Gala Celebrating Rick and Cathy Roche Raises $471,000

“Throughout Xaverian’s history, God has raised up a few good people who have made an extraordinary impact. Among them are Rick and Cathy Roche,” said Brother Daniel Skala, C.F.X., Xaverian’s Headmaster, during the medal presentation. “They help us understand that we are connected to something larger than ourselves. They are an excellent example of how one family can positively impact the education of hundreds of boys. Paying attention to the goodness of people like Rick and Cathy helps us be more appreciative, understanding, and compassionate.”

Upon accepting the award, Rick and Cathy did something in keeping with their natures; they turned around and recognized others instead of accepting the praise for themselves. The Roches told the gala attendees that the campus ministers at Xaverian are the people who should be recognized. Of the five-person campus ministry team, Rick said, “I think that everybody realizes that they are the backbone and the foundation of Xaverian education. I’d like to share our medal with them.” Bob Gill and Dr. Chad Puclowski ’98, both campus ministers, took the stage at the Roche’s request to share in the Xaverian Medal award presentation.

Gala 2018 was attended by hundreds of parents, alumni, faculty, staff, friends, and the Board of Trustees. It raised $471,000 to benefit the Scholarship Fund, bringing Xaverian’s total to more than $6.8 million over the 22 years of gala history.

Maria Stephanos, WCVB News Anchor and mother of Liam Stephanos, a senior, served as the gala emcee. Students volunteered in a variety of roles, including waiting tables, coat check, and serving as greeters. During the “Fund our Future” portion of the evening, a blitz-style giving campaign, student peer ministers helped to collect nearly $65,000 in just minutes, all to benefit Xaverian’s campus ministry program. They fanned out into the crowd, collecting pledges of support from the gala guests, shaking hands, and saying, “thank you.”

Echoing their gratitude, Brother Daniel Skala says Gala 2018 was a great success. “When I consider all the people who make Xaverian strong – and we have never been stronger – I appreciate how blessed our community is. Under the leadership of our co-chairs, Sean and Janice Fahy (Milton), Paul and Robin Lyons (Walpole), and Bill and Mary McNamara (Wellesley), more than 100 volunteers planned the celebration, and hundreds more parents have donated gifts. Our growth as a school is nurtured by many hands and hearts working together. We are deeply grateful for this support.”