From One Generation to the Next

I was honored to interview one of Oratory’s greatest alumni who has stayed in contact with OP since graduating in 1973. He has been a member of the board of trustees and has left a great legacy here at the school. My father, John Sullivan, discussed his experiences and thoughts about his time at Oratory.

Q: What improvements have you seen in the school since your graduation?

A: There has been an increase in academic offerings and even more top-notch faculty.

Q: What are your thoughts on Oratory becoming a National Blue Ribbon school?

A: A wonderful accomplishment.

Q: How did Oratory prepare you for succeeding in life?

A: In conjunction with what I learned at home from my parents, it helped me solidify a strong moral compass and strong Catholic faith.

Q: When you attended Oratory, what was their main goal or purpose in their teaching?

A: To prepare you to be successful in college and to maintain Catholic faith.

Q: What was your favorite memory at Oratory?

A: Well, there were several but the one that stands out to me the most would be having the opportunity to be taught by outstanding teachers and developing a joy for learning.

Q: Do you still keep in touch with some of your fellow classmates?

A: Yes.

Q: Is there any one individual that you keep in contact the most with from your class?

A: Once again there are several, although I have remained good friends with our valedictorian Martin Dyroff who attended Dartmouth and earned his PhD from Vanderbilt.

Q: What was the average class size at the time?

A: My class was around 40 kids.

Q: Was there much interaction between you and any of the girls schools?

A: Mount St. John’s in Peapack, the girls were cheerleaders for our basketball team.

Q: Were there many priests who taught?

A: Yes. There was around 5 priests who taught at the time, including the headmaster Monsignor Fitzpatrick.

Q: How much was the tuition?

A: $400 per year.