Monsignor Bonner & Archbishop Prendergast Catholic High School is proud to share that it has officially joined the Augustinian Secondary Education Association (ASEA)—a national network of approximately eleven schools in the United States and Canada united by the Augustinian values of truth, unity, and love.
A Renewed Connection with Augustinian Heritage
This membership strengthens Bonner & Prendie’s historic bond with the Order of St. Augustine, whose presence shaped the school’s founding identity. The project began several years ago under the guidance of Dr. John Cooke and the late Father John Stack, O.S.A., a beloved member of the board. It then continued through conversations with Father Rob Hagan, O.S.A., the provincial of the Augustinian Province of St. Thomas of Villanova.
“Father Hagan connected me to Augustinian partners at Malvern Prep and St. Augustine Prep, who then guided us through the process of joining,” said Dr. Cooke. “In November, the ASEA officially accepted our membership, and it felt like a homecoming—one that celebrates our roots and our mission.”
The school’s Board of Directors, composed of Bonner and Prendie alumni, voted unanimously in support of the affiliation, which also received strong encouragement from the IHM Sisters who continue to serve at Bonner & Prendie.
Growing Opportunities for Faculty and Students
Membership in the ASEA opens doors for both faculty and students to deepen their understanding of the Augustinian tradition. Teachers participate in the Augustinian Values Institute (AVI)—a national conference that explores St. Augustine’s spiritual and educational philosophy.
“Last year, I brought four teachers to the Institute, and the experience blew them away,” said Dr. Cooke. “They connected with Augustinian educators from across the country and Canada, and returned inspired to integrate those values into their teaching.”
Their enthusiasm sparked a faculty book club centered on St. Augustine’s book, Confessions, which continued through the summer. This month, seven additional teachers attended the AVI in Chicago. Plans are also underway for students to take part in the Student Augustinian Values Institute (SAVI)—a nationwide annual gathering that promotes leadership, service, and reflection among young people.
Collaboration Across Augustinian Schools
The ASEA also fosters collaboration and professional exchange between member schools. Faculty at Bonner & Prendie are now engaging with peers from Malvern Prep and St. Augustine Prep to share best practices and explore joint projects. “It’s energizing to see our teachers connect with other Augustinian educators,” said Dr. Cooke. “The exchange of ideas and mission-centered work benefits everyone involved.”
Faith, Community, and a Shared Mission
Rejoining the Augustinian community reflects Bonner & Prendie’s ongoing commitment to faith-based education that shapes both hearts and minds. “Our students are hungry for meaning and connection,” said Cooke. “The Augustinian message—centered on truth, unity, and love—resonates deeply with who they are and who we hope they become.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Cooke hopes the partnership will continue to deepen, with the possibility of welcoming an Augustinian friar back to campus one day. “We’re part of a much larger story,” he said, noting that Pope Francis himself is an Augustinian, as well as Father Joseph Farell’81, prior General of the Augustinian Order worldwide, and Father Kevin DePrinzio’94, who serves on the General Counsel of Augustinians, and Father Bill Atkinson, a Bonner alumnus and teacher, is currently being considered for sainthood. “It’s an incredible reminder that our school community connects to something that is far bigger and lasting.”