Grandparents & Special Friends Day 2026

On Tuesday, April 28, grandparents and special friends were welcomed to campus to experience a day alongside their grandsons.

The day began with Mass in the Church before grandparents gathered in Ward Hall for lunch and a program. Guests were welcomed by event co-chairs Elizabeth Derenzo P’20,’22,’24,’27, Theresa Gallagher P’27, and Kristen Weber P’27,’31. Fr. Chris Boyle offered an opening prayer before lunch.

President of the Guild of St. Irene, Wendy Thurmond P’25,’28, kicked off the program before turning the podium over to Brian Burke ’26, who spoke eloquently about his time at St. Sebastian’s. Kevin Phelan GP’28,’28,’30 followed, sharing remarks about the importance of the St. Sebastian’s community.

Guests were then treated to a beautiful musical performance by members of the Chamber Ensemble, led by music faculty member Lautaro Mantilla. Head of School Brendan Sullivan concluded the program with heartfelt remarks, thanking the grandparents and special friends for their support and for being part of the St. Sebastian’s community.

In addition to attending classes, the afternoon included a dessert reception and opportunities to stop by a portrait station and Campus Store pop-up for Arrows apparel.

A special thank you to the grandparents and special friends who visited campus, the students and faculty who made them feel so welcome, and the mothers of the Guild of St. Irene, who worked tirelessly to ensure the day ran smoothly.