companionship, hope, and shared purpose
This holiday season, we celebrate the relationships that help our students and graduates grow in confidence, leadership, and joy.
As we kick off our annual appeal, we invite you to join us in reflecting on the extraordinary impact this community makes possible. Please take a moment to watch this video honoring our history, which serves as a testament to what unfolds when a young person feels seen, known, and loved.
TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR
Email us at development@nativityportland.org or call 503-335-9600 to set up a tour today.
St. Andrew Nativity School Appoints Brianna Hennessy as President, Director of Mission
The Board of Trustees of St. Andrew Nativity School was pleased to announce the appointment of Brianna Hennessy as President, Director of Mission, effective July 2024. Bri has served the St. Andrew Nativity School community faithfully for more than thirteen years. Prior to her appointment, she served as Interim Co-President while continuing in her longtime role as Director of Graduate Support. Her extensive experience, including her many years in school leadership, her dedicated work with students and families, her passion for equity in education, and her deep understanding of and commitment to Nativity’s mission, will serve our community exceptionally well.
A Portland native, Bri grew up in St. Ignatius Parish and attended La Salle Prep before earning her undergraduate degree from Gonzaga University. Following graduation, she dedicated a year to volunteer service as a member of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. She later earned a master’s degree in social work, deepening her commitment to justice, equity, and care for the whole person.
Upon her appointment, Bri shared, “Over the past 12 years, I have had the privilege of watching our students grow from curious 6th graders to accomplished adults, taking full advantage of the opportunities at Nativity. This past year, I have engaged more holistically with the Nativity community and witnessed the remarkable dedication that sustains our mission. As President, Director of Mission, I am honored to continue partnering with our students, families, graduates, staff, and the many supporters who help make Nativity possible.”
ST. ANDREW NATIVITY SCHOOL WELCOMES PRINCIPAL
Joseph Aguilera has served as Principal of St. Andrew Nativity School since summer 2024, bringing deep experience in Jesuit education, student advocacy, and school leadership. Joseph earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business with a minor in Theology from Loyola University Maryland, followed by a Master of Arts in Teaching from Boston College. He is currently enrolled at Fordham University’s Graduate School of Education as a Ph.D. candidate in Administration, Supervision, and Leadership.
Joseph previously served as Director of Graduate Support at Brooklyn Jesuit Prep and has taught and held the role of Dean of Students at Nativity Preparatory School of Boston. His professional background reflects a strong foundation in student advocacy, restorative practices, leadership development, and a deep understanding of both the Jesuit charism and the NativityMiguel school model.
When joining the St. Andrew Nativity community, Joseph shared, “I am a native New Yorker with Dominican and Cuban heritage. I embrace the ‘cura personalis’ philosophy, emphasizing comprehensive care for individuals and empowering young people in urban communities. I offer a holistic perspective and work to transform society. It’s an honor to be a part of St. Andrew Nativity’s rich history and exciting future.”
St. Andrew Nativity School is a tuition-free Catholic, Jesuit middle school serving young people of all faiths who qualify for free and reduced lunch and empowering them in their spiritual, intellectual and personal development toward college and career readiness and becoming people for others.
All photography on this site provided by Dan Bigelow (Lake Oswego Photographers), Tom Cook, Rachel LeCrone, Gregory Kozawa, Michael McDermott, and Nick Wiltgen.