The Centennial History of Loyola School: 1900-2000

THE CENTENNIAL HISTORY OF LOYOLA SCHOOL (1900-2000)

Overview

  • This document chronicles the history of Loyola School, focusing on its establishment, evolution, and key events from 1900 to 2000.

  • Authored by Robert F. Meade, Ph.D., with research assistance from Joann M. Kusk, M.A., and produced with contributions from various individuals associated with the school.

Foreword

  • The author notes that the definitive history of Loyola School is still to come, emphasizing the collaborative nature of this account.

  • The narrative discusses the transformation of a vacant lot into a renowned academic institution alongside the spiritual essence derived from St. Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus.

  • Acknowledgement of the individuals who played significant roles in the school's development, including faculty, staff, and alumni.

Contents

  • Foreword

  • The Coat of Arms and Colors of Loyola School

  • The Headmasters of Loyola School

  • The Presidents of Loyola School

  • In the Beginning…

  • The Light and the Darkness

  • The Heavens and the Earth

  • In Their Several Kinds

  • Male and Female

  • It Was Good

  • Works Consulted

The Coat of Arms and Colors

  • Description of the heritage linked to St. Ignatius and the Spanish customs related to family shields.

  • The coat of arms includes two wolves holding a kettle, symbolizing nobility and generosity.

  • Historical context of the coat of arms reflecting the Loyola family history and the symbolism behind the colors red and gold representing the Ofiaz family.

  • Evolution of the school crest over time to reflect its New York location and the incorporation of the motto "Ex Fide Fortis" (From Faith Comes Strength).

The Headmasters of Loyola School

  • List of historical headmasters from the founding year to the present, detailing their tenures:

    • William J. Ennis, S.J. (1900-1903)

    • James P. Fagan, S.J. (1903-1906)

    • Patrick F. O’Gorman, S.J. (1906-1920)

    • J.H. Farley, S.J. (1920-1932)

    • Francis E. Garner, S.J. (1932-1939)

    • Walter A. Reilly, S.J. (1939-1946)

    • C. Justin Hanley, S.J. (1946-1949)

    • Robert J. Haskins, S.J. (1960-1968)

    • Michael J. Guerra (1968-1982)

    • James F. Fox, S.J. (1982-1995)

    • Joseph J. Papaj, S.J. (1995-present)

The Presidents of Loyola School

  • Documented presidents from 1900 to 2000, highlighting changes in leadership and significant contributions:

    • Neil Norbert McKinnon, S.J. (1900-1907)

    • William O’Brien Pardow, S.J. (1907-1909)

    • David W. Hearn, S.J. (1909-1915)

    • Cowles Havens Richards, S.J. (1915-1919)

    • Others listed thru the years leading to Joseph J. Papaj, S.J. (1995-present).

In the Beginning…

  • The school's formal opening on October 1, 1900, with initial registrations detailing early challenges and successes.

  • Advertisements in The New York Times announcing Loyola School's opening and the significance of the year in a historical context with events from 1900.

The Light and the Darkness

  • The challenges faced during the early formation and subsequent growth of the school, including struggles for enrollment and funding.

The Heavens and the Earth

  • Documenting pivotal events during the span of school development including world events that influenced schooling and societal expectations.

In Their Several Kinds

  • Recognition of extracurricular development in athletics, debates, and student organizations, noting the establishment of the Alumni Society.

Male and Female

  • Transition into co-education with the admission of girls into the school starting in 1973 and its effects on community dynamics.

It Was Good

  • Celebrations of successes within the student body, both academically and in sports, and reflections on personal growth and the school environment over the years.

Works Consulted

  • A comprehensive citing of sources used in the compilation of the history including letters, diaries, and institutional memory from various faculty and alumni.

Conclusion

  • The history reflects on the evolution of Loyola School into its second century with a strong foundation and commitment to nurturing students in their academic and spiritual journey, mirroring the vision of its founders.

  • Emphasizes community and tradition as pillars of the school, resonating with the founding spirits of St. Ignatius Loyola.

  • Ends with the sentiment of "Strength from the Past. Faith in the Future", encapsulating the school's enduring legacy.