REFLECTIONS ON 25 YEARS OF XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL

Tell us a little about what it was like planning and fundraising for Xavier to be built and open? 
It was equal parts exciting and overwhelming. We had a great team of leaders involved in the planning, including the Archbishop, local pastors, archdiocesan school’s team and the school board. There was a smaller group as well I called the “dream team” comprised of people with specific expertise, mostly volunteers, who gave hundreds of hours and worked tirelessly to make sure we did it well and did it right. It was a ton of work and time. But by working together we created a vision for what the school should be like for the students, families, parishes, and the community. It was exciting to bring the two school communities together under that single vision for Catholic education. That vision included strong spirituality committed to “Developing the total person in a Catholic environment,” a physical plant that exuded that vision of being first and foremost Catholic and working hard to include teachers, staff, students, community in the planning for all of it. At times it seemed we would never get there, but obviously we did with thanks to God for putting all of us together to achieve what was needed.

What was it like to see students start school at Xavier when it opened? 
That first day was something I will never forget. After all those years of planning and construction to see 700+ students in the halls and classrooms working with the teachers was awe-inspiring. When we opened there was still much work to be done on the building: the bleachers were not installed, the theatre was incomplete, the football field wasn’t done, 42nd Street was a seal coated narrow street, the parking lot wasn’t quite done and we had no control of the air conditioning, etc. But everyone just rolled up their sleeves, got to work and made it all happen.

Please share how you remain connected to Xavier today.
 I still come to lots of events at the school. I also stay in touch with many of the teachers who were there in the early years. There are still some on staff from when I was principal who I see often. Once in a while I am asked for my opinion on some things at the school from the administrators as they work to continue to build Xavier into a higher level of excellence every day. To me, though, the best way of staying connected is the joy of running into alums or hearing about alums who are doing so much to build their communities in so many important ways. Whether that’s raising their families, becoming a priest or religious, lay involvement in their parishes, leaders in their communities, building a business or whatever, so many are living proof of the Xavier mission and vision.

What is a favorite memory, particularly from the early years? 
There are too many to mention – the first Mass with the Msgr. Barta’s homily challenging us to be saints, from the flood of ’99, the gas leak, too many student interactions to mention, the first girls’ basketball championship week in Des Moines, navigating 9/11, and so, so many more. That said, a moment I will always cherish was the first Xavier football game. We had to move it to Kingston since our field wasn’t quite ready. It was perfect early September Thursday night. Our side was packed, the band came out playing a new fight song, with new school colors, with cheerleaders and the dance team leading the massive student section and when the football team came out of the tunnel the place erupted as if we had always been one school. I never felt such a feeling of total peace in my professional life. Our opponent (Dubuque Hempstead) promptly ran the opening kickoff back for a touchdown, but we ultimately won the game. As they say, the rest is history.

What are your thoughts on Xavier celebrating 25 years...what does that mean for the wider Xavier community? 
It hardly seems like it’s been 25 years. It’s a time to celebrate what we did by working together under a single vision of what Catholic secondary education could be for the wider community. All those who contributed their time, talent, and treasure to breathe life into that vision can celebrate knowing Xavier has become all we thought it could be… and so much more. We can’t rest on our laurels. But it is time to take a few moments to celebrate what Xavier means to all of us who love the school by offering thanks to the parishes, the families who choose to entrust their children to its care, the faculty/staff who give life to the mission, to the pastors who support the school in all they do, to the students who frankly are Xavier, and most importantly to our Lord who continues to bless our community daily with His love.

What do you hope for Xavier’s next 25 years? 
That we continue to strive for perfection by not being afraid to build upon the foundation the first 25 years has established. Just because “we’ve always done it this way” doesn’t mean there isn’t a better way to work towards perfection in all we do. Let that be our new vision.

What do you think makes Xavier High School special? 
Easiest question. It’s the people – students, faculty, staff, priests, alumni, parishioners- who give of themselves to make Xavier into what it has become.
 

What are your thoughts on Xavier celebrating 25 years...what does that mean for the wider Xavier community? 
As I’ve said often this school year, it’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years. You look back at the courage it took by many to get this place off the ground in the 90’s and today, we reap the benefits of their fearlessness. In terms of what it means for the Xavier community, I’d take that question a step further. Across the state, within Eastern Iowa and most certainly, for Catholics in the Cedar Rapids/Marion metro area, a message has been sent that not only does high performing, secondary education exist, an environment rooted in Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church proudly stands out. Speaking from the perspective as parents with a kindergartner in the Xavier Catholic Schools, to say that thought is comforting would be an understatement for both my wife and I.

What do you hope for Xavier's next 25 years? 
There is a tremendous opportunity for Xavier to continue to help evangelize those who walk through our doors. I believe the need for this is even truer today than when we opened. Our world needs more Jesus, teenagers especially. The central mission of why we exist, I feel will be solidified even more in the next 25 years. I believe we are a big piece of helping young souls get closer to Heaven.

What do you think makes Xavier High School special? 
Without a doubt, it’s the people. Our students, our parents, former parents, our alumni, grandmas, grandpas…on and on and on. We don’t just call ourselves “family,” we truly live it. And that family is often times generational, which makes Xavier unique. With that culture of family here, Xavier is full of individuals who care incredibly and step up to help in countless ways time and time again. When you mix that culture with our rootedness in Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church, it’s no wonder a place like Xavier is special.

Do you have any special Xavier memories you'd like to share...either from your time teaching or your time now? 
I have a lot of memories from our first year that I look back on and think “Wow…look at how far we’ve come.” Starting a school from scratch was a tremendous challenge. Simply finding our own identity took a long time. I often point to the girls’ basketball team in 2003 which won Xavier’s first state championship. Winning that title, I believe, had a lot to do with unifying our entire school community. As a teacher, one of my favorite memories was watching with our students the election of Pope Benedict in 2005. As a theology teacher, I remember putting aside our usual coursework and talking with our students about the process of how a pope was elected. For all of us (teacher included!) we had only known one pope in our lifetime! And I remember watching the genuine excitement from our students when we saw the white smoke come from Rome (we had the TV on non-stop for about two-weeks). It was really special to see their true joy.

What is it like to have gone from an alum of Regis, to Xavier teacher to your current role as you have a unique perspective on what it's like to be part of the Xavier community?
I have a couple of reactions to that questions. First, it’s surreal. Never in a million years did I think I’d be in this role. Sometimes I’ll see our logo somewhere and think to myself, “Wow, I can’t believe I’m the president of that place!” Because of my background, Xavier means so much to me. And that elicits my second reaction; it’s an honor and privilege. To help carry the torch of so many before isn’t something I take lightly and respect greatly. Knowing well where we came from and how our school has grown, it’s not even a “job.” It’s a vocation and one I’m humbled fulfill. My dad served as principal of Regis High School for 10 years. I saw firsthand many times the ways he went above and beyond for the Regis community in the 80’s and 90’s. I think some of my dad’s greatest strengths as principal were that he worked hard, he was relatable, approachable and always fair while staying true to principle. When you’re in a place like Xavier, I think those qualities are still a “must” today. I think our community wants and expects that from its leaders. And it’s something that to this day, as an administrative team, we all agree upon and try hard to carry out together each day.

Please share a favorite memory or two from your time at Xavier High School. What was it like being a part of the first graduating class? 
Being the first graduating class was unique and full of firsts. We had the opportunity to bring a mix of traditions from Regis and LaSalle as well help create new ones for Xavier. A favorite memory for me was our Baccalaureate Mass – it was a wonderful celebration and acknowledgement that as classmates we had different achievements and next chapters, yet we all had a common bond too.

What are your thoughts on Xavier celebrating 25 years...what does that mean for the wider Xavier community? 
First, it doesn’t seem like that much time has passed! Second, I think it is a great opportunity to reflect on how it has stayed true to our core values while also evolving to the needs of the students and community today. Creating Xavier by joining two prior Catholic high schools was not always the most popular idea. As students we did our best to be open-minded to new ways of doing things, creating new relationships and experiences. Looking at how strong the culture and achievements are now it is pretty amazing to see what can happen when we come together towards a common purpose. For me it is something I think about as we are now faced with similar discussions at the middle school and overall vision for the future of the Xavier Catholic Schools. I believe there are many good things ahead for the Xavier community based on this past 25 years.

What do you think makes Xavier High School special?
To me Xavier is special as it creates an environment for greatness. I continue to be so impressed by the successful academic, fine art, athletic, and community service involvement that the school is able to create year-after-year. It is small enough for you to be known and valued while also big enough to provide a variety of opportunities.

How does it feel to be the parent of children in the Xavier Catholic Schools system now? 
It was an easy decision for us to have our kids attend Xavier Catholic Schools. Our kids quickly made great friendships with their peers and teachers and some of our closest family friends are because of this community. I also enjoy knowing many other parents based on going to school with them or their siblings when we were younger. This again is the power of this community and the consistent values it builds.

Please share a favorite memory or two if that come to mind over your tenure at Xavier.
Dancing with the Saints!  Who knew when we conceived the idea that it would grow to be such a phenomenal event.  Having a chance to experience it from the stage was an added bonus!  The chance to connect Xavier to the Arts Community in Cedar Rapids was something that I'll always cherish.  It has truly become Xavier's community event and may Cedar Rapids'!

Also, Xavier's first state football championship in 2006.  We were in the large class that year which made it extra special.  Xavier was only eight years old at that time and there was still some lingering bitterness regarding combining Regis and LaSalle to form Xavier.  That championship went a long way in uniting the community and leaving the bitterness behind.

What are your thoughts on Xavier celebrating 25 years...what does that mean for the wider Xavier community?
My, how time flies!  The vision Jeff Henderson and the Regis/LaSalle Board created and then brought to fruition has been nothing short of spectacular.  I was blessed to take the helm only six years into the school's existence when it was fertile ground to implement some great initiatives.  With a terrific team of faculty, staff, and administration, as well as support from parents, pastors, benefactors, and the Board, we were able to help Xavier evolve to meet the needs of the young people we served.  What it means for the wider Xavier community is that the courage shown to create a place like Xavier resulted in a school and school community we can all be proud of!

What do you hope for Xavier's next 25 years?
Continued development to meet the needs of the students while also contributing to the broader community, particularly as it relates to our Catholic mission.  The academic, fine arts, athletic, and other accolades are nice, but at the end of the day it comes down to whether or not those connected to Xavier have made the world a better place!

What has changed and what remains the same in Xavier's 25 years?
The mission clearly remains the same: Develop the total person in a Catholic environment.  How that mission has been delivered has changed - hopefully for the better.  I'm proud that the team I worked with remained true to the mission while adapting to a changing environment.  We embraced technology as a tool.  We found new ways (Kairos, Community System, Service Programs) to grow in faith.  We looked for new ways (Grandparents Mass, Memorial Mass) to engage our "extended" Xavier community.  We ramped up the academic opportunities (SLU Partnership, KCC partnership, additional AP courses) to challenge students.

Anything else you'd like to add?
I'm just blessed to have been a small part of this amazing Xavier journey.  I am a better person and a better Catholic as a result of my experiences with all those I encountered there.  I just remind those who are now there that, like Jeff and me, as well as the many faculty and staff who have come and gone, we are all just curators of Xavier.  Take great care of it.  The future (our students) depends on it.

Please share a favorite memory or two from your time at Xavier High School. 
There are so many great memories that it is hard to pick one or two. One of the coolest parts for me was being the second class to graduate from Xavier, which meant I got to be part of creating something new. There were new friends, new teams/clubs, new teachers, a new building and new traditions that we all got to help build. Homecoming as a senior was also pretty special (I’ll never forget a group of us creating our own dance to perform before the bonfire)! 

