St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute in Kenmore announced the hiring of a new principal. Alumnus James Spillman, St. Joe’s class of 1995, will begin his new post July 1. Retiring President Robert T. Scott announced the appointment Thursday. A news release issued by the all-boys, private high school says Spillman earned his “bachelor’s and two master’s degrees from Boston College, brings more than 15 years of experience in education, having served as a principal, dean of students, campus minister, and teacher.”
“Jim is a dedicated, faith-filled, and innovative school leader,” stated Mr. Scott. “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing him and his family since he was a student here, and I have no doubt that our Lasallian Catholic community will continue to thrive under his care.”
Spillman will begin his role at the high school as a new leadership era unfolds. Dr. Christopher Fulco will assume role of president as Scott retires after serving 48-years at St. Joe’s. Scott announced his retirement in May of 2017. Fulco was selected in December after a national search was conducted.
“Already, my time spent with Jim has been both exciting and inspiring,” stated Fulco. “His varied and unique experiences in Catholic education combined with his academic and spiritual foundation from the halls of St. Joe’s make him an exceptional partner to join me in leadership service to the entire school community.”
Current principal Brother Christopher Belleman, FSC announced he will step down June 30, but remain with the St. Joe’s community and return to the classroom as a full-time faculty member in the fall.
“I am extremely humbled and honored to have the opportunity to return home to my alma mater – a school community that was so foundational in my own development as a young man,” stated Spillman. “I look forward to partnering with Dr. Fulco and the staff of SJCI to educate, form, and transform this new generation of St. Joe's students.”
Spillman has been serving as principal of Blessed Sacrament School in Walpole, Massachusetts for the last eight years.
The St. Joe’s news release stated among Spillman’s accomplishment during his tenure “include directing strategic planning efforts aimed at developing a mission-driven vision for the school community; collaborating with faculty to enhance teaching and learning at all grade levels by emphasizing the development of 21st century skills; and enriching the spiritual life of the school community through an increased emphasis on faith development for all students, teachers, and families.”
Spillman also served from 2002 to 2007 as campus minister at Xaverian Brothers High School in Westwood, MA, also an all-boys Catholic school of more than 900 young men.
