St. Francis Xavier Society Appreciation
This annual event recognizes supporters of Saint John's.
On October 20, 2016, alumni, families, and friends were recognized for their generous contributions that supported the school, programs, and financial aid.
Thara Hamza P’17, who is mother to senior Rayan Hamza, provided a powerful reflection on her family's relationship with Saint John's, and how her son's desire to attend has transformed him into an involved young man thriving in a diversity of programs. She and her husband Wajdi moved from Damascus, Syria to Massachusetts in 1997. While her husband took English classes, they built up a savings, and decided to run a business, franchising a local convenience store. They continued their education - he for real estate, and she for her accounting certificate. "During this interesting journey, Rayan was growing up and watching us intensively; and learning that nothing comes easy."
"In spite of our cultural differences and diverse background, we found ourselves fitting in. And we never stopped thinking about securing the best social and healthy environment which would have the same values we have and a top education for our son...We wanted him to have an education that would instill all the values we believe in... to work hard for what you want, nothing in this world is free, dress for success, and challenge yourself over and above what you expect of yourself, but most importantly to dream big and embrace your dreams until you achieve them."
The Hamzas have learned the true value of education, and they thank God every day for the great opportunity that has prepared their son for college and life. The financial aid that they received from Saint John's made it possible. "His education has been our investment policy," she shared.
Chairman of the Board Carl Rapp '78 addressed the crowd gathered in the Coaches Pavilion, thanking them for their undeniably crucial role in keeping the Saint John's mission alive in all students. He reflected on last fall, when the school was contemplating a transition of leadership following former headmaster Michael Welch's announcement that he would be ending his fifteen years at Saint John's. Mr. Rapp remarked with certainty that as daunting a task as identifying a new headmaster was, the appointment of Alex Zequeira to the role was the clear choice for Saint John's, as he is thoughtful, caring, and truly dedicated to the students and community as a whole.
Mr. Zequeira expressed gratitude for all those in the room and those supporters unable to be at the event for their real commitment to Saint John's students and legacy. The impact of SFX members is tangible for hundreds of Saint John's students every year.
The Saint Francis Xavier Society
Thara Hamza P’17, who is mother to senior Rayan Hamza, provided a powerful reflection on her family's relationship with Saint John's, and how her son's desire to attend has transformed him into an involved young man thriving in a diversity of programs. She and her husband Wajdi moved from Damascus, Syria to Massachusetts in 1997. While her husband took English classes, they built up a savings, and decided to run a business, franchising a local convenience store. They continued their education - he for real estate, and she for her accounting certificate. "During this interesting journey, Rayan was growing up and watching us intensively; and learning that nothing comes easy."
"In spite of our cultural differences and diverse background, we found ourselves fitting in. And we never stopped thinking about securing the best social and healthy environment which would have the same values we have and a top education for our son...We wanted him to have an education that would instill all the values we believe in... to work hard for what you want, nothing in this world is free, dress for success, and challenge yourself over and above what you expect of yourself, but most importantly to dream big and embrace your dreams until you achieve them."
The Hamzas have learned the true value of education, and they thank God every day for the great opportunity that has prepared their son for college and life. The financial aid that they received from Saint John's made it possible. "His education has been our investment policy," she shared.
Chairman of the Board Carl Rapp '78 addressed the crowd gathered in the Coaches Pavilion, thanking them for their undeniably crucial role in keeping the Saint John's mission alive in all students. He reflected on last fall, when the school was contemplating a transition of leadership following former headmaster Michael Welch's announcement that he would be ending his fifteen years at Saint John's. Mr. Rapp remarked with certainty that as daunting a task as identifying a new headmaster was, the appointment of Alex Zequeira to the role was the clear choice for Saint John's, as he is thoughtful, caring, and truly dedicated to the students and community as a whole.
Mr. Zequeira expressed gratitude for all those in the room and those supporters unable to be at the event for their real commitment to Saint John's students and legacy. The impact of SFX members is tangible for hundreds of Saint John's students every year.
The Saint Francis Xavier Society
The Saint Francis Xavier Society at Saint John’s High School recognizes the major benefactors of Saint John’s High School. SFX members' generous support of the school provides Saint John’s with the resources needed to maintain an exceptional Xaverian educational experience while remaining affordable for families throughout Central Massachusetts.
SFX membership begins at $1,000, and young alumni have the opportunity for membership with gifts of $250 or more (alumni out 1-9 years) and $500 or more (alumni out 10-14 years). Contact Eric Butler '02, Director of Development and Leadership Giving, or call the Advancement Office at (508) 842-5353 with questions about how you can become involved.
Browse through more photos of the 2016 SFX Appreciation Dinner.
SFX membership begins at $1,000, and young alumni have the opportunity for membership with gifts of $250 or more (alumni out 1-9 years) and $500 or more (alumni out 10-14 years). Contact Eric Butler '02, Director of Development and Leadership Giving, or call the Advancement Office at (508) 842-5353 with questions about how you can become involved.
Browse through more photos of the 2016 SFX Appreciation Dinner.
