celebrated Blue Mass on November 22nd.
Representatives from the Reading Police and Fire Departments, as well as first responder parents from the Austin Prep community, turned out for Austin Prep’s 5th Annual Blue Mass and Mass of Thanksgiving on Monday, November 22nd. The Mass, held annually in gratitude for all those who put their lives on the line for others, returned to campus for the first time since 2019 as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. You can view photos from the event here.
The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Mark O’Connell, JCD Episcopal Vicar of the North Region of the Archdiocese of Boston, who emphasized the importance of giving back while looking out for everyone, especially those on the margins.
“At Austin Prep, you have been given a great foundation, but it is important what you do with it,” Bishop O’Connell said. “Do something with your life that is virtuous. There is no better example than first responders. We saw this during the pandemic. Because of them, we can be safe in our homes, protected from disasters.”
“It is important to be aware of everyone, including the people on the edge, because that is imitating our Lord,” Bishop O’Connell added.
At the conclusion of the Mass, Head of School James Hickey, Ph.D. offered his thanks: “On behalf of the Austin Prep community, I extend our gratitude to all the first responders who are present this morning, and those who are present in our thoughts, including the families of first responders who share in the burden and the sacrifice.”
After Mass, Bishop O’Connell blessed the emergency vehicles in the school parking lot and gave a special blessing to the first responders. Following the Mass, first responders enjoyed breakfast in the Heritage Room with Austin Prep faculty and staff. Today's Blue Mass comes on the heels of the recent National First Responders Day, which was recognized on October 28th.
Father-Daughter Legacy Family Performs Together
Brian Sensale ’93 is 3rd from left; Celia Sensale ’27 on right.
Celia Sensale '27 and her father, Brian '93, P'27, starred in Romeo and Juliet at the Quannapowitt Players, Inc. in Reading, during the month of November.
An all-volunteer organization, The Quannapowitt Players, Inc. mission is to produce quality and affordable theater, encouraging the arts in our community. The Quannapowitt Players, Inc. has provided this quality community theater for over 80 years in a converted historic 1853 Little Red School House, which features a black-box performance space with intimate seating for 150 patrons.
Start Your Legacy Journey: Priority Application Deadline is Today
Austin Prep Head Green Key Ambassadors.
As a reminder, Austin Prep's Priority Application Deadline is today, December 15th. All applications that are completed by this date will be reviewed first and released with the initial round of decisions at the end of January. To access your application, please login to your Admissions Portal. Once the Application Fee is paid and Demographic Information is complete, the remainder of the application checklist will populate.
Alumni Career Day is Back!
Alumni will once again return to campus for Alumni Career Day on Friday, January 28th, 2022. Grades 10, 11 and 12 will choose from a variety of alumni panel discussions moderated by faculty, followed by attending a career fair in Richard J. Meelia '67 Hall. We are thrilled to announce that we are at capacity for alumni panelists for the 2022 day!
The 2020 Alumni Career Day brought 43 alumni back to campus to meet with students and to share their professional experience in areas such as Health & Wellness, Broadcasting, Government Relations and Engineering.
Community Gathers for Liturgies for Peace and Justice
As an Augustinian Catholic community, we believe that every act of racism and violence is a failure to acknowledge and respect that we are created in God’s image and that every human person has worth and dignity. Our school community celebrated two liturgies for Peace and Justice on Monday, November 15th in the Chapel of St. Augustine.
"In The Classroom"
Discussion & Debate: Prior to Ms. Jennifer Gaudette and Ms. Nicole Marley’s Discussion & Debate students reading “Dear Martin” in November, alumnus Mr. Jim Martin ’70 joined three of the classes virtually to speak to students about his Austin Prep experience as the first African-American person to graduate from the School. He shared his story about growing up in Dorchester, commuting to Austin Prep each day; how being in the wrong place at the wrong time impacted his journey; and how he has used his experiences and values learned at Austin Prep to shape the person he is today.
AP European History: Mr. Tony Biscardi's '88 AP European History class experienced the return of the Enlightenment Salon. Students each represented a person from either the Scientific Revolution or the Enlightenment and debated ideas. Some even dressed as their assigned persona.
Oceanography Lab: Students in Ms. Anjali Bhardwaj's Oceanography Lab created seawater in the lab with the same salinity that would be found in the ocean. The purpose of this lab was to demonstrate how the ocean is a solution that is not homogenous; there are different layers with different temperatures and salinity. Students looked at how temperature and salinity impact the density of salt water and create layers in our ocean. Students saw that salt water with a higher salinity will sink, and when salinities are equal, warmer water will rise and colder water will sink. These layers help create currents, which is the next topic of instruction.
Astronomy 1 Honors: Students in Mr. Ric Vanegas' P'21, '24 Astronomy 1 Honors class illustrated the different moon phases using Oreos.
Honors Statistics: Students in Ms. Doreen Fuller's P'09, '13 Honors Statistics class participated in Normal Distribution bingo. This version of the classic bingo game had students solve statistics problems using the normal Distribution which implements the rule of 68%-95%-99.7%, a topic which is also mentioned and explained in psychology.
Student-Athletes Participate in College Signing Days
Coach Peter Smyth ’04 with Jack Seibel (L) and Matt Bellis (R).
This fall, six senior student-athletes have signed their National Letters of Intent to continue their athletics endeavors beyond Austin Prep. We look forward to following their athletic journeys!
Jack Iannibelli - Stonehill College (baseball)
Evan Blanco - University of Virginia (baseball)
Matt Bellis - St. Michael's College (lacrosse)
Jack Seibel - Nazareth College (lacrosse)
Maeve Carey - Stonehill College (ice hockey)
Kathryn Karo - Stonehill College (ice hockey)
Augustinian Friar on Track for Sainthood
Father Bill Atkinson, O.S.A.
A history-making Augustinian friar has made it one step closer to sainthood after a ceremony last week at the Church of St. Thomas of Villanova, located on the campus of Villanova University. Father Bill Atkinson, O.S.A., a popular Augustinian priest and high school teacher, will have his name submitted by Archbishop of Philadelphia Nelson Pérez to the Vatican’s Congregation for the Causes of Saints, with Pope Francis ultimately making the final call regarding the outcome of the cause.
Upon graduating from high school in 1964, Father Atkinson asked to join the Augustinian Order, and spent a year as a postulant at the Augustinian Academy in Staten Island, New York, before entering Villanova Province’s novitiate of Our Mother of Good Counsel in New Hamburg, New York. While studying to be a priest, Father Atkinson was severely injured in a winter toboggan accident, leaving him almost completely paralyzed from the neck down. He survived the accident, and despite being confined to a motorized wheelchair for the rest of his life, continued in his desire to continue as an Augustinian. A care team of friars assisted Father Atkinson during his time in formation, and he completed his years of college and theological studies at Villanova.
Father Atkinson became the church’s first quadriplegic to be ordained a priest after receiving special dispensation from Pope Paul VI, and in 1974, almost nine years after the accident that left him a quadriplegic, he celebrated his first Mass at the Fieldhouse of Villanova University.
For nearly thirty years, Father Atkinson taught at Msgr. Bonner High School outside Philadelphia, where he was a theology faculty member and school chaplain, senior class retreat coordinator, moderator of the football team, and the director of the after-school and Saturday detention program. He was the recipient of many awards and acknowledgements, among them an honorary doctorate from Villanova University in 2000, and was known as an excellent teacher and moderator as well as for his love of life, deep compassion, bright sense of humor, and his gratitude despite his challenges. He died in 2006.
Austin Prep Funds Dollars at Work in the Classroom
We deeply appreciate all who have already made a gift to the 2021-2022 Austin Prep Fund. The money annually raised for this essential campaign makes an Austin Prep education exceptional. Along with providing resources for expanded academic activities, gifts to the Austin Prep Fund provide resources that support the arts, athletics, clubs and other activities that give students important opportunities to improve their skills and discover new interests.
As we approach the holiday season, we ask you to make Austin Prep a charitable priority in your year-end-giving plans by contributing to the Austin Prep Annual Fund. Your gift can be directed to Academics, Athletics, Mission and Inclusion, Student Life and Arts, Tuition Assistance or Austin Support (goes to the area of greatest need).
Please click here now to make a donation. Thank you in advance for your continued support of the Austin Prep Fund during the holiday season and beyond!
Alumni Events and Happenings
We look forward to welcoming our alumni back to 101 Willow Street!
January 18th: “Austin Prep Presents: Balancing Your Overall Health Through Posture & Stretching” with Dr. Abbey Denaro ’05, hosted by science faculty Dr. Ric Vanegas P'21, '24.
January 28th: Alumni Career Day
March 5th: Classes of 1971 & 1972 Suite at Merrimack vs. Northeastern Men’s Hockey
March 29th: “Austin Prep Presents: Exploring Entrepreneurship” with Jamie Dooley ’92
May 19th & 20th: 50th Reunion for Classes of 1970, 1971 & 1972
May 23rd: 35th Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament
For up-to-the-date information and registration links for events and happenings, please visit theAlumni pageof our website and social media.
