Editor’s Note: This article was also published in the Benet Herald 2025 Graduation Edition.

To the Class of 2025:

As Benet Academy’s new principal, it is an honor and a pleasure to address this incredible group of students. From the moment I set foot on campus, I felt a difference here, something beyond buildings filled with caring educators and students who achieve at high levels. There is an understanding in the air that the legacy of Benet Academy, those that came before us, those that imparted their knowledge from the classrooms, and those who previously walked the stage just as you soon will, are all watching and praying for our success. They are expecting you to persevere and achieve greatness, just as they did.

And how you have achieved! Barely a week has gone by this school year that did not host a showcase of talent and dedication of the students in the Class of 2025. Your athletic achievements are now famous, boasting two state championship teams (so far), one individual champion, and numerous state-level competitors. Your abilities in the fine arts have been on display through amazing concerts, exceptional art shows, and stage productions and performances that rival any high school around. Your competitive clubs have dominated in multiple areas that showcase talent from languages and academia to strategic thinking and problem solving. Our Red Carpet Ceremony celebrated over 200 students at Benet who had competed at the state level, and Senior Honors Night will heap accolades on 188 of you. In addition, students from your class have taken service trips to support others in need and have raised tens of thousands of dollars to give to charities. You’ve also served and raised your voices and instruments in song and prayer at all school masses, connected with the elderly and individuals with intellectual disabilities, and record numbers of you attended a Logos 

retreat this year. As a new principal, it’s been hard to keep up, but it’s been amazing to witness the results of your hard work and commitment to excellence. 

As I reflect on this year, I want to thank you, Class of 2025, for how you have shown me what Benet Academy is all about. I am honored to have been part of your high school journey and to feel this special connection to you and this community of learners, both past and present that is reflected in these halls. I hope you can recognize the strength and rarity of this incredible school and your place in it. Because you are an important part of the Benet family and we look forward to staying connected as you move into the next phases of your lives. Take the skills you have learned and the perseverance you have honed with you. Be ever grateful for the opportunities you had here at Benet. And go forward, listening to the Lord’s voice in your hearts, allowing him to guide your path. 

Best wishes, 

Mrs. Sheri Costello