What are your thoughts on Xavier celebrating 25 years...what does that mean for the wider Xavier community? 
It seems impossible that it's been 25 years and actually makes me feel pretty old.  After graduation, I lost a little bit of my connection but moving back, joining the community again, and having kids start at St. Pius, I immediately felt the impact of this Catholic School System. Although our kids are not at Xavier yet, I still find myself there frequently through games, camps, performances and the Alumni Board.  Being a part of Xavier’s first couple years, it is incredible to see how much the school has grown and I know it will continue to do so. Over the past 25 years, Xavier has definitely made a name for itself and that is evident as you walk through the school and witness not only all of the accomplishments but also the caliber of student, teacher, coach and staff member you encounter.

What do you think makes Xavier High School special?
The focus on students as a whole person. Students are challenged academically, there are many opportunities to be involved through clubs, sports, music, etc. but most importantly, faith is ingrained in the everyday of a Xavier student. They all possess so many different talents and it’s a place to grow and showcase those talents but also an environment that strongly encourages individuals to grow as a person and in their faith.
 
How does it feel to be the parent of children in the Xavier Catholic Schools system now? 
As we looked at schools for the kids, it was never a question they would be part of the Xavier system. I feel grateful every day that they get to learn, grow, use their talents and become better humans through a school system that also supports them in their faith along the way. I love getting to show my kids where my locker was, where the PEP club met, and team gathered before games, and that I also had a seat in Mr. Goldsmith and Coach Lily’s classes. I feel blessed to have been part of creating some of the traditions at Xavier we still encompass today and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for all of our kids and the new traditions they get to be a part of. 

What was it like being a part of the history of Xavier High School as Principal?
Could there be a more rewarding calling than leading the Saints? Serving as principal at Xavier and being part of history has been truly incredible. It means being a part of a faith community that knows no bounds in striving for Xcellence ... and doing it together.

Please share a favorite memory or two if that comes to mind over your tenure at Xavier.
Did you say two only? It's too hard to choose!

• Spending three days traveling to the homes of every graduate of the Class of 2020 was certainly memorable.
• Friday morning mass in the chapel and the many times we came together as a community in times of loss.
• Celebrations: victories by students, birthdays and new babies of staff members and everything in between. There have been t-shirt guns, confetti cannons, and many shared meals. Celebrations abound at Xavier!
• Maybe my favorite: it was just as unforgettable to reflect on the visits of teachers or students who would come to talk about a big idea they had dreamed up and wanted to put into place.

What are your thoughts on Xavier celebrating 25 years...what does that mean for the wider Xavier community?
To celebrate 25 years of Xavier High School is to celebrate a school community that Is relentless in giving back. Teachers give to students the ability to make a difference. Saints are in parishes and the community sharing their gifts. As alumni, they serve in capacities that range from the military to teachers at Xavier to health care to (can you believe it?!) our very own parish priests.

What do you hope for Xavier's next 25 years?
My hope for Xavier is that it continues to grow in ways that inspire not only the students but the greater community. With a history of seeking to hold fast to its Catholic faith and core values, Xavier will undoubtedly continue that tradition with whatever changes the world brings in the next 25 years.

What has changed and what remains the same in Xavier's 25 years? What is important has not changed, but how to get there has and Xavier has risen to the challenge. Faith and service remains a priority thanks to the high expectations and passionate teachers that have served generations of Saints.

Anything else you’d like to add?
For all who support a place that aspires to lead the students to becoming saints in the world, never underestimate the importance and power of your prayers from the last 25 years and into the next. This is the foundation of Xavier’s success.

Please share a favorite memory or two from your time at Xavier High School.
I have many wonderful memories from Xavier especially in the relationships I developed with my friends through the years. I remember enjoying so many wonderful and varied activities: show choir, Key Club, TEC, band, swimming, softball, Speech, stage productions, the list goes on and on. What always made these activities so wonderful were the relationships and friendships that united us as we worked together. I also remember the care and wisdom of my many teachers. They walked with me and challenged me in so many, many ways. I think of the renowned junior English class with Mrs. Kalinsky, government with Mr. Schulte and the St. Jude novena, geography with Mr. Goldsmith (he always made sure we had opinions!), Spanish with Sra. Brannaman and Sra. Richmond, AP Bio with Mr. Schaub, and even early-bird gym with Mr. Hauschildt. I know that some of these names you may not know, but their wisdom and kindness marked the daily life of my adolescent world, shaping my perspective and gently pointing out to me new horizons. I never did say a proper thank you to these guides and formatters, so let me say it here: I am so grateful for you and all the patience and deliberate attention you showed me throughout my four years at Xavier!

What role did Xavier play in helping you decide to pursue your vocation? 
The availability of Mass and the chapel with the Eucharistic Lord reserved became very central to me during the last years of my time at Xavier. I remember once one of my teachers, I cannot remember who, mentioned that the chapel is physically located in the center of the school, showing us that Jesus is the spiritual center of our community life at Xavier. The faith and devotion of the faculty members, whether in math, English or theology, witnessed to the centrality of the Lord Jesus in our lives. Also, my friends really challenged me to grow, to make good, thoughtful decisions, and to enter more deeply into my relationship with Jesus.  I now recognize that it was the culture of Xavier that made such friendships possible.

What are your thoughts on Xavier celebrating 25 years...what does that mean for the wider Xavier community? 
An anniversary is always a moment of celebration where we give thanks to God for His providence over the past and His guidance toward the future. Furthermore, anniversaries are a moment to consider where we are at in the trajectory of our mission. There is nothing that we can do without Jesus! St. John Paul II wrote in the very first line of his first encyclical, Redemptoris Hominis: “The Redeemer of Man, Jesus Christ, is the center of the universe and of history.” Whatever projects, plans, and communities we find ourselves participating in, they will only begin, grow, and be fulfilled in Jesus.  So as we find ourselves celebrating 25 years of Xavier High School, let us give God the glory and praise and rededicate ourselves to following Jesus in order to carry out the mission that the Lord has entrusted to Xavier, the all-important mission of raising up disciples of Jesus Christ who will be transformed into Him and carry His light to the world. There is no more important endeavor for our lives than to follow Jesus and become like Jesus!

