Looking for a fresh start after a rough experience at another school, alumni Pedro Ramos found exactly what he was looking for at Saint Stephen’s: acceptance.

Entering the school to find then Upper School Director Mrs. Judy Southerland, now an Upper School Chemistry teacher, waiting to greet him, he felt welcomed and accepted for the first time in his life.

Ramos said even after graduation Mrs. Southerland continued to be a part of his life, comforting him and pointing him in the right direction.

“Mrs. Southerland saved my life,” he said. “All of my friends consistently said the same thing… she cares about her students, and she genuinely understands them.”

Ramos earned a scholarshisp to Gettysburg College and now works as a manager for Delta Airlines.