Nestled in the heart of Boston’s South End, Cathedral High School stands as a beacon of educational opportunity for nearly a century. However, beneath its venerable facade lies a mission that transcends mere appearances: to provide an affordable and transformative education to students from all walks of life, regardless of their financial means. Embracing this noble purpose, an anonymous donor from the class of 1954 has bestowed upon Cathedral High School its most generous gift to date – a $30 million matching grant. This extraordinary act of philanthropy is a testament to the school’s unwavering commitment to empowering young minds.
Cathedral High School stands as a testament to the transformative power of education. Its student body is a vibrant tapestry of diversity, with 98% identifying as Black or Latino, hailing predominantly from the city of Boston. United by a shared aspiration for knowledge and personal growth, these students find in Cathedral a haven where their dreams take flight.
Every student at Cathedral receives some form of financial aid, ensuring that their path to success is not hindered by financial burdens. The vast majority of students contribute a small fraction of the $20,000 annual tuition, making Cathedral an accessible institution for those who might otherwise be denied the opportunity for an exceptional education.
The anonymous donor, a retired financial-services executive, has been a long-time benefactor of Cathedral High School. His generosity stems from a deep-seated belief in the school’s mission of providing opportunities to those who may not have them otherwise. Eschewing the limelight, this humble philanthropist prefers to let his actions speak volumes.
“I can honestly say he’s the most selfless individual I’ve ever met in my life,” said Dan Carmody, Cathedral’s president. “I’ve been blessed to be in education for almost 20 years and I’ve never seen this kind of generosity for all the right reasons. Nothing is more important to him than for Cathedral students for generations to come to have the opportunity for an education where they might not otherwise have it.”
This transformative gift will be invested wisely, bolstering Cathedral’s endowment and ensuring its long-term sustainability. While portions may be allocated for necessary building upgrades, the primary focus will be on funding day-to-day operations, particularly financial aid. With approximately $22 million already raised towards the matching grant, Cathedral is well on its way to securing its future as a beacon of educational excellence.
Cathedral High School is more than just an academic institution; it is a community where students are nurtured and empowered to become leaders in their fields and in the world. While approximately half of the student body identifies as Catholic, the school’s focus extends far beyond religious doctrine. Its mission is to cultivate students who are intellectually curious, compassionate, and equipped to make a positive impact on society.
Cathedral’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its 100% college acceptance rate. Students consistently perform at a high level on standardized tests, demonstrating the effectiveness of the school’s rigorous curriculum and dedicated faculty.
In addition to its academic achievements, Cathedral High School is renowned for its commitment to inclusion and diversity. Students from all backgrounds are welcomed and celebrated, creating a vibrant and supportive learning environment. Patrick Elvariste, a graduating senior, credits Cathedral with helping him adjust to life in America as an immigrant. He is now preparing to pursue computer science at Boston College, a testament to the transformative power of the school.
Laura Agblekpe, another graduating senior, is embarking on a five-year architecture program at Wentworth Institute of Technology. She attributes her passion for the field to the encouragement she received from Cathedral staff, particularly President Carmody, who arranged an internship with a local architect. “That gave me a glimpse into what the day-to-day life of an architect is like,” she said. “So Cathedral means a lot to me because I’ve been introduced to so many amazing opportunities and people.”
The anonymous donor’s vision for Cathedral High School is clear: to ensure its longevity and its ability to serve students who need it most for generations to come. “It’s about making sure we’re here and serving students who need it most for a long, long time,” said Carmody. This extraordinary gift is a testament to the power of philanthropy and the enduring legacy of Cathedral High School as a beacon of hope and opportunity for all who seek it.