What do you think makes Xavier High School special?
Well, if you haven’t picked up on it from my answers already, it’s Jesus! He is the center! As long as He remains the center of life at Xavier High School, His light will go forth from its students to, literally, all the world. Amen! 

Anything else you'd like to add?
I am so grateful to all of the Xavier community. To the teachers, students, parents, etc. from my time at Xavier, you will only know in heaven what impact your witness had on me. Thank you! I will continue to pray for Xavier’s mission and for each person’s openness to Jesus so that He can walk through Xavier’s hallways in each of YOU.

Tell us a little about what it was like waiting for Xavier to open...what excited you about being a part of that?
To see a space converted from cornfield to Catholic school was pretty amazing. I loved the idea of having all of our faculty, students and facilities at one place. No more Thursday night football at Kingston or plays at Kirkwood. This place was ours.

What was it like to see students start school at Xavier when it opened?
There's definitely an energy about venturing into the unknown. I had been teaching at Regis High School, so I really enjoyed getting to know all there was to know about the tradition of LaSalle. The first senior class was also an exceptional group in terms of embracing all that was new instead of dwelling on what was lost.

Please share a favorite memory or two if one comes to mind, particularly from the early years. 
The flooding of the "X" was definitely memorable; a good day to teach about Noah. We also had to evacuate the building and call off school when a gas line was cut. Selfishly, my favorite memories were getting to teach my own kids. They handled it with exceptional grace.

What are your thoughts on Xavier celebrating 25 years...what does that mean for the wider Xavier community? 
It means that we've sent a generation of students through the school, and now we are starting to see children of Xavier graduates in the halls. It's very gratifying to be entrusted with any parent's most precious commodity.

What do you hope for Xavier's next 25 years?
I hope that Xavier embraces Jesus Christ. It's not hard to see the trending of society away from religion, but that's not a reason for depression on our part. That's a call to work even harder and be even prouder that we can help bring Jesus to a world in desperate need of Him.

What has changed and what remains the same in Xavier's 25 years?
I think something that Xavier has always done well is to embrace the innovation of its teachers and supporters, so class offerings, teaching approaches, and community opportunities are always evolving. Students never really change to me; every year has joy and challenge, and in the end gratitude.  Another thing that never changes are the jokes told by Coach Lilly, Coach Schulte, and me. We don't get new material; we get new audiences.

Anything else you'd like to add?
It's too easy to say "I'm blessed", but what else is there? I look forward to walking in the door of Xavier every day. I am surrounded by the best of people. They're not coworkers-we pray together, we look out for each other, we laugh together and we help each other bury loved ones. What more could you want than that?

Tell us a little about what it was like waiting for Xavier to open...what excited you about being a part of that?
The exciting part was putting together two great institutions and making a new great institution.

What was it like to see students start school at Xavier when it opened? Students brought life to the brick and mortar building we saw go up. Coach David Sullivan might have said it best when Xavier opened when he said, "This place won't be great because of the building, but because of the people in it."

Please share a favorite memory or two if one comes to mind, particularly from the early years.
There are too many to really say but if pushed to the brink, I would have to say the football state title run of 2006 was pretty special. But all the teams that came before them laid the foundation. And all the teams that came after them carry on the tradition.

What are your thoughts on Xavier celebrating 25 years...what does that mean for the wider Xavier community?
Celebrating 25 years means many people celebrated the grind in order for Xavier to get to this point. All the students, staff, and families from year one through now are important.

What do you hope for Xavier's next 25 years?
Over the next 25 years I hope more students come here and continue to work hard. If they do, they will get what they earn.

What has changed and what remains the same in Xavier's 25 years?
What has stayed the same is an atmosphere of Catholicism and what's changed is an even greater atmosphere of Catholicism.

Anything else you'd like to add?
Go Saints! And let's keep in the back of our mind how important LaSalle and Regis (and Immaculate Conception, St. Patrick's and St. Wenceslas) were to set the standards for Xavier.

Share your reflections on the past and future of Xavier:
After all the hard work and countless meetings, the biggest feeling I had when Xavier opened its doors was pure excitement. Unifying the “east/west” students, teachers, and staff went better than I ever could have ever expected; it was truly remarkable. This community’s people (teachers, staff, students, families) and the centeredness on our Catholic faith has been the strength of the past 25 years, and will be the strength for the next 25, which I’m proud to be a part of.

Please share a favorite memory or two from your time at Xavier High School.
I really enjoyed my work in the theater at Xavier, and I loved making the set and sound design for Noises Off. It was a two story set that rotated 360 degrees with microphones in the front of the stage and the back, it was awesome to be a part of building that. And the show was hilarious. Another favorite memory was AP Chemistry with Mr. Sullivan who called me "Old Man" (and still does today) after the Monty Python and the Holy Grail movie. 

What role did Xavier play in helping you decide to pursue your vocation? 
Xavier gave me the opportunity to ask the "big questions" in life. I was able to take an independent study in Philosophy and Why Am I Catholic? which really helped me to learn how to think about the bigger picture and my role in it. I was surrounded by people like priests, teachers, and friends that I could talk about those things with. 

What are your thoughts on Xavier celebrating 25 years...what does that mean for the wider Xavier community? 
I think 25 years of Xavier shows the kind of wonderful things we can do when we work together. All the Catholics of the Cedar Rapids/Marion-metro area came together to make Xavier a reality and 25 years out we can see the wonderful benefits our school made. Priests and religious, business owners and leaders in the community, teachers and missionaries around the world all have come from this school. I think it really should be an inspiration to all of us of the difference we can make in the world when we come together in faith. 

What advice would you offer to current Xavier students about making the most of their time in high school? 
Invest in your time here, you never know what skills Xavier offers that will help you later in life. I never thought I would need Spanish, but I am now in my third assignment as a priest with a Spanish-speaking community. I even used my skills with microphones from the theater at Xavier to help with a Papal Mass when Pope Francis visited our seminary. I never dreamed I would do those things when I was a student. 

