2025 Ryken Award Recipient: Mr. Joseph MacKinnon ’84

On December 3, during Xaverian’s annual Founder’s Day Liturgy, Mr. Joseph MacKinnon ’84 was announced as the 2025 Theodore James Ryken Award winner. “I have been assured that there was a big roar of applause, but I hardly heard it,” Mr. MacKinnon jokes. As is tradition, the Head of School, Dr. Jacob Conca '94, delivered remarks about the Ryken Award Winner before revealing who the recipient is. "About three quarters of the way through his speech, I started thinking, ‘Oh, that's me. I think he’s talking about me,’ and from there it was all a blur.”

For more than three decades, the Ryken Award has honored a Xaverian faculty or staff member who is recognized by peers for exemplifying the vision of Theodore James Ryken and the core values of a Xaverian Brothers education. In their nominations, some of which were read aloud by Dr. Conca during the liturgy, Mr. MacKinnon’s colleagues praised his unfailing patience with students, his kindness toward colleagues, and the deep respect and integrity with which he lives out the Xaverian mission. Reflecting on the honor, Mr. MacKinnon said, “When I think of past honorees and of who this award is named for, to be included among them is a really nice boost. I feel humbled and honored to be recognized in this way.”

Mr. MacKinnon has been a prominent member of the Xaverian community for more than 40 years, beginning his journey as a student in the early 80s. “I always joke with prospective students who I help interview for admissions: ‘Listen, kid, if you decide to come here, you might be like me and never leave!’ It’s a good thing! It’s a blessing to be here.” During his many years at Xaverian, Mr. MacKinnon has held a variety of roles, including chair of the social studies department, coach of the lacrosse and soccer teams, moderator for numerous clubs, and a faculty member of four different academic departments. “I laugh a lot here,” he says. “It’s a good job. It’s a good way to spend your life.”

To Mr. MacKinnon, the honor reflects the heart of what it means to teach at Xaverian. “If you take teaching seriously, which we do, Xaverian offers an environment in which you are trusted as a professional, equipped with the tools you need, and surrounded with incredible students,” he says. “Equally important are our colleagues who not only support you, but are great sources of inspiration and admiration. I am amazed every day that I am in this building.” 

Since receiving the Ryken Award, Mr. MacKinnon has had the opportunity to read some of the nominations his colleagues submitted on his behalf. “I was really moved by what people had written, but also challenged,” he shares. “Challenged to continue to live up to that. Although, now that I’ve earned this award, I suppose I could skate by for the rest of the year,” he says with a smile, before adding, “Just kidding, Jake.”