MALVERN, Pa. – On Monday at a special ceremony on campus, Malvern Preparatory School formally inaugurated James H. Stewart as president and installed the Rev. James. R. Flynn, O.S.A. as head of school.

The inauguration was a significant event in the history of the school. Malvern Prep has had only one other president in its history, the late Rev. David J. Duffy, O.S.A. ’48, who passed away suddenly this past January. The inauguration represents a link between Stewart and Duffy, who worked side-by-side for many years and, most of all, the inauguration provided an opportunity for the Malvern community to come together to celebrate its great tradition and plans for the future.

In his inaugural speech, Stewart focused his remarks on the importance of giving thanks, and his vision for the future of Malvern Prep.

“Today is about Malvern – what it is today and what it will become.” said Stewart. “Learning Today – Leading Tomorrow.”

In his 37 years of service to the School, Stewart has demonstrated a tremendous level of dedication to the students and families of Malvern Prep. He has pushed Malvern to focus unquestionably on academic rigor, while offering a balance of spirituality, service, fine arts, athletics and extracurricular programs. Mr. Stewart has also ensured that Malvern has remained committed to its Augustinian heritage and its values of truth, unity and love.

In addition to teaching Spanish at Malvern since 1970, Stewart has held the positions of Dean of Students, Dean of Studies, Assistant Athletic Director and Athletic Director. Between 1975 and 1990, he served as Assistant Headmaster. In 1990, the Board of Trustees appointed him Headmaster (a title which changed to Head of School in 1997). Mr. Stewart is a member of the Malvern Prep Board of Trustees and is also a committee member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS).

Flynn is the Malvern’s 12th head of school. He has been a leader at Malvern Prep for more than 25 years, and most recently served as Assistant Head of School. During his distinguished career at Malvern, Flynn has worked to uphold the Augustinian tradition of the School. Through faith, experience and compassion, he has successfully helped Malvern balance the needs of each individual with those of the many. Flynn has been instrumental in bringing people together at Malvern, developing successful programs such as MECO (Malvernians Encountering Christ in Others), the senior retreat weekend he, along with the late Rev. Terry Hyland, O.S.A., created in 1975.

Commented Charles P. Connolly, Jr., Chairman of the Malvern Board of Trustees, “I have had the great pleasure of working with both of these gentlemen for a number of years and admire them for their passion and vision for the future of Malvern Prep. They are men of honor and integrity – virtues that are not easily found in today’s world.”

The inauguration brought together all members of the Malvern community and showcased the many talents of the student body. From the musical performances to the display of artistic banners representing each class, to the remarks given by the student representatives, to the singing of the alma mater, Malvern students performed with distinction at the inauguration ceremony.

Of special note was a painted clay and wood model of the school seal, which was designed by students in the fine arts department. During the ceremony, speakers representing various groups at the school assembled the seal, describing the importance of each component and relating it to their own roles at Malvern. The building of the school seal was symbolic of the coming together of the Malvern community to create the school as a whole.

Another special presentation given in honor of this occasion was a new Malvern Preparatory School Presidential Medallion.  Mr. Stewart’s acceptance of the medallion during his inauguration was symbolic of his acceptance of the Office of the President. This medallion, which incorporates the school seal, is not only symbolic of the link between presidents, but also a testament to the legacy of Malvern’s first president, Father Duffy. This medallion will be worn at official functions and will be displayed in the Office of the President. 

A festive reception followed the inauguration ceremonies giving the many dignitaries and friends an opportunity to extend their best wishes and continued support to both Stewart and Flynn as they embrace their new roles of leadership at Malvern Prep.