What do you think makes Xavier High School special?
I think Xavier is so special because it brings together a great community centered in faith to support and help our students know that they are valued, loved, and that they have such great potential. Everyone from our teachers, staff, administrators, priests, parents, parishioners, and beyond have come together in an effort to provide an environment to help our students discover who they are in God's plan and help them achieve it. That's unique. 

How does it feel to be able to offer Mass and stay connected to Xavier to this day? 
I am really grateful to be able to give back as a priest, pastor, and school board member to the school that helped so much to form me. I want to do all that I can to make sure that Xavier continues the good work it has started and become even better than when I was there. I love seeing the good work of the school continue in the lives of our current students.

Please share any memories you have of Xavier’s very beginning days. 
Well before it opened, when they were still digging, the drama teacher at the time and I would go out and stand on the hill that was going to be the stage in the theater and would just imagine how it would all shape up. And then when it opened it was just glorious. We had a TV and a telephone in every room. I loved the big windows in each room. I loved decorating those seasonally. That was very fun…the early years were good. I loved my classes. I would say my early years were as joyful as my last years at Xavier were. I loved being there all those years. I can’t imagine having taught anywhere else then…there was joy from the very beginning.


What are your thoughts on it being the 25th anniversary and what that means for the Xavier community?
There is so much to be proud of. Xavier has done everything so well. The arts programs, the facilities, the athletics, the academics. After 25 years you look at how lovely the facility still is. It’s been taken care of nicely. I can’t wait to see the new St. Francis Xavier statue that was put in. It has all the signs of a vibrant community. I follow Xavier closely still on social media and I know everything that Xavier does is just stellar still. It’s a wonderful place. The main thing I would say about Xavier 25 years after opening is that the sense of community has not faltered. It seems as strong now as it ever was.

Tell us a little about what it was like waiting for Xavier to open...what excited you about being a part of that?
Waiting for Xavier to open was a process that seemed to take forever. As it came together it was not completely finished when it was first opened. There was no guarantee that any teacher or coach was going to be hired. There was a lot of speculation but it was stressful. Being selected to coach girls’ basketball did not come with a teaching position. When I left Regis and entered college, all I ever wanted to do was teach and coach. The opportunity to be a part of this new Catholic school coaching staff was exhilarating. But not being hired to teach was difficult. Then when I interviewed with Jeff Henderson for a teaching position, I told him I was as loyal as a hound dog laying at his feet in front the fireplace. I told him he would never regret his decision to fulfil my dream as a teacher and coach. I guess you will have to ask him what he thinks.

Please share a favorite memory or two if one comes to mind, particularly from the early years. 
The girls’ basketball program lost in the state championship in 2002. It was Xavier’s first opportunity for a championship. The following year the girls basketball team made it back to state. There was a state send off in the gym and Jeff Henderson got on a hoist in the middle of the gym, rode to the top and told the students that there was something missing in the rafters. He was talking about a championship banner for Xavier HS. Turns out the battery for the hoist went dead and it would not return to the bottom. The students left and most did not realize their principal was stuck. The 2003 championship was Xavier's 1st, now just one of many.

What has changed and what remains the same in Xavier's 25 years?
Xavier has made many changes from the time it first opened. It has experienced loss in students and faculty passing away. Those times truly solidified what it meant to be a Saint. People coming together in times of need makes Xavier different. Xavier has survived floods, the derecho, and the pandemic. Faith has kept us moving forward.

What do you hope for Xavier's next 25 years?
The next 25 years will be challenging. I pray that more people will come to realize that Xavier and their faith in God will guide them to a Holy and productive life. As they say, Xavier is here to stand beside our students on their path towards heaven.

 

Tell us a little about the planning and fundraising to build Xavier. 
From opening day in the fall of 1998 to today’s bustling campus community of over 600 students, Xavier High School has embodied both a rich Catholic heritage and a focus on the future. I know that the enormous amount of prayers and petitions to the Holy Spirit by the Catholic community during the planning years gave us the vision and foresight to work to bring Regis and LaSalle together.The success of Xavier’s “Proud Past . . .Promising Future” capital campaign building fund reflects the huge support from the community. The multi-year campaign exceeded the original goal by $1.8 million, raising a total of $7.9 million in outright and restricted gifts and pledges. With over 1,000 volunteers working on the many phases of the campaign we achieved a tremendous spirit of teamwork. As a Catholic community, we have a dedicated interest in the continued growth and success of Catholic education in the Cedar Rapids community. It is this Catholic heritage of generosity and concern for our future young people that enables the Foundation to fulfill its mission of providing support to Xavier High School.  

What are some of your memories from when Xavier opened?
Memories of the first day were wrapped up in seeing and hearing the bustling noises of the students in the hallways, classrooms, Chapel, all around campus . . . the ultimate dream came true! The first day began, just as all days begin at Xavier, with a prayer of thanksgiving and praise for the blessings we have received. The Xavier flag was still a dream, but before long, a donor was secured and the dedication ceremony and raising of the flag over the campus was initiated soon followed by the dedication of the fourteen outdoor Stations of the Cross. This was only a few of the many generous donors who helped make the Xavier campus a reality.

What do you think makes Xavier so special?
I had the privilege of saying, “thank you” to so many dedicated people who have made an education at Xavier possible for so many families over the years. I couldn’t have asked for a more supportive environment or more fulfilling challenges to be a part of for over a decade.  Thank you to the pastors, Foundation and School boards, administration, faculty and staff members; your dedication and support have been remarkable year after year. And may we never forget to be especially grateful for the vocations to the priesthood (eight alumni priests, four alumni in seminary as of 2023), religious sisters (five alumni sisters) and many lay positions in the Church since Xavier’s inception 25 years ago. What a valuable asset we have in our Catholic education system.  

