Faculty–Trustee Dinner Honors John Ryan and Paula Coskren

Our annual Faculty–Trustee Dinner is a special opportunity for St. Sebastian's employees and board members to strengthen the bonds that tie us together and to celebrate outstanding service to our School. On Thursday, November 20, two beloved members of our community were honored for 25 years of service: science teacher John Ryan P’15,’16,’18,’28 and Paula Coskren P’00,’01,’04,’05, Assistant to the Head of School. Although John reached this milestone last year, a family wedding kept him from attending, so it was wonderful to celebrate him with Paula this year.

After faculty members and trustees enjoyed a cocktail hour in Ward Hall, the formal program began with a prayer offered by Fr. Chris Boyle. Board of Trustees President Devin Condron ’92, P’29,’29,’31 thanked the trustees, faculty, and staff for all they do to support and strengthen St. Sebastian's, with a special nod to Brendan Sullivan for the tremendous job he has done during his first year as Head of School.

Tributes to John and Paula followed—by turns heartfelt and humorous. Brendan highlighted a theme connecting the two honorees: both are parents of four Arrows and one daughter. Drawing on his years as Dean of Students, as a fellow science teacher with John, and now working closely with Paula as Head of School, he praised their unwavering dedication and meaningful contributions to our school community.

Dave Wilbur, Dean of Faculty and fellow science teacher, shared an entertaining yet poignant reflection on “Who is John Ryan?” He described John as a man of great faith and strong family values, a role model for both students and colleagues. “Faithfulness, Intelligence, Reliability, Honesty, Conviction, and Integrity would all fit the bill,” he said.

Paula’s son, Tony, shared a touching speech about his mother, reflecting on how parents did whatever it took so that he and his three brothers could attend St. Sebastian’s. “Today, we celebrate my mother’s amazing 25 years here. More than a milestone to us, it represents her sacrifice, her devotion, and her unwavering selflessness – the qualities that have defined her life and shaped ours.”

Paula and John also took the podium to deliver remarks, each recalling memorable moments and thanking their fellow faculty and staff members and respective families who have been such an integral part of their St. Sebastian's journey.

From all of us at St. Sebastian's, we thank Paula and John for their many years of steadfast service to our School and congratulate them on joining the Wall of Honor!