The Seeds of Courage and Sacrifice

CM will always graduate young men who aspire to make a meaningful difference in our world because the world needs leaders. Leaders with the moral fiber to make ethical decisions in challenging situations. Leaders who embrace those on the margins, and leaders who can imagine new possibilities.

At CM, how do we do this? Through intentional programming which plants the seeds of courage, of sacrifice, and of doing the right thing – always. This school year, our students read an American tale of heroism about two naval fighter pilots who fought in the Korean War. We invited to school the son of one of the heroes, along with the commander of a US destroyer bearing the Medal of Honor recipient’s name. We honored all CM alumni and parents who served our country at a home football game. We also held two funeral masses for US veterans who had no family or friends. These powerful occurrences deeply impact our students, who learn about ordinary people who have sacrificed for causes greater than themselves in the service of their country and what true sacrifice means. 

For most of us, sacrifice will not come with great valor or fanfare. Instead, it will be in the form of small yet important acts. CM students have witnessed this since the school’s founding from faculty members and parents who have demonstrated to the young men these understated acts of generosity and love which serve as the bedrock of our community. 

CM lives out its mission through the sacrifice and generosity of alumni, parents, and corporations who ensure that the school can award over $5MM in financial assistance each year. The fall CM Golf Tournament and the Spring Gala are critical events that support this mission. 

The 2024 Spring Gala honored two men who have lived lives of courage and sacrifice: Vince in Bono Malum award recipient, Bob Maloney, Jr., Esq. ’77, Partner at Prince Lobel Tye LLP, and the Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice award recipient, Father John Unni, Pastor at Saint Cecilia Parish in Boston. 

This year, the event raised over $800,000 in support of financial aid, and the Gala itself has amassed over $3MM in its short existence. This year, two enduring scholarships were founded for sons of the Boston police and fire departments, whose parents selflessly rush towards danger each day. Bob Maloney’s scholarship fund was created in honor of his father, a Boston police detective. Fr. John’s scholarship fund was created in honor of the women and men of the Boston Fire Department, who he serves as their chaplain. 

I urge you to watch the inspiring testimonials about both men on our website.

Catholic Memorial remains grateful to you, our community, for supporting the school and the unique education it provides. As you read this magazine, I hope that you reflect upon your CM experience and recall the virtues that were instilled in you at this very remarkable school. 

Dr. Peter Folan