Forward March: The Mission Continues

In looking back on the past year, it was certainly filled with its share of obstacles and challenges but God also provided many blessings as well.  The Xavier Foundation Board has been very active in doing a lot of “behind the scenes” work.

We spent much of last fall working and meeting to discuss the payoff and retirement of Xavier’s mortgage debt.  Many of you may not have been aware there was still an outstanding mortgage due on the high school.  Through the years and to the credit of those who have come before us, good stewardship has lead us to a point in which we could retire the debt earlier than planned.  In November, 2019 we did just that.  We’re excited to get out from underneath the debt and operate from a positive position.

Due to the success of 2019’s introduction of Forever Saints Day, a Xavier Foundation task force was formed in January 2020 to review and analyze our other appeals and recommend possible options for updating.  As you have already witnessed, our appeals have taken on a new look and feel as we’ve decided to combine and reformat the business and parish appeal under “Xavier Impact Fund.”  This fund will provide the framework for continued tuition assistance, a new teacher endowment, and advance Catholic faith and academics in the Xavier community.  

We’ve also spent time working with our supporting parishes and pastors to help figure out ways to lessen the financial strain brought on by COVID-19.  We are committed to continuing this effort.

The Xavier Foundation board maintains its energy and forward momentum as we keep our eyes focused on today’s challenges, while also looking ahead to what’s on the horizon. 

On behalf of the Xavier Foundation Board, thank you to all of you who have contributed to the Xavier Foundation as we aspire to make Xavier the best it can be.  Xavier couldn’t exist without the continued support from you, our wonderful donors.  Thank you for being so generous.

David Schimberg (R91)
Chair, Xavier Foundation Board

Prior to Xavier High School opening its doors in the fall of 1998, quite a bit of time, effort and energy was dedicated toward developing our school’s mission statement. For sure, the efforts of those who crafted this statement were not in vain. With this being our 23rd school year, Xavier’s mission to “develop the total person in a Catholic environment” proudly remains. 

As the events and complexities of 2020 have unfolded, I’ve reflected on our mission statement much more so than usual. With everything that has come our way, one thing of which I’m certain is this; “developing the total person in a Catholic environment” is needed in ways today those who formulated our mission statement likely did not imagine. Jesus and our Catholic-identity is where we proudly base all we do, no matter what might come our way.  

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in mid-March, our faculty and staff have gone above and beyond in so many ways. Countless times, it would have been easy for them to give up or simply say, “It’s too hard.” They haven’t. Their dedication to our mission is absolutely incredible. 

Our students are remarkably resilient. A lot has been thrown their way they didn’t ask for. It has been so wonderful to hear their voices again in our hallways this fall. For sure they need each other, and the reality is we aren’t Xavier without them! 
We are proud of who we are and the basis for which we exist. As 2020 comes to a close, we offer our sincere gratitude for the many ways you have supported Xavier’s mission during a trying year. 

What will Xavier look like in the next 23 years? I’m not entirely certain, but I do know one thing for sure. Jesus and our Catholic-identity, the centerpieces of Xavier’s mission statement, will be our cornerstone. In a world of much uncertainty, isn’t that a comforting thought? 

Chris McCarville (R97)
President, Xavier High School