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Xaverian Hosts Socially-Distanced Commencement Ceremony


Adhering to all safety protocols, diplomas were conferred to 212 graduates this past Saturday.
On Saturday, July 25, Xaverian Brothers High School celebrated the Commencement of the Class of 2020. Adhering to all safety protocols as set forth by the MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, diplomas were conferred to the 212 graduates by Head of School, Jacob Conca ’94, Ph.D. and Principal Michael Nicholson. Many of these seniors carry the distinction of being members of the inaugural class of the Francis Xavier Division (FXD), Xaverian's seventh and eighth grade program that opened in the fall of 2014. 

During his opening speech, Dr. Conca reflected on the unique circumstances of the Class of 2020’s senior year, saying, “Gentlemen, you and your families have earned this day, especially in light of all that has transpired in the last several months. As we gather here on a July morning, you are a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and community.”

The Class of 2020 valedictorian, Benjamin Karasko, and salutatorian, Kevin O’Brien, delivered thoughtful speeches during the ceremony. Ben, son of Mr. Erich Karasko and Dr. Anita Karasko, will be attending Dartmouth College this fall. Kevin, son of Dr. and Mrs. Douglas O'Brien, will attend Georgetown University. 

Samuel Stearns, son of Mr. Dana Stearns and Mrs. Lisa-Marie Stearns, was named the winner of the Xaverian Award, the highest honor Xaverian can bestow on a graduating senior. He will attend Tufts University in the fall. In his remarks, Dr. Conca described Sam in the following way:

The recipient of this award is a senior who has distinguished himself by living the mission and core values associated with Xaverian. This year’s recipient is a young man who freely gives of himself to the Xaverian community and to the greater community at large.

In the classroom, this graduate performs exceptionally well, often producing work of the highest caliber while offering commentary that further enhances classroom discussion and student understandings. He actively shares his gifts with our community through campus ministry, his athletic prowess, and through our Fine Arts programs.

A true giver, who believes deeply in service to others, it is not uncommon to find this young man
volunteering his time at admissions events,mentoring a younger student, or assisting a guest in
finding their way through our hallways.

Most members of the Class of 2020 have declared their intentions for continuing their education beyond Xaverian. They will be enrolled at top schools across the country, including Brown University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Cornell University, Ohio State University, the United States Military Academy, Penn State University, Bates College, Boston College, University of Notre Dame, Northwestern, University of Vermont, University of Connecticut, New York University, Tufts University, Syracuse University, and many more. 
 
To see photos from the day, view our Commencement 2020 photo album.
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Xaverian is a Catholic, college-preparatory school for boys in grades 7-12. As an inclusive community, we embrace diverse experiences and perspectives, welcoming students and families from all faiths and backgrounds. Through exceptional academics, athletics, the arts, faith formation, and service opportunities, we help young men discover their unique gifts and talents so they can share them with a world in need.