Office of the President
January 19, 2016
Dear Alums and Friends,
It has been my pleasure to have ministered at West Catholic - now West Catholic Prep - over three assignments for a total of 16 years – first at the boys school from 1973-79, then at the merged school from 1999-2005 and again from 2012-2016. During each of these assignments I attribute much of my success to the students, their families, and my colleagues in education. Time has now caught up with me, and I will retire as the President of this very proud school, effective June 30, 2016.
I’m very proud of what we’ve accomplished at this school over the past four years. Here are some items to be particularly proud of since 2012:
- Growth: Enrollment up 50%
- Support: Over $5,000,000 in donations
- Leadership: New Board of Trustees, Administration, Faculty, and Coaches
- Programs: Engineering Technology Academy in partnership with Drexel University
- Facilities: Maguire Field, Engineering Labs, Campus Store, Fitness Center
Of course, the challenges that face urban-Catholic schools, especially in Philadelphia, are great. But, what we are doing here is touching the hearts and minds of our young people and preparing them for life – a challenge worth taking on! My wish is that as the school enters its second century in September of 2016 that it continues to receive the loyalty and support that have been hallmarks of West Catholic since the beginning.
I will long cherish the associations I have had with each of you and the community of West and Southwest Philadelphia. May we together continue to pray for and support the school in the challenges of a second century of providing a quality Catholic education to all young people who seek an opportunity. Remember the doors on Chestnut street are forever open to you for a visit!
Go Burrs, 
Brother Richard Kestler, FSC
President
For a PDF version of this letter, click here
Update: 1/20/16 - Click here for a message from Chris Mominey, COO/Superintendent for Secondary Schools