Peter Sanchez ’01

“Faith. Service. Writing. These were integral parts of my time at the Prep, thanks to amazing faculty and staff, and I am blessed to utilize all of them today, in my professional career.”

For Pete Sanchez ’01, his journey to the Prep began with an ad in the church bulletin when he did not know much about the Prep prior to attending an open house. “I was impressed by many things at the school: how the teachers and students dressed and carried themselves, the friendly atmosphere, and the school’s mission to create ‘men for others.’ I knew I wanted to be here.”

Sanchez’s journey into the world of journalism began as a student, where he was involved as a writer for the Hawkeye sports newspaper and the Hawklet newspaper. He was also an Ixthus Retreat Leader and was involved in Operation Santa Claus, when he helped deliver toys to children on Christmas Eve.

“I have fond memories of my freshman history class with Mr. (Jason) Zazyczny, and my English classes, especially with Dr. (Chris) Rupertus and Mr. (Jim) O’Brien. These three, and others such as Dr. (Barbara) Giuliano, not only made the academic material engaging, but were focused on helping students reach the highest heights -- ‘the magis.’”

Sanchez moved on to Saint Joseph’s University as an English major, and received his Bachelor’s Degree in 2005. He next attended graduate school at SJU in the Writing Studies program, and received his Master of Arts degree in 2006. His career has been spent in diocesan communications, including as a founding co-host of the Talking Catholic podcast. Sanchez currently serves as a staff writer/social media coordinator at the Catholic Star Herald newspaper, which serves the Diocese of Camden, along with co-hosting the monthly Talking Saints podcast, under the diocese’s Talking Catholic umbrella. Sanchez’s Talking Saints podcast is a three-time award winner from the Catholic Media Association, including winning Best Podcast Program in 2020.

“Through its teachers, administrators, and my fellow students, my four years at the Prep taught me how to conduct myself as a man for God,” says Sanchez. “I was taught to keep striving for excellence, perform every task for His glory, and love and serve my neighbor, whenever possible. I’m proud to be a part of the great legacy of the Prep, and to be able to wear the Crimson and Gray (I still wear a Prep tie in the office).”

He is still grateful to have received a Prep education. “I’m thankful for the sacrifices of my parents to allow me to have such a quality education, and grateful for the lifelong friendships I’ve created and fostered there, in its halls and throughout the years,” he says. “I pray for the current school community, and any who might find and fall in love with the Prep, like I have, in the future.”