How have you stayed connected to Xavier over the past 25 years?
My passion for Catholic education has spanned the last five decades either as a volunteer or a professional to promote the educational mission of the Catholic Church. With the youngest grandson graduating from Xavier this past spring, I find myself entering a new phase in support of Catholic education. I am excited about sharing with this new generation what life holds and the wonderful opportunities that our Catholic education system offers. I firmly believe in being a life-long learner and staying excited about ideas and possibilities. Be assured that I will be involved in Catholic education in some capacity for the rest of my life.

What do you hope for Xavier’s next 25 years?
I’d like to leave each of you with a challenge . . . during the coming years, with God’s help, let us continue to expand and enhance our efforts to make Xavier High School and the Xavier Community of Schools the outstanding Catholic high school, middle schools and elementary schools across our Archdiocese and in the State of Iowa.

Former Xavier High School chaplain, Fr. Dustin Vu, who served at Xavier from 2008 through 2020 made a significant impact on our school and left a lasting impression on many Saints. Xavier graduates who were blessed with Fr. Vu's guidance during their time in high school often point to Fr. Vu as a presence who helped them open their eyes and ears to see and listen to God's calling. Below are just some of the many reflections and favorite memories of Fr. Vu and his impact on Xavier High School...

My favorite memory with Father Vu was Kairos 38 because he helped me so much to grow personally and faith wise. Father Vu opened my mind and showed me how to live a happy and faith filled life.
--Lizzy Schmitt (X21)

My favorite memory of Father Vu was during my Kairos. I had the opportunity to go to Reconciliation with him as my priest and he completely opened my eyes to how amazing of an sacrament it is. I saw God in a way I hadn’t before and Father Vu was there to help and guide me along and better get to know God.  
--Virgina Russell (X21)

Fr. Vu has been a huge support, influence, wonderful man that had always been there for my husband and myself. My husband and I met and started dating at Xavier and have been together ever since and Fr. Vu was there from the very beginning. He’s been there for everything we have every gone through, from high school, to an extremely bad car accident, to marrying us, baptizing our children, and so much more. He has been there through our hardest times in our lives but always has been there for the best as well! He will forever be apart of our story and apart of our lives! We love Fr. Vu and will miss him dearly!
--Hilary Landis

Father Vu is the reason my faith is as strong as it is today. He encouraged me to get involved all throughout my time at Xavier, and believed in me like no other. He was the most encouraging voice during my time of doubts about leading Kairos, leaving Xavier, and falling away from God. Even thought I’ve left the school, he continues to reach out to me over social media and uplift me in my faith. I miss his joyous attitude that made everyone’s day brighter at school, and the way he would call me ‘holy holy holy Hannah’. He’s such a jokester :) His heart has touched so many, including mine, and I’m so excited and happy for him in his new adventure. Xavier is a better place because of him, and as much as it hurts to see him leave, we can all be comforted knowing he has truly left a mark on our community.
--Hannah Dake (X19)

I think my fondest memories of Father Vu were hearing him shout "HOLY HOLY HOLY" on seeing me or others in the hallways of Xavier. I only wish I were worthy of three "holy's" but I'm sure it has done much in helping people to recognize the capacity for holiness, for sainthood, within them. For that I'm very grateful.
--Jackson Miller (X19)

I have two very specific memories of Father Vu. The first is a homily when I was in elementary school at St. Pius. Father Vu had a bundle of small sticks and asked the strongest kids in the 5th grade if they could snap the bundle. No one could do it. Father Vu then handed out individual sticks to students and asked if they could snap them - which they easily did. Father Vu's message was about how strong the community is when we stick together and have faith - I'll never forget it! Father Vu has made a huge impact on my life as well as my family. His loving, contagious personality is unlike anyone I know. Being around him makes you at ease and you feel safe and never judged. He made a huge impact on our three daughters... Faith (X16), Hanna (X18), and Sarah. He encouraged both my husband and I to attend CEW which was a amazing experience. I’ve asked him multiple times to pray for my family, without hesitation he was there for us.
--Beth Bohrer

When I was at Kairos, I was super hesitant about reconciliation. However, I chose a room at random, not caring who was inside. When I walked in, however, Father Vu was there. It was the longest reconciliation I’ve ever had—I think it was almost 25 minutes. I poured my heart and soul out to him and he listened and gave me some of the best advice I’ve ever heard. I still take that advice with me today and it helps me get through every single day. But, I also have just a funny story with Fr. Vu, which is more like our long standing feud/argument about the Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Iowa State Cyclones. Those "arguments" were always a highlight of my day.
--Avery Arens (X21)

My favorite memories of Fr. Vu are when he came to talk to my friends and I at lunch. He always made us laugh and brought a smile to our faces.
--Kayla Johnson

My favorite memory with Father Vu was the Saturday night of Kairos when I did Reconciliation with him. That was truly a life changing experience and ever since then, he has taught me to be a better person to myself and others.
--Nick Lemke (X21)

As an incoming freshman there was a lot to start thinking about as you embark on your high school journey, when I was in 8th grade at Discover Xavier Night for Xavier, I remember walking through the gym with my mom, dad, and my sister Avery (X19). I remember Fr. Vu coming up to my family and I and as he started to have a conversation with us he looked as though he had recognized me, little did I know he though that I was Avery, a little bit later we then corrected him that I was not Avery. Fr. Vu then caught on and realized that I was the little sister that Avery had told him about. Avery and Fr. Vu had talked about the fact that I was just as much of a handful as Avery and Fr. Vu was nervous to have another Campbell in the building. He instantly knew my name because they had talked about me in the past and the fact that he remembered my name from then on out made me feel so welcomed and loved in the Xavier community. As an incoming freshman, I was scared to start all knew bonds with the teachers and faculty, some of which I had never seen in my life, but I created a very special bond with Fr. Vu over my last two years at Xavier, and the bond we have is one that I will never forget. Fr, Vu is always just one smile away and he always makes me feel so happy and warm inside just by him being present. He lights up every room he walks into and his smile, wave, and phrase “hello eden!” will forever be engraved in my memory.
--Eden Cambell (X22)

