Journey | Winter 2025 by Austin Preparatory School

Inside this Issue of Journey

Feature Stories

2-5 Beyond the Books “World Travel”

6-7 Windows on Our Future

8-11 Renaissance, Renewal, and Reinvention “Art at Austin Prep”

12-17 Where are they now?

18-19 Austin Open Golf Tournament Recap

20 The Torch is Passed “Forty Years of Service”

21-23 Baccalaureate Mass/Commencement “2024”

24 Memorial Scholarships “2024-2025”

25 Annual Report “2023-2024”

26 Grandparents Day “A Heartwarming Tradition” 27 Alumni 60th Anniversary Celebration “Back on Campus”

28-29 Augustinian Connections “Student Exchange”

30-32 Class Notes

33 In Paradisum

Photo Credits: Tyler Fleming P’28,’30, Director of Communications, Nicolle Renick, Art & Design Faculty

Contributing Writers: Tyler Fleming P’28,’30, Director of Communications, Michael McLaughlin, Head of Middle School

A Secure Anchor.

As we reflected on themes for the 2024-2025 school year, we wanted to select an encouraging and optimistic message for the academic year. We found a perfect theme that we adapted from the Book of Hebrews: “Anchored in Christ, We Venture in Hope.” St. Augustine reminds us that “God is our peace and that not only makes us people of good will but links us by the bond of unity.”

From the daily interactions of students and teachers to the wider engagement of the entire Austin Prep community, there are visible and habitual acts of solidarity that advance veritas, unitas, and caritas. Heartened with hope that only comes from the Lord, we are inspired by faith and see a bright future with confidence and optimism.

The winter edition of Journey Magazine is a profile of our school in action, showcasing the remarkable strides Austin Prep has taken in becoming a leader in Catholic Augustinian education. Our pursuit of excellence, forever guided by Augustinian values, is a transformative journey of the heart, the hand, and the mind. The stories of growth, innovation, and academic distinction within these pages are a direct result of our untiring commitment to mission. St. Augustine was instructive when he said, “Each of us strengthens all of us.”

We are understandably proud of the achievements and milestones we have reached together over the past year – and our remarkable growth over the past decade. Today, Austin Prep stands tall as a top-tier Catholic institution that is home to innovative teaching and learning, distinctive programs, and to competent, creative, caring, and compassionate faculty and coaches who hold outstanding records of achievement in their fields of expertise. The comprehensive scope of programs and activities in the arts, athletics, and STEM – combined with an abundance of co-curricular opportunities – complement and strengthen the Augustinian education that is the bedrock of Austin Prep’s college preparatory experience.

Our firm commitment to mission enriches the educational journey of our students. Within these halls of academia, we continue to develop leaders with Augustinian hearts grounded in faith, purpose, and integrity who enter the world with veritas, unitas, and caritas as their compass. Such spiritual and intellectual habits and traits form the leadership standards needed to become exemplars of the commitment to the

common good. Simply stated, the success of Austin Prep and its students is a story of faith and hope, anchored in Christ and the heritage of St. Augustine.

The people and programs featured in this winter edition of Journey Magazine are an integral part of Austin Prep’s ongoing transformation. Over the past several years, Austin Prep has grown substantially with forward-thinking strategic plans that expanded teaching and learning opportunities. From innovative academic programs, to the fine and performing arts, to athletics, to co-curricular activities and student life, Austin Prep continues to be bold in its quest to provide the best educational environment in developing character-driven, intellectually accomplished, inspiring leaders of tomorrow.

The best days of Austin Prep still lie ahead. United in common purpose, we will continue to persist with the boldness of spirit to keep elevating Austin Prep to the next level of excellence.

Head of School, James Hickey, Ph.D. P’22,’23,’24,’27

Reagan Hickey, Special Assistant to the Head of School

”Beyond the Books: The Sacred Act of Bearing Witness”

The iron gates of Auschwitz and Birkenau still bear their cruel promise: “Arbeit Macht Frei.” On a spring morning in 2024, fifty-five members of the Austin Prep community walked beneath them, tracing the footsteps of millions who entered but never left. In the basement cell where Saint Maximilian Kolbe, a Franciscan priest, made his ultimate sacrifice – volunteering to die in place of a stranger – the group paused in heavy silence.

Later that day, gathering for Mass as they did throughout the trip, students and faculty confronted questions that transcend time: How could humanity descend to such depths? What enables someone like Kolbe to rise to such heights of courage? Most urgently, what lessons does this history hold for us today?

“Going to Germany and Poland helped me connect emotionally with the subject,” said Aidan O’Neill ‘26, his voice carrying the weight of what the group had witnessed.

This wasn’t just another school trip – it was a Remembrance Journey, designed to honor victims, bear witness, and learn firsthand about events that shaped human history more than 80 years ago.

In addition to students, the group included Fr. Patrick Armano, School Chaplain, Mr. John Weber P’18, ’20, ’22, CFO, Mrs. Claudia Colannino, Registrar, Ms. Cheryl Amari P’25, Theology faculty, Ms. Jess Swindell, History faculty and Mr. Michael McLaughlin, Head of Middle School.

This was one of the most ambitious trips yet for Austin Prep. “The Remembrance Tour grew out of a class called ‘The Holocaust Examined’. Many students thought that, as difficult as the subject is, it was important to go. Parents and faculty agreed,”

Mr. McLaughlin said.

“This was an opportunity for all of us to learn something of what’s involved in the process of remembrance,” added Mr. Weber. “We visited specific sites, for example the villa where the Holocaust was organized. We heard personal stories, saw the actual paperwork. Believe me, we were engaged and all of us were impacted and left with a clearer understanding of this tragic historic event.”

The trip began in Berlin. Through the Topography of Terror Museum and the Museum of the Murdered Jews of Europe, past sites of book-burnings and deportations, the group walked in the footsteps of history. In these spaces of memory, Josie Palermo ’26

found solace in the times of structured silence, moments that allowed her to sit quietly and contemplate the weight of what she was seeing.

Any kind of travel takes you out of normal routines and encourages mindfulness. Visiting such tragic locations can spur spiritual growth and greater awareness. “We left with deeper insights into the lives that others have had to live,” Aidan said.

The journey continued to Prague, where the Terezin concentration camp left an indelible mark on the travelers.

In Krakow, the Umschlagplatz bore silent testimony to thousands of lives disrupted. “We paid witness to the site from which the Jewish people of Krakow were deported from the Ghetto to concentration camps, including Auschwitz,” Mr. McLaughlin explained.

“Naturally, Auschwitz and Birkenau left everyone silent and with the strongest personal feelings,” Mr. Weber reflected. “But the teachers with us had prepared carefully and led discussions about what we had seen and felt. We all understood veritas, unitas, and caritas more deeply on that day.”

Fr. Patrick Armano celebrates Mass in Berlin

Concentration Camp tour in Auschwitz

Students visit Castle Quarter in Prague

Students walk across the site of Auschwitz Birkenau in Poland

A stop at Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate

Studying the Torah, Jewish Museum in Berlin Memorial to murdered Jews of Europe in Berlin

Exploration through Travel: A World of Options

Over time, Austin Prep has developed a tried and tested formula for educational travel based on the foundation of its Augustinian values. Travel gives students a chance to put their books down and engage directly with the real world. It provides experiences that encourage thinking for oneself, connecting with people from other cultures, opening to new ideas, seeking ways to understand, empathize, and contribute.

Over the last ten years, the program has taken students to 17 countries across five continents. “Travel is a vital mode of experiential learning,” explained Mr. Michael McLaughlin, Head of Middle School“It combines direct experience with focused reflection.

Plans are underway to expand the program’s scope even further in terms of the kinds of trips offered, time-of-year, and cost. The objective is to make experiential learning available to everyone — and not just students. Families, faculty, and staff are increasingly going along on the trips and that’s just as it should be.

This spring, Austin Prep STEM students will be researching invasive species and environmental health in the tidal pools of Bermuda. Other students will be up to their elbows in robots in Japan. This past fall, a group returned from an immersive French language- and culture-based trip to Quebec. Wherever Austin Prep travels, the student experience is one that seeks to live Mission by being experiential, community-focused, and transformative.

If Austin Prep’s travel program had a motto, it would probably be Augustine’s observation that “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”

Austin Prep continues to turn new pages, teaching lessons that only experience can provide.

Ready to Travel, Logan International Terminal

Breakfast in Old City, Quebec

Closing Exhibit, Jewish Museum, Berlin

Guard at the gate, Prague Guard at the gate, Prague

Sports Travel. Same strategy, different game.

“Everyone wanted a seat on the plane to the Nike Outdoor Nationals,” Austin Prep head track and field coach Brad Harkins recalled. “This was a chance for our student-athletes to get an up-close view of the Pac-12, an opportunity to watch world-class track competition that most kids never get. You benefit by seeing other athletes, other programs, other venues. That kind of proximity shows you where you stand. Even having lunch with 2000 elite athletes in a dining hall that’s as big as the food court at the Burlington Mall is a learning experience.”

17 Austin Prep students met the championship standards and traveled to the University of Oregon in Eugene for the meet. Labeled Track Town USA for its rich track history of hosting World Championships and Olympic Trials, Eugene’s legendary Hayward Field is considered the holy grail of American track and field facilities, and competing there is a bucket list goal for track and field athletes of all ages.

“Our Co-Ed 4x400 meter relay team was highly ranked in that event and got on the podium. The Girls 4x100 meter relay team set a school record in the prelims,” Brad recalls. “I would say we more than achieved our main objectives, which were to let our athletes see how far they could go, hone a winning mindset, and bond as a team.”

“Most teams do not travel the way we do. Travel is an education. Ask any of our athletes,” Brad added.

The trip was more than an opportunity for Austin Prep’s student-athletes to compete at the highest level at a world

renown facility. It was also an opportunity to reflect on the school’s rich history. The trip was arranged by Austin Prep Trustee and Alumnus Mark Duggan ’72, who spent 28 years with Nike as a senior executive. Prior to that, Mark was a former Austin Prep track and field and cross country athlete and NCAA All American at UMass Boston.

“I’m glad the Austin Prep team, Brad and Nicolle (Assistant Coach), were able to visit the Nike Campus and world Headquarters while in Oregon. Tours are by invitation only,” Mark noted. “They had the opportunity to meet senior managers of Nike’s EKIN program. EKINs are technical field-based representatives responsible for communications and education of Nike product innovations and brand development. The Austin Prep team was provided a campus tour of its Innovation Center and other facilities by EKIN managers. Including a couple laps on the Michael Johnson Track.”

Mark was part of the group that created the EKIN program in 1981. EKIN is Nike spelled backwards, and was a name used to differentiate the group and underscore the importance of Nike roots connecting directly to athletes, coaches, consumers and retailers.

“The Austin Prep track team qualifying and competing in the National Championship was impressive,” Mark added. “Only the very elite track athletes and schools participate in this Championship and at the University of Oregon.”

Girls 4x800m Relay Victoria Tenrero ’25, Madison Valade ’25, Cailin Fennessy ’24, Madgelana Tenrero ’27

Mario Tomic ’24 hands off to Isabella Tomic ’24

Windows on

Fueled by the generosity of current families and alumni, Austin Prep’s ambitious program of capital projects continue to transform the campus. Last summer, about two-thirds of Austin Prep’s original windows were replaced. The new windows are modern in design and energy-efficient, and will contribute significantly to more cost-efficient operations, enabling the school to derive maximum benefit from the $5.2 million investment in a state-of-the-art HVAC system, installed a year before.

Austin Prep CFO, John Weber P’18, ’20, ’22 , indicated that providing an intellectually stimulating environment often depends on maintaining a comfortable physical environment. The stifling heat and humidity in September 2023 was clear confirmation that installing a new HVAC system and replacing the School’s original windows was a prudent investment at the right time.

At a time when other schools in the area were forced to shut down because of heat, Austin Prep students’ education was uninterrupted in comfortable, climate-controlled learning environments. “It’s not difficult to overstate the value of these upgrades,” Mr. Weber said, “Such investments are critical to assisting students harness their full potential.” The window replacement project, which cost $2.2 million and began during summer 2024 will be completed during summer 2025 to minimize disruption.

It is important to see the windows project in context. It is one of the final major elements of a strategic plan to modernize aging infrastructure - a plan that has been unfolding for years. Everyone in the Austin Prep community can take pride in knowing that ongoing campus upgrades continue to support the unending commitment to match campus facilities with the school’s outstanding educational programs.

Over twelve years of continuous planned upgrades, Austin Prep has created an environment where students and faculty engage in teaching and learning activities that are safe, secure, and welcoming. Ongoing strategic planning initiatives have paved the way forward in developing a beautiful campus setting that sustains the school’s architectural history with up-to-date improvements. Describing the scale of what’s been accomplished, Mr. Weber emphasized that in just the last six years, Austin Prep has invested about $22 million in improvements, upgrades, renovations, and new facilities. These

Our Future

investments impact every aspect of student life, from modern science and STEM programs that offer college level laboratory equipment, to a highly celebrated athletic complex to an all-encompassing, community-oriented Dining Hall. Dr. James Hickey, Head of School describes the deliberate choice of utilizing round tables in the Dining Hall as an example of Augustinian Unitas. At every round table, every student has a prime seat. A center of community, the Dining Hall fosters friendships that will last a lifetime.

Because transformation has no end point, there is more planned in the years ahead to support Austin Prep’s ongoing commitment to excellence. It is in these settings, supported by outstanding teachers, that students acquire the requisite research and study skills, facilitating a smooth transition to college fortified by an extraordinary educational foundation.

As impressive as the results of the School’s last two strategic plans have been, keeping Austin Prep at the cutting edge of Roman Catholic education requires continuous effort. In September 2024, the Board of Trustees approved a new five-year strategic plan that includes initiatives like the construction of another STEM lab, expanding parking, launching a comprehensive integrated learning program for diverse learners, campus upgrades, and other endeavors that will be shared in the near future.

As always, the success of these multi-faceted and comprehenssive campus projects depends heavily on the ongoing support of Austin Prep’s families and alumni. The Austin Prep community is blessed with the spirit of generosity that drives the unrelenting vision of quality and distinction. Dr. Hickey said it best when he wrote, “Each generation of Austin Prep families that sacrificed for the next one fulfilled its obligation to become great ancestors for future Austin Prep families.”

ARTat Austin Prep

RENAISSANCE, RENEWAL, AND REINVENTION.

