We were delighted to have SAA alumnus Sam Rosenbloom, class of 2011, join us as the Alumni Monday speaker during Chapel on May 8, 2023. Sam used this time to talk to the boys about the traditions, memories, and all the faculty and staff that made his experience so special during his time at The Academy.

Sam spent eight years at SAA, after which he graduated and went on to attend Saint Mary's Hall. He then went to New York University, where he earned a degree in politics. After college, he taught at a local school in San Antonio for two years before deciding to enroll in law school at Southern Methodist University. 

During his Chapel talk, Sam focussed on what he thought made The Academy so special. To him, that was the traditions and the teachers. He spoke about his fond memories of traditions like gummy worm Fridays, Cowboy Breakfast, the 8th-grade Shakespeare Play, and of course, daily Chapel. Although Sam had nothing but positive things to say about his alma mater, he made it very clear that he struggled greatly with academics and achievements.

Because of multiple learning differences, Sam expressed that he had a hard time excelling academically. However, he ultimately learned that academic achievements and accolades are not the only things that make you the best you can be. 

"Being the best you can be is about the content of your character," said Sam.

He went on to mention and thank multiple people that helped him to be the best he could be during his time at The Academy, including Coach Heineman, Mr. Turner, Mr. Moore, and the late Mr. Aguilar. 

He ended by encouraging the boys, saying, "The Academy is a safe place to fall down and pick yourself back up," and he reminded them to be the best they can be, no matter their struggles, strengths, weaknesses, or shortcomings.

Thank you, Sam, for sharing such inspiring and encouraging words with us. 

About Alumni Mondays: Each Monday, we welcome an Academy alumnus to speak to SAA boys during Chapel. During this presentation, our alumni speakers share meaningful stories and lessons from their days at SAA. View Alumni Monday Showcase

TO VIEW SAM'S FULL ALUMNI MONDAY PRESENTATION, VIEW THE FOLLOWING RECORDING: