LEONARDTOWN, Md. — Evan Greer, an 18-year-old 2025 graduate of St. Mary’s Ryken High School, delivered the student address at the school’s commencement ceremony on May 27, 2025. Known for his leadership, faith, and dedication to service, Greer inspired peers and faculty with his commitment to living out Catholic values. As the son of Derek and Linda Greer, both 1999 Ryken graduates, he followed in their footsteps as a Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) Steward, promoting faith and service on campus.
“My parents have shaped how I see the world by the way they live,” Greer said. “They’ve always taught me to put God first and to do the right thing, even when it’s hard. They’re two of the most selfless people I’ve ever met.”
Greer’s high school experience centered on service, particularly through his internship at the Caritas Resource Center (CRC), a student-led ministry in St. Mary’s County. The CRC collects and delivers furniture, household items, meals, clothing, and toiletries to those in need, including people experiencing homelessness. Volunteers coordinate requests, load trucks, and set up essentials like beds and tables in homes.
“I’ve had the opportunity to do this work of God with my closest friends,” Greer said. “We’ve made incredible memories during moves, and what makes it even more special is meeting the people we’re helping and seeing their gratitude firsthand.”
One memorable experience involved a man who was unhoused and received food, clothing, and housing support from the CRC. “Now he’s one of our most active volunteers,” Greer said. “He helps with deliveries, distributes meals, and always brings a smile to those around him. He has two jobs now and is really living life to the fullest.”
Greer said the CRC shaped his compassion and purpose. “Seeing someone’s face light up when you bring them a bed or a hot meal — and knowing you played a part in that — it changes you,” he said.
Beyond service, Greer excelled as a student athlete. A standout moment came during a junior-year soccer game against a top-ranked opponent. “We scored a goal late in the game to win 2-1,” he said. “The whole student section stormed the field. The assist came from me, and the goal was scored by one of my closest friends. It was something I’ll never forget.”
St. Mary’s Ryken provided Greer with opportunities for holistic growth. “They give you the tools to become the best version of yourself,” he said. “Challenging classes, clubs for every interest, strong athletics, and supportive teachers all helped me grow.”
His Catholic education deepened his faith. “Since Pre-K, I’ve learned to put others before myself and to put God first,” he said. “At Ryken, I could attend daily Mass, visit the chapel, speak with priests, or take part in prayer services. It all strengthened my faith in a real way.”
Greer noted that many peers have drifted from faith but expressed optimism. “Many have lost sight of God or undervalue their relationship with Him,” he said. “But I’m hopeful because there are still so many faithful young people helping others reconnect with Him.” He urged the Church to offer more retreats, small groups, and community events to engage youth.
This fall, Greer will study engineering at the University of Notre Dame, aiming to use his skills to serve others. “I want to help people become the best versions of themselves and grow in their faith,” he said. While excited, he admitted to nerves about leaving family and friends, including his younger brother, Zach, a freshman at Ryken who plays soccer and varsity golf.
Greer shared two guiding lessons: “Be the hardest worker in the room,” he said. “And remember, God will provide for your needs when you care for others.”
St. Mary’s Ryken, a Catholic, coeducational school founded in 1981, emphasizes faith, service, and academic excellence. The XBSS network, rooted in the Xaverian Brothers’ mission, fosters spiritual and community growth. Greer’s journey reflects the school’s commitment to forming compassionate, faith-driven leaders.