“Exhibiting one’s work is a vital part of the creative process,” says Art and Design faculty Brother Blair Nuyda, A.A. “And not only for accomplished artists. It’s even more important for students who never thought of themselves as possessing artistic talent. Having their work hanging in the gallery tells them that they do have ability, they do have something to say.

“Most students will not become professional artists, but if they only realize they have the potential to be, that itself is an achievement.

“Watch the faces of students whose friends are looking at their work, ” he says. “You can tell how much it means to them. I want more people to have that experience.”

According to Art and Design faculty Ms. Lena Caruso, the reimagined gallery will eventually show the work of artists from throughout the Austin Prep community. In fact, some Art and Design faculty members will be exhibiting work this spring.

In addition to showing more artists, Ms. Caruso and her colleagues want to exhibit a wider variety of artworks. They hope to adapt the gallery to display sculpture, art installations, fashion design, and more.

“Art is for everyone and everyone can do something,” says Art and Design Department Chair, Ms. Marla Pascucci-Byrne, P’26, ’30. “Supporting more types of work means creating more opportunities for people to express themselves.”

“There are always some who are reticent,” says Ms. Caruso. “But we specialize in turning “I can’t draw” into “Oh, I guess I can do it after all.”

She has no doubt that the new gallery is raising awareness, drawing in browsers, impressing prospective families, attracting potential artists, and changing minds about art.

“Sports has always been big at Austin Prep,” Ms. Caruso says. “But in a quieter way, so has Art.”

Motivation, inspiration, and quality.

Ms. Pascucci-Byrne believes that a new level of imagination in teaching art at Austin Prep is having a positive effect. Classic drawing and painting assignments have given way to more vivid challenges inspiring greater effort and surprising creativity. Recent projects have included:

• Creating medieval manuscripts, complete with calligraphy, watercolor illustrations, and period embellishments.

• Creating portraits of saints, done in honor of All Saints Day. The portraits were then cut into tile-shaped pieces and pasted on black backgrounds to simulate early Christian mosaics. Ms. Caruso said the Saint Mosaic project was one of her favorites. “I loved seeing the meaningful and passionate reasons that students used to choose their Saint, whether it was because they shared a name, or because it held a special connotation for a family member. I think it made researching what their Saint was known for and their Feast Day that much more special. This project was also a huge lesson in trusting the process.”

• Creating ads based on the ideas of students from Austin Prep’s Robotics class. The Art and Design Faculty are always looking for chances to collaborate with other academic disciplines, including Mandarin and Math.

Other assignments have involved designing new school uniforms, visualizing one’s Spirit Animal, using song lyrics as a jumping-off point for creating surrealistic images, or working with clay tools to carve religious figures out of foam.

All that ingenuity is paying off. Ms. Pascucci-Byrne makes no effort to conceal her pride in the quality of what the student-artists are creating.

Taking a broader view of what art can be.

“I’m particularly interested in how things can be combined,” says Amelia Condon ’26. “I like intertwining different arts.”

Amelia works in forms including painting, dance, guitar, piano, song writing and singing. She personifies the experimental, integrating nature of creating art today. Ms. Pascucci-Byrne calls her “A Triple Threat”, which may be an understatement.

A digital native, Amelia automatically thinks about how to employ social media platforms to share what she creates.

“You’ve got to get your work out there,” she says, “Let people know what you’re doing. It’s a question of building your personal brand. Promoting your business. Becoming an actual artist. There are a lot of ways to do that now.”

“..the senses are not content to take second place.”

Saint Augustine

Here’s whats next.

Austin Prep’s Art Department is ever evolving. Ms. Pascucci-Byrne, Ms. Caruso, and Brother Blair have many plans.

They intend to further renovate the gallery.

They want to reinvent the curriculum, adding classes in weaving, digital art, Italian art, and video making.

They are going to establish additional displays of artwork throughout Austin Prep.

Among themselves they discuss what would constitute a “dream” art class and envision setting up an artist-in-residence program in order to provide further inspiration and sources of instruction.

In the meantime, they will continue to challenge their students with assignments that generate amazing demonstrations of creativity. Then they will put their work on display in the new gallery.

Says Ms. Caruso: “Nothing fills you with confidence and pride like having art you created in a gallery where your friends and family can see it.”

Adds Ms. Pascucci-Byrne: “Art is everywhere; art is for everyone.”

And, finally, as St.Augustine put it so well: “…the senses are not content to take second place.”

Now? AreThey Where

Austin Prep has enjoyed a rich history of athletic success. In the last few years several former Cougars have continued their winning streaks in college and beyond.

From NCAA Division 1 to III, ACC to Ivy League to NESCAC, first years to grad students to alumni, some dealing with challenges caused by COVID along the way, all point to lessons learned as Cougars, both in and out of the classroom, and how the values of veritas, unitas, caritas, have played a role in their lives since leaving Willow Street.

Here are just a few.

Logan Bravo ’18, Harvard & Duke Baseball

Logan led Austin Prep baseball to a state championship on his way to being named Boston Globe DIII Player of the Year. A Cougar soccer and basketball standout as well, and National Honor Society member, he went on to Harvard.

As a two-time captain for the Crimson, he was named first team All-Ivy, Academic All-Ivy and started every game as a senior first baseman. He graduated majoring in Economics with a minor in Studio Art, but because he lost a year when Harvard cancelled a season due to Covid, Logan completed his college eligibility at Duke where he also started every game for the Blue Devils and played in the College World Series while earning a master’s degree in finance. He is now working on Wall Street.

Looking back at his time at Austin Prep, Logan says he “learned a mental mindset to be successful. There was a real sense of pride and a culture where students learned how to win.”

Maeve Carey ’22, Boston University

Maeve co-captained a state championship team while at Austin Prep and was named Most Valuable Player in the MIAA.

She originally played for Stonehill but transferred to BU to major in Communications and to play in one of the top D1 programs in the nation.

“Growing up in Massachusetts, being able to play in Boston with such a rich hockey tradition was irresistible,” Maeve says. She also points to her time at Austin Prep as one where the school “sets you up for success, with a culture that gives you confidence to try new things.”

Maeve recalls having to get up at 4:45 in the morning while at Austin Prep so that she could make practices before school. “That kind of discipline and time management have come in handy in college.”

Ernie Little ’22, Wesleyan Baseball

Becoming the first Cardinal in team history to earn back-to-back First Team All-NESCAC honors in his first two collegiate seasons, including being named Rookie of the Year, one might say Ernie made a big impact.

Ernie started all 34 games in the 2024 season at second base, achieving a teamleading .362 batting average, as he led the team in hitting for the second straight season. A terror on the base paths, Ernie led the NESCAC and broke his own single-season team record with 30 stolen bases.

Looking back, Ernie says it all started at Austin Prep where he was part of the 2022 state champion team. “We were disciplined, ready to do everything and the bar was set very high. From running hills after practice to having demanding teachers in class.”

Ernie is on the same fast track in college, taking extra classes every semester with a goal of graduating in just three years. With a year of college eligibility remaining, he hopes to start graduate school while still playing.

Louis Finocchiaro ’17, Northeastern University Hockey

When he graduated from Austin Prep, two-time varsity hockey captain Louis had a big choice to make. Should he continue playing the sport he loved at a DIII level school or go to a larger university offering superior educational options but possibly beyond his playing ability?