Stay Connected
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:
Visit Austin Prep on Saturday, October 16th and experience the bustle of campus life in the fall. Enjoy rooting for our home teams at athletic games; watch Senior student-athlete recognitions; have lunch in the dining hall with your whole family; take a tour with our current student leaders; and attend an alumni memorial Mass.
11:30 a.m. Junior Varsity Field Hockey vs. Bishop Feehan
1:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Soccer vs. Malden Catholic (Upper Field)
Recognizing graduating seniors prior to game time
1:30 p.m. Boys Junior Varsity Soccer vs. Malden Catholic (Lower Field)
3:30 p.m. Girls Varsity Soccer vs. Mystic Valley (Upper Field)
Recognizing graduating seniors prior to game time
3:30 p.m. Girls Junior Varsity Soccer vs. Mystic Valley (Lower Field)
CAMPUS TOURS & MASS
Campus Tours with Green Key Student Ambassadors, 4:30 p.m.
Take a tour of the Austin Prep campus to see updates since your last visit! Our Green Key Ambassadors will share their experience through the lens of a current Austin Prep student.
Alumni Memorial Mass in the Chapel of St. Augustine, 5:30 p.m.
School Chaplain Fr. Patrick Armano with the Daughters of Mary will hold Mass in memory of all alumni who have gone before us.
ALUMNI AND FAMILY LUNCHEON
Family Lunch, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Enjoy a variety of sandwiches and homemade potato chips by SAGE Dining.
** In the case that the event needs to be delayed or prevented from taking place due to federal, state or local law, rule or regulation or guideline governing the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will be rebooked at a date and time mutually agreeable within two years of the original date.
*Open bar includes a selection of domestic and craft beer, premium wine, well spirits and soda; registration includes processing fee.
** In the case that the event needs to be delayed or prevented from taking place due to federal, state or local law, rule or regulation or guideline governing the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will be rebooked at a date and time mutually agreeable within one year of the original date.
**In the case that the event needs to be delayed or prevented from taking place due to federal, state or local law, rule or regulation or guideline governing the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will be rebooked at a date and time mutually agreeable within two years of the original date.
###
SAVE-THE-DATE
50th Reunion Weekend
Class of 1969 celebrating their 50th in 2019.
Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972
May 13 - 15, 2022
More information will become available in the coming months.
Successful Start to the School Year
School-wide Student Government officers for 2021-2022.
The 2021-2022 Austin Prep academic year is underway! Students arrived Wednesday, September 1st for the first day of classes, welcomed by faculty and staff, and reunited with classmates as we kicked off the next year of our Austin Prep journey together. As is the case with every academic year, Austin Prep adopted a theme to help community members advance our mission and live our faith. For the 2021-2022 academic year, Austin Prep’s theme will be Christ’s commandment from the Gospel of St. John: “Love one another as I have loved you.” Through that theme, we will focus our conversations, initiatives, activities, class lessons, advisory meetings, and liturgical celebrations on the Augustinian ethos of caritas – love.
To view photos from the first day of class, click here.
Austin Prep Celebrates Convocation Mass and Parade of Flags
His Eminence Seán Cardinal O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston,commissions theDaughters of Mary
His Eminence Seán Cardinal O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston, delivered the homily at Friday's Convocation Mass.
On Friday, October 1, Austin Prep marked the official start of the academic year with the celebration of Convocation Mass. Austin Prep welcomed His Eminence Seán Cardinal O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston, as the principal celebrant and homilist. The celebration, open to parents and livestreamed to the school community, was highlighted by Cardinal Seán's commissioning of the Daughters of Mary as they begin their time as members of the School community.
Complete with the pageantry expected of Convocation – including the procession of students carrying class banners, welcomed by faculty in academic regalia to the sounds of bagpipers – this year included a parade of flags representing the national heritages of those in our school community. Over 60 national flags were included.
Head of School, Dr. James Hickey P'22, '23, '24 '27, welcomed parents, trustees, friends of the Bannabikira Sisters, Cardinal Seán, clergy, members of the Order of Malta, and Augustinian Friars to the celebration. Dr. Hickey made note of the attendance of Fr. Art Johnson, O.S.A., who was instrumental in opening Austin Prep's doors in 1963.
“The theme for the 2021-2022 academic year is the commandment of Jesus from the gospel of St. John. ‘Love one another as I have loved you.’" Dr. Hickey said. "As I reflected upon that, it occurred to me that the decision of the Bannabikira Sisters to come to Austin Prep, a new place, a new community, a new country, 7,000 miles from home is an act of unconditional love, similar to the love that mothers have for their children."
"The arrival of the Bannabikira Sisters is a blessing and opportunity to deepen Austin Prep’s connection to a global world, to broaden our horizons and perspectives about culture, race and the lived experiences of others, and to advance the work we do to spread the Kingdom of God in partnership with the joyful women in the Daughters of Mary.”
Cardinal Seán in his homily continued to reflect on Austin Prep's 2021-2022 theme from St. John's Gospel and told a story of St. John: "St. John would celebrate the eucharist for his community and would give practically the same sermon every week. Finally someone got up enough courage to ask, 'John, why do you continue to give us the same sermon?'"
"I teach love one another, because Jesus, when he was with us on the Earth, he repeated it over and over again. That is what brings meaning to our lives," St. John responded.
"Real success is being able to love, being able to make a gift of our lives to God and to others." Cardinal Seán stated.
Cardinal Seán officially commissioned Sister Paskazia Nakitende and Sister Mary Namutebi as members of the Austin Prep community, with other Daughters of Mary watching on.
After the homily, Cardinal Seán officially commissioned Sister Paskazia Nakitende and Sister Mary Namutebi as members of the Austin Prep community: "Grant we pray, that these sisters that you have chosen for this special calling, may by their way of life shown to the Church and the world a clear sign of Your Kingdom," Cardinal Seán said.
To mark the occasion, School-Wide Student Government Officers Patricia Bibeau ’22 andJack Caruso '22 presented the Class of 2022 banner, which will eventually be hoisted to the rafters of Meelia Hall, where it will remain until being lowered at Baccalaureate Mass in May, 2022.
Austin Prep Presents Continues
The virtual series will return to the Austin Prep community on Tuesday, October 28th with alums Alex Sherr ’03 and Dan Sherr ’05 presenting on the Basics of Financial Planning. This one-hour webinar will focus on how to get started with personal financial planning including setting your goals, how to gather your financial information, and creating a path toward your goals. A second presentation will take place in February to follow-up on the planning process. To register for this program click here.
Start Your Legacy Journey on October 24th
Will your child be following your footsteps to become an Austin Prep student? If you have a child entering grades 6 -11 in the fall of 2022, we look forward to welcoming your family back to campus as the Office of Admissions hosts our annual Open House on Sunday, October 24th from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Open House guests will have the opportunity to meet Middle and Upper School faculty, school leaders, coaches, and take tours of our campus with Green Key Student Ambassadors.
Some of our best referrals come from our alumni families! We would be most grateful if you spread the word to those in your community about the Open House event and your own Austin Prep experience.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Mr. Jaycob Morales, Coordinator of Community Engagement and Inclusion speaks to the Upper School students at a community meeting.
Austin Prep is celebrating the diverse cultures of our community, starting with Hispanic Heritage Month, which began on September 15th and runs through 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 kick-off to the month-long celebration, Mr. Jaycob Morales, Coordinator of Community Engagement and Inclusion, gave students an outline of the upcoming month of celebration including an overview of the history of Hispanic Heritage Month, special messaging during morning announcements, the flags of Hispanic countries prominently displayed in the Dining Hall, and Hispanic cuisine served during several lunches over the course of the celebration.
Alumni Events and Happenings
We look forward to welcoming our alumni back to 101 Willow Street!
Rob Peterson ’04, John Cuoco ’04, Steve Boghos ’08, Joey Carrega l’05, Erika (Lambie) Hemingway ’05 at Career Day 2020
Save-the-date! (Registration links will follow on social media.)
Nutcracker, December 11th - This beloved annual tradition returns to Richard J. Meelia Hall. Alumni and their families are welcome to attend. Advanced ticketing required.
Alumni Career Day, January 28, 2022 - Alumni will be invited to share their professional experience with 10th, 11th and 12th grade students during a morning of panel discussions followed by a career fair and alumni luncheon. More information will follow in the coming months.
For up-to-the-date information and registration links for events and happenings, please visit the Alumni page of our website and social media.
Stay Connected
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:
6. Black History Month and Women’s History Month Celebrated Through Programming and Curriculum
7. Student Artwork Featured on Edutopia's Instagram
8. Austin Prep Celebrates National Girls and Women in Sports Day
9. Save The Date : Day of Giving Returns April 14, 2021
10. Austin Prep Golf Open Returns!
11. Stay Connected Through Social Media | Submit Notes for Journey Magazine
Austin Prep Presents Continues into 2021
Mrs. Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations and Giving, hosted Sheetal Patel '05 and Dr. Hillary Bush '03 for the March 23 Austin Prep Presents Webinar.
