The Mass for the Feast of St. Francis Xavier was celebrated Friday morning at Xavier and featured two presentations to men who have given so much to the school and by extension its students.
Brother John Sullivan, C.F.X., was honored for 60 years as a Xaverian Brother. His service to this school includes teaching, going on mission trips with students, tending to the many flowers and plants that beautify the campus, and taking photographs at school events. This time he had to put down his camera just for a bit to be honored. As Principal Brendan Donohue said, he never wants the camera on himself, he never wants the spotlight. He wants to feature others in the Xavier community.
A loud standing ovation by students, faculty and staff only stopped when Brother got up to speak and said as only he could with his sense of humor: “Sit down.” The other man honored Friday was Andy Wyzykowski, the Director of the Physical Plant. He was the recipient of the Theodore James Ryken Award, given to an adult member of the community and voted on by the faculty and staff. It honors someone’s excellence and commitment to the Xaverian mission.
“Ryken had a vision, a dream, and today in 2021 you represent his vision,” Brother John told those gathered. “Our staff, our teachers, our students, our help for the community represents what Theodore James Ryken had in mind. People who are committed can build a better place, and I thank you for commemorating the 60 years.”
Camera back around his neck, Brother got himself into position to take a photo of this year’s Ryken Award winner, an award that Brother John previously earned.
“This year’s winner is a man who is seen and rarely heard,” Headmaster Dave Eustis said. “He is someone who essentially keeps this school running on a daily basis. When it is cold he makes you warm. When something breaks he fixes it. In over 20 years serving the Xavier community nobody has ever heard him complain a single time. He cares about Xavier as much as anyone.
“The Xaverian value I most attribute to this man is humility. Defined by our Partners In Mission document, humility is an attitude that demands action in loving service to all. Humility inspires a sense of connectedness, allowing members of the school community to affirm each other, to learn from each other, and to work with each other. And, finally, for those of you who have played against him in intramural basketball over the years you realize he is the best rebounder in the school.
“It gives me great pleasure to announce the 2021 Ryken Award winner as Mr. Any Wyzykowski.”