In choosing Northeastern he creatively combined the best of both. The son of a coach, he was able to meet the head of the Husky program who invited him to skate with the team and work as his assistant.

By the time he graduated five years later with both BS and MS degrees in Finance, Louis was the Northeastern men’s hockey analytics coordinator. An integral part of the Huskies’ back-to-back-to-back Beanpot victories, Hockey East championship and two NCAA tournament appearances, Louis assisted in all video coordination and film analysis for the men’s hockey program, as well as on-ice work with the team, many who became close friends.

Now with the Raptor Investment Group in Boston, Louis looks back. “I realized what I loved most about my Austin Prep experience was having teammates who were smart and who were my friends. I was able to recreate that in college, just in a different way.”

Lauren Sablone ’20, Princeton Softball

Lauren has been trying to be the “best version of herself” since starting Austin Prep in the sixth grade. This ‘lifer’ says that it applies to “caring about other people to learning to be an academic problem solver.”

Winning varsity letters all six years at Austin Prep, Lauren was a sprinter, culminating in being named the Boston Globe 2020 indoor track star of the year. But it was on the softball diamond that she really shined.

She co-captained the 2019 state champions, and her .603 batting average led the team. Coupled with four years of academic distinction and named to the Head of School’s Medallion Society, Lauren was accepted to Princeton where, after taking a year off due to the pandemic, Lauren continued to excel.

As a junior Lauren started all 48 games and won a share of the Ivy title when she hit a three-run homer when the Tigers were down to their final strike and trailed Cornell 4-2. Elected captain for her senior year, Lauren majors in chemistry and credits her time at Austin Prep with learning to lead a balanced life, needed to perform at a high level.

Jenna Albanese ’20, Bowdoin Track & Field

Running “all the way up” the stairs during practice at Austin Prep taught Jenna that hard work gave her confidence. So, although not a recruited athlete at Bowdoin she did not hesitate to ask the head coach for a tryout as a walk-on.

Four years later she held the Polar Bear record in the long jump. Also competing in the triple jump she was named MVP of the Maine State Finals.

“Austin Prep prepared me because I was inspired by my teachers and coaches who were also my friends,” Jenna says. So much so that today she is part of the Teach for America program, working at a charter school in East Boston. A math major in college, Jenna is not sure what will come next in her career but says Austin Prep taught her that it was important to first give back to the community.

For now, she is focusing on the Spring when she has volunteered to help coach the field events on the school track team.

Gabby Vachon ’20 & Sydney DeRoche ’24, Bentley Soccer

When Sydney scored her first goal in her first game as a college soccer player, the assist went to Gabby. Teammates at Austin Prep and now reunited, they bring new meaning to unitas.

Both agree that Austin Prep values made the adjustment easier to the more physical style and time requirements of college soccer.

A team workhorse, often playing the full 90 minutes on defense, Austin Prep team captain Gabby followed her alum father Derek to Bentley where she is majoring in computer information systems. “I got interested in it at Austin Prep when Dr. Hickey arranged a special class for seniors.” After interning last summer, a job as a software engineer at Fidelity awaits after graduation.

Like Gabby, Sydney was a recruited player. After being Rookie of the Year at Austin Prep, and later MVP, by her senior year she made the NEPSAC All-Star team. She is majoring in digital and social media marketing.

“Austin Prep teams teach the value of togetherness,” Sydney says. “The school also stresses service and the Falcons team volunteers working with community youth programs. We were well prepared on every level.”

Mike Chabra ’20, Providence College Lacrosse

An Austin Prep, lifer, Mike made the jump to Providence, he said it was easy. “The big thing in veritas is to be truthful to yourself. If I did that, I knew things would work out.”

One of the “truths” of Mike’s life has been the game of lacrosse. Even as a three-sport athlete at Austin Prep, there was always time for a little extra lax shooting practice.

After being a two-time lacrosse captain, high school All American and MIAA DIII Player of the Year at Austin Prep, Mike earned a rare full lacrosse scholarship to Providence where he went on to set records and more Big East and All-American honors.

“I went to Austin Prep for a solid Catholic education and found a similar experience in Providence. It makes a difference.” Clearly goal oriented, Mike earned a BS in finance and now, working as a grad assistant coach for the Friars, is finishing up his MBA.

Dr. Timothy Rivotto ’09, University of Richmond Cross Country

As an Austin Prep lifer, Cougar tennis player and distance runner Tim Rivotto spent hours running across rolling hills, sometimes on golf courses. And while some consider golf “a good walk spoiled,” over the years Tim discovered golf courses could be more than a good place to run. In fact, it became his career.

After suffering an injury running for the University of Richmond, Tim became fascinated with the rehab process. So much so that he followed his BS in Psychology with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions.

His passion led to concentrating on golf and providing world class rehabilitation and training at his current business TR PR and Performance for Golfers. Whether cardio workouts, or strength and conditioning, Dr. Rivotto takes pride in helping players improve their games.

“Austin Prep sets up students for success,” he says. “You learn to focus. You learn to do your job. You learn to set goals. And in my case, I was lucky to combine my love of sports and science into a profession.”

Jimmy Holmes ’24, Union College Football

Jimmy’s college career is just starting, but if past performance indicates a good chance for future success, his journey has just begun.

A four-year member of the Austin Prep football team, he also ran three years of track for the Cougars. As football captain he earned the Coaches Award as a senior. In track he helped set a school record in the 4x100 relay and also earned the Coaches Award in that sport.

A member of the National Honor Society and National Spanish Honor Society student, Jimmy was able to attract the interest of many fine college football teams. He chose Union where he could continue to combine the Austin Prep ideal of a true scholar athlete.

Jimmy is majoring in Economics. Possessing speed, college football also demands size and strength that takes time to build, so Jimmy is doing what he learned at Austin Prep. “I’m putting in the work.” The best is yet to come.

Francesca Frelick ’20, Duke Softball

While a student athlete at Austin Prep, Frankie developed the habit of winning state championships. Whether ice hockey or softball, Frankie led the way.

Little wonder that minutes after midnight on the first day college coaches could recruit high school juniors, Frankie’s phone rang with a call from Duke.

The Blue Devils relatively new softball team wanted her to help build a winning tradition like Austin Prep. In Frankie they saw a member of the National Honor Society, Unitas Leadership Academy and the Division 3 Massachusetts Softball Athlete of the Year. They saw a winner.

A Covid shortened first year let her get the academics under control so by the start of her second year she was ready to roll. By the time she was Senior Captain, Frankie was a four time All America Scholar Athlete and led Duke to the ACC Championship qualifying for the College World Series.

“Duke was great. But nothing was handed to me. I had to work to make the starting team. I had to work to do well in class. But I learned how to do that at Austin Prep.”

After earning her degree with studies in Sociology and Finance, Frankie will be working again, now as part of the New Emerging Leader training program at Fidelity.

Evan Blanco ’22, University of Virginia Baseball

When Evan started his first game in the 2024 College World Series, the sophomore was Virginia’s most consistent pitcher, posting an 8-3 record and 3.62 earned-run average.

He was also one of 12 Cavaliers named to the ACC Academic Team and ACC Honor Roll.

It would not be honest to say that nobody saw it coming. He was the Boston Globe Massachusetts Player of the Year, a pitcher on the undefeated Cougar 2022 State Champs, and highly regarded major league prospect.