I'm sure I have a singular Father Vu story that I'd like to share, but I'd just like to say that Father Vu's presence at Xavier High School has had such a profound impact. He makes everyone smile. He makes everyone laugh. He makes everyone stronger in their faith. He makes everyone feel welcome. Long before I had a child walking the halls of Xavier, Father Vu always made a point to say hello and share a smile and a prayer. Once my son arrived, Father Vu helped him understand the true value of walking your faith day in an day out, every minute! I loved hearing from Father Vu that he sat down with my son and his fellow freshmen friends at lunch one day! A smile-worthy moment! Father Vu, we are thankful for all the ways you have given of your time and talents and faithful leadership to the entire Xavier community! 
--Katie (Mills) Giorgio (X99)

Every year for ordinations, Fr. Vu would walk up to the seminarians bow, and say, "Holy, holy, holy." One year we planned ahead of time to outdo Fr. Vu in his typical holiness "shtick". When he came into the Cathedral, we all knelt and said, "Holy, holy, holy." Fr. Vu, not being outdone in humility and humor, laid prostrate on the ground saying, "I'm not holy, you are holy, holy, holy."
--Eric Zenisek (X11)
 
My favorite memory about Fr. Vu is our whole weekend at Kairos together! Spending time with him was great!
--Jack Lux (X21)
    
Having Father Vu on my Kairos was amazing, but getting to talk to him 1 on 1 after Kairos is definitely my favorite memory of him. He always gave great advice and I felt I could come to him for anything
--Arnold Mutasingwa (X21)
 
Spending time talking in the Campus Ministry office during 4B, seeing Father Vu’s smiling face in the lunchrooms. 
--Britt Bowersox (X21)
 
Father Vu never failed to bring joy to the halls of Xavier High School. I have fond memories of him playing Werewolf with us at TEC 548, or making his "Ash" joke every year on Ash Wednesday. He has a way of remembering the smallest things about people; he always seemed to provide a new memory or story from a past time when we saw him. He had my mother folded over laughing while giving the Homily at Abby Watson's wedding. 
 --Quinlan Moran (X14)
  
I have two very specific memories of Father Vu. The first is a homily when I was in elementary school at St. Pius. Father Vu had a bundle of small sticks and asked the strongest kids in the 5th grade if they could snap the bundle. No one could do it. Father Vu then handed out individual sticks to students and asked if they could snap them - which they easily did. Father Vu's message was about how strong the community is when we stick together and have faith - I'll never forget it!
 
The second memory is from high school when I was working on Geometry proofs in the cafeteria and failing miserably (Sorry Mrs. Glass). Father Vu came to the rescue and walked me through several problems. It seemed easy to him so I asked if he would complete my entire homework assignment. He, of course, said no! 
--Maddie Hasley (X13)
 
One of my favorite stories of Father Vu is when Father Vu informed us that he could fit in very small places and then proceeded to climb into the overhead storage compartment on a charter bus. Father Vu has been such an influential part of my life and am so grateful for all the time I was able to spend with him. From service trips to having dinner at his house all the way back to when I was in elementary school. 
--Kayla Brady (X16)
 
I got to know Father Vu the most when my daughter Stephanie (X16) & I went on march for life 2016, what a faithful and dedicated man he is, not to just his faith but to the students & parishioners, as we are parishioners at John 23. He has helped us grow in faith and guide my family in many ways. He was there for both my girls at their time at Xavier, along with graduation, kairos, our oldest daughters wedding and blessing my youngest daughters badge as she joins the police department.
 --Shelly Wehr
 
I’m not sure how to share just one memory or story about Father Vu- there are too many! What comes to mind when I think of Father Vu is his joyful spirit and he shares that spirit and love of God to all. 
--The Talletts
 
So many fond memories of Father Vu! My family is sure going to miss him! I’ve never had a priest reach out as much as Father Vu. It’s nice to have a priest who is so relatable and whenever I need extra prayers, I know I can easily reach out to him. He was the first priest to hear my son’s confession and he made it an awesome experience. He also made sure my kids experienced Kairos. He always seems to go the extra mile and can easily put a smile on your face and cheer you up! 
--Kathy Welter
 
I have several memories of Fr Vu working 1:1 with kids in need. He was always a step ahead of me in knowing what was going on when I asked for help with a student. I didn't realize the impact of his work with them as his conversations with them was always private until one KAIROS. I was helping direct kids during reconciliation and the number of kids who asked specifically to go to him and were willing to wait to see him was very large. He had one student in particular that I knew was struggling prior to KAIROS that asked for him. The amount of time he spent with them was more than any other student, yet I knew they needed him most and he did not let time constraints dictate that. He gave that student exactly what they needed. His connection with teens is like nothing I've seen at Xavier before. Especially, his shout outs in the halls of Xavier. Kids look for him in the halls when they know he's in the building to say "Hi!"
--Kris Naeve
 
I have so many stories with Father Vu, but what stands out to me is that he always goes out of his way to check in and see how myself and husband are doing. When I visit my parents and able to attend mass, he always makes an effort to come over and catch up quick before mass begins.
--Samantha (Wehr) Timmons (X11)
 
Father Vu has touched so many with so much compassion and love. He always was available and never missed an important visit, especially those that were in the hospital. Praying for your continued success serving our Lord!
--Tom Leskovec
 
In all my time at Xavier, Father Vu told EVERYONE they were destined for religious life. He told pretty much all of my women friends that they should be nuns, but he always said "Megan, you can't be a nun." He said this for years! I was so confused & finally I asked him why. He said "You can't be a nun because you are meant to be a wife & mother and have a family." Unfortunately I think sometimes in Catholic circles, religious life is treated as the "best" option, & everything else is secondary. But he made me feel that that vocation was just as important as religious life. And he was totally right! 
--Megan Lynch (X13)
 
Fr. Vu always made me smile. He would say hello and you knew he genuinely cared for you. He took a chance on me to lead K19 and that changed my life. He was always a constant in my Xavier experience, ready to talk to you and make you laugh. 
--Kayla Thompson (X15)
 
I remember shortly after Fr. Vu was ordained, he was assigned to St. Pius as an associate pastor. I was teaching theology at Xavier at the time. It was not uncommon at all for Fr. Vu to email me his upcoming homily for the week to ask for my thoughts. I was always blown away by that. I mean, what could I add to his already amazing homilies!?!? I know I was not the only person he'd do this with - he did this with many others as well. His humility and awareness to do something like that is a fond memory I'll always have.
 
