Baccalaureate Mass and
Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2026
SIXTY-FOURTH
OF ST. AUGUSTINE PREPARATORY SCHOOL FOR THE CLASS OF 2026
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026
golDen DiploMA RecipienTS: ST. AUgUSTine pRepARAToRY ScHool clASS of 1976
Michael Angelo Acchione
Domenico Addiego
Jackson Charles Alcott
Jonah A. Alvarez
Zachary Bader
Rocco Peter Balestriere
Miles Baylock
Carson Heliodoro Bear
Thomas Joseph Bell Jr.
Zorin Bey
Gabriel Milano Beyer
Ronald Henry Biglin lll
Jonathan Thomas Bilella
Domenic Philip Botto
Enrico Botto Jr.
Grayson David Brett
Drake Brogan
Luke Michael Burns
Jacob Caccese
Jared Michael Callan
Nicolas Martin Candeloro
Matthew Ryan Carr
Patrick James Carvajal
Giovanni Tindaro Catania
Nicholas David Ciavardone
Gabriel Thomas Clay
Maxim Hunter Collazo
Nicolas Michael Costa
Jasper Charles Coville
Eric John Crain Jr.
Andrew Joseph Czekalski
Landon Elliott Davis
Christopher Jacob Debow
Sean T. Deery Jr.
Marco Bruno DeGironimo
Brady William DelBaugh
Cameron Vincent DeLeo
Ryan Stephen Diamond
Jason Joseph Dolce Jr.
William Joseph Dukich
Joshua Jackson Dusz
Richard Edwards Jr.
Jacob Thomas Engel
Rocco Marsilio Fanini
Chase Aaron Farrell
Justin A. Fauerbach
James Lawrence Faulk
Nathan Benjamin Fean
Max Russell Ferroni
Francis Thomas Ferzetti III
Aidan Patrick Flanigan
Liam H. Flynn
Jackson Ryan Foley
Luke Anthony Fortucci
Daniel George Francis
John Frangakis
Eric Joseph Gerst
Austin James Gilson
Cameron Greene
Anthony Rocco Gregorio
Jordan Alexander Gross
Logan Patrick Hayes
Kyle James Helphenstine
George V. Henry III
Jordan D. Hollingshead
Jacob Michael Holzer
Joseph David Irvine
Brady Jackson
David A Jaco
Zachary Edward Jacob
Aaron K. Jones
Patrick J. Kearney III
Jackson C. Kemp
Andrew Peter Kierland
Riley John Kostiuk
Mason M. Kurelko
Carmine Anthony Laspata
Paul J. LaVigna
Jacob Matthew Lenhardt
Donald James Lloyd
Daniel Alexander Lopez
Marc Vincent Maccario
Gareth Ryan Macdonald
Dawson Blaise MacNatt
Christopher James Marino
Dominic Vincent Maurice
Noah Nicholas McBride
Ty Carter McLeer
Anthony James Mento Jr.
Robert A. Meyer III
Ethan Montone
Alexander Philip Morrison
Ethan Francis Muller
Kevin James Nagle Jr.
Jack Olivo
Alexander E. Orozco
Elijah J. Ostrander
Gavin Ronald Pack
Justin Anthony Panella
Archangelo Gabriel Pantaleo
John Anthony Perrotta Jr.
Theodore M. Phillips III
Anthony Joseph Pizzuto
Joseph W. Porreca
Tyler Christopher Price
Joseph Puglia V
Rocco Andrew Pustizzi
Parker Stephan Ramsi
Mason Raucci
Charles Joseph Reich
Chase Thomas Roberts
Richard Rix Russell III
Cole Schleicher
Josef Adams Sheldon
Michael Gregory Sherron
Julien Anthony Shumaker
Damari Adam Simeon
Carter Samuel Siniavsky
Jack Douglas Smithson
Benjamin Michael Stanker
Ryan Hunter Stoehr
Finn Patrick Sullivan
Ryan Douglas Tortella
Ayden Joseph Trexler
Sebastian Michael Varallo
Charles James Volpe
Richard Joseph Wagner
Mason William Walls
Raylen C Weaver
Alexander Vincent Weingartner
Adam Richard Williams
Keith Michael Williams, Jr.
Bryce Joseph Wilson
Johnathan Aaron Wingate
Ryan Scott Wodazak
Vincent C. Ziller
Head of School Honors
National Honor Society
Tri-M Music Honor Society
Five-Year Hermit (8th Grade)
The Class of 2026 marks the first cohort of Five-Year Hermits in the history of St. Augustine Prep, following the addition of the 8th grade in the 2021–2022 academic year.
Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of St. Augustine Preparatory School’s Class of 1976
James Bassetti ’76
Daniel Berenato ’76
Gregory Bernardini ’76
Francis Blee ’76
Dominick Bompensa ’76
Orlando Carvalho ’76
Carmine Catalana ’76 P’07
Edward Chmelewski ’76
John Corcoran ’76
Ralph DeFeo ’76
Robert DeLiberis ’76
Alfred DiPaola ’76
Michael Fox ’76
George Garton ’76
Daryl Gault ’76
Robert Gelsi ’76
George Glenn ’76
Gregory Hirsch ’76
Vincent Langone ’76
Michael Marciano ’76
Dale Messina ’76 P’08
Herbert Moore ’76
Fred Olita’76 P’00
Ralph Pappas ’76
John Penman ’76
Joseph Pfaff ’76
Thomas Pietropola ’76
Vincent Porcaro ’76
Gregory Price ’76
Edward Rossi ’76
Philip Rossi ’76
James Scarpa ’76
Kyle Smythe ’76
James Tully ’76
Daniel Valeri ’76
Leonard Van Noord ’76
Martin Wood ’76
Edward Yegla ’76
Very Rev. Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A., J.D.
Prior Provincial, Province of St. Thomas of Villanova Chair, Board of Trustees, St. Augustine Preparatory School
Procession of the Class of 2026: “Pomp and Circumstance” — Edward Elgar
The Augustinian Friars and Concelebrants
ENTRANCE HYMN:
“All Creatures of Our God and King” — Geistliche Kirchengesänge
Verse 1 - All creatures of our God and King, Lift up your voices, let us sing. Alleluia! Alleluia! Bright burning sun with golden beams, Soft silver moon that gently gleams, O praise him!
Refrain: O Praise Him! O Praise Him! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Verse 2 - Great rushing winds who are so strong, You clouds above that sail along, O praise him! Alleluia! Fair rising morn, with praise rejoice, Stars nightly shining, find a voice, O praise him!
Refrain: O Praise Him! O Praise Him! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Verse 3 - Swift flowing water, pure and clear, Make music for your Lord to hear, Alleluia! Fire so intense and fiercely bright, Who gives to us both warmth and light, O praise him!
Refrain: O Praise Him! O Praise Him! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Benjamin Michael Stanker ’26
LITURGY OF THE WORD
OPENING PRAYER
FIRST READING: Proverbs 2:1-15, Alexander Vincent Weingartner ’26
RESPONSORIAL PSALM: Lord send out your spirit, and renew the face of the earth
SECOND READING: Romans 12: 9-21, Jack Olivo ’26
ALLELUIA: “Mass of Creation” - Marty Haugan
GOSPEL: John 15: 1-14
HOMILY: Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., Ph.D., Head of School
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL: Miles Baylock ’26
RESPONSE: “Lord, Hear our Prayer”
PRESENTATION OF THE GIFTS: “The Summons” - Arr. John L. Bell
The Delbaugh Family P’26
Holy, Holy, Holy
Eucharistic Acclamation
Great Amen
Lamb of God “Mass of Creation” - Marty Haugan
Communion Hymn: “There is a Longing” - Anne Quigley
Refrain - There is a longing in our hearts, O Lord, for You to reveal Yourself to us. There is a longing in our hearts for love we only find in You, our God.
Verse 1 - For justice, for freedom, for mercy; hear our prayer. In sorrow, in grief; be near, hear our prayer, O God.
Verse 2 - For wisdom, for courage, for comfort; hear our prayer. In weakness, in fear; be near, hear our prayer, O God.
Verse 3 - For healing, for wholeness, for new life; hear our prayer. In sickness, in death; be near, hear our prayer, O God.
Meditation Hymn: “Coming Home” — Rev. Joseph A. Genito, O.S.A.
Recessional Hymn: “O God Beyond All Praising” - Thaxted
Verse 1 - O God beyond all praising, We worship you today And sing the love amazing that songs cannot repay For we can only wonder at every gift you send. At blessings without number and mercies without end: We lift our hearts before you and wait upon your word We honor and adore you, our great and mighty Lord
Verse 2 - Then hear, O gracious Savior, accept the love we bring, That we who know your favor may serve you as our king And whether our tomorrow be filled with good or ill, We’ll triumph through our arrows and rise to bless you still: To marvel at your beauty and glory in your ways, And make a joyful duty our sacrifice of praise.
