LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Patrick Weber was nominated by his colleague, Mary Margaret Utess.

Mr. Weber arrived at Immaculate Heart of Mary as a new principal in March of 2019. He had some experience in administration, but had not been the one in charge. He was faced with a school that had not had clear leadership in several months, and he had to make some quick changes while steering the school on a course that had already been set. In the process, he has made a positive difference in the lives of students, buoyed a troubled staff through the rocky waters of the pandemic, and been a model of moral and virtuous standards. 

Mr. Weber basically started his position in the fourth quarter. Routines had been set, but with a previous rocky situation, he had to quickly calm the waters. Students were becoming a bit edgy with the rules, and Mr. Weber was able to set clear guidelines with them. He was able to establish relationships with them. Soon, students were asking to see him, even if they didn't have a problem. They liked him! This was particularly evidenced when one of the students asked him to be his Confirmation sponsor. Mr. Weber is warmly, but distantly, embraced by his students. 

Mr. Weber has added positivity and hope to a troubled school family and staff. After being leader-less for a number of months, the school is now negotiating the COVID-19 pandemic. Teachers have retired or otherwise left their positions. Mr. Weber worked tirelessly to put trusted people in place for all students. He has remained positive throughout this process and encouraged teachers to remain positive, too. He is constantly encouraging and offering help whenever he can. Mr. Weber has offered to take a class or otherwise relieve teachers so they can take a break during these challenging times. Teachers are appreciative of his words and actions of support. 

Mr. Weber is a rock of virtue and prayer. He begins and ends every meeting with prayer. He encourages his staff to take that leadership role, but also steps in to model it for them. Mr Weber chooses a different virtue each month and uses that virtue in spoken and written word. He reminds his staff of how important it is to live the virtues. Additionally, he chose a scripture focus for this year (Matthew 5:16, "Let your light shine before people so that they will see the good things that you do and praise your Father in heaven."). He encourages parents, students, and staff to be the light. This scripture is in every communication he sends out and is prominently displayed on a bulletin board outside of the office. In fact, parents have written prayers for their children which surround the reminder to be the light. 

"Patrick is indeed a LifeChanger. He has been a positive influence on our students," said Utess. "He has established and developed a positive attitude in our school, especially among the staff, as we navigate the restless and inconsistent waters of the pandemic. Finally, he has authenticated his work through the cross of Jesus Christ. He has consistently promoted prayer and virtue among the students, staff and parents. God bless Patrick as he continues through his ministry at Immaculate Heart of Mary School."