18 • Call 1.800.348.4732 Fighting Irish from Akron: A rich history Long before Marianist sponsorship was even a thought, much less a reality, faith was a cornerstone of STVM. The school has deep Catholic roots in Akron. In fall 1897, St. Mary High School, a parish co- educational school in south Akron, was established to meet the needs of immigrant families and their children. With a similar focus, St. Vincent High School opened nine years later. In 1972, the schools joined forces to become St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. Having had various Catholic sponsors throughout its history, the school had a rich blend of religious traditions from which to draw. No one understands this legacy better than Marianist Brother Ray Fitz and Marianist Father Jim Fitz, siblings who, as Fighting Irish from Akron, are proud to claim STVM as their alma mater. “The school nurtured a commitment to faith that was evident on the playing field as well as the classroom,” says Father Jim. “Like my brothers, I played football — although not as well as they did — and one of the things I remember well was that, after every home game, win or lose, we would stop by the Dominican Sisters’ convent and pray,” Father Jim says. “They would wait for us, no matter how late we were, at the entrance of the convent chapel.” It left a deep impression on this budding Marianist. His older brother, Brother Ray Fitz, former University of Dayton president and Fr. Ferree Professor of Social Justice, also remembers the strong educational emphasis and faith culture that were hallmarks of the school when he graduated in 1959. Those adolescent experiences “made me want to do something with my life that would be meaningful and truly make a difference,” Brother Ray recalls. The Marianist charism has come full-circle for the Fitz brothers — who joined the Marianist ranks decades ago — as they now see their alma mater become a Marianist-sponsored school. A world of possibilities This foray into a sponsorship relationship with STVM may serve as a pilot for future opportunities. “A couple of other schools have expressed interest in joining our network of sponsored schools, so this can serve as a possible model,” says Father Marty. “The Marianists have a strong educational reputation, and we have a history of excellent schools. If we can share this gift with others, why wouldn’t we? But we want to do it in a way that is measured, smart and responsible.” For now, Robert is looking forward to STVM being a Marianist- sponsored school and the ways it will help enhance its Catholic identity. “I love being Catholic,” says Robert, who is unabashedly proud of his Catholic roots. “And I love this school!” ■ Debbie Juniewicz is a freelance writer from Dayton, Ohio. Robert Brownfield, principal, St.Vincent-St. Mary High School Being a Marianist-sponsored school means that administration, teaching and learning are focused around five characteristics. FIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF A MARIANIST EDUCATION Educates for formation in faith. Educates in the family spirit. Provides an integral, quality education. Educates for service, justice, peace and the integrity of creation. Educates for adaptation and change. “I love being Catholic. And I love this school!” - Robert Brownfield, principal