Vocalists under the direction of Choral Director, Mr. Conor Ancharski ’16
Musical accompaniment provided by the St. Augustine Preparatory School Band under the direction of Band Director, Mr. Glenn D. Muller
Music used with permission
Very Rev. Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A., J.D. Prior Provincial, Province of St. Thomas of Villanova Chair, Board of Trustees, St. Augustine Preparatory School
Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., Ph.D. Head of School, St. Augustine Preparatory School
Mrs. Caroline Chapman P’15 ’18 Humanities, Division Chair Faculty, English Department
Mr. Douglas C. Burhanna P’17 ’19 ’20 Faculty, Computer Science & Engineering Department
OPENING SONG
God Bless America
Performed by Michael Gregory Sherron ’26
PRESENTATION OF GOLDEN DIPLOMAS
Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., Ph.D. Head of School, St. Augustine Preparatory School
PRESENTATION OF CANDIDATES FOR AWARDS & DIPLOMAS
Mr. Sean Grealis ’95 P’22 Dean of Academics
Mr. John R. Huscher ’85 P’18 Dean of Student Leadership and Development
CONFERRAL OF DIPLOMAS AND COMMISSIONING OF THE CLASS OF 2026
Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., Ph.D. Head of School, St. Augustine Preparatory School
FAREWELL ADDRESS
Gareth Ryan Macdonald ’26
ALMA MATER
Class of 2026
RECESSIONAL
$54.1 Million Awarded in College Scholarships and Grants over Four Years 2 Military Academy Acceptances 1 Army ROTC Scholarship Recipient 2 National Merit Scholarship Program Commended Student 1 Congressional Award Silver Medal Recipient
DECA State Qualifiers
DECA National Qualifiers
Tri-M Music Honor Society
Athletes Committed to NCAA Universities
Conference Championships
South Jersey Titles (1 Baseball, 4 Swimming) 12 State Titles (2 Rugby 7’s, 3 Rugby 15’s, 2 Hockey, 4 Swimming, 1 Baseball) 1 Individual State Champion (Marc Maccario - 400m)
Individual All-State Athletic Selections 13 Individual All-South Jersey Athletic Selections 23 First Team Cape Atlantic League Conference All-Stars
Editor’s Note: As of press time, the 2026 spring athletic season was still underway.
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
Michael Angelo Acchione
Rowan University*
Rider University
LaSalle University
Stockton University
Domenico Addiego
Pennsylvania State University*
Appalachian State University
Boise State University
James Madison University
Montana State University
The University of Utah
University of Colorado Boulder
University of South Carolina
Jackson Charles Alcott
Rowan University*
Charleston University
Coastal Carolina University
Monmouth University
Montclair University
Rider University
Seton Hall University
Saint Joseph’s University
Stetson University
Stockton University
West Chester University
Widener University
Jonah A. Alvarez
Lafayette College*
Zachary Bader
United States Air Force Academy*
New York Institute of Technology
Northeastern University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Salisbury University
Stockton University
Ursinus College
Rocco Peter Balestriere
High Point University*
The Catholic University of America
Coastal Carolina University
Drexel University
Florida Gulf Coast University
Merrimack College
Saint Joseph’s University
University of Delaware
Widener University
Miles Baylock
University of Massachusetts Amherst*
Elizabethtown College
Morehouse College
Seton Hall University
St. John’s University
Stone Hill College
University of Connecticut
University of Pittsburgh
Ursinus College
Carson Heliodoro Bear
Temple University*
Old Dominion University
West Virginia State University
Thomas Joseph Bell Jr.
Hobart William and Smith*
Drexel University
Gettysburg University
Highpoint University
Hofstra University
Merrimack University
Pennsylvania State University
Quinnipiac University
Rutgers University
Saint Joseph’s University
University of Connecticut
University of Rhode Island
Zorin Bey
Jacksonville University*
Florida Institute of Technology
Florida State University
Long Island University
Monmouth University
Oregon University
Stockton University
University of New England
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
Gabriel Milano Beyer
St. John’s University*
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Rutgers University
Wagner College
Ronald Henry Biglin III
James Madison University*
Eastern University
High Point University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University
University of Alabama
Jonathan Thomas Bilella
Drexel University
Roger Williams University
Thomas Jefferson University
Domenic Philip Botto
University of South Carolina*
The Catholic University of America
Clemson University
La Salle University
Louisiana State University
Monmouth University
Saint Joseph’s University
University of Alabama
University of Delaware
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Enrico Botto Jr.
