State of the School
Dear Alumni, Families, and Friends,
The 2021–22 academic year unfolded against the backdrop of the global celebration of the Ignatian Year — a yearlong recognition of the 500th anniversary of St. Ignatius being injured by a cannonball at the Battle of Pamplona. This moment in his life is seen as the beginning of his conversion, leading to a spiritual awakening and inspiring him to center his pursuits on God and service to others.
At Loyola Blakefield, we marked the beginning the the Ignatian Year on May 20, 2021, with an exciting moment where our Dons unveiled the name of our newest academic building as St. Ignatius Hall. The year also included a celebration of the 400th anniversary of St. Ignatius' canonization.
At Loyola Blakefield, we marked the beginning the the Ignatian Year on May 20, 2021, with an exciting moment where our Dons unveiled the name of our newest academic building as St. Ignatius Hall. The year also included a celebration of the 400th anniversary of St. Ignatius' canonization.
As the academic year comes to a close and we approach our 170th Commencement on Sunday, June 5, I would like to share a few of the milestones and accomplishments that defined the 2021–22 academic year.
- On Saturday, August 21, we formally dedicated and blessed St. Ignatius Hall as it officially opened its door to our Dons for the new school year.
- On Thanksgiving morning, Loyola captured its 50th all-time win in the 101st Turkey Bowl — a game many are citing as among the best in the history of the rivalry.
- In December, we launched Black, Blue, & Gold. The exhibit has already been recognized nationally for its unique and evolving purpose to celebrate and preserve the impact and legacy of our many African American alumni.
- Prior to the start of Christmas Break, our entire school community gathered for the blessing and dedication of the new Bolte-Breschi Athletic Complex, which includes Joseph C. Connor '42 Field, Michael T. Keeney ’65 Field, and Veterans Park.
- In February, we announced the largest one-time philanthropic gift to the school, a $5 million investment by Michele and Patrick Connor '77. As a result of their generosity, two new endowed funds were created: $1.5 million provides a new need-based scholarship for incoming students and $3.5 million establishes an endowed fund designated to support faculty and staff compensation.
- This spring, we completed a banner year on the enrollment front. Our community-wide efforts exceeded enrollment targets and enabled us to welcome many of the region's most dynamic young men to the Loyola family.
In addition to these highlights, our students garnered countless accolades for their work in the classroom, on the stage, and on various fields of play. Among the highlights were MIAA championship titles in Water Polo, Cross Country, and Rugby. Our It's Academic team earned a Catholic League Championship, Speech & Debate captured their 5th consecutive Baltimore Catholic Forensic League title, and our middle and upper school bands took home top honors at Hershey's Music in the Parks festival in May. Also, our world-renowned Cyber Science program celebrated 10 years of global leadership & excellence.
This year also blessed us with 23 new members of our faculty and staff, including a new upper school principal, Mr. Brian Maraña ‘00. Additionally, we concluded our search for our next Director of Athletics with the appointment of Mr. Blake Henry '98. Our commitment to a culture that attracts and develops the region's most talented faculty & staff was recognized as we were once again honored by The Baltimore Sun as one of the region's Top Workplaces.
Beginning in the fall of 2021, we kickstarted important work that will guide our next Strategic Plan. We are excited to share more details this fall as we set our sights on a bold and exciting future for Loyola Blakefield.
As we reflect on the many highlights of the past year, we are incredibly proud to be part of an educational model that has thrived for nearly 500 years. The successes we celebrate as a community are only made possible through the support of our generous benefactors, the partnerships we cherish with our families, and the hard work and dedication of the men and women whose vocation calls them to serve as Ignatian educators.
Beginning in the fall of 2021, we kickstarted important work that will guide our next Strategic Plan. We are excited to share more details this fall as we set our sights on a bold and exciting future for Loyola Blakefield.
As we reflect on the many highlights of the past year, we are incredibly proud to be part of an educational model that has thrived for nearly 500 years. The successes we celebrate as a community are only made possible through the support of our generous benefactors, the partnerships we cherish with our families, and the hard work and dedication of the men and women whose vocation calls them to serve as Ignatian educators.
Thanks to all those who make Loyola such a special home for past, present, and future Dons. I wish you a safe and restful summer and look forward to connecting with you soon.
Roll Dons,
Anthony Day
President
President
