A Message from Head of School Brendan Sullivan

On July 1, 2024, Brendan Sullivan became St. Sebastian’s tenth Head of School, succeeding Bill Burke upon his retirement. A faithful and talented leader with an exceptional passion for St. Sebastian’s and its mission, Brendan joined the faculty in the fall of 1994 and has served the school as Dean of Students, Athletic Director, science teacher, and coach.

Below is a message Brendan shared with the entire School community as he takes the helm as Head of School. 
 

Dear St. Sebastian’s Family,

As I begin my tenure as St. Sebastian's tenth Head of School, three feelings come to the forefront: deep gratitude, overwhelming excitement, and a solid and faithful sense of purpose.

There is no place like St. Sebastian's. I am so proud to call this campus my second home and the Arrows community my extended family. I know that as I assume my role as Head of School, I bring with me a piece of every student and every family that I have worked with over the past three decades in my roles as science teacher, coach, Athletic Director, and Dean of Students.

Loyal alumni and supportive families are the driving force behind our steadfast mission and the incredible development of our campus. When a graduate visits for the first time in years, his first comment is about how much the campus has changed, to which I reply, “come into Corporate Chapel on Monday morning and listen to our seniors deliver their speeches — you will have no doubt what campus you’re on.” Our students have the courage to go deep while delivering their speeches and always bring us back to the things that matter most: our mission, family, and our community of brotherhood. There is no place like St. Sebastian’s and traditions such as the Chapel Speaking Program and Writing Program will continue to be hallmarks of an Arrow’s experience. 

We will hold fast to the traditions that strengthen our community, while continuing a trajectory that provides the best experience and opportunities for future Arrows. We strive to have the most outstanding programs and facilities an independent school can offer, as well as the dedicated teachers, coaches and mentors to inspire our students to become the men they want to be.

Our school is thriving and on a positive course, but we know the future will hold challenges. Some we can predict, such as lingering learning gaps from COVID-19, the rapid advance of artificial intelligence, and mental health concerns among teenagers. Other unforeseen adversities will arise, but we have the playbook for these moments — strong leadership, devoted faculty, values grounded in our Faith, and supportive families united with a common purpose. 

That purpose is clearly stated in the School’s mission: our students will seek truth through faith and reason, in an inclusive, nurturing community, to be prepared for college and life. For 30 years I have joyfully embraced our mission, strengthened my own faith, and grown as a lifelong learner. I am so grateful for all that St. Sebastian’s has given to me and am energized and inspired to share these gifts with our community.

Thank you to our Board of Trustees for entrusting to me the leadership of this great institution. I cannot express how deeply grateful I am for this opportunity.  

I would also like to acknowledge those who have been by my side throughout my years at 1191 Greendale Avenue. I am truly blessed to inherit such a formidable team that my good friend and mentor, Bill Burke, has assembled. My colleagues, my fellow teachers, coaches, and administrators — I have learned so much from all of you. Your devotion to our students fuels my excitement for what lies ahead, and I am devoted to all of you.

I thank God every day for my “home team” — my incredible wife, Rebecca, and our three children: Eliza, Class of 2025 at the College of the Holy Cross; Joseph, a member of St. Sebastian’s Class of 2025; and Patrick, the Class of 2029. I love you all so much and I know you share my excitement for this next chapter of our lives in a place that has touched our family since it was formed 23 years ago.

To our alumni and alumni families, I want to thank you for establishing our traditions and setting us on such a promising trajectory. Please visit us often and see all the good that happens at St. Sebastian’s.  We are proud of you and want you to continue to be proud to be an Arrow.

To our current students and families, I am honored to be your Head of School and grateful for the many ways you make us a stronger, more loving, and more faith-filled community. I look forward to our years together. 

God bless you all and God bless St. Sebastian’s.

Brendan W. Sullivan