Syracuse University*
Eastern University
High Point University
Merrimack College
Michigan State University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University
Sacred Heart University
Seton Hall University
University of Delaware
University of Rhode Island
University of South Carolina
Grayson David Brett
Kean University*
Drake Brogan
Bloomsburg University*
College of Charleston
Florida Gulf Coast University
High Point University
University of Scranton
University of Tampa
Wofford College
Luke Michael Burns
Villanova University*
Jacob Caccese
Rutgers University*
Temple University
Jared Michael Callan
Colorado School of Mines*
High Point University
Quinnipiac University
Roger Williams University
University of Scranton
Nicolas Martin Candeloro
Eastern New Mexico University*
Oklahoma State University
Tarlton State University
Matthew Ryan Carr
Widener University*
Bloomsburg University
Elizabethtown University
Lycoming College
Lebanon Valley College
Patrick James Carvajal
Villanova University*
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
Giovanni Tindaro Catania
University of Tampa*
Clemson University
Florida Atlantic University
Pennsylvania State University
Rutgers University
Saint Joseph’s University
University of Alabama
University of South Carolina
University of South Florida University of Tennessee
Nicholas David Ciavardone
Saint Joseph’s University* Merrimack College
Gabriel Thomas Clay
Louisiana State University*
Florida Atlantic University
Indiana University Bloomington
James Madison University
Pennsylvania State University
University of South Carolina
University of Tampa
West Virginia University
Maxim Hunter Collazo
Pennsylvania State University*
George Washington University
Rutgers University
Seton Hall University
Syracuse University
Nicolas Michael Costa
Northwestern University*
Jasper Charles Coville
University of Massachusetts Amherst*
Binghamton University
Drew University
George Washington University
Manhattan University
New York University
Northeastern University
Pennsylvania State University
Rutgers University
Thomas Jefferson University
University of Connecticut
University of Delaware
University of New Hampshire
University of Rhode Island
University of Vermont
Villanova University
Eric John Crain Jr.
University of Delaware*
University of South Carolina
University of Tennessee
Villanova University
Andrew Joseph Czekalski
Saint Joseph’s University* La Salle University
Mount St. Mary’s University
Rowan University
High Point University
Landon Elliott Davis
University of South Carolina*
American University
James Madison University
Rowan University
Rutgers University
San Diego State University
Stockton University
The College of New Jersey
University of Delaware
University of Maryland
University of Pittsburgh
Christopher Jacob Debow
Howard University*
Duquesne University
Quinnipiac University
Seton Hall University
Thomas Jefferson University
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
Sean T. Deery Jr.
High Point University*
American University
East Stroudsburg University
Loyola University Maryland
Quinnipiac University
Rider University
Rowan University
Rutgers University
Sacred Heart University
Saint Joseph’s University
Seton Hall University
The Citadel
University of Delaware
University of Maryland
University of Scranton
Marco Bruno DeGironimo
Jacksonville University*
Bowling Green University
Bridgewater State University
Florida Institute of Technology
Kent State University
Ohio University
Utah State University
Brady William DelBaugh
Villanova University*
Northeastern University
Pennsylvania State University
Rutgers University
Rowan University
Saint Joseph’s University
Seton Hall University
University of Delaware
University of Maryland
University of South Carolina
Cameron Vincent DeLeo
Junior Hockey
Ryan Stephen Diamond
United States Air Force Academy*
Jason Joseph Dolce Jr.
Jacksonville University*
Embry-Riddle University
Lynn University
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Institute of Technology
University of Tennessee
University of Alabama
University of Mississippi
William Joseph Dukich
University of Tennessee*
Elon University
James Madison University
Pennsylvania State University
University of Delaware
Joshua Jackson Dusz
Rowan College of South Jersey*
Stockton University
Richard Edwards Jr.
