Researched by: Ethan Taylor '27
On Wednesday, April 23rd, Xavier High School's newest and now most beloved staff member officially earned his credentials and a permanent place in the hearts of students, families, and faculty and staff. Magnum, a purebred chocolate Labrador Retriever, graduated from service training through the Forever in My Heart Foundation and officially began to serve as Xavier's full-time facility dog.
Magnum's journey to Xavier was as extraordinary as the work he will now do each day. Saved in the early months from the war in Ukraine, Magnum was born in western Ukraine and rescued with his litter mates by a network of dedicated volunteers. His path to safety began with a transport to Warsaw, Poland, before making his way to the United States with veterinary documentation and even a Polish passport for dogs.
The Forever in My Heart Foundation, founded by Ms. Mira Alicki (of Mira’s Jewelry Design in Middletown), has spent years saving and training dogs to serve veterans, and others in need of emotional and mobility support. After the war began in Ukraine, Ms. Alicki, herself of Polish descent, felt called to expand her efforts and help Labrador breeders in Ukraine, whose dogs were known for exceptional temperament and trainability. Through incredible international cooperation, the foundation brought these dogs to the United States where they received more than 1500 hours of service training before placement.
Magnum's arrival at Xavier began with a moment of inspiration. Following the funeral of Brother Thomas Ryan, CFX, at St. John's Prep in Danvers, Massachusetts, Xavier faculty and students encountered the Prep’s service dog, Dusty, on their campus. That moment sparked a conversation among faculty and staff, first playful, then purposeful, about bringing a service dog to Xavier.
The idea began to take root in the late Fall of 2024. When a Xavier parent mentioned their connection to the Forever in My Heart Foundation to Mr. Braychak the pieces started to come together. Mr. Braychak passed the contact to Mr. Cerreta. Then, Mr. Cerreta tasked Mrs. Braychak and Mrs. Marselli to work with the foundation to consult professionals, complete the necessary applications, and prepare the campus. By late January, Mr. Cerreta, Mrs. Marselli, and Mr. & Mrs. Braychak began training with Magnum and, a few weeks later, he began walking through the halls of Xavier as the newest Falcon.
Magnum provides comfort and calm to students dealing with anxiety, grief, and the everyday stresses of high school life. He is also a welcoming presence for alumni, prospective families, and guests. Whether he is sitting beside a student who needs a quiet moment or greeting visitors with a gentle wag of the tail, Magnum embodies the spirit of community that defines Xavier.
Although not an actual Falcon, Magnum has already come to be considered our living mascot. Magnum can be found at games, field days, open houses, and around campus, bringing joy wherever he goes.
More than a service dog, he is a companion, a listener, and a unifying presence. His arrival has lifted the morale of the Xavier community and provided a perfect example of the importance of care for others and for the creatures entrusted to us.