But Evan wanted a great education too, and UVA offered him both academic and athletic opportunities. Majoring in Economics, Evan says that everything at Austin Prep prepared him well.

“We had such great teachers and coaches we learned that in everything in life, the team comes first.”

36th Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament

We were blessed with a beautiful day on Monday, May 20, 2024 for the 36th Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament, held at Indian Ridge Country Club. The popular event was a great success and continues to host 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. We continue to be grateful to our alumni families for the 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. Net proceeds continue to support the Austin Prep Fund, the cornerstone of fundraising at Austin Prep, providing annual, flexible dollars for key programs and priorities. Our golfers participation and support make the extraordinary possible at Austin Prep.

Winning golfers list:

1st Place Team: Kevin Buck, Bryan Cedorchuk, Cade Cedorchuk, Evan Giggey

2nd Place Team: Sean Fitzpatrick, Shawn Maclean, Leigh Martinson P’21,’24, Stephen Thomson

3rd Place Team: Joseph Aceto, Hratch Minassian P’26, ’29, ’31, Mike Szablak

Closest to the Pin, Hole #7, Men: Evan Giggey

Closest to the Pin, Hole #7, Women: Laura Choma P’18, ’20

Longest Drive, Men: Dave Fletcher

Longest Drive, Women: Maureen Spellman & Christine Guy P’26

Closet to the Hole, Air Cannon, Hole #7: Dave Langenau P ’ 26

Thank you to our Student Volunteers:

Tyler Killilea ’25 and Michael McCarthy ’25

Special Thanks to Austin Prep Staff:

Fr. Patrick Armano, School Chaplain

Ms. Susan Belanger, Assistant Head of School, Administration & Special Projects

Mrs. Nicole Barletta P’28, ’29, Events Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Amy Costa, Assistant Director of Admissions

Mrs. Michelle Connor P’25, ’28, Assistant Head of School, Head of Upper School

Mrs. Kasey Field P ’29, Administrative Assistant, Admissions

Mr. Tyler Fleming P’28, ’30, Director of Communications

Dr. James Hickey P’22, ’23, ’24, ’27, Head of School

Mrs. Allyson Jaena P’19, ’22, ’26, Student Accounts Manager

Mr. Jack Meaney ’14, Associate Director of Annual Giving

Mr. Matt Mulcahy ’10, Communications Assistant

Mrs. Hillary Repucci, Director of Development

Mrs. Lisa Simmons P’24, ’25, ’27, ’30, Director of Admissions

Austin Open Golf Tournament Save The Date May 19, 2025

37th Annual

Forty Years of Service.

When a member of the faculty leads a procession carrying the school mace at the start of a formal academic ceremony it is always symbolic.

A tradition that goes back to medieval England, the mace represents a school’s authority to grant diplomas, unity and shared purpose within the academic community, the enduring traditions of learning, and service to students.

In the 2024 Commencement exercises there was even more meaningful symbolism present when, for the first time in school history, a female member of the faculty had the honor to carry the mace.

Since its introduction under Head of School Dr. Hickey, the Austin Prep mace has always been carried by the longest tenured faculty member and this year that title is held by esteemed World Language Faculty Ms. Celia Barletta.

Now in her 40th year teaching Spanish at Austin Prep, Celia remembers many milestones in the history of the school coinciding with her career.

“I never imagined reaching this point when I arrived at Austin Prep. Being a part of the Austin Prep journey and positive growth in the spirit of St. Augustine has been a rewarding experience.”

An all-boys school then, Celia has seen the school welcoming young women. She was also present at the creation of the middle

school. “And I often reflect on dedicated colleagues and the legacy they helped create. It is truly a blessing to be part of this community.”

“I can see growth everywhere from state of the art teaching technology and improved facilities, to new arts programs.”

Celia arrived at Austin Prep with a BA from Assumption College and went on to earn a Master’s degree and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study. “When I started teaching Spanish here it was chalk boards and books. Today technology has created a new age of learning. The students have always worked hard. But now they can truly explore new languages using tools that facilitate the process of becoming fluent. It’s not just pen and paper anymore.”

Spanish has been particularly relevant as the years have passed, with more people in the area speaking it everywhere from jobs to games, to volunteering.

“Through teaching French, Latin, Mandarin and Spanish, we truly are teaching students who will be citizens of the world,” says the 2020 St. Augustine Lumen Award winner for Excellence in Teaching.

Carrying the mace is an honor for all that it symbolizes. And one can’t imagine a more worthy faculty member to lead the way as she has for her entire career.

Dr. Hickey with Valedictorian Anna Ferranti ’24

Ava Intoppa ’24 carries class banner during processional

Owen Watson ’24

Below: Good Sportsmanship Awards go to Morgan O’Donnell’24 and Jared Hickey ’24, pictured with Trustee Tom Flynn ’84, and Head of School Dr. James Hickey

Austin Prep celebrated the Baccalaureate Liturgy and Commencement for the Class of 2024, on Friday, May 17th on Father Seymour Field. Friends, family, faculty, staff, Austin Prep Board of Trustees and 151 graduates came together for Mass and the conferring of diplomas for members of the Class of 2024.

Celebrant Most Rev. Mark O’Connell, J.C.D., Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Archdiocese of Boston, emphasized to graduates the distinct changes that have occurred in the world since their arrival at Austin Prep.

“These four years have been significant years in the history of the whole world. It is a different place now,” Bishop Mark said. “COVID, politics, war, and technology has changed us. Colleges are reeling in the suddenness of the changes. Some changes are needed, but some changes are leading us astray from basic truths, and from God. You graduates are needed to bring sanity back to institutions of higher learning.”

Bishop Mark is no stranger to big days at Austin Prep. In recent years, Bishop Mark has served as the celebrant at Austin Prep’s First Responder Blue Mass, Convocation and Baccalaureate Masses, and perhaps most notably, Austin Prep’s Baccalaureate Liturgy for the Class of 2020, which was our first opportunity to come together as a community after the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered schools across the Commonwealth in March 2020. “You have had the strangest Senior Year of any class at Austin Prep in its history,” Bishop Mark told the Class of 2020.

Michael Young, Class of 2024 Salutatorian and Austin Prep Lifer, noted that while life may be unpredictable, what is most important is being involved when your opportunity comes. “Now, here we are going on to the next chapter of our lives; we will be presented with many opportunities, I encourage you, take them,” Michael said. “Pursue that which makes you nervous. If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough. Take a second and think, what can I do to live a life of fulfillment and of accomplishment? It was Teddy Roosevelt who said. ‘It is not the critic who counts, but the credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.’ How will you be the man or woman in the arena and ignore the critic on the sideline?”

Class of 2024 Valedictorian and Austin Prep Lifer, Anna Ferranti, reflected on how her seven year Austin Prep Journey shaped her. “In considering what Austin Prep has meant to me, it is hard to accurately quantify. I could talk about the high level of academics and the accomplishments of our students within the classroom. I could talk about our athletic programs and their multitudinous successes. I could talk about the compelling artistic pursuits that take the stage each year. I could talk about the vast array of clubs initiated and run by students to follow the soaring trajectories of their passions,” Anna said.