Saint Joseph’s University*
Howard University
Loyola University Maryland
Merrimack College
Saint John’s University
University of Delaware
Thomas Engel
University of South Carolina*
Bucknell University
James Madison University
McDaniel College
Merrimack College
Montclair State University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University
Rutgers University
Seton Hall University
University of Connecticut
University of Delaware
University of Maryland
University of Pittsburgh
University of Scranton
Villanova University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
West Chester University
West Virginia University
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
Rocco Marsilio Fanini
University of Pittsburgh*
Boston University
Delaware, University of Drexel University
Duquesne University
Maryland, University of New Jersey Institute of Technology
Northeastern University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rowan University
Rutgers University
Stevens Institute of Technology
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Chase Aaron Farrell
Montclair State University*
Justin A. Fauerbach
Rowan University*
Rutgers University
Seton Hall University
Stockton University
The College of New Jersey University of Delaware
James Lawrence Faulk
University of South Carolina*
Belmont University
Elon University
High Point University
Marist University
Saint Joseph’s University
University of Alabama
University of Delaware
University of Kentucky
University of Mississippi
University of Tampa
University of Tennessee
West Virginia University
Nathan Benjamin Fean
St. Joseph University*
The Catholic University of America
The College of New Jersey
Drexel University
James Madison University
La Salle University
Merrimack College
Rider University
Rutgers University
University of Delaware
University of South Carolina
Widener University
Max Russell Ferroni
College of Charleston*
High Point University
Rutgers University
University of Tampa
Francis Thomas Ferzetti III
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University*
Drexel University
North Carolina State University
Rowan University
South Carolina University
Stevens Institute of Technology
The College of New Jersey University of Delaware
University of Pittsburgh
University of Tennessee
West Virginia University
Aidan Patrick Flanigan
Ursinus College*
Liam H. Flynn
Wagner College*
Jackson Ryan Foley
New Jersey Institute of Technology*
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
Luke Anthony Fortucci
University of South Florida*
Clemson University
Duquesne University
Florida Gulf Coast University
Rutgers University
Saint Joseph’s University
Stockton University
University of Illinois
University of Pittsburgh
University of Rhode Island
University of Tennessee
Daniel George Francis
East Stroudsburg University*
New Haven University
Wagner College
John Frangakis
Boston University*
Pennsylvania State University
University of Delaware
University of Maryland
Eric Joseph Gerst
Cornell University*
Binghamton University
Montclair State University
Rowan University
Seton Hall University
Austin James Gilson
Cornerstone University
East Stroudsburg University
Florida Southern University
Ursinus College
Cameron Greene
Rutgers University*
Anthony Rocco Gregorio
Saint Joseph’s University*
Monmouth University
Mount St. Mary’s University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University
Rutgers University
University of Mississippi
Jordan Alexander Gross
Gwynedd Mercy University*
Logan Patrick Hayes
University of Mississippi*
Alabama University
Illinois University
Seton Hall University
University of Tampa West Virginia University
Kyle James Helphenstine
University of Richmond*
George V. Henry III
Rowan University*
Montclair State University
Stockton University
Jordan D. Hollingshead
Saint Joseph’s University*
Coastal Carolina University
George Mason University
High Point University
James Madison University
La Salle University
University of Alabama
University of Mississippi
University of Toledo
Jacob Michael Holzer
Pennsylvania State University*
Northeastern University
Florida State University
North Carolina University
Clemson University
South Carolina University
University of Tennessee
University of Tampa
Joseph David Irvine
Long Island University*
Brady Jackson
Old Dominion University*
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
David A. Jaco
Pennco Tech*
Zachary Edward Jacob
Saint Joseph’s University*
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Florida International University
Florida Southern College
High Point University
James Madison University
Monmouth University
Rider University
Rowan University
Seton Hall University
Thomas Jefferson University
University of Delaware
University of South Carolina
University of Tampa
Widener University
Aaron K. Jones
University of Scranton*
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Quinnipiac University
Patrick J. Kearney III
University of Alabama*
Pennsylvania State University
University of Kentucky
University of Mississippi
Jackson C. Kemp
The Catholic University of America*
College of Charleston
University of South Carolina
Andrew Peter Kierland
Villanova University*
Case Western Reserve University
Drexel University
Purdue University
Rutgers University
Syracuse University
University of Delaware
University of Maryland
University of Pittsburgh
University of South Carolina
Riley John Kostiuk
Rowan College of South Jersey*
Mason M. Kurelko
High Point University*
Eastern University
Montclair State University
Ryder University
West Virginia University
Carmine Anthony Laspata
University of Jamestown
University of Niagara
Paul J. LaVigna
Rowan University*
Stockton University
Saint Joseph’s University
Jacob Matthew Lenhardt
Clemson University*
Coastal Carolina University
North Carolina State University
Rowan University
Rutgers University
Saint Joseph’s University
Seton Hall University
The University of Tennessee University of South Carolina
University of Tampa
Vanderbilt University
Widener University
Donald James Lloyd
New Jersey Institute of Technology*
Daniel Alexander Lopez
University of Tampa*
Fairleigh Dickinson University
James Madison University
Michigan State University
Pennsylvania State University
Rider University
Saint Peter’s University
Seton Hall University
St John’s University
University of Pittsburgh
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
Marc Vincent Maccario
Monmouth University
Mount St Mary’s University
Rider University
Rowan University
Saint Joseph’s University
Stony Brook University
Villanova University
Gareth Ryan Macdonald
The University of South Carolina*
The Catholic University of America
Duquesne University
La Salle University
Marquette University
Nichols College
University of Pittsburgh
University of Texas
Ursinus College
Dawson Blaise MacNatt
Rowan University*
Clemson University
Stockton University
Thomas Jefferson University
Christopher James Marino
University of Maryland Baltimore County*
Dominic Vincent Maurice
High Point University*
Noah Nicholas McBride
Rowan University*
Montclair University
Rutgers University
Stockton University
Ty Carter McLeer
University of Maine*
Anthony James Mento Jr.
