“ Ms . Iannicelli infused each undertaking with a refined wit and wisdom that showcased a love of the school and its mission of educating boys so that they be good men .”
On a more personal level , it has been an extraordinary honor to witness the commitment , the love , and the enthusiasm that my mom has poured into her work at Saint David ’ s over the two years I recently lived at home . Throughout her 32-year journey at Saint David ’ s , it is her devotion to the boys and their growth that has been the hallmark of a stellar career . It is the same kind of love that my mother always displayed towards her family and friends . I have been lucky enough to have witnessed it as a child , as a teenager , and as an adult .
Harkening back through all the years that I have now known my mom , it is difficult to narrow down one small story or tidbit
Nancy with husband Tom ( R . I . P .) and son Morgan , in Maine , Summer 1995 that would do justice to just how impressed and in awe I am of her on a daily basis . I will relate just a brief one before I close this piece though . Although my mother has dedicated so much of her time to the boys of Saint David ’ s , she also dedicated so much of her time to her boys at home . Sadly , my father , Tom Kelly , passed away in 2015 after a long and arduous fight with Parkinson ’ s disease . For close to a decade my mom cared for him with patience , love , and affection . Although it was a difficult period for me as well , I can only imagine what it must have been like for her . However , she somehow managed day in and day out to succeed both at home and at school . It was a Herculean effort to say the least . Witnessing how she was able to do all this has made me realize that whatever challenges I may be facing , I can accomplish them and accomplish them well .
After all these years , I certainly think it is time for Ms . Iannicelli to enjoy retirement . So , a simple toast that draws on her lesser known Scots-Irish roots : May your troubles be less , and your blessings be more . And nothing but happiness come through your door . And finally , I will conclude with a brief , but important phrase that I am sure is echoed by each and every one of her students : Thank you . M
Morgan Kelly ’ 99 recently graduated from Fordham University , is currently a candidate for a Master ’ s Degree in Education from New York University Steinhardt School , and is teaching in the Bronx .
12 • Saint David ’ s Magazine