I'll also never forget getting a text from an unknown number right before my dad was scheduled to have triple bypass surgery. It was Fr. Vu, letting me know he was saying special prayers for him. I can't tell you how comforting that was not just for me, but for our family.
 
"Faithful servant" is an appropriate way to remember Fr. Vu's time not just at Xavier, but in Cedar Rapids.
--Chris McCarville (R97)
 
My favorite memory of Father Vu is just every time I see him in the hallway he’ll say my name really loudly and talk to me which never fails to put a smile on my face.
--Elyse Winter (X21)
 
My favorite memory is from my first day a school at Xavier when Father Vu shouted my name in hallway and right away I felt welcomed. He never failed to cheer me up and he always put a smile on my face.
--Ella Winter (X21)
 
I liked seeing Father Vu's smiling face in the hallways. He was always in such a good mood and made the students feel like they mattered. 
--Liz McGarvey (X20)
 
My favorite memory with Father Vu is experiencing Kairos with him. We shared many laughs and really got closer during that time. K36 is the best!
--Samantha Robinson (X21)
 
My favorite memories with Father Vu are 1) When he climbed into the bus overhead cabinet on our way to the Catholic Heartwork Camp site 2) Experiencing Kairos at camp I-o-de-sica for the first time. 
--Taylor Scallon (X20)
  
I happened to spend the NFL draft with Father Vu and Mike Goldsmith on Zoom. Father Vu was making Mel Kiper look like a rookie in identifying the next selection. He was amazing. Both Father Vu and Mike anxiously awaited the Minnesota Vikings selections as time went by. Both seeking a draft pick to help their beloved team. They cheered and were ecstatic when the LSU receiver was available and selected. The memorable experience was when the Green Bay selection came up. After moving up in the draft they selected a remote QB that no one thought was possible as the 26th player in the draft. Father Vu cheered and laughed so hard I could not take the shame and embarrassment forcing me to sign off in total humiliation. For that moment Father Vu became just one of the boys. I will never forget.
--Tom Lilly (R73)
 
Fr. Vu is a holy, holy, holy priest and a dear friend who is an inspiration to everyone he meets! When we see him bounding around, we can't help but smile at his enthusiasm for his faith and life. He is a spiritual role model for both of our sons (and everyone he meets) and we are eternally grateful. 
--Randy and Joyce Tietz
 
Father Vu has been such a guide for me on my faith journey, and has always been a friendly face with a smile around Xavier. Most days, he would be standing at the top of the staircase by the X, and I would go and talk with him before theology class. I was almost late a few times.
--Carlie Mauss (X21)
 
My favorite memories of Father Vu are always seeing him smiley, happy, positive, and joyful for those around him.
--Hope Schulte (X21)
  
I can’t narrow down one specific moment, but every time Father Vu yelled my name in the halls or ate lunch with me was always so fun. And when he got me out of class to come talk to him!
--Maddie Gannon (X20)
 
My favorite memory was being on Kairos with Father Vu! I loved getting out of class to come and visit with him about my talk. He is always so happy and he is so passionate about Kairos. His positive outlook and strong faith are so inspiring. It always made my day when he would sit and eat lunch with us! 
--Ellie Braksiek (X20)
 
My favorite memory is from 2004 or 2005 when you were at our home for dinner. First, the children horrified that you said you could eat their dog! Then you asked if we were having horse and Merideth about came unglued! Somehow after dinner we were on the deck and reconciliation came up in the conversation. You asked Thomas if he had any sins on his heart and he answered yes (3rd or 4th grade).
 
The two of you got up and went around the side of the house for a reconciliation and Thomas came back just beaming. You demonstrated that our faith is part of everyday life and every situation; that any occasion is an occasion to speak humbly to our Father.
 
Thank you for the many wonderful examples of humility, compassion and a sense of humor you have given our family through the years.
--The Erusha Family
 
My favorite memory of Father Vu was his dedication to all students and always encouraging students to be holier. His steadfastness was shown through his leadership with Kairos, Catholic Heart Workcamp, and Tec.
--Katie Neumeyer (X16)

My favorite memory of Father Vu is when I was at Kairos and I was walking by and he grabbed my arm and told me that I have to be a leader for next year. I enjoyed every talk we have at lunch, he always puts a smile on my face and never fails to make my day better.
--Kya Loffswold (X21)
 
My favorite memory would have to be at lunch time when Father Vu would come and sit at tables and ask how we were doing or just share a funny story or tell a joke.
--Rachel Burke (X21)
 
We were having dinner at a friend's home and Father Vu was also a guest. In the evening's conversation, he told us, "Ask me anything." To put himself out there as a priest, a friend, and offer to give us the answers and the "why's" to any of our questions - he helped make the church "real" for us that night!
--Julie (L78) and Jim Schnoebelen Family
 
Fr. Vu calling down the hall, "Holy, Holy, Holy!" He always encouraged us toward holiness.
--Fr. Kyle Tietz (X11)
 
"Holy, holy, holy Libby." I would hear this weekly when I attended Xavier and I would often hear Fr. Vu enthusiastic voice before I saw him. My favorite memory of Fr. Vu is when he would walk through the cafeteria and stop at every table saying hi to all the students and he would often stop and sit down to talk with my friends and me. I love that about Fr. Vu: he made the community of Xavier stronger. He connected us through faith by his selfless, countless hours spent on Kairos and his energetic and passionate day-to-day uplifting interactions. I feel so blessed that I had Father Vu to act as a guide to me both in the Xavier community and in my personal faith journey.
--Libby Kramer (X19)