High Point University*
Robert A. Meyer III
Clemson University*
Auburn University
University of South Carolina
University of Tennessee
Villanova University
Ethan Montone
Rutgers University*
Saint Joseph’s University
Stockton University
Widener University University of Delaware
Alexander Philip Morrison
University of Kentucky*
Auburn University
Louisiana State University
Monmouth University
Seton Hall University
The Ohio State University
Towson University
University of Delaware
University of South Carolina
Ethan Francis Muller
Long Island University*
Kevin James Nagle Jr.
Saint Joseph’s University*
Immaculata University
Stockton University
The College of New Jersey University of Scranton
Jack Olivo
University of Miami*
Alfred University
High Point University
Holy Family University
La Salle University
Monmouth University
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Pennsylvania State University
Rutgers University
Saint Joseph’s University
Seton Hall University
The College of New Jersey
Thomas Jefferson University
University of South Carolina
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
Alexander E. Orozco
Fordham University*
University of Delaware
Seton Hall University
Elijah J. Ostrander
West Chester University*
Bryant University
Campbell University
Catawba College
Niagara University
Presbyterian College
Shepherd University
Gavin Ronald Pack
La Salle University*
Justin Anthony Panella
High Point University*
James Madison University
Louisiana State University
Monmouth University
Palm Beach Atlantic University
University of Tampa
Archangelo Gabriel Pantaleo
Rowan University*
Rutgers University
John Anthony Perrotta Jr.
Villanova University*
Gettysburg College
Immaculata University
Pennsylvania State University
Rutgers University
Sacred Heart University
Seton Hall University
Stockton University
The University of Tampa University of Scranton
Theodore M. Phillips III
Rutgers University*
Coastal Carolina University
High Point University
Penn State University
Rowan University
Seton Hall University
Stockton University University of Tampa
Anthony Joseph Pizzuto
Drexel University*
Joseph W. Porreca
Rowan University*
Tyler Christopher Price
The Pennsylvania State University*
Coastal Carolina University
High Point University
James Madison University
Rutgers University
Towson University
University of Delaware
University of Maryland
University of Pittsburgh
University of South Carolina
Joseph Puglia V
Trade School
Rocco Andrew Pustizzi
Villanova University*
Monmouth University
Saint. Joseph’s University
Pennsylvania State University
University of Delaware University of Tampa
Parker Stephan Ramsi
Rutgers University*
Monmouth University
Rowan University
Seton Hall University
Stockton University
Thomas Jefferson University University of Delaware
Mason Raucci
Amherst College*
Charles Joseph Reich
Elon University*
Furman University
High Point University
Loyola University
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
Chase Thomas Roberts
University of North Carolina Wilmington*
Coastal Carolina University
Monmouth University
Pennsylvania State University
University of South Carolina
University of North Florida
Richard Rix Russell III
Colgate University*
Northeastern University
Stetson University
University of Texas
Ursinus College
Cole Schleicher
Stevens Institute of Technology*
Josef Adams Sheldon
Rowan College of South Jersey*
Michael Gregory Sherron
Merrimack College*
Duquesne University
Rochester Institute of Technology
Thomas Jefferson University
Towson University
University of Delaware
Julien Anthony Shumaker
Pennsylvania State University*
James Madison University
Lafayette University
Saint Joseph’s University
University of Connecticut
University of New Hampshire
University of Rhode Island
Damari Adam Simeon
The Ohio State University*
Carter Samuel Siniavsky
Indiana University*
Alabama University
Arizona State University
Bentley University
Elon University
Fordham University
Monmouth University
New York University Shanghai
Northeastern University
Pennsylvania State University
University of Delaware
University of Miami
Jack Douglas Smithson
High Point University*
Benjamin Michael Stanker
Rowan University*
College of Charleston
Pennsylvania State University
Thomas Jefferson University
University of Delaware
University of South Carolina
Ryan Hunter Stoehr
University of South Carolina*
Clemson University
Indiana University
James Madison University
Rutgers University
University of Alabama
University of Delaware
University of Mississippi
University of Missouri
University of Tennessee
West Chester University
West Virginia University
