I was privileged to attend one of the finest prep schools in the country … The William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia. My loyalty to the school is strong … real strong. Since graduating in 1963 I’ve traveled from CT and Atlanta over many years to join in special events at the school. You know, reunions, an important football game or two. Others. There were some unique, special occasions as well. One in particular. Visiting a critically ill, beloved teacher and coach at his retirement home in Lancaster, Pa. Celebrating the life of a deceased Penn Charter graduate who literally single handed changed the city of Philadelphia. Participating in fund raising efforts that have been instrumental in fueling Penn Charter’s growth. The school continues to flourish today.
I thought back this morning about these experiences. Realizing how many alumni have had their own fun times at PC as well. Was there a common “thread,” an individual who fed, was ever present in most of these events?
Of course! Who else. Jack Rogers, Head of Development at PC.
Here you go …
The teacher above, Phil Maroney, lived in Lancaster, PA … an hour + away from the school. Jack loaded and drove a bus taking ten or so of us to visit him at his bedside. Meant the world to our struggling friend … to his now widow too. Jack organized it. Energized the event as only he can! He does this a lot His job? No … simply his passion.
Then there was the celebration of the extraordinary life of our revered fellow alumnus, Dave Montgomery? Long time president of the Philadelphia Phillies. Jack Rogers handled all the logistics for a group of us. We visited PC before attending Dave’s funeral. Hats, food, students and staff to make those of us attending feel special? You got it. Jack did this too. That’s who Jack is. Always about you … the other guy. He’s always first about you.
Like most … who do the most, Jack Rogers chooses to operate under the radar. Reaching out to this guy, that gal. His “touch” radiates so much of what Penn Charter is all about. His influence is significant. Irreplaceable really.
I asked him once, “Hey Jack, when are you going to retire?” He had so tirelessly lead Development at the school for decades. So successfully. A tough job. “Bricks, they won’t let me go.” Surprise? … Not. In truth PC is in Jack’s DNA. And PC has been the beneficiary of his passion. Simply, Jack Rogers loves people, loves the school. The school?The alumni? We all love him back. Jack may not want me to share this. He goes to Mass every morning. “Starts my day on the right foot.” Again, no surprise. Jack’s faith is palpable whenever you’re with him.
Just never wears it on his sleeve.
We’ve become good buddies Jack and I. Yesterday, he texted me saying he was mailing me yet another of the so many special things he’s thought to send me over the years. A PC hat commemorating the life of our dear friend above, David Montgomery. Remarkable.
I love this guy. We all do. He calls me “Dr. Love” Why? For a another time. Just know the next time I visit Penn Charter for a reunion, a game … whatever. Jack Roger’s smiling face will be there to lovingly greet me. His Faith on board. Just no one like him.