MAGIS
SPRING 2024
Welcome FROM OUR PRESIDENT
Dear Nativity Supporter,
As we prepare for graduation, I think often of the “Romero Prayer” written by Bishop Ken Untener. I am especially drawn to the following lines:
“ We plant the seeds that one day will grow.
We water the seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise.
We lay foundations that will need further development.
We provide yeast that produces effects far beyond our capabilities.”
This prayer perfectly describes the work of Nativity Prep. For young boys in these critical middle school years, Nativity provides a rigorous academic program that stresses growth and fundamental study skills within an environment that nurtures their intellectual, spiritual, social, and physical development.
The importance of the Nativity foundation becomes much more evident when, after several years of high school or college, our graduates come “home” to visit the school that has been so important in their formation. It is amazing for many of us to see how these once awkward and shy middle schoolers, have grown into men with character, confidence, and compassion.
At Nativity Prep, we know that a transformative education can take some time, and our ability to provide such intensive wraparound care is due to so many of you who believe in the promise of our graduates. The financial support you provide is the “yeast that produces effects far beyond our capabilities” and for that, we are incredibly grateful.
Brian P. Maher, President
Looking Ahead
Nativity Summer Program for all current and incoming students
Continued partnership with Dexter Southfield Summer Camp
Selected students attend Pine Manor Summer Enrichment Program at Boston College
Alumni barbeque and send-off for rising high school and college freshman
Staff professional development and 2024-2025 Fellow onboarding
Student Spotlight
ASA SIMMONDS DAWKINS CLASS OF ELLACURIA ‘27
Asa Simmonds-Dawkins, a member of the 5th-grade Class of Ellacuria, consistently strives for academic excellence and is always willing to help his classmates. Asa is a voracious reader, enthusiastically choosing books well over his grade level. He is passionate about poetry, art, and acting. His talents opened doors of opportunity to showcase his talents in the musical “Jiggin’ at the Jug” at the Strand Theatre. He was a member of the soccer, basketball, and baseball teams, where he displayed hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship. As he embraces new opportunities at Nativity, we are excited to witness Asa’s growth and contributions to our school community in the coming years.
Since being at Nativity, I’ve learned the true meaning of brotherhood. Each day that I walk through the school doors, I’m reminded of the genuine love and friendship that defines our community. I am thankful for the things I have learned so far being a student here but more excited about what’s ahead on my Nativity journey.
Alumni Spotlight
LUC BENJAMIN CLASS OF HEALY ‘13
Luc Benjamin graduated from Boston College with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He kept in close contact with his student sponsor, Joe Turo who played a crucial role in his career development. Through connections he fostered at Nativity, he started his professional career with the Bowdoin Group, an executive search firm in Boston. Luc has returned to Nativity as the Director of Recruitment. He oversees the recruitment of teaching professionals, while also assisting the Admissions team in engaging prospective students for the 5th and 6th grades.
Nativity has taught me what it truly means to embody love. Love is something that is learned not by being taught but by having first experienced it for ourselves. To walk in each day and be enveloped by the warmth of a community built on compassion and support is an experience like no other. As an alumni turned staff member, I am blessed to continue this legacy of love, ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and cherished. Nativity has instilled in me the power of empathy and the importance of being a constant source of care and encouragement for those around me. I am committed to nurturing an environment where the boys at Nativity learn the profound art of loving and supporting one another. It is not just about what we teach in the classrooms, but the love we impart that truly shapes the lives of our students.
MEN AND WOMEN
PARTNER HIGHLIGHT
G2 Capital Advisors, led by Jeffrey Unger, has supported Nativity Prep for over a decade. Their unwavering commitment and partnership have been instrumental in driving our mission forward. The team at G2 provides and serves at our Dinner Program monthly. They are always in attendance at our Promise Dinner and work tirelessly to make our Golf Classic Tournament a huge success. Thank you, G2 Capital Advisors, for your continued support.
Are you or your company interested in being a part of the Nativity Dinner Program?
Contact: Laurie Nahigian at lnahigian@nativityboston.org
Spring Highlights
This Spring was filled with visitors, community celebrations, athletic competitions, and more!
Congratulations to the CLASSES OF 2020 & 2024
Congratulations to the 8th grade Class of deMello and the 2020 Class of Castiglione.
Over the past year, our students and alumni dedicated themselves to securing placements in renowned high schools and respected universities. The Class of deMello was granted generous financial aid packages. The alumni of the Class of Castiglione have been awarded substantial financial aid packages and athletic and merit-based scholarships. They are eligible to bridge any financial gap through the Nativity College Promise Program. The Nativity community is excited to see what these young men do as they continue their educational pursuits!
HIGH SCHOOL ACCEPTANCES
COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES
6TH GRADE CLASS OF MVENG TIE CEREMONY
SYRACUSE HEAD FOOTBALL COACH, FRAN BROWN VISITS NATIVITY
5TH & 6TH GRADE BOSTON
COLLEGE PEN PAL PICNIC
MABACH TOURNAMENT
STUDENT SPONSOR APPRECIATION BREAKFAST
BIG BROTHER SOCIAL
8th Grade Graduation
Celebrate the 8th grade Class of deMello as they prepare to go on to the area’s top high schools.
20th Annual Golf Classic
The Nativity community is excited for a day of golf, fellowship, and fun to “Tee Up Our Students for Success” at Brae Burn Country Club.
End of Fiscal Year
Last day to make a gift in Nativity’s fiscal year.
More @ www.nativityboston.org
Opening Doors. Forming Leaders. CHANGING THE NARRATIVE.
Alumni in the Building
Gadisa Goso, Class of Claver ‘97 started his professional journey at Nativity as a fellow in 2005. He transitioned to a lead teaching position and later assumed the role of Director of Graduate Support. Subsequently, he held positions as Dean of Students and Director of Enrollment at Boston College High School. Today, Gadisa serves as our school Principal, coming full circle.
Giovanni Acevedo, Class of Pro ‘08 teaches photography to our 7th-8th graders and assists with coaching our baseball team. Giovanni’s passion for photography and videography led him to start his own business, FUGI.
Raymond Scarduzio, Class of Pro ‘08 has returned to Nativity as the head baseball coach. Aside from coaching, Raymond is an entrepreneur with his own clothing line, “What Are Your Intentions.”
Xavier Etheridge, Class of Kostka ‘12 is our Assistant Director of Graduate Support and Admissions. He plays a pivotal role in preparing our 8th graders for high school and teaches high school test prep to our 7th and 8th graders.
Joshua Gbedema, Class of Rhodes ‘14 returned to Nativity as the Head Soccer coach. Joshua graduated from Regis College with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and currently works as an Emergency Communications Specialist-Police Dispatcher at Boston Police Headquarters.