Austin Prep Presents returns on Tuesday, April 27 at 7:00 p.m. with "Photography 101.” Engineer and photographer Evan Guarino from the Class of 2006 will be hosted by seniors and APS Media Co-Chairs Alyssa Cross '21 and Ashley Murdock '21. Together, they will go over the ins and outs of capturing that perfect photo! Whether it is for Instagram or to hang on a wall, Evan will walk us through best practices in photography.
To watch the previous programs in our series as listed below, click here.
Sheetal Patel '05 and Dr. Hillary Bush '03 | March 23, 2021 | "Childcare and Eldercare: Balancing Everyone’s Needs”
Felicia Giuliano-Kennedy '09 | February 23, 2021 | “Today’s Real Estate Market for First-time Home Buyers”
Peter Agostinelli '96 | February 2, 2021 | "Family-Friendly Super Bowl Party Menu"
Rob Peterson '04 | January 26, 2021 | "Estate Planning: It's Never Too Early!"
Alissa Galligani ’14 and Gianna Gravalese ’16 | December 22, 2020 | “How to Create Your Own Podcast”
Joe Sciacca '75 | November 24, 2020 | “Crisis Communications: Navigating the Media During Tumultuous Times”
Jim Knowlton '78 | November 10, 2020 | “College Athletics During a Pandemic”
Thank you!
Thank you to all alumni who participated in the Reunion Survey for Classes Ending in 0 & 5 and 1 & 6 during the month of February. Your feedback is invaluable to the Alumni Office as we look to support classes in the planning of their reunions as state and federal guidelines permit. We are in the process of collating the feedback now and will be in touch with reunion classes in the coming month to share results.
Mr. and Mrs. Han P'20 Join Board of Trustees
John and Sun-Min Han P'20 pictured with daughter Mia '20 at the 2019 Girls Soccer Senior Day.
Austin Prep is pleased to announce that John and Sun-Min Han P’20, of Burlington, MA, have been recently named as members of the School's Board of Trustees. We look forward to sharing their Austin Prep story with you in our spring issue of Journey Magazine, which will hit mailboxes in May 2021!
If you do not receive Journey Magazine and would like to, please update your mailing address with us using this link.
Austin Prep Admissions is Thriving
Accepted Austin Prep students receive a special package upon their acceptance to the School.
With the loss of in-person shadow days, school fairs and the annual Open House in October, Austin Prep’s Admissions staff had to go back to the drawing board and completely reinvent the admissions process. This Admissions cycle has seen the introduction of virtual shadow days, a complete redesign of our merit scholarship process, and a virtual Open House. These innovative and unique initiatives resulted in a 36% jump in completed applications and a 33% increase in accepted students during this admissions cycle. Similar to the 2020-21 academic year, the 2021-22 academic year is projected to result in an Admissions waitlist. Both the 8th and 9th grades are currently full.
Choosing to Become a Legacy Family
We frequently hear from alumni that Austin Prep prepared them for their journey beyond campus, giving them the foundation they need to find success in all that awaits them after graduation. We recently reached out to alumni families who are now parents and grandparents of current students to hear how their journey has come full circle back to Austin Prep. We look forward to sharing quotes from these families in each issue of the Alumni Courier.
Jim Peterson ’76, P’19, P’21 with wife Kim, son Conor '21 and daughter Margaret '19.
“I loved my time at AP. Between the academics, sports, and friendships, it was a time I’ll never forget. I sent my children to AP for the same reasons that I attended, and it was a decision that I will never regret.” ~ Jim Peterson ’76, P’19, P’21
Brian Sensale ’93, P’27 with wife Megan, and daughters Audrey and Celia '27.
“Austin Prep was a fundamental part of forming who I am today. I've watched the school evolve over the years, and have been really impressed with the growth, especially the investments in the arts. We always wanted our daughter to attend Austin Prep, and are excited to see her thrive!” ~ Brian Sensale ’93, P’27
Black History Month and Women’s History Month Celebrated Through Programming and Curriculum
We highlight our ongoing commitment to fostering respect for all people in our celebrations of Black History Month in February and Women’s History Month in March. Led by Mr. Jaycob Morales, Coordinator of Inclusion and Community Engagement, Austin Prep staff and students continue to take part in activities and programming to honor the achievements of Black Americans and women, and their contributions and influence to our country and world.
Aaron Wilcox '25 studies Thomas J. Marshall, who invented the fire extinguisher in 1872.
One example of the programming that took place in February was the Science Department building off of the 2018 7th Grade Summer Reading of Chasing Space that chronicled the endeavors of Black astronaut Leland Melvin. Dr. Maria Blewitt, Science Faculty Chair, and her colleagues are focusing on the contributions of the Black community to medicine, science, and industry. A 3rd Quarter project, suggested by Dr. Crystal Kuykendall, accentuated the contributions of Black inventors of the 19th and 20th Century to celebrate Black History Month. Students created videos with links on Padlet to present a history of inventions credited to Black inventors, including the fire extinguisher, guitar, horseshoe, and mop.
Our female alumni have been making significant contributions on their journeys beyond Austin Prep. In March, we highlighted the accomplishments of women such as Paige Christie ’11, Jennifer (Roque) Nichols ’98 and Renee Dudley ’03 in our social media outlets.
Student Artwork Featured on Edutopia's Instagram
The artwork of students in Mr. Nathan Piccini's ’93 American Experience 10th grade class was featured on Edutopia's Instagram in January. Edutopia is a non-profit educational support foundation founded by George Lucas. Their newsletter and website offers videos, lessons and support for those in K-12 Education. Edutopia was in search of examples of art projects that K-12 teachers have done in their core subjects.
The students used Adobe Spark to make digital collages that represent President Roosevelt's Four Freedoms. It’s a take on the Norman Rockwell Series that accompanied the speech during World War II and inspired by the Rockwell Museum project called Reimagining Rockwell. Ms. Jamie Schefen and Mrs. Heather Scott both provided Mr. Piccini with the digital tools to walk students through setting up their collages.
The caption accompanying the photo of the artwork is as follows: "Digital Collages: Inspired by Norman Rockwell’s paintings, Nathan Piccini had his high school students develop their own modern artistic interpretations of themes from either Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Four Freedoms” speech or President Barack Obama’s final State of the Union address. Students created digital collages and then wrote an accompanying one-page reflection."
Austin Prep Celebrates National Girls and Women in Sports Day
On Wednesday, February 3rd, Austin Prep took part in celebrating National Girls & Women in Sports Day. This year, Austin Prep has 312 female student athletes, nearly 80% of the overall female student population. They are coached by 40 female coaches on 30 girls teams, and we are proud of their contributions to the Austin Prep community. To learn more about how sports has impacted their lives, click the links to hear from Ellie Walsh '21, Head Girls Hockey Coach Steph Wood, and Administrative Assistant to Athletics and Head JV Girls Basketball Coach Stephanie Bramante.
Save The Date : Day of Giving Returns April 14, 2021
The Impact YOU Can Make!
Last year, the generosity of the Austin Prep community enabled us to sustain our momentum against pandemic headwinds, deploy the technology we needed to operate in a hybrid instructional environment, and provide tuition assistance to the families of students who were financially impacted by the public health crisis. The 2020 Day of Giving was one of our finest moments as a community.
This year we have the opportunity to not only sustain that momentum, but to surpass it. Giving Day funds will continue to support unanticipated technology requirements, remote learning programs, teacher professional training, student support services, health and safety initiatives and financial assistance to families in need.
Our goal is simple—keep our students, teachers and families healthy and safe with minimal disruptions as they pursue the promise of a quality education.
While giving is personal, we want to highlight the importance of giving any amount that is meaningful and right for you, understanding that your family needs will always come first. Every gift—no matter the size—is significant and makes a difference for Austin Prep.
Sustaining the education of students is a moral obligation we are committed to fulfill.
So, mark April 14th on your calendar. To learn more and make a donation, visit our website.
Austin Prep Golf Open Returns!
After having missed the opportunity to host golfers within our school community in 2020, we are excited to announce the return of the annual Austin Prep Golf Tournament! The 33rd Annual Golf Tournament will take place on May 24, 2021 at Indian Ridge Golf Club in Andover, MA. Working within local guidelines pertaining to social gatherings, we look forward to a reimagined event with the health and well being of our guests as the priority. Registration and more information will be available soon.
Proceeds will support the COVID-19 Relief Fund, enabling Austin Prep to be proactive and responsive in dealing with the broad range of challenges stemming from the Coronavirus. Our goal is simple --- Keep our students and faculty healthy and safe with minimal disruptions as they pursue the promise of a quality education, and provide financial assistance to families in need.
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. 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 Head for External Affairs at sbelanger@austinprep.org. We hope to see you on the course for another great day with friends in support of Austin Prep.
