Posted February 9, 2012

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office of Catholic Education announces that with great reluctance it has accepted the resignation of Christian Brother Timothy Ahern, president of West Philadelphia Catholic High School, effective immediately.

As president for the past seven years Brother Tim was a model leader who worked faithfully and enthusiastically on behalf of the students, faculty, and staff of West Catholic. A proud alumnus himself, Brother Tim had previously served on the faculty at West Catholic from 1971-1979. As a teacher and an administrator he profoundly impacted the lives of countless students in a positive way.

Following the announcement of the Blue Ribbon Commission’s recommendations last month, Brother Tim elected not to appeal the proposed closure of West Catholic. His decision, which was based on facts related to future enrollment projections, was made with a heavy heart. He did not wish to raise false hopes through an appeal. Unfortunately, that decision created an untenable atmosphere for Brother Tim within the school.

Auxiliary Bishop Michael Fitzgerald, who oversees Catholic education in the Archdiocese said, “I was deeply saddened to learn of Brother Tim’s resignation. He loves West Catholic with all of his heart. His care for each and every member of the school community was evident in the devotion and dedication he put into his work.” Bishop Fitzgerald continued, “If not for Brother Tim’s leadership, hard work, and innovative partnerships with business leaders, alumni and alumnae, West Catholic very likely would have closed several years ago. Those who have benefitted from the school’s fine tradition of educational excellence during his tenure owe him a debt of gratitude.”

The Office of Catholic Education has assigned Assistant Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Thomas Rooney, to serve as the acting president at the school for the remainder of the year.