Whether it is in the classroom, on the field, or just in the hallways, there is a real sense of care and respect. It is something you feel every day, and it is why this place is so special.

Being part of that journey and watching students gain confidence and find their voice is what means the most to me.

Events like the Crab Feed are a great reminder that Riordan is more than a school. It is alumni, parents, students, faculty, and friends all showing up, enjoying each other, and supporting something bigger than themselves.

That sense of connection and shared purpose is what makes this place so special.

The opportunity to reflect, serve, and connect with something bigger than myself is incredibly meaningful. It is a part of the Riordan experience that I am deeply thankful for.

Everyone is caring and kind and most of all, they are supportive. We all lift each other up, check in when we have a bad day, and comfort when the need arises.

Without the Theater and Campus Ministry, Riordan would be vastly different.

I want to be in an environment where I can try new things — whether that be through sports, theatre, band, clubs, or leadership roles, and figure out what I’m passionate about.

Riordan stands out to me because it encourages students to get involved and challenge themselves to new things. Having those opportunities, in my opinion, is important because it can help someone build confidence, develop new skills, and prepare them for the future.

I want to be in a school where people come from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives, because that helps me not just learn academically as a person and it helps me relate to others.

Being around a diverse community pushes us to think in new ways, understand others, and grow more open-minded.

From what I’ve seen, Riordan values inclusion and respect, and that’s important to me because I want to be in a community where everyone feels accepted and can learn from each other.

Faith through nature is another way that we live out the Laudato Si goal of responding to the 'cry of the earth'. We feel God's presence in the ordinary, and inspire to care for our common home by experiencing life outside the city while retreats.

Student leadership through service brings education, faith values, and action to the forefront of the Riordan experience. Graduates are primed for a life-long desire to serve, an awareness to care for the marginalized, and the skills to a make a difference in the world.

My brother Vin & I (both younger than her) attended Riordan which lead Maggie more involvement, cheering our exploits.

Maggie & our family received much more than we gave from the Riordan community. I hope others can enjoy such fulfillment.

Maggie Ortelle 1945 - 2026

John Ortelle

However, the most important thing is that everyone comes together at the end of sports games or rallies, no matter their house or background, to sing our Alma Mater. It shows how, as a community, Riordan is united as one.