“But the truth is, these aren’t the things that really mattered to me. What mattered was all of the little things in between. Because what was truly special about Austin Prep isn’t what it made us, it’s who it made us,” Anna added.

While addressing the graduates, Head of School James Hickey, Ph.D. P’22, ’23, ’24,’27, took the opportunity to share some final bits of Augustinian wisdom about the restless journey they will encounter ahead.

Michael Simmons ’24 with parents Dave and Lisa Simmons, Director of Admissions, P’24 ’25 ’27 ’30

Head of School Dr. James Hickey presents the Dr. James Hickey Leadership Award to David VanderZouwen ’24

“You will encounter storms, sometimes they’ll be actual weather patterns like the soaker that was the Senior class trip to Disney. I remember watching a weather report while we were in Florida that it rained more than double the average rainfall in those 4 days than it does in the entire month of November, but you adapted and found a way to stay on course and make lasting memories,” Dr. Hickey said. “When you hit personal storms, look inward for advice. It’s the Augustinian thing to do. With a foundation of veritas, unitas, and caritas , your hearts will be the compass to get you back on the right course.”

“Through your Augustinian heart, God will remind you that the measure of love is that love has no measure,” Dr. Hickey added.

The event included remarks from Board of Trustees Chair, Mr. Daniel Bouchard, P’10, ’14, ’15, who noted that graduates are ready to enter college, infused with the values of veritas, unitas, and caritas. “The inspired teaching and learning environment at Austin Prep is palpable. If our seniors take anything away from these ceremonies, I hope they have internalized the exhilaration for more learning. Today is just the beginning. It is where you go from here that matters,” Mr. Bouchard said. “But wherever you go, cultivate the Augustinian moral sensibility and exhibit the character to apply it.”

Mr. Bouchard also congratulated the Class of 2024 for being accepted to some of the top colleges, universities and military academies in the United States.

Veritas, Unitas, and Caritas.

Austin Prep’s Class of 2024 were admitted to many of the finest colleges and universities in the United States and beyond. Of particular note, four students were commissioned at U.S. service academies, including Emily Clay ’24, Victor Villarroel ’24 and Lauren Neal ’24, who were presented with appointments to the United States Naval Academy during special ceremonies in the Chapel of St. Augustine in front of classmates and faculty. Evan Ventura ’24 was the fourth student to matriculate to a service academy. Evan is at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Victor Villarroel '24, United States Naval Academy

Evan Ventura '24, United States Military Academy at West Point

Lauren Neal '24, United States Naval Academy

Emily Clay '24, United States Naval Academy

Paula Reyes ’24

Memorial Scholarships Awarded Scholarship Recipients

We were honored to announce Memorial Scholarship recipients for the 2024-2025 academic year at a special breakfast and ceremony. 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. Students were presented with certificates by James Hickey, Ph.D., Head of School, and Jonathan Pollard, Associate Head of School. We are proud of our students and grateful for the support of those who make these scholarships possible. Head of School, Dr. James Hickey and Associate Head of School, Jonathan Pollard ’97 joined benefactors to present awards.

The Ross A. Alameddine ’05 Memorial Scholarship

Anna Ryan ’25

The John V. Aliberti ’70 Memorial Scholarship

Abigail Matuza ’27

The Thomas N. Callahan ’10 Memorial Scholarship

Ava Cote ’26

The Kristen M. Corbett ’08 Memorial Scholarship

Maeve Lomasney ’26 & Bella Ryan ’27

The Francis J. Cummings Memorial Scholarship

Leila Musto ’26

The Michael R. Darwin ’82 Memorial Scholarship

Kayla Maguire ’27

The Francis T. Duggan Memorial Scholarship

Keira Gagne ’26 & Sofia Cataldi ’26

The Alyce and Fred Gilfeather Memorial Scholarship

Julia Coelho ’27

The Margot E. Girodet Memorial Scholarship

Daisy McLaughlin ’27

The Scott J. Heseltine ’82 Memorial Scholarship

Gabriella McLaughlin ’27

The James M. McGonagle, II ’01 Memorial Scholarship

Madison McCarthy ’25

The George “Matt” Miller Memorial Scholarship

David Gardner ’27

The Alyssa Nanopoulos ’08 Memorial Scholarship

Fiona Hyland ’25

The David E. Nelson ’81 Memorial Scholarship

Alexandra Herbert ’26

The David F. O’Donnell Memorial Scholarship

Victoria Liwanag ’25

The Herbert W. Peterson, Jr. & Claire M. Peterson Memorial Scholarship

Nolan Richards ’27

The Martha and Arthur Pimentel GP’99, GP’01 Memorial Scholarship

Aiden Titcomb ’26

The Aristides “Artie” C. Speros, Jr. ’85 Memorial Scholarship

Logan McGovern ’27

The Michael G. Sverdlove ’14 Memorial Scholarship

Ted Nolan ’25 & Madison Mangino ’26

The William H. Turner Scholarship

Luke “Luca” Damian ’27

The Austin Prep Teachers Association Scholarship

Emily Raynor ’27

John and Brian Corbett presented the Kristen Corbett ’08 scholarship to Maeve Lomasney ’26 & Bella Ryan ’27

We are deeply grateful for all who have steadily supported our Augustinian, Roman Catholic mission...

Annual Report 2023-2024

We are honored to present our Annual Report, recognizing all donors who have made Austin Prep a philanthropic priority from July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024. We are deeply grateful for all who have steadily supported our Augustinian, Roman Catholic mission to inspire hearts to unite, minds to inquire, and hands to serve. Thank you for your enduring and generous commitments.

Every effort has been made to accurately list all individuals, families, foundations, and organizations who made a donation to Austin Prep during the last fiscal year. If we have made an error or omission in the report, please contact the Office of Development and Alumni Engagement at 781.944.4900. We are pleased to make requested corrections.

Austin Prep Fund Impact Statement

Transforming Through Support

Chief among the core values at Austin Prep are faith, excellence, and innovation — staying at the forefront of educational innovation. Your contributions to the Austin Prep Fund have been instrumental in advancing our mission across all key areas, sustaining and growing a dynamic and enriching learning environment.

Lynnette Alameddine P’05 presented the Ross A. Alameddine ’05 scholarship to Anna Ryan ’25

Joseph Duggan ’84 presented one of the Francis T. Duggan scholarships to Sofia Cataldi ’26

Jim McGonagle P’99 ’01 ’05 presented the James M. McGonagle, II ’01 scholarship to Madison McCarthy ’25

Celebrating Grandparents Day: A Heartwarming Tradition at Austin Prep

Grandparents Day is always a special occasion at Austin Prep. Held on two days this past September, grandparents arrived on campus for a continental breakfast and fellowship, before being joined by their Austin Prep grandchildren for a special prayer service in Richard J. Meelia ’67 Hall. Celebrating the special bond between grandparent and grandchild concluded with a grandchild-led tour of campus.

Grandparents Day at Austin Prep isn’t just about honoring grandparents-it’s about bridging the gap between generations and teaching students to value their roots. Grandparents serve as a living connection to the past, offering stories, traditions, and wisdom that enrich young minds.

For students, the celebration fosters respect and gratitude, helping them understand the importance of family bonds and intergenerational relationships. For grandparents, it’s a moment to feel appreciated and connected to their grandchildren’s lives, strengthening their role in the family fabric.

