Meet Our Alumni: Ryan Alexander ’06

Ryan Alexander, Class of 2006, reflects on his time at St. Mary’s High School as a formative experience that shaped his discipline, values, and approach to leadership. Now working in Commercial Real Estate Leasing & Advisory, Ryan credits St. Mary’s with laying a strong foundation for both personal growth and long-term success.

 

What three words describe you?
Persistent, leader, and forward-thinking.

Please describe an experience, class, or teacher on campus that sparked a passion or interest that continues to this day.
One of the most influential experiences I had at St. Mary’s was in my English class, where I first understood the connection between discipline, preparation, and long-term success. The class pushed us not just to complete assignments, but to approach every task with intention and structure. That mindset stayed with me long after I left St. Mary’s.

The habits I developed in that classroom—being prepared, thinking critically, and holding myself to a high standard—shaped the business acumen I use every day in my professional life. That influence continues to inspire how I work, communicate, and