From the Headmaster
Dear Friends of Xaverian,
f you have walked the halls of Xaverian lately, you know that in 2019, this is a
very different place than it was when we opened our doors in 1963. The pastel
square bathroom tiles that covered the walls (so popular in their day!) are being
replaced with sleek, maple wood panels. What was once the Brothers’ residence is
now a counseling wing. New science laboratories, classrooms, and a 32,500 square-
foot wellness center have been added. Land that didn’t belong to us 20 years ago now
provides ball fields and extra parking. Typing class has given way to “Programming
in Python.” The Glee Club is now called the X-Men, and the Stamp Club has been
replaced with rock climbing (page 16).
While the mission and the values of Xaverian remain unchanged, we continue
to upgrade, adapt, and proactively address the demands of modern teaching and
learning. Our latest endeavor is called Strengthening Minds, Empowering Creativity.
This $500,000 strategic initiative aims to build upon a recent expansion of our fine
arts program (page 8) and our robust science and computer science curriculum.
In this Xaverian Magazine, you can read more about our plans for a new creativity
lab to provide more real-world experience with cutting-edge technology, much
needed upgrades to theater lighting and sound, and the added support of our many
performing and fine arts programs (page 2). If you would like to join us to help this
initiative come to fruition, I invite you to make a gift using the enclosed envelope.
Together, we can encourage creative thinking, problem solving, risk taking, and
resiliency through engaging lessons and hands-on experiences.
Also in this edition of Xaverian Magazine, follow the rise of Matt Klentak ’98,
General Manager for the Philadelphia Phillies (page 23), read about four Xaverian
seniors brought together by a song (page 4), see all the highlights from winter and
spring sports (page 14), learn about the legacy of Brendan Burke ’06 (page 24), and
meet Dr. Carolyn Herman, Xaverian’s new Director of Staff Formation (page 22).
As we proudly blaze new paths in curriculum, technology, and programming, it
is our foundation as a Xaverian Brothers-sponsored, Catholic school that grounds
us. With God’s grace and your support, we continue in our mission to prepare
young men to become servant leaders, sharing their gifts with a world in need.
May God bless you and your family.
Brother Daniel Skala, C.F.X.
Headmaster