Grandparents Day was moved to September this year to more closely align with the National Grandparents Day, which is traditionally celebrated the Sunday after Labor Day. We are grateful to all the Austin Prep Grandparents who attended, as well as all those who helped make the special days possible.

Kayla ’27 and Jason ’29 Onorato with grandparents John and Jeannine Callahan

Frankie Bates ’30 with grandmother Mrs. Carla Walsh

Michael Brosnan ’26 with grandparents Howard and Beverly Strachan

Hunter ’27 and Addison ’29 Slye with grandparents Tony and Cheryl Pimentel

Branden Davis ’27 with grandmothers Mrs. Doris Petrucci and Mrs. Susan Davis

Alumni Come Back to Honor 60 Years of Excellence

As part of the grand celebrations for Austin Prep’s 60th Anniversary, over 200 alumni from various classes came back to campus last April to commemorate this special anniversary.

Hosted by Austin Prep Trustee Joey Carregal, ’05, and Austin Prep, guests took a self-guided tour of campus and enjoyed cocktails and dinner in the Austin Prep Dining Hall. Entertainment in Richard J. Meelia ’67 Hall was provided by the band Mischief Mile feat: led by Dan Siracusa, ’04, with special guest, DIZ, Jay Dizacomo ’71.

The event was catered by Sage Dining, Austin Prep’s food provider who closed out the evening with a late night buffet.

Special thanks to the following sponsors of the event.

DJ Realty (Carregal Family)

Boston Sword & Tuna (Paul Scola ’05)

Joseph’s Pita (Stephen Boghos ’08)

Moynihan No. Reading Lumber Co. (Stef Moynihan ’05)

North Billerica Smiles (Matt Annesse ’04)

Sherr Financial (Alexander ’03 & Daniel Sherr ’05)

Michael Bravo, P’18’20,Trustee

Naomi Lane ’95, Tyler Letende ’96, & Serena (Letende) Shomody ’96

Mark Maradei ’12, Jack Meaney ’14 & Head of School, Dr. James Hickey P’22, ’23, ’24, ’27

“Mischief Mile” - feat lead singer Dan Siracusa ‘05

Bianca Cammasso ’05, Joey Carregal ’05, Liz (Siracusa) Guilmette ’05, Tara (Chenery) Pucci ’05 , Ashley (McCarthy) Leo ’05, Lauren McGonagle ’05, Katie (Ring)Worden ’05

Johanna Carregal P’05 ’07 ’10 & Trustee, Joey Carregal ’05

The Augustinian Exchange Program Connects Austin Prep Students with Fellow Augustinian Schools

The Patron of Austin Prep, St. Augustine is one of the most consequential and well-known saints in the history of the Church. Above all else, St. Augustine was a great teacher, and his teachings helped form the Augustinian approach to education as a journey, where students are engaged in communal life searching for truth, with all academic and spiritual experiences helping to transform the student.

The Augustinian tradition is an essential part of the Austin Prep experience, and recently, Austin Prep has developed special programming unique to Austin Prep to deepen the school’s Augustinian connections.

To kick off the program, in December 2023, Austin Prep participated in a student exchange with Malvern Prep, an Augustinian Catholic school located in the suburbs of Philadelphia. As members of the Augustinian Secondary Educational Association (ASEA), Austin Prep and Malvern Prep share a common heritage with eight other Augustinian schools in North America. ASEA was established by the North American Conference of Augustinian Provincials to foster unity, efficiency, and continued development within the Augustinian ministry of secondary education. The Association is a forum and vehicle for the sharing of resources, for the advancement of the Augustinian charism and values, for the promotion of secondary education as a vital and proper ministry of the Order, and for assuring authentic Augustinian identity in the schools.

Four Austin Prep students – Colin Walsh ’25, Derek Langenau ’26, Shane Miller ’26, and Mark-Henry Novas ’26 – spent a full week on Malvern Prep’s campus. The exchange provided the opportunity for students from both schools to learn from each other while forming bonds solidified and amplified by both school’s commitment to the Augustinian values of veritas, unitas, and caritas.

In addition to shadowing host students and engaging with the 600 students who make Malvern Prep their home, Austin Prep students also worked on a service project by visiting an early childhood center for preschool children who are underserved, and found time to attend a Villanova University Women’s Basketball game (Villanova, as well as Merrimack College in North Andover, are the two higher education institutions sponsored by the Augustinians).

“I took the chance and was honored to represent my school here, in Philadelphia,” Mark-Henry said at a schoolwide Mass at Malvern Prep. “Throughout this week I’ve had the pleasure to get to know the welcoming community as well as help out with the children at St. Agnes. In typical Augustinian fashion, my friends and I have been made to feel a part of the Malvern Prep community this entire week.”

In April of 2024 Colin, Derek, Shane, and Mark-Henry had the opportunity to return the hospitality and hosted three students from Malvern Prep. Austin Trout ’25, Andrew Davis ’25, and Jack Hechler ’26 formed the Malvern delegation and were welcomed with a tour of campus, attended a week’s worth of classes, shadowed their host students, and engaged with the entire student body during Community Meeting. The Malvern Boys shared that our students helped make them feel like Austin Prep was their home away from Philadelphia. In addition to spending time at Austin Prep, they visited some area colleges, completed a tour of Fenway Park, and embarked on the View Boston 360 Tour at the top of the Prudential Tower. They also appreciated a service project to assist the Benedictine monks at a local abbey.

When asked what they will remember about the trip, Jack stated that he “loved hearing prayers each day through announcements and that there are Sisters and a Father on campus.” Andrew expressed that he was “thankful for the reflection that he heard during Adeodatus.” Finally, Austin related that he was both “saddened that the trip came to an end, but grateful for the amazing opportunity he had to visit Austin Prep.”

The Adeodatus program, launched in September 2022, is named after St. Augustine’s son and a student-led program of interiority and reflection.

The purpose of this student exchange is to deepen Augustinian connections. As an all-boys school, Malvern Prep emphasizes the bonds of brotherhood, so their students were intrigued by how Austin Prep’s coeducation environment enacts the message of St. Augustine’s teachings and lives out the commitment to the Augustinian values of veritas, unitas, and caritas. Our students were excited to show them how much we have in common.

These exchanges are the latest initiative to bring the Augustinian heritage to the forefront at Austin Prep.

Austin Prep delegates visit Malvern Prep

Fenway Park was the place to visit when guests were in town.

Saint Augustine

Class Notes

Send us an update on your life, your work, your Journey.

Domenic DiRupo ’11 published a book on travel nursing in July 2024 titled, “The Essential Guide to Travel Nursing.”.

Jose Isidro ’88, above, won the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) 2023-24 Girls Soccer Official of the Year Award.

Anthony Biscardi ’88, above, won the 2024 Paul Tighe Award at the ANEFO (Association of New England Football Officials) Banquet.

Paige D’Ambrosio ’18 joined the staff of the Boston Ballet as Assistant Stage Manager.

Above, Joe Drotter ’67 pictured at Tam Binh Center in Vietnam. Joe passed away in January, 2024 and classmates gathered in the spring to celebrate his life.

CJ Hannafin ’01 in April 2024 Officiated the NCAA Division I National Championship in Ice Hockey. John Wrobel Jr. ’88 moved to Nashua NH in 2023 and took on a new position as the Facility Manager at St. Augustine’s School in Andover, MA.

