Dear Providence Catholic Community,

As we approach the end of yet another successful school year at Providence Catholic, I am pleased to report that our students continue to be a tremendous source of pride.  At our recent Academic Awards Assembly, their educational accomplishments were acknowledged before the entire student body.  The list of scholarships, honors and awards received by members of our Senior Class is truly impressive.  The academic excellence achieved by the seniors inspires the younger students to strive for their own success in the classroom.

In March, the Catholic Bishops of Illinois met together for a summit conference about Catholic education in the state.  I attended as a representative of Providence Catholic.  The outcome can be stated in very simple terms.  Those schools who work hard at marketing themselves, finding new sources of income, promoting a strong religious and Catholic identity, and attracting quality students are likely to survive, if they are located in areas where a combination of tuition and need-based aid allows parents to send their children to the school.  In areas where these conditions do not exist, Catholic schools are likely to close.  By the grace of God and because of our strong development efforts, Providence Catholic falls into the former category.  Our future success, however, will depend on the commitment of all members of the Providence Catholic family including our parents, alumni, faculty and staff.   Together, we must continue to provide our young people with a learning experience that fosters academic integrity, discipline, kindness and compassion, and to instill in them the Augustinian core values of Truth, Unity and Love. 

I am very happy to report to you that 349 students are registered in the incoming freshman class.  This number represents a substantial increase over the current freshman class.  It has been many years since we had an incoming freshman class this size.  In New Lenox and the greater Joliet community, there is much excitement over the expected completion of the I-355 extension/I-80 interchange later this year.  An enormous growth in business in this area is predicted.  Moreover, the potential impact on our enrollment from this new interchange presents a tremendous opportunity for us to extend our marketing and recruiting efforts to various north and western suburbs which were previously out of reach for Providence Catholic.

May God bless you in the summer of 2007.  Whether you have vacation plans, summer projects to do, or just intend to relax and enjoy the everyday miracles of good health, good friends and family togetherness, please know that you will be in my thoughts and daily prayers. 

Sincerely,                                                                                   

Fr. Richard J. McGrath, OSA

President