Page 8 - Padua Bruin Benefit 2021 Program

br. tom cArroll, oFm
Br. Tom’s influence on Padua is broad and deep. His enthusiasm, wisdom and tough love have inspired and nurtured both students and staff. He has a strong sense of belonging to the Padua community. His leadership is rooted in his vocation as a Franciscan Friar. His humility, strong faith, passion for mission, and true caring benefit all who come in contact with him.
We are sad that Br. Tom will be leaving us after 32 years of service to Padua. During his time at the school, Br. Tom wore many hats. He served as vice principal, dean of students, campus minister, director of financial aid and Spanish teacher. He was an avid supporter of Padua’s Fine Arts Program and the voice of the Marching Bruins.
Br. Tom was instrumental in growing Padua’s International and Foreign Exchange Program. Students have come to Padua from: Austria, Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China, Columbia, Ecuador, El Salvador, France, Germany, Honduras, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Mexico, Palestine, Poland, Romania, South Kores, South Sudan, Spain, Thailand and Vietnam. Padua has sister schools in Germany, France and Poland. The program has had a positive impact on Padua’s enrollment, financial stability and most of all, it has added cultural diversity to the school community.
We wish Br. Tom the best as he takes on his new role as Formation Team Member for the Franciscan Interprovincial Postulancy Program in June. His new responsibilities include serving as a mentor, guide, and educator for men who are entering the Franciscan community. He will be relocating to the Holy Name Friary in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Br. Tom has devoted his life to educating young men and women. His service to Padua Franciscan High School has been one of extraordinary dedication. As we honor Br. Tom, may we be inspired by his life of service and understand that God has something special each one of us is called to do.
Peace and All Good!