Pilot photo/courtesy Xaverian Brothers High School
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WESTWOOD -- "Called to Lead: The Campaign for Xaverian," the largest fundraising effort in the history of Xaverian Brothers High School, has been hugely successful, already reaching its initial $20 million goal.
At the fall 2016 board of trustees meeting, discussions continued about the compelling needs of Xaverian. "The tremendous support of so many has enabled Xaverian to address the ambitious initiatives of its strategic plan, 'Growing in Harmony,' which articulated a bold vision to strengthen every dimension of the school. The transformation of our campus represents the board's commitment to providing the best facilities for the young men we educate," said headmaster Brother Daniel Skala, C.F.X. "All of us can readily see the impact of the capital campaign." Brother Daniel has served as Xaverian's Headmaster for the last 26 years.
With the board's approval, Xaverian increased the goal of Called to Lead to $25 million -- adding $5 million to the original target -- and extend the campaign.
As explained by Brother Daniel, "The momentum of the campaign gives Xaverian the unique opportunity to seize the moment and extend the campaign to support areas of great need and continue to advance our vision for Xaverian. A substantial share of the campaign will help ensure that all talented boys can attend Xaverian, no matter their family's financial means. Providing access and affordability is more essential than ever."
"We must also further strengthen teaching and learning to meet the growing needs of our students and to prepare them for college and beyond. To do all this, we need to develop more space for the collaborative nature of 21st century education, to strengthen our counseling programs, and to renovate an area of the school which has been untouched for more than 50 years. Finally, as part of our commitment to educate the whole person, we will renovate the Josephine M. Noble Chapel, which is the heart and soul of the school. By doing all these improvements, we hope to inspire all to lead lives of learning, faith, and service," he added.
"The success of the campaign is a tremendous cause for celebration and another example of the highly effective leadership of the trustees, who help make the school better in all aspects," said Larry Furey of Westwood, assistant headmaster of advancement at Xaverian. "The efforts of our current parents, alumni, parents of alumni, grandparents, and friends of Xaverian further enhance Xaverian's reputation, and add to the school's proud legacy."
"'Called to Lead' is so fitting a description for what the Xaverian community has done since this campaign began," said Chairman of the Board Rick Spillane, Class of 1968, of Wellesley. "So many in the Xaverian community heard the call and stood up as leaders with their support. In doing so, they have enhanced the lives of our students and faculty, who themselves strive to be the best leaders they can be every day. Continuing the momentum will require help from all of us, allow us to build on our success, and provide a strong future for Xaverian."
Trustees, alumni and parent volunteers, and faculty and staff are all enthusiastic about the campaign and the tremendous potential it has to enhance the learning environment for students. The effort is spearheaded by an outstanding volunteer campaign cabinet led by campaign executive chairman Jack Egan, Class of 1975, of Hopkinton; campaign co-chairs John Murphy, Class of 1970 and a parent of a 2003 graduate of Wellesley; Rick Roche, a parent of a 2011 graduate of Westwood; and John Brennan, parent of a 2006 graduate of Westwood; and Advancement Committee chair David Capobianco, Class of 1976 and a parent of a 2006 graduate from Boston.
Pledges to the campaign will be paid over a three-to-five year period, with some individuals making commitments through their estate plans.