Tarmac Online

By: Daniel Graziose ’27

As a student writer for the Chaminade newspaper, it’s not every day that you get to cover a moment as meaningful as this one.

As the milestone approaches, Chaminade eagerly anticipates celebrating 100 years of excellence—most notably academic excellence—enriched by a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. Above all, Chaminade remains deeply rooted in faith, guided by the Marianist tradition. Alongside this historic celebration, on January 14, 2026, the Class of 2030 officially received their acceptance letters. We are proud to welcome the Class of 2030—a class that enters our school at a truly remarkable moment in its history.

For nearly a century, Chaminade has stood for more than academic achievement alone. Rooted in the Marianist tradition, the school is dedicated to educating the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. This philosophy has guided Chaminade since its founding and continues to shape the development of students today. Reflecting on the school’s history, President of Chaminade Bro. Thomas Cleary, S.M. ’81, noted that what has most defined Chaminade’s success is its “unyielding commitment to forming the whole man: mind, body, and soul.” Faith, service, and community are not merely principles discussed in classrooms; they are values actively lived across campus every day.

Joining Chaminade during its 100th year carries both pride and responsibility. The Class of 2030 follows generations of alumni who have gone on to lead in their communities and professions. Beginning their journey at such a historic time connects these students to a long line of Chaminade men shaped by the same standards of excellence and dedication. Principal of Chaminade Mr. Robert Paul ’92 shared his excitement about welcoming the Class of 2030 at this pivotal moment, noting that they are “joining a long line of Flyers” and becoming part of something far greater than themselves as the school both honors its past and looks toward the future.

According to Bro. Tom, the experience these students are about to begin is deeply relational at its core. The sense of brotherhood, he explains, is “palpable,” something he hears echoed time and again when speaking with alumni who remain closely connected to the school and to one another. Mr. Paul reinforced this idea, emphasizing that students are never alone at Chaminade. He hopes the Class of 2030 grows into young men of faith, character, and courage—leaders who serve others and who recognize the strength of the community that surrounds them, from teachers and classmates to the generations who came before them.

At the same time, the world the Class of 2030 is entering looks very different from the one Chaminade’s founders knew. Rapid change, new challenges, and global uncertainty make strong character, resilience, and adaptability more important than ever. Chaminade prepares students not just for college but for life, grounding them in faith while challenging them academically and morally. One of the most visible ways Chaminade fulfills its Marianist mission is through service. From school-wide initiatives to local and global outreach opportunities, students are consistently encouraged to look beyond themselves, learning that true success is measured by how one uses their gifts to help others.

The careful selection of students who will carry these values forward begins well before they arrive on campus. Director of Admissions Mr. Thomas Elder ’10 emphasized that the admissions process for the Class of 2030 reflects a deliberate and holistic approach. Rather than relying on a single measure, the admissions team considers entrance exam results, middle school performance, character evaluations, and each student’s demonstrated interest in becoming a Flyer. This ensures that those admitted possess not only the academic ability to succeed but also the character and disposition to thrive within the Chaminade community.

Beyond academics and service, Chaminade’s vibrant athletics, arts, and extracurricular programs play a crucial role in student growth. Whether on the field, on stage, or in clubs, students develop discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and respect. Brotherhood is experienced daily—supporting teammates, collaborating with classmates, and reflecting together during retreats—forming bonds that last long after graduation.

As Chaminade looks ahead to its centennial, the role of incoming students becomes increasingly significant. Mr. Elder believes the Class of 2030 will help shape the school’s next century. Mr. Paul echoed this forward-looking perspective, encouraging students to fully embrace their time at Chaminade. He urged them to get involved, ask questions, and take chances, reminding them of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade’s words: “We are all missionaries, and we ought to go on mission.” This, he explained, is the mission of the Class of 2030—one that the Chaminade community believes in and will support every step of the way.

Celebrating 100 years of excellence is not only about honoring the past but also about looking toward the future with hope. The Class of 2030 will play a vital role in Chaminade’s next chapter—young men who will carry the Marianist mission into the next century through leadership, service, and faith-filled lives. As Chaminade moves closer to its centennial, the Class of 2030 stands at the intersection of history and opportunity, ready to write the next chapter of Chaminade’s story.

The future begins with the Class of 2030—Fortes in Unitate.