Dear CBC Community,
The CBC High School Board of Directors and the Christian Brothers of the Midwest District have been conducting a national presidential search with the assistance of a highly regarded firm specializing in Catholic school leadership searches. Many of you were a part of that process. It is our privilege to announce that the Board and the Christian Brothers have appointed Philip Riley as the next president of CBC, effective July 1, 2024.
This marks an exciting new chapter for the CBC community, and we are eager to introduce you to Phil and his family. Currently serving as the president of the Xavier Catholic School System in Appleton, Wisconsin, Phil is an accomplished leader who has consistently facilitated growth in programs and processes, led educational institutions toward financial stability and efficiency, and developed strategic plans to ensure long-term viability. Phil’s dedication to Catholic education, academic excellence, and innovative programming has earned him widespread recognition and admiration throughout the educational community.
Originally from Nebraska, Phil embarked on a distinguished career in education following four years of active duty military service, including deployment to Saudi Arabia and Iraq during Operation Desert Storm. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in History from Benedictine College, Phil completed a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Texas A&M University.
Phil has served in Catholic education for 32 years, the last four as the President of Xavier Catholic School System with 1400 students and 250 faculty, staff spread across five campuses. The most significant leadership role being with Xavier Catholic High School - the preeminent Catholic high school in the Fox Valley with over 500 students. The results at Xavier are impressive with over 95% of graduates going on to college including several notable schools including Notre Dame, Purdue, Marquette, and Michigan. He was also elected president of the Diocese of Dallas Elementary Principals Association and served in this capacity for six years. During that time, Phil was recognized for his outstanding work in academic technology programming, development of new facilities, and growth of financial resources.
Phil’s commitment to Catholic education extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by his leadership in professional associations and his receipt of prestigious awards such as the National Catholic Education Association Distinguished Principal Award and the National Distinguished Principal Award from the National Association of Elementary Schools Principals.
Joining Phil is his wife Terri, also a seasoned educator with 29 years of teaching experience. Together, they are proud parents to Ben (24) and Will (22), both accomplished in their respective fields. Phil and Terri are excited to relocate to St. Louis and immerse themselves in the CBC community and vibrant culture of St. Louis.
Phil is excited to become part of the future of CBC and shared that carrying on the Lasallian tradition would be a great privilege. He considers it an honor and a humbling responsibility to join the leadership team to continue CBC’s mission and vision.
Phil visited campus Friday morning making an appearance at the Senior Breakfast where he was introduced to the community and received a warm welcome. Please join the Board in further extending a warm welcome as he and his family begin this new chapter with us.
In service,
Joseph M. Cyr ‘93
Board Chairman
Christian Brothers College High School