William and Mary University
Finn Patrick Sullivan
Flagler College*
Seton Hill University
As reported by the students as of May 10, 2026
Ryan Douglas Tortella
West Virginia University*
George Mason University
Hofstra University
Pennsylvania State University
Rowan University
Texas A&M University
Towson University
University of Delaware
Ayden Joseph Trexler
Rutgers University*
Sebastian Michael Varallo
St. John’s University*
Charles James Volpe
West Chester University*
La Salle University
West Virginia University
Richard Joseph Wagner
Rowan University*
King’s College
Mason William Walls
Arcadia University*
Goldey Beacom College
Monmouth University
Moravian University
Mount Saint Mary’s University
Seton Hall University
Ursinus College
Raylen C Weaver
University of Delaware*
Rutgers University
Villanova University
Alexander Vincent Weingartner
Pennsylvania State University*
Adam Richard Williams
Bucknell University*
Keith Michael Williams, Jr.
Merrimack University
Bryce Joseph Wilson
Rowan University*
Stevenson University
Johnathan Aaron Wingate
Loyola Marymount University*
The Catholic University of America
Colorado State University
Coppin State University
Eastern University
La Salle University
Louisiana State University
Old Dominion University
Pennsylvania State University
Saint Joseph’s University
St. Thomas University
Stetson University
University of the Pacific
Virginia Wesleyan University
Western New England University
Wingate University
Ryan Scott Wodazak
Pennsylvania State University*
Vincent C. Ziller
North Carolina State University*
Auburn University
Monmouth University
Northeastern University
Pennsylvania State University
Rider University
Rutgers University
The College of New Jersey
University of Alabama
University of Connecticut
University of Miami
University of South Carolina
Villanova University
The history of academic dress begins in the early days of the oldest universities. A statute of 1321 required all “Doctors, Licentiates, and Bachelors” of the University of Coimbra to wear gowns. In England during the second half of the 14th century, the statutes of certain colleges forbade “excess in apparel” and prescribed the wearing of a long gown. It is still a question whether academic dress finds its sources chiefly in ecclesiastical or in civilian dress. Gowns may have been considered necessary for warmth in the unheated buildings used by medieval scholars. Hoods may have served to cover the tonsured head until superseded for that purpose by the skull cap. The cap was later displaced by a headdress similar to ones now recognized as “academic.” European institutions continue to show great diversity in their specifications of academic dress. However, when American colleges and universities adopted a system of academic apparel a half century ago, a code was devised for all to follow.
The gown for the bachelor’s degree has pointed sleeves and is worn closed. The gown for the master’s degree has an oblong sleeve, open at the wrist, with the sleeve base hanging down in the traditional manner. The rear part of the sleeve’s oblong shape is square cut and the front part has an arc cut away. It may be worn open or closed. The gown for the doctor’s degree has bell-shaped sleeves and may be worn open or closed. Bachelor’s and master’s gowns have no trimmings, but the doctor’s may be faced on the front with black or colored velvet and with three bars of the same across the sleeves. If color is used, it is the color distinctive of the subject to which the degree pertains, and it matches the edging or binding of the hood. For all academic purposes, including trimmings of doctors’ gowns, edgings of hoods, and tassels of caps, the colors associated with the different subjects are as follows:
Agriculture – Maize
Arts, Letters, Humanities – White
Commerce, Accountancy – Drab
Business – Drab
Dentistry – Lilac
Economics – Copper
Education – Light Blue
Engineering – Orange
Fine Arts – Brown
Forestry – Russet
Journalism – Crimson
Law – Purple
Library Science – Lemon
Medicine – Green
Music – Pink
Nursing – Apricot
Oratory (speech) – Silver Gray
Pharmacy – Olive Green
Philosophy – Dark Blue
Physical Education – Sage Green
Public Administration – Peacock Blue
Public Health – Salmon Pink
Science – Golden Yellow
Social Work – Citron
Theology – Scarlet
Veterinary Science – Gray
Hoods are lined with the official color or colors of the college or university conferring the degree. The binding or edging of the hood is the color indicative of the subject to which the degree pertains, except that the doctor’s cap may have its tassel of gold thread.