Stay Connected Through Social Media | Submit 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:
Dr. Abbey Denaro '05 serves as keynote speaker for the 2021 National Honor Society induction
Quotes from current alumni legacy families
Day of Giving, April 14, 2021
Spring Athletics Off to a Strong Start
Baccalaureate Liturgy for the Class of 2021
Golf Tournament
Stay Active with Austin Prep this Summer: Virtual Summer Academic Programs and Sports Camps Being Offered
Alumni Events and Happenings
Stay Connected
Austin Prep Presents 2020-21 Series Concludes June 29th
Our monthly series Austin Prep Presents will close-out the 2020-2021 APP series on Tuesday, June 29th at 7:00 p.m. with Sharon Driscoll Klardie ’96, Sr. Manager Salesforce Labs at Salesforce and “#IAmRemarkable Empowerment Workshop.”
#IamRemarkable is a 90-minute workshop created by Google that strives to empower women and underrepresented groups to speak openly about their accomplishments in the workplace and beyond, thereby breaking modesty norms and glass ceilings. In this interactive course, you will participate in group discussions and exercises around self-promotion and unconscious bias to develop the confidence and skills to promote yourself effectively.
To see a full list of Austin Prep Presents programs and to register, please visit here.
If you have a topic you would like to learn more about, or if you would like to be part of the Austin Prep Presents series, please contact Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations and Giving at jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org.
Dr. Abbey Denaro '05 Serves as Keynote Speaker for the 2021 National Honor Society Induction
Dr. Abbey Denaro '05, center, was the keynote speaker during April's National Honor Society induction. She is pictured with NHS officers Ariana Clark '21, Emma Kilbride '21, Kate Simpson '21, and Emily Pessina '21.
On April 15th, Dr. Abbey Denaro '05 spoke to 48 students inducted into the National Honor Society in the Chapel of St. Augustine. The ceremony was live streamed for the families of the inductees.
A National Honor Society member, Dr. Denaro has also been inducted into the National Leadership Honor Society and the National Chiropractic Honor Society. She credits her experiences at Austin Prep as a tremendous launching pad for her extended studies and career success in the chiropractic field.
"So I challenge you tonight. I challenge you to start thinking about what it is you dream about. And I don’t care what it is – it doesn’t have to be anything exceptionally noteworthy, like winning the Nobel Peace Prize. But every little thing in your life that’s important to you. Excelling academically, achieving fitness goals, ranking higher in your athletics, making changes in your circle – whether that’s helping your family, helping your neighbors, community or if you have a bigger picture," Denaro said.
"Our world is on the brink of some major changes. We need changes – all changes – big ones and small ones. And we need the people who are going to make those changes."
Choosing to Become a Legacy Family
Class of 2021 Legacy Families.
We frequently hear from alumni that Austin Prep prepared them for their journey beyond campus, giving them the foundation they need to find success in all that awaits them after graduation. We recently reached out to alumni families who are now parents and grandparents of current students to hear how their journey has come full circle back to Austin Prep. We look forward to sharing quotes from these families in each issue of the Alumni Courier.
“I had a fantastic experience at Austin Prep. The teachers and coaches prepared me well for college and life afterwards. It’s an honor for me and my wife to provide the same opportunity for our kids.” ~Jerry Caruso ’90, P’20, ’22
Day of Giving Total Continues to Rise
Matching Gift Programs Help Increase the Impact of Your Donation
Marvin Twombley '21 and Georgia Poulakis '21 were busy during our livestream telethon event for the recent Day of Giving.
The Austin Prep Community contributed over $196,000 in association with our annual Day of Giving to help support the Annual Fund. This year the generosity of alumni like you will have an incredible impact as we raise the bar in support of the COVID-19 Relief Fund. The Fund supports unanticipated technology requirements, teacher professional development, student support services, health and safety initiatives, and financial assistance to families in need. We are so incredibly thankful to everyone who supported us on Austin Prep's Day of Giving!
Since the event on April 14th, our giving total has continued to rise, in part to Matching Gift Programs managed by many companies, which match charitable donations made by their employees. Does your employer have a matching gift program? Visit our websitehere, type in your company's name, and the impact of your gift to Austin Prep may be doubled!
If you missed our Day of Giving, you can still participate and make a contribution! Our goal is to raise $300,000 by the end of the fiscal year (June 30th) 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!
Spring Athletics Off to a Strong Start
Max Hampoian '23 celebrates at a boys lacrosse game this week. (Photo credit Brendan Carpenter '16)
Despite not playing for nearly two full years (as a result of the cancellation of the Spring 2020 sports season), our Spring teams haven't missed a beat. Austin Prep Varsity Baseball, Softball, Boys Lacrosse, Girls Lacrosse, Boys Tennis, Girls Tennis and Track and Field Teams are off to a strong start in the initial weeks of their seasons. Recently, the Baseball Team received coverage in the Boston Globe and Boston Herald, and Girls Lacrosse's Kerri Finneran '25 was included as a Boston Globe Player of the Week.
Baccalaureate Liturgy for the Class of 2021
May 14th was a beautiful day on the campus of Austin Prep as the community came together to celebrate the Baccalaureate Liturgy for the Class of 2021. In case you missed it, all the details from the day can be found here.
Austin Open Golf Tournament a Success
Mark Connolly '83 and Austin Prep Trustee Matt Pimentel '01 participated in Monday's Austin Open Golf Tournament.
After having missed the opportunity to host golfers within our school community in 2020, the 33rd Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament took place Monday, May 24, 2021 at Indian Ridge Golf Club in Andover, MA. With Alumni taking up 25 of our 144 openings for golfers, we had a full-flight with a wait list! Photos from the event can be found here.
Proceeds supported the COVID-19 Relief Fund, enabling Austin Prep to be proactive and responsive in dealing with the broad range of challenges stemming from the Coronavirus. Our goal is simple --- Keep our students and faculty healthy and safe with minimal disruptions as they pursue the promise of a quality education, and provide financial assistance to families in need.
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. We appreciate all those who have supported this great event.
A special thank you to alumni families for their 2021 Title Sponsorships: Pimentel Construction and Quirk Construction Corp.
If you have questions about future golf sponsorships and events, please contact Ms. Susan Belanger, Assistant Head for Administration at sbelanger@austinprep.org.
Stay Active with Austin Prep this Summer: Virtual Summer Academic Programs and Sports Camps Being Offered
Registration is now open for the 2021 Austin Prep Summer Session for both Austin Prep students and non-students. This innovative virtual program for Middle and Upper School students includes a series of engaging courses designed to sustain students’ enthusiasm for learning and maintain connections between students during the summer months. Classes are capped at 15 students and led by a member of the Austin Prep faculty, students benefit from a sense of community as they keep their academic goals on track. Two popular offerings include: “Imagineering in a Box” with Mrs. Nicole Putney and “Myths, Monsters and Mayhem” with Mr. Nick Quinn. We invite you to learn more about the Austin Prep Summer Session and peruse the full Summer Session Catalog here.
The Academic 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: mmclaughlin@austinprep.org.
Additionally, Austin Prep will once again be offering a number of youth sports camps on the Austin Prep campus for Summer 2021. You can learn more about what camps will be offered, when they will be taking place, and how you can register by clicking here. Our summer programs will help keep your children active and learning all summer long. Austin Prep’s Varsity coaching staff will be running the majority of these programs, so it's a great opportunity for the school’s younger athletes, and prospective students, to get an inside look at athletics here at Austin Prep. These programs are a great way to help get prepared for the upcoming 2021-2022 athletic season!
As COVID-19 restrictions are lifted this summer and we begin to open campus up once again, we look forward to welcoming our alumni back to Austin Prep! Please visit the Alumni page of our website and social media for more information.
Stay Connected
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:
Despite occurring later in the year than usual, the Austin Prep community came together on Tuesday, November 17th for the annual tradition of Convocation Mass, which marked the official start of Austin Prep’s 59th 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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
4. 2020 Recipients of the St. Augustine Lumen Award Announced
5. Virtual Austin Prep Open House
6. Third Time's a Charm: Austin Prep Wins Another Nason Award
7. Austin Prep Traditions Continue Even During Pandemic
8. Support the Annual Fund as Year Comes to a Close
9. Survey for Austin Prep Reunions for Classes Ending in 0 & 5 and 1 & 6
10. Stay Connected Through Social Media | Submit Class Notes for Journey Magazine
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.
Austin Prep Presents Webinar Series Continues
Joe Sciacca ’75, Enterprise Editor for 7News WHDH-TV Boston, was recently featured on Austin Prep Presents.
