Archbishop Blase Cupich has led the Chicago Archdiocese for less than one year, but already he has visited Saint Viator High School twice.
Archbishop Blase Cupich, left, meets with Fr. Corey Brost and Fr. Thomas von Behren, right
His latest trip came Sunday, when he arrived to dedicate its latest addition, a $3 million renovation of its fine arts facilities and new Querbes Hall, a multi-media, college-styled dining hall.
“I really do find that Catholic education, especially at the secondary level, is a top priority,” Cupich said. “We need to bond together in ways that make it possible for many families to enjoy the great privilege of schools like Saint Viator.”
Former Viatorian teachers and administrators attend the dedication ceremony
The latest renovation culminated a $14 million capital campaign that began with the celebration of the school’s 50th anniversary, and a $3 million donation from the Viatorian Community to jumpstart the campaign.
“We wanted to make a public statement,” said Fr. Thomas von Behren, provincial, “that as Viatorians, we’ve been here from the beginning and we’re committed to being here for years to come.”
The school’s first president, Br. Leo Ryan, center, enjoys the festivities
Many of the Viatorians — associates, brothers and priests — were on hand for the dedication, including former teachers and administrators.
Br. Leo V. Ryan, CSV, a former president of the school and the last living member of its building committee — made up of Viatorians — to design the school, took pride in all of the upgrades.
“It’s spectacular,” Br. Ryan said of the state of the state-of-the-art facilities. “And I like how it’s tuned into all the latest technology. It will really help carry our students into the 21st century.”