Dear Friends,

As we make the transition from Fall to Winter Trimester, I want to share my gratitude with all of you for such an excellent start to the academic year. Everywhere I look on campus, there are signs of God’s blessings—from the beautiful campus, to the smiling faces, to the generosity of spirit that permeates our halls. We have had an incredible term, and I can’t wait to celebrate the Advent and Christmas seasons with you.

Earlier this week, parents should have received in the mail an invitation to apply for financial aid for 2024-2025 school. If you think you might need tuition assistance next year, I recommend that you begin your application now, even though you will have to wait until January to submit your most up-to-date tax information. Applications can be initiated through this link (https://online.factsmgt.com/signin/42ZXY). Please contact Senior Accountant Angie Fuchs (afuchs@priory.org) for any questions about how to apply. 

Looking ahead, we have some exciting events in store. On Tuesday, Hugh Tyschen ’99 will be speaking to High School students about the friendship he formed with his translator while serving as a Marine in Afghanistan and his subsequent efforts to bring his friend and his friend’s family safely to the United States. On December 1, the Fathers’ and Mothers’ Club will be hosting the annual Christmas party at MAC West, and, on December 10, Mrs. Stephanie Allee will be leading the Priory Choir in their annual Christmas concert. I hope to see you at some or all of these events!

Lastly, I want to congratulate every single student for their work this last trimester. As I walked the halls during exams, I could almost feel the focused thinking that was going into their work. I hope that the lengthened Thanksgiving Break will afford them the rest that they need and the opportunity to enjoy time with their families.

With prayers,

Father Cuthbert Elliott, O.S.B., '02