Mortarboards are generally worn as part of the academic costume. The long tassel fastened to the middle point of the cap’s top is either black or the color appropriate to the subject. It is customary for degree candidates to wear the tassels on the right front side before degrees are conferred and to shift them to the left when the degrees are awarded. This custom is in some respects a substitute for individual hooding.
* Adapted from “An Academic Costume Code and Ceremony Guide,” A (Washington, DC: American Council on Education, 1959). Universities and Colleges.
Very Rev. Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A., J.D. Prior Provincial
Rev. Aldo Potencio, O.S.A.
Secretary & Treasurer
Rev. Kevin M. DePrinzio, O.S.A.
Rev. Raymond F. Dlugos, O.S.A.
Rev. Robert J. Guessetto, O.S.A.
Rev. Joseph L. Narog, O.S.A.
Rev. James D. Paradis, O.S.A.
Rev. Luis A. Vera, O.S.A.
Very Rev. Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A., J.D.
Prior Provincial, Province of St. Thomas of Villanova Chair, Board of Trustees, St. Augustine Preparatory School
Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., Ph.D. Head of School, St. Augustine Preparatory School
Mr. Robert D. McCormick P’17 ’21 Vice Chair
Mr. Anthony P. Talotta P’19 ’28 Secretary
Rev. Aldo Potencio, O.S.A. Treasurer
Mrs. Rose M. Davis H’17
Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D.
Rev. Christopher J. Drennen, O.S.A.
Mr. Daniel Falasca ’12
Mr. Michael Gillen ’16
Mrs. Josette Franks P’24
Mr. Raymond M. Giunta, P’19 ’21
Dr. Bridget McLaughlin P’12
Mr. Robert F. Woods
Historically, the mace is a symbol of authority dating from medieval times when knights carried them during processions with their kings. As the tradition grew, the mace became a ceremonial symbol of peaceful leadership, and maces were embellished with jewels and metals. Today, an independent school’s mace is carried before the Head of School, platform-party dignitaries, and faculty during commencement exercises and other academic ceremonial processions.
Head of School medallions are closely aligned with maces and are traditional symbols of authority. A Head of School medallion is typically inscribed with the seal of the institution and is worn over academic regalia on ceremonial occasions, particularly at commencements and academic convocations. The Head of School medallion honors the current Head of School, Rev. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A., and his predecessors, Rev. Donald F. Reilly, O.S.A. (President), Rev. Paul W. Galetto, O.S.A. ’74 (President), and Rev. Stephen J. LaRosa, O.S.A. (President).
An adaptation of the seal of the Order of St. Augustine, the seal of St. Augustine Prep, is one of the school’s most ubiquitous images. The HEART is the symbol of love and charity, which is the first rule of St. Augustine. The CROSIER and MITRE symbolize the bishopric of St. Augustine, one of the Fathers of the Church. “TOLLE LEGE; TOLLE LEGE” (Take up and Read) were the words spoken by a voice heard by St. Augustine and which led him to his conversion. SAPIENTIA ET SCIENTIA (Wisdom and Knowledge) is the traditional motto of Augustinian schools based on the knowledge and wisdom of St. Augustine. St. Augustine Preparatory School was founded in 1959.
In Richland’s proud and peaceful glen Where friends and joy abound. Stands Alma Mater, home of men, A treasure nobly found. Wherever we may chance to be Nearby or far from you. We will not fail eternally To sing your praises true.
O St. Augustine’s mighty power Of our triumphant youth Watch over us each hour With eyes of love and truth. And when our days with you are done. Still guide each grateful son.
—George F. Walsh,
Sr.
“Setting hearts on fire with a passionate search for Truth, Unity, and Love”
ST. AUGUSTINE PREPARATORY SCHOOL