An Old Boy's Memories

Thomas Armentor (Shell 2014) graduated from Strake Jesuit College Prep in May and attends Texas A&M. The Armentors are a founding family at Western and Thomas was on campus the first day of school in 2010. Thomas continues his calligraphy hobby learned at WA by scripting our graduate diplomas each year. Thomas gave the Old Boys' speech at this year’s Founding Roots Dinner, and we thought of sharing a few excerpts of his words… Enjoy!

The relationship between the teachers and students (and Old Boys now) is one of mutual and genuine care for the good of the other. I have a deep sense of gratitude that I had these good men to look up to when I was younger, and now befriend as I head off to college. 

Western Academy could not be Western Academy without it’s group of men fully alive, its incredible teachers. In their everyday lives, from teaching to coaching, their commitment to us and to the school taught us what it means to be a man.

Western pushed me to conquer my fears and learn to appreciate theater and music. I came to a greater understanding of art, beauty, and the gift of a well-done performance.

The atmosphere and culture of WA taught us to fight through adversity and compete no matter the odds. I think the House competitions especially fostered this mindset. These competitions taught us to lay it all on the line for our teammates, a lesson that has served me well in high school.

Thomas’ 2010-11 Class photo

Thomas (L) with Mr. Miggins, Raf Bello and Alec Furnace at Founding Roots Dinner, April 2018.