Engagements & Weddings

Joey Carregal ’05 and Nadgie Anilus became engaged in September 2024. The couple celebrated with friends including Austin Prep Alumni, Mike Nuttal ’05, Doug Bouvier ’05, and Ashley (Herendeen) Phillips ’05.

The New Year started off with a mini Austin Prep reunion! On New Year’s Eve, Ryan Wedge ’11 married Abigail (Abby) Mitchell.

Dell’Anno ’12

Heffernan ’09 and Tyler Sullivan ’11 married on February 24, 2024. Austin Prep Alumni joining in the celebration were:

Top row (left to right): Dom Dirupo ’11, Chris Reed ’11, Matt Devoe ’11, Billy Maradei ’11, Steve Barker ’11, Johnny Saurman ’14, Dylan Dallbeck ’14, Andrew Leighton ’11, Zach Vieira ’11, Kyle Kirby ’11.

Bottom row (left to right): Jessie Spada ’ 20, Katie Garland Fortier ’09, Abigail Heffernan ’ 20, Emily Heffernan Sullivan ’09, Victoria Skiffington Quinlan ’09, Shane Sullivan ’14, Sam Cila ’11, Kaitlyn Laidley Nelson ’09, Tyler Sullivan ’11, Ryan Wedge ’11, Vania Cornelio ’11.

Future Austin Prep Cougars

(Left) Stephen Boghos ’08 and Kimberly welcomed their first child, a son, John Boghos on June 6, 2024.

(Right) Nick Tracia ’08 and Emma welcomed their first child, a son, Grayson Tracia on June 17, 2024.

Emily

Alexandra

married Matthew Galezowski on June 11, 2024 in the Chapel of St. Augustine.

Reunions & Visits

Taylor Vanderwoude-Anzidei ’08 visits Ms. Marla Pascucci-Byrne.

Class of ’74 Dan Mazza & Mark MacDougall touiring the campus with Head of School, Dr. James Hickey.

and

Kasey Mastrocola ’10, a licensed clinical psychologist, visited Austin Prep to discuss her career. Dr. Mastrocola earned her doctorate in clinical psychology from William James College and has focused her clinical work on utilizing cognitive-behavioral interventions and evidence-based treatments to help children and adolescents learn skills to effectively manage their emotional and behavioral experiences. She is passionate about understanding how a child’s unique strengths and vulnerabilities impact their cognitive, academic, social, emotional, and behavioral functioning. During her visit, Dr. Mastrocola shared insights from her experience providing community and school-based settings with our psychology classes.

Michael Nuttall ’05, Michael, recently visited Austin Prep drama classes to discuss how his drama background has been useful in his work as an ATF agent. He shared insights into how his acting experience has helped him excel in undercover operations, allowing him to convincingly portray different characters and navigate complex interpersonal situations, including penetrating and dismantling a dangerous gang.

Renee Dudley ’03, returned to Austin Prep to offer a book talk on ransomware that offered an exploration of cybersecurity challenges in the digital age. With insightful anecdotes about a team of ordinary people who are committed to fighting ransomware across the globe, Ms. Dudley delved into the evolution of ransomware attacks, highlighting their impact on individuals, businesses, and society at large. Ms. Dudley, a Pulitzer Prize finalist, met with Austin Prep Language students to share her expertise as a journalist and author while explaining how Austin Prep influenced her interest in covering stories that focus on ethical issues. Students left the presentation not only informed about the importance of protecting digital assets but also inspired to think about how they can apply their talents and skills in service to the community.

Ms. Dudley’s book is titled The Ransomware Hunting Team: A Band of Misfits’ Improbable Crusade to Save the World from Cybercrime and was released in late 2022.

Tim Rivotto ’09, a Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist and a Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Certified Medical Professional, specializing in golf injury management and performance training, came back this past fall to speak with the Austin Prep golf team and showed them injury management and performance training exercises.

George “Skip” DeVito ’68

his wife Janet stopped by for a visit in January.

You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless, until they rest in You.

Augustine of Hippo (354–430), in Confessions

In Paradisum

Pasquale Barletta, Grandfather of Angela ’28 and Jacob Barletta ’29

Daniel F. Brosnan Jr., Grandfather of Thomas ‘21, John ’22, Michael ’26 and Katelyn ’32.

Terence Burke ’75, Father of Patrick ’06, Christopher ’07, Brendan ’10, Brother of Francis ’71, Steven ’77, Matthew ’79, Anthony ’81, Uncle of Ryan ’13 and Sean ’17 Burke

Diana Chapdelaine, (Former Staff)

Lorraine Caron, Grandparent of Julia ’15 and Christopher ’20 Roselli

John Caron, Father of Lily Caron ’24 and Molly Cinquegrano ’25

James Daley ’85

David DeSantis ’80

John J. Driscoll Jr. , Grandfather of Sarah Driscoll ’29

Joseph Drotter ’67

David Forsythe, Grandfather of Daniel Walsh ’26

Richard Gariepy, Father of Nicole Marley (Faculty)

Kathleen Gorse, Mother of Caroline Junta (Staff)

Prakash Harjani, Grandfather of Suvir Harjani ’30

Patrick Hartigan ’00

Beulah Lamb, Grandmother of Dr. Jessica McCormack (Staff)

Verna McPherson, Mother of David McPherson (Staff)

Robert Moore, Father of Ava Moore ’26

Richard B. Nicholson, Grandfather of Gabriella DeNardo ’27

Bradford Robets ’85

Brian Ross ’75

Richard E. Silva ’75

Kenneth Swymer ’71

Harry V. Taylor, Jr. ’67

Paul Tenney (Staff)

This list contains the names shared with us as of January 24,2024. If you would like to list a loved one in Journey Magazine, please contact Susan Belanger, Assistant Head of School, Administration & Special Projects sbelanger@austinprep.org

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Share your JOURNEY

We want to follow your Journey beyond Austin Prep. Please share your updates including academic and athletic accomplishments, career milestones, marriages, births and any of life’s other big announcements. We want to celebrate YOU! www.austinprep.org/alumni/stay-connected

Weddings & Onesies!

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

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

Office of Alumni Relations

781-944-4900 ext. 4862

www.austinprep.org

Save-the-date for these upcoming 2025 events:

April 3, 2025, Alumni Career Day

May 15 – 16, 2025 50th Reunion Events: Class of 1975

May 19, 2025 Annual Austin Open Golf Tournament

To learn more about upcoming events and happenings, please visit www.austinprep.org/alumni

SUPPORT Austin Prep

For over 60 years, Austin Prep has created an academic experience to meet the ever-changing needs of its students in the classroom and beyond.This is an accomplishment made possible through the School’s unwavering commitment to veritas, unitas and caritas and the continued support and generosity of the Austin Prep community – of parents, grandparents, alumni and friends.

The Austin Prep Fund is the cornerstone of fundraising at Austin Prep, and provides annual, flexible dollars for key programs and priorities, and the funding to address unforeseen needs throughout the year. Your gift makes an indelible impact on current students, as well as future students.Your gift makes extraordinary possible at Austin Prep

www.austinprep.org/support-austin-prep or simply scan the QR code

Take a TOUR OF CAMPUS Today

Alumni are welcome to make an appointment and return to 101 Willow Street for an exclusive tour of campus update.