Once again, St. Paul VI Catholic High School in Chantilly has as its theme, “We are called to serve,” a motto that faculty, staff, and students continue to embrace with enthusiasm and commitment.
Throughout the year, students will have numerous opportunities to put their faith into action through both new and longstanding campus initiatives. New student-led initiatives include the Event Support Team, a student group created to cultivate leadership through service, collaboration and school involvement; SERV, a group of students focused on organizing biweekly community service; and Weekend Warriors, PVI students committed to serving the community on Saturdays twice a month.
Students are also participating in a Respect Life Drive, taking place over two weeks this year, Oct. 5-18, supporting organizations that promote the dignity of every human life through a campuswide baby and hygiene drive.
“As president of the Event Support Team, I’m excited to see our new service initiatives come to life this year,” said Mila Makarov, Class of ’28. “These opportunities allow us as students to grow as leaders while putting our faith into action, not only by strengthening our school community, but also by reaching beyond our campus to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
Paul VI is also committed to serving its students through ongoing campus improvements. As the school year came to a close and summer began, work was underway on several campus improvements, including the completion of the PVI Hope Garden and the addition of new parking spaces.
Father Jonathan Fioramonti, chaplain, blessed the garden July 23, a peaceful space for students and visitors to enjoy nature. The school is grateful to its generous donors, especially Tom McGonigle, whose contribution was made in memory of his wife, Monica. The garden is dedicated to the Class of 2026, and on the rocks are plaques bearing words of wisdom from the school’s namesake, St. Paul VI, and from patron saints, St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal.
To better accommodate the growing needs of the Paul VI community, more than 200 new parking spaces are being added to campus to provide additional parking for students, faculty, staff and visitors.
Head of School Laura Swenson, said, “We are blessed to be a community committed to serving others, and I am hopeful for the upcoming academic year. Our students, faculty and staff beautifully live our Gospel values, and will undoubtedly continue to grow in grace and wisdom as they serve.”
