James Hickey, Headmaster of Austin Preparatory School, is an educator who earned two of his three degrees from Wagner College. As a baccalaureate degree candidate, he studied both Political Science and History. While earning his first advanced degree, Hickey focused his studies on secondary education and earned a Masters of Science in Education. For an individual who has rooted interests in history, educational dynamics, and service, Wagner College is very rich in its founding culture.
Wagner College began in 1883 as the Lutheran Proseminary in Rochester, NY. Studies served as a way for, at the time, seven students to prepare to attend seminary school and train to become Lutheran ministers. Within this same time frame, the school received $12,000 from John G. Wagner. These funds were intended to allow the school to find a new academic campus. Originally, the only space available they used was the second floor of a private residence. Due to this generosity, the school acquired its name from the donor’s son.
Following Wagner College, James Hickey continued his education at Fordham University. He enrolled in the Graduate School of Education and pursued a degree in Educational Leadership and Policy where he was awarded a Ph.D. by the university. He studied under the tutelage of Dr. Bruce S. Cooper, a noted scholar who specializes in private education. With an interest in advancing Ignatian spirituality and its application to life, Fordham’s Jesuit ethos was invaluable to Hickey’s personal development and professional career.
The learning approach at Fordham is multifaceted but does not waver from the traditional Jesuit way. First, this school directs focus toward the individual and having him or her reach their full potential. This involves cultivating the heart and mind of each pupil without ignoring the needs of others. Over 600 students each semester volunteer their time and energy to causes such as providing food and clothes for the homeless and tutoring children who may not have the resources to succeed alone.
James Hickey, Ph.D. chose to attend institutions that helped nurture his strong value system and principle centered leadership. Wagner College and Fordham University are examples of educational communities that are committed to the service of others and strongly advocate philanthropy. In the tradition of Ignatius of Loyola, Fordham University exemplifies “men and women for others.” As the Headmaster of Austin Prep, Hickey marshals that sense of service to the students and staff he leads.