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:
“Estate Planning” with Rob Peterson ’04
Hosted by Jennifer Hodgdon
January 26
“Super Bowl Party Menu” with Peter Agostinelli ’96, Culinary Director at LaBelle Winery and former Executive Chef at Grill 23
February 2
“Today’s Real Estate Market for First-time Home Buyers” with Felicia Giuliano-Kennedy ’09
February 23
“Childcare and Eldercare: Balancing Everyone’s Needs” with Ashley Samperi ’04 and Sheetal Patel ’05
March 23
“Photography and Instagram” with Evan Guarino ’06
Hosted by Ashley Murdock ’21 and Alyssa Cross ’21
April 27
“Finding Veritas, Unitas and Caritas in The Game of Golf” with Bob Baldassari ’80
Hosted by Patrick Driscoll ’97, Director of Athletics
May 25
#IAmRemarkable Empowerment Workshop with Sharon Driscoll Klardie ’96
Hosted by Lucie Langa, Teaching and Learning Specialist
June 25
For more information about individual presentations, and to register for upcoming programs, click here.
Admissions Green Key Ambassador Training
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!
2020 Recipients of the St. Augustine Lumen Award Announced
Ms. Marla Pascucci-Byrne P’26 (center) was presented the 2020 St. Augustine Lumen Award. Also pictured are Trustees Mike Bravo P'18, '20, Sun-Min Han P'20, Joey Carregal '05 and Board Chair Dan Bouchard P'10, '14, '15.
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.
Ms. Celia Barletta (center) was presented the 2020 St. Augustine Lumen Award.
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.
Virtual Austin Prep Open House
The annual Fall Open House took place virtually this year.
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.
Third Time's a Charm: Austin Prep Wins Another Nason Award
Austin Prep's Nason Awards from the 2017-18 and 2018-19 academic years.
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.
Austin Prep Traditions Continue Even During Pandemic
Lessons and Carols was performed on December 11th.
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.
The Nutcracker took place on December 16th.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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!”
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.
Dr. Crystal Kuykendall led professional development sessions with faculty and staff on August 27th.
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.
Fr. Patrick Armano, Fr. Jorge Reyes, and Mr. Jaycob Morales will focus their work this year on making Austin Prep a more inclusive and equitable community.
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.”
The 2020-2021 Academic Year is Underway at Austin Prep
Cohort A students returned to campus on September 8th.
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.
Cohort B students returned to campus on September 10th.
“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.”
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, with sister Caroline '18, will take a gap year this year in advance of her enrolling at Princeton.
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 is learning remotely at The College of the Holy Cross.
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 in learning on campus at WPI.
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.”
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.
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."
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
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!
Upcoming Virtual Admissions Events
The Office of Admissions had their first training call this week with Head Green Keys Ambassadors for the Austin Prep Student Ambassador Program.
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.
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.
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:
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
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.
Jillian Barrows ’13
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
Caty Flagg ’16 was highlighted in the Noontime Senior Salute on New England Sports Coverage on May 8th. Click here to read more.
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!
Austin Open Golf Tournament Tentatively Scheduled for August 24th
Although rescheduled, event sponsorships for the 33rd Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament are still available.
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.
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.
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.
Lower Fields Athletic Complex Project
Tennis Courts
Baseball Field
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.
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!
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.
Dr. William Driscoll, '89
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.
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)
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.
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.
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!
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.
Join Father Patrick Armano, School Chaplain, remotely for Holy Week services from the Chapel of St. Augustine.
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).
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 27th and the fourth quarter beginning the following Monday, March 30th.
“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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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?
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.
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!
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:
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.
Appointment of William Driscoll '89
Assistant Headmaster and Head of Upper School
William Driscoll '89
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.
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.
Dr. Hickey with Francisco A. Ureña, Secretary of the Department of Veterans’ Services for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
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.
Emma Ricciardelli '21, a Home Base Program volunteer, with Ryan Casavant and Gatsby
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.
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 orthis 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!
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
Members of the Class of 1969 before last year's Commencement Exercises
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 ourwebsite hereto 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
Alums gather at Bunratty Tavern in the Summer of 2019
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!
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.
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.
Calling all Class Notes!
Fall 2019 Journey Magazine
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!
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.
2019 marks the reunion year for classes ending in 4s and 9s. Austin Prep would like to help you and your classmates reconnect in celebration of your years at Austin. Whether it has been 5 years or 45 years, we look forward to bringing you back together to evoke memories of your time here, to experience Austin Prep as it is today, and to look forward to Austin’s bright future! Please register using the links below no later than November 15th. **Pre-registration is required for all events. No walk-ins.**
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!
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!
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!
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.
2nd Annual Autumn at Austin
Join alumni, current families and faculty during our annual Autumn at Austin weekend, October 18th & 19th – there is something for everyone!!
Friday, October 18th
7:15 a.m. - Golf CCL League Championship, AWAY Gannon Municipal Golf Course
3:30 p.m. - Volleyball - Girls - Junior Varsity 2 vs. Swampscott, Richard J. Meelia Hall
4:30 p.m. - Volleyball - Girls - Junior Varsity vs. Swampscott, Richard J. Meelia Hall
5:30 p.m. - Volleyball - Girls - Varsity vs. Swampscott, Richard J. Meelia Hall
Trunk or Treat Hosted by Student Council,@ 6:00- 7:00 p.m., FREE
Bring your whole family in Halloween costumes and trick or treat from festively decorated cars throughout the designated Trunk or Treat area. Before you start your trick or treating, stop by the Alumni/Admissions tent in front of the main doors of McLaughlin Hall for your free bag!
7:00 p.m. - Football – Varsity vs. Cathedral, Fr. Seymour Field
Saturday, October 19th
Pancake Breakfast with Cubby, @ 8:30 - 10:00 a.m., Dining Hall, $5 per person or $15 per family (4+ people)
SAGE Dining Services will provide a full buffet pancake breakfast* for the whole family in the Dining Hall! Austin Prep mascot, Cubby, will be greeting and taking photos with guests. Green Key Student Ambassadors will be on hand to give tours to families.
Student clubs will be offering face painting.
*SAGE Dining is a nut-free catering service. Please note dietary restrictions on Step 3 during registration process. Advanced registration is recommended. REGISTER HERE for Pancake Breakfast with Cubby
9:30 a.m. - Soccer - Girls - Junior Varsity vs. Weston, Fr. Seymour Field
10:00 a.m. - Volleyball - Girls - Junior Varsity 2 vs. St. Mary's and Archbishop Williams, Richard J. Meelia Hall
11:00 a.m. - Soccer - Girls - Varsity vs. Weston, Fr. Seymour Field
1:30 p.m. - Soccer - Boys - Junior Varsity vs. Malden Catholic, Fr. Seymour Field
3:00 p.m. - Soccer - Boys - Varsity vs. Malden Catholic, Fr. Seymour Field
5:00 p.m. - Cross Country - Coed - Varsity, AWAY, Barnstable Fairgrounds
Open House: Become a Legacy Family!
November is Remembrance Month
All of us keep deep in our hearts the memory of a loved one who has gone home to God. That memory is precious and sacred. The month of November begins with the celebration of All Saints Day and All Souls Day, and closes with Thanksgiving. Each day is an appropriate time to celebrate the lives of those who have gone before and upon whose shoulders we now stand. In gratitude for their gifts of faith and family, let’s thank God for all those who have touched our hearts and our lives.
Austin Prep invites you to share the names of your loved ones who have died. Throughout the month of November the school community will pray for your beloved dead and remember them during our weekly Community Masses, held in the Chapel of St. Augustine at 12:10 pm. Please share the names of your loved ones here.
This is our gift to you in thanksgiving for your prayers for us, and for your continuing generosity and support of Austin Prep.
Alumni Bricks
This summer Austin Prep the facilities team, in collaboration with contractors, worked tirelessly on campus updates and improvements. One improvement included the installation of a renovated plaza in front of Richard J. Meelia Hall. Due to a reoccurring issue with drainage, some of the the alumni brick walkway was replaced with a concrete surface. The alumni bricks will be replaced in the near future. All alumni will be notified where to find their brick once they have been replaced.
If you would like to purchase an alumni brick, we will include it in the new location. Please click here to purchase your alumni brick by October 15th.
Austin Prep is awarded the Nason Award For the Second Year in a Row
For the second consecutive year, the Boston Globe has awarded Austin Prep Athletics the Nason Division III Trophy. This award recognizes overall athletic 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 two academic years. For more information on all the Boston Globe Scholastic Awards, including the Nason Award,click here.
Faculty Are Enhancing Their Teaching Through Professional Development
This summer Austin Prep faculty members were awarded Summer Sabbatical grants that empowered them to pursue in-depth professional development experiences to enhance their teaching. Support of the Austin Prep Annual Fund makes professional development programs such as the Summer Sabbatical possible.
Ms. Alicia Varrasso -- The Sixth Grade Odyssey
Alicia’s sabbatical transformed her sixth grade unit on Greece as she journeyed to the birthplace of democracy and cradle of Western Civilization to experience Greek history and culture in the same hands-on way that she teaches her students.
Ms. Michele Brewer -- Boosting Engagement in Mathematics
Coming on the heels of her second Masters of Education with a speciality in emerging Technologies, Michele traveled to Orlando to participate in a workshop on the Kagan Structures, instructional strategies aimed at increasing understanding, confidence, achievement and engagement with secondary mathematics.
Dr. Ricardo Vanegas -- Understanding and Applying Biotechnology and Bioinformatics in the Curriculum
The Biotechnology course at AP uses some of the latest techniques in introducing students to genetic and medical engineering. The field is a revolutionary way to understand many scientific concepts using computer science, math, and statistics - and is one that is evolving at a rapid rate. Dr. Vanegas traveled to the John Innes Center in Norwich, United Kingdom to learn alongside a global community of scientists on the emerging PCR technology and its application to personalized medicine.
Mrs. Nicole Putney, P'26 and Mrs. Stephanie Choate -- Harkness Method of Teaching
English faculty membersMrs. Putney and Mrs. Choate attended the Philips Exeter Institute for the Humanities to be trained in the Harkness method of teaching. The Harkness style is a student led and student centered discussion technique where students sit around a table and drive the conversation and ask the questions. Mrs. Putney and Mrs. Choate spent a week on Exeter's campus and participated in the daily discussions, observed classes, and led discussions. This is the same Professional Development opportunity that English Faculty Mr. Matthew Diapella '99 attended in the summer of 2018, and the Harkness table method is used in his sophomore Discussion and Debate course.
Sabbatical Spotlight: Roger Stone
This summer Latin faculty member Mr. Roger Stone celebrated the completion of his 50th year of teaching at Austin Prep by returning to the site of his Fulbright Grant Fellowship for coursework paired with an in-depth study of Aquileia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The site Mr. Stone visited included an Archaeological Area and the Patriarchal Basilica of Aquileia. The Roman city dates to 181 BC and became one of the largest and wealthiest cities in the early Roman Empire until it was sacked and destroyed in 452 by the Huns led by Attila.
The city was a major trading center connecting the Mediterranean to Central Europe. Aquileia’s wealth and status within the empire was reflected in its magnificent public buildings and private residences, many of which survive as archaeological remains. The most striking remains of the Roman city are those of the port installations, a long row of warehouses and docks that stretch along the bank of the river. Many of its treasures are currently housed in a local museum. Mr. Stone is looking forward to bringing the lessons he learned in the field at this archeological site to his Latin classroom.
Alum Jonathan Pollard '97 Named Head Varsity Baseball Coach
Austin Prep has announced the appointment of Mr. Jonathan Pollard '97 (JP) as the school’s new Head Varsity Baseball Coach.
No stranger to Austin Prep Athletics, JP served as Austin Prep’s Director of Athletics from 2014 -19, where under his leadership Austin Prep secured 55 Conference Championships, 5 State Championships, and back-to-back Nason Awards from the Boston Globe in recognition for being the winningest high school Catholic co-ed athletic department in the Commonwealth. In July, Mr. Pollard was promoted to Assistant Headmaster for Enrollment and Athletics at Austin Prep. A 1997 graduate of Austin Prep, Mr. Pollard went on to play college baseball at Salem State University where he was a two-time all-conference selection.
“It was a privilege to play at Austin Prep, and to have the opportunity now to lead the great young men in the baseball program is simply a dream come true.” Pollard said.
Mr. Pollard’s experience in the sport extends far beyond the prep level. In 2011, Mr. Pollard began coaching for USA Baseball in Cary, NC. During his time with USA Baseball, he led national teams around the globe, collecting two silver medals, and a gold medal at the 2015 Pan Am Games. In 2014, Mr. Pollard was named USA Baseball Developmental Coach of the Year.
“In my fifteenth year as a head of school, I have had the opportunity to work with many talented coaches in my career and JP is among the best I ever encountered,” Headmaster James Hickey, Ph.D. P'22, '23, '24 said. “He has been a fixture at Austin Prep for the last ten years as an alumni volunteer, coach, champion of Austin Prep, Director of Athletics, and, now, Assistant Headmaster for Enrollment and Athletics. Without question, Austin Prep is a better community because JP is in it.”
Mr. Pollard will take the helm of one of the premier baseball programs in the state in recent years. Austin Prep won the MIAA Division 3 state title in 2018, and has gone 103-17 since 2015.
"We are thrilled to announce Mr. Pollard as our new head baseball coach. His coaching experience and love of Austin Prep will raise the level of our baseball program to new heights,” Director of Athletics Patrick Driscoll '97 said. “His understanding of the league and the balance between academics and athletics will provide a strong foundation for our student-athletes to succeed both on and off the field. Our current and future baseball players are extremely blessed to have Coach Pollard leading them.”
All Are Welcome!
The 2018 - 2019 academic year brought many alumni visitors back to campus! From writing workshops and mentorships, to athletic competitions and informal gatherings, alumni had the opportunity to engage with current students and each other. We expect even more alumni returning to AP this year!
Pictured above, alum Jen Kruh '16 visited with Mr. Tony Biscardi '88 and brought by a signed poster of the movie "Knives Out" where she was the set decorator. The movie is scheduled to be in theaters in November 2019. Jen just finished working on the new season of Castle Rock, a series on Hulu, and will be working on a new Ryan Reynolds movie soon. The poster has been added to Mr. Biscardi's "Wall of Fame" in his classroom.
If you would like to come back to campus to visit a teacher, class, club or team, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations to coordinate your visit 781-944-4900, ext. 852.
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.
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.
The Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays presented opportunities for Austin Prep alumni to get together and enjoy reminiscing about their Austin Prep experience, while catching-up on their journeys after AP.
On Thanksgiving, alumni came back to campus to cheer on Coach Bill Maradei as he led the Cougars to victory in his final game as head coach of the football team. The most recent graduating class, 2018, came back to campus for breakfast in the new dining hall, while the classes of 2013, 2008 and 2003 met in Boston over the Thanksgiving weekend. Members of the class of 1969 took in a Merrimack vs. Holy Cross varsity men's hockey game in a suite at Merrimack College. The class of 1988 gathered in Woburn at Scoreboards, and the class of 1994 got together at the Tavern in the Square in Burlington. The class of 1972 had its largest showing since their time at Austin Prep at a festive holiday dinner at Ricardo's in the North End.
In all, over 200 alumni celebrated what it means to be an Austin Prep Cougar! #Veritas #Unitas #Caritas
Faculty Presenting at Regional and National Conferences
Several Austin Prep faculty and staff have been selected to present at conferences, locally and nationally, in the coming months:
Mr. Roger Stone (Latin) will be presenting at the Classical Association of New England (CANE) Annual Convention on March 8th at Holy Cross. His session will focus on his Cicero Speech Project, in which students compose and present a five-to-seven minute persuasive speech. They utilize the figurative and rhetorical language learned in Latin, and blend it with elements presented in the video Great American Political Speeches.
Ms. Nicole Putney (English Department Chair) and Ms. Leeann Blais (English) are co-presenting on the National Novel Writing November Initiative and publishing options for students (to have authentic audiences). Their interactive workshop will expose participants to a variety of methods for publishing student work, as well as a better understanding of the research linking authentic audiences to student improvement.
Mr.Michael McLaughlin (Head of Middle School) and Ms. Marla Pascucci-Byrne (Art and Design Department Chair) are co-presenting on the importance of Choice and Voice in the Middle School program through the lens of the Art and Design Department.Using the Austin Prep Art and Design program as an example, this workshop will focus on empowering students to take risks and grow by fostering community and curiosity.
Headmaster Dr. Jim Hickey will co-present with Dr. Larry Sykoff of LSS Consulting Group at the National Association of Independent School (NAIS) annual conference in Long Beach California in February. Their presentation "Outside the Statistics: Sustaining Long-Term Headship" will illuminate the strategies needed to be an outlier and become a longstanding head with substantial tenure. Using the first five years of the headship to lay a sturdy foundation, exercising both situational and transformative leadership, the subsequent years can result in strong board relationships, solid constituency alliances, and an abundance of success.
Mr. Rob Taylor (Curriculum Coordinator and Art and Design Faculty) will present at the same conference. "Reimagining Curriculum: Valuing Depth over Breadth Through a Transition to Semester-Long Courses" walks through the strategies Austin Prep used to build a curricular model with student curiosity as the compass and a four-dimensional education as the mission.
Alumni Spotlight: Alum Performing at the Hard Rock Cafe
Jillian Ann Barrows, Austin Prep Class of 2013, is a 7th semester Songwriting major and voice principal at Berklee College of Music. Her goal is to create a catalog of music that transcends different musical genres. Jillian has experience singing in various musical groups ranging from acappella to hard rock bands. She self-produced her first single, "The Man That I Love", that is currently on iTunes and Spotify. Jillian has performed at various venues, singing in different styles, from musical theatre to classic rock.
Opening act: Roman G. and The Odyssey
Age Limit: 18+ (Valid Government Issued ID Required)
Door Time: 7:30 PM Advance Tix: $10
Day of Tix: $12
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!
Clickhere to check out the fall issue of Journey Magazine!
Athletic Hall of Fame Has a New Home
During the renovations of Austin Prep's dining hall, the Athletic Hall of Fame was permanently relocated to the newly renovated Heritage Room on the third floor. The Heritage Room is also home to a timeline documenting Austin Prep's history dating back to the 1960's. We invite you to return to Austin Prep to see this beautiful space, along with the recent campus updates including the new dining hall, the David. E. Nelson '81 Fitness Center, the team media room and the front entrance and foyer. Contact Mrs. Jennifer Hodgdon, Director of Alumni Relations and Giving at jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org to schedule a visit.
Board of Trustees Welcomes New Member
The Board of Trustees is pleased to welcome Mr. Matt Pimentel, class of 2001, of Andover, to the Board of Trustees. Currently Vice President of Pimentel Construction, Wilmington, he is responsible for management and oversight of all construction operations. In addition, he serves on the Ballardvale Historic District Commission in Andover and is a member of the Advancement Committee and Strategic Planning Board at Austin Prep.
After graduating from Austin Prep, Pimentel headed south, attending Clemson University, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. Prior to joining Pimentel Construction, he worked at Sasso Construction as Project Manager for nine years and was Head Coach of Track and Field, and Assistant Head Coach of Cross Country at Merrimack College for seven years.
He lives in Andover with his wife Linsey and their daughter Avery.
Annual Alumni Hockey Men's and Women's Charity Challenges
Austin Prep alumni have always been invaluable supporters of our community. In particular, we recognize two annual events established for and by alumni which directly benefit the Austin Prep experience of current students**:
On Saturday, April 27, 2019, Austin Prep will host the Annual Alumni Hockey Men's and Women's Charity Challenges at Lawler Rink at Merrimack College in North Andover. The net proceeds from these games goes to the George "Matt" Miller Memorial Scholarship, the David E. Nelson ’81 Memorial Scholarship, and the Kristen M. Corbett '08 Memorial Scholarship Fund, respectfully.
All players are asked to make a minimum donation of $50 to play in the game. This fee covers the ice rental and other costs associated with hosting the game.
**Photo above: Dr. Jim Hickey with scholarship benefactor Carolyn Corbett and Elizabeth Richards '19, the 2017 recipient of the Kristen M. Corbett '08 Memorial Scholarship.
Weddings & 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.
Spring Musical Announced
Save-the-Date for Austin Prep's Annual Spring Musical: May 5th and 6th!
We look forward to welcoming alumni back for this fun-filled performance!
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, 2018 to June 30, 2019. Please consider making a gift today!
Join classmates and friends at these upcoming alumni events:
Friday, February 1, 2019-- join fellow alumni for a reception/tour followed by the Boys Varsity Basketball game as they take on Matignon at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 27, 2019-- Annual Alumni Hockey Men's and Women's Charity Challenges at Lawler Rink, Merrimack College, North Andover. RSVP forthcoming. Information on Men's game Information on Women's game
Monday, April 29, 2019--Alumni Networking Reception at The University of Massachusetts Club, Boston, MA. Monday, May 20, 2019-- The 32nd Annual Austin Prep Golf Tournament at Indian Ridge Country Club in Andover, MA. Saturday, May 25, 2019-- Class of 1969 50th Reunion at Austin Prep.
Visit ourwebsite and Facebook pages for more details as they become available.
Members of the class of 2014, family and friends filled St. Athanasius Church on Monday, March 18th to celebrate the the beautiful life of Michael Sverdlove, member of the class of 2014. Michael passed away tragically on March 10th while volunteering on a kibbutz in Israel.
Michael's smile was infectious. His zest for life, unmatched. We mourn together as a community and our doors are open for those who seek solace. In your kindness please remember Michael, his parents, his sister Rachael, and all those who mourn his loss in your prayers
The Sverdlove family has set up a memorial fund at Austin Prep in Michael's name. Contributions to the Michael G. Sverdlove '14 Memorial Fund may be made through this link.
Launching of Alumni Writers Workshop Series
Mrs. Marla Pascucci-Byrne and the Office of Alumni Relations launched the Alumni Writers Workshop series, bringing alumni into the classroom to share their personal and professional journeys as writers with current students. The first two guests of the Series, Drew Garland '07 and Hannah Andry '12, shared their gifts with Mrs. Pascucci-Byrne's Creative Writing course and Mrs. Nicole Putney's Writing Tutors this month.
"Being able to be creative is the best part of my job," asserted Drew Garland '07, a content producer for NESN, who shared his own career path and experiences with our students. While the perks of his job include interviewing celebrity athletes, the creation of content, while exciting, does pose its challenges by requiring quick turnover and a quest for fresh perspective. He provided students with helpful insight with the following advice; "Find the hook; make something memorable and inspiring. You have to constantly be improving; with each piece, I have to make something that I’m proud of and make sure it’s better than what I've created previously." His best advice for writing - and life - came from his experience on the first day of college. "Keep your door open - whether in college or in life - be open to what's around you. Keep writing, keep improving, be open to feedback and have an open mind. Surround yourself with a community of good people, both at Austin and beyond, and you will succeed."
Hannah Andry '12, a published author, is currently working on a collection of short stories and poems, and shared writing tips about following your passion and writing from the heart. "Write every day," she encouraged. "On napkins, in journals, in a blog, in letters to friends. Keep your mind moving. Watch people around you for inspiration, and keep friendships with those who inspire you. It will not always be easy to create something meaningful, but it will be worth it to share your story with the world." Hannah's story was recently featured on the podcast "She Explores," and her collected works, Tapestry, will be published this summer.
Both students cited their Austin Prep days as being highly influential in their career choices, and they have maintained connections in the spirit of unitas with their former teachers and mentors.
Future guests in the Writers series will include Mia Lazarewicz '02, Beau Batchelor '09, Elizabeth Dowd Basile '01, Christina Saropoulos Kakambouras '03, and Michael Stanley '03. Alums interested in sharing their stories and writing process in the Writers Workshop should contact Mrs. Pascucci-Byrne at mpascuccibyrne@austinprep.org. Ultimately, we hope to expand the Alumni Workshop series into other subjects.
Reunion Survey for Classes Ending in 4 & 9
This reunion year we celebrate Austin Prep classes ending in 4 and 9!
Alumni from the classes ending in 4 & 9 (1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009, 2014) 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. Survey will be open until April 15th.
We appreciate your feedback!
32nd Annual Austin Open
The 32nd Annual Austin Open is just around the corner on Monday, May 20th 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 hereto learn about how you can participate!
Alumni Hockey Charity Challenge
Austin Prep alumni have always been invaluable supporters of our community. In particular, we recognize two annual events established for and by alumni which directly benefit the Austin Prep experience of current students**:
On Saturday, April 27, 2019, Austin Prep will host the Annual Alumni Hockey Men's and Women's Charity Challenges at Gallant Rink at Merrimack College in North Andover. The net proceeds from these games benefit the George "Matt" Miller Memorial Scholarship, the David E. Nelson ’81 Memorial Scholarship, and the Kristen M. Corbett '08 Memorial Scholarship Fund, respectfully.
All players are asked to make a minimum donation of $50 to play in the game. This fee covers the ice rental and other costs associated with hosting the game.
**Photo above: Dr. Jim Hickey with scholarship benefactor Carolyn Corbett and Elizabeth Richards '19, the 2017 recipient of the Kristen M. Corbett '08 Memorial Scholarship.
Class of 1969 Reunion
Austin Prep is excited to celebrate the Class of 1969's 50th Reunion, May 24-26, 2019!
Friday, May 24th 4:00 p.m.~ Baccalaureate Mass, Richard J. Meelia Hall, Austin Prep (business/business casual attire) 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.~ Class of 1969 informal gathering at Bunratty Tavern, Main Street, Reading (business/business casual attire) Saturday, May 25th 1:00 p.m.~ Headmaster’s Reception, Dr. Hickey’s Office (business attire) 2:00 p.m.~ Commencement Exercises, followed by tour of Austin Prep campus led by Green Key Student Ambassadors (business attire) 5:00 p.m.~ Class of 1969 Reunion Dinner hosted by the Headmaster, Heritage Room, Austin Prep (business attire) Sunday, May 26th 8:30 a.m.~ Mass in memory of deceased members of the Class of 1969, Saint Augustine Chapel, Austin Prep followed by continental breakfast in the main foyer (business/business casual attire) 11:30 a.m. ~ For those interested in playing golf, we have reserved 2 foursomes at the private Vesper Country Club in Tyngsborough. Reservations for these foursomes are first come, first served. Please email Director of Alumni Relations & Giving Jennifer Hodgdon to reserve your space, Jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org
Alumni Networking Reception in Boston
Alumni are invited to the Annual Alumni Networking Reception at The University of Massachusetts Club, Boston on Monday, April 29, 2019.
Join fellow alumni for an evening of catching-up and networking while enjoying the view from the University Club. Heavy hors d'oeuvres, beer and wine will be served. Business attire. Register here.
Weddings & 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.
Spring Musical Announced
Save-the-Date for Austin Prep's Annual Spring Musical: May 4th (7:00 p.m.) and May 5th (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.
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, 2018 to June 30, 2019. Please consider making a gift today!
All of us keep deep in our hearts the memory of a loved one who has gone home to God. That memory is precious and sacred. The month of November begins with the celebration of All Saints Day and All Souls Day, and closes with Thanksgiving. Each day is an appropriate time to celebrate the lives of those who have gone before and upon whose shoulders we now stand. In gratitude for their gifts of faith and family, let’s thank God for all those who have touched our hearts and our lives.
Austin Prep invites you to share the names of your loved ones who have died. Throughout the month of November the school community will pray for your beloved dead and remember them during our weekly Community Masses, held in the Chapel of St. Augustine at 12:10 pm. Please share the names of your loved ones here.
This is our gift to you in thanksgiving for your prayers for us, and for your continuing generosity and support of Austin Prep.
REUNIONS: Celebrating Classes Ending in 3 & 8
2018 marks the reunion year for classes ending in 3s and 8s. Austin Prep would like to help you and your classmates reconnect in celebration of your years together at Austin. Whether it has been 5 years or 45 years, we look forward to bringing you back to campus to evoke memories of your time here, to experience Austin as it is today, and to look forward to Austin’s bright future! Please register using the links below no later than November 17th.
Class of 2018 Breakfast in the New Dining Hall
Wednesday, November 21st, 10:00 a.m.
Dining Hall, Austin Prep
Free. Breakfast includes: scrambled eggs, pancakes, sausage, bacon, home fries, coffee and juice. Regster here!
Thanksgiving Day Football Game Alumni Tent
Austin Prep vs. Shawsheen Regional Technical High School
Thursday, November 22nd, 10:00 a.m. Fr. Seymour Field
Show your support for the Cougars during Coach Maradei's last football game as Head Coach.
Classes of 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993 & 1998
Saturday, November 24th, 7:00 - 11:00 pm
Dining Hall, Austin Prep
$45 pp includes retro-themed buffet by SAGE Dining Services (brick oven pizza, tater-tot bar, pasta and meatball station, salad bar and make-your-own sundae), beer & wine, alumni giveaways, DJ Phil Cohen Buy Tickets Today!
Classes of 2003 & 2008
Saturday, November 24th, 8:00 pm - 12 midnight
The Kinsale, Boston
$17 pp includes appetizers and alumni giveaway. Cash bar. Register Today!
Class of 2013
Saturday, November 24th, 8:00 pm - 12 midnight
The Wild Rover Tavern, Boston
$32 pp includes open bar, appetizers, alumni giveaway. Tickets available here!
**Pre-registration is required for all events. No walk-ins for 2003, 2008, 2013.
Please contact Director of Alumni Relations and Giving Jen Hodgdon at jennifer.hodgdon@austinprep.org today to be part of planning your class reunion.
All Are Welcome!
During the summer and fall, we had several alums come to campus for the first time in many years: Jim Martin '70- 47 years since he has been to campus (pictured above) Jamie Dooley '92- 25 years since he has been to campus Kevin Kiley '89- 20+ years since he has been to campus Mark Gigliotti '03- 10+ years since he has been to campus Mark Mercer '99- 3+ years since he has been to campus Andrew Dillon '17- 2 years since he has been to campus David Hartman '00- several years since he has been to campus
Most recently, several members of the Class of 2018 have dropped by to see the new dining hall and to catch up with friends and teachers.
If you would like to come back to campus to visit a teacher, class, club or team, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations to coordinate your visit 781-944-4900, ext. 852.
Faculty Are Enhancing Their Teaching Through Professional Development
This summer Austin Prep faculty members, Ms. Leeann Blais (English Faculty), Ms. Marla Pascucci-Byrne (Chair, Fine and Performing Arts Department), Mr. Matthew Diapella '98 (English Faculty) and Natalie Petrillo P'10 (Chair, Mathematics Department) were awarded Summer Sabbatical grants that empowered them to pursue in-depth professional development experiences to enhance their teaching. Support of the Austin Prep Annual Fund makes professional development programs such as the Summer Sabbatical possible.
English Faculty and Austin Prep alum Mr. Matthew Diapella ’98 shares his reflection about attending the Exeter Humanities Institute on the use of the Harkness Table Method:
My experience at the Exeter Humanities Institute was the best professional development experience I have ever had.
I had two classes that met every morning for 90 minutes each. We had reading assignments centered around the theme of ‘Growth’ that we had to annotate in advance of each class. We spent the first 40 to 45 minutes participating in a class discussion, then the other 40 to 45 minutes debriefing the discussion. Classes flew by, and each class left me wanting to engage in the discussions more. I learned about a variety of techniques to begin a class, discuss the readings, track and assess student performance, and keep students engaged (even if they haven’t done the reading or forgot their book).
Our afternoons were spent in focus groups or in the Academy library doing research on teaching materials to use in our schools. I learned some strategies for employing Harkness in large classrooms and how to apply Harkness strategies in math and science classes.
The real value in this experience though was the sheer, unanticipated learning that happened at the table. Around a table, and maybe even because of the table, with eleven other people I did not know, things happened. We exchanged opinions, listened empathetically, and created an experience that was our own. The experience was joyous - and that is how I wish for my students to feel that way about their learning.
A colleague at the table perhaps put it best, “Generally, I’m concerned about having to cover all my content in the short time that I have with my students, but the skills students learn in a setting like this becomes the content, and I find it to be wonderfully humanizing that we can teach respect, listening, and empathy.”
I originally titled my proposal for the summer sabbatical “The Art of Listening.” I could not have been more accurate. While my classes are discussion based and students will probably infer that they need to talk in order to get a good grade, I do hope that, as my colleague said, they learn respect, listening and empathy.
First-ever Autumn at Austin: Pancake Breakfast with Cubby A Success
On Saturday, October 13th Austin Prep hosted the first-ever Autumn at Austin:Pancake Breakfast with Cubby. Forty guests including alumni, current families and faculty enjoyed a delicious breakfast in the new dining hall provided by SAGE Dining Services. Green Key Ambassadors gave tours of the school, painted faces for future AP cougars, and created mindfulness rocks. #Veritas#Unitas#Caritas
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.
Save the Dates: Alumni Happenings
Join classmates and friends at these upcoming alumni events:
November 21, 2018: Class of 2018 breakfast in the new dining hall. November 22, 2018: Thanksgiving Football Game & Alumni Tent- stop by for cider donuts, hot cider and to cheer on the Cougars and Coach Maradei in his last game as AP's head coach. Austin Prep vs. Shawsheen Regional Technical High School November 23, 2018: Class of 1969 Gathering at the Merrimack vs. Holy Cross Hockey Game, Lawler Rink in North Andover. November 24, 2018: Reunion Celebrations for the classes ending in 3 & 8 (see details above) January 1, 2019: Families are invited to skate with Austin Prep's varsity girls hockey team at Merrimack College, Lawler Rink in North Andover. April 27, 2019: Alumni Hockey Men's and Women's Charity Challenge Games at Merrimack College, Lawler Rink in North Andover. April 29, 2019: Alumni Networking Reception at The University of Massachusetts Club, Boston, MA. May 20, 2019: The 32nd Annual Austin Prep Golf Tournament at Indian Ridge Country Club in Andover, MA. May 25, 2019: 50th Reunion for the Class of 1969 in the new Austin Prep Dining Hall.
Visit our website and Facebook pages for more details as they become available.
2019 marks the reunion year for classes ending in 4s and 9s. Austin Prep would like to help you and your classmates reconnect in celebration of your years at Austin. Whether it has been 5 years or 45 years, we look forward to bringing you back together to evoke memories of your time here, to experience Austin Prep as it is today, and to look forward to Austin’s bright future! Please register using the links below no later than November 15th. **Pre-registration is required for all events. No walk-ins.**
Mr. Roger Stone (Latin) will be presenting at the Classical Association of New England (CANE) Annual Convention on March 8th at Holy Cross. His session will focus on his Cicero Speech Project, in which students compose and present a five-to-seven minute persuasive speech. They utilize the figurative and rhetorical language learned in Latin, and blend it with elements presented in the video Great American Political Speeches.
Ms. Nicole Putney (English Department Chair) and Ms. Leeann Blais (English) are co-presenting on the National Novel Writing November Initiative and publishing options for students (to have authentic audiences). Their interactive workshop will expose participants to a variety of methods for publishing student work, as well as a better understanding of the research linking authentic audiences to student improvement.
Headmaster Dr. Jim Hickey will co-present with Dr. Larry Sykoff of LSS Consulting Group at the National Association of Independent School (NAIS) annual conference in Long Beach California in February. Their presentation "Outside the Statistics: Sustaining Long-Term Headship" will illuminate the strategies needed to be an outlier and become a longstanding head with substantial tenure. Using the first five years of the headship to lay a sturdy foundation, exercising both situational and transformative leadership, the subsequent years can result in strong board relationships, solid constituency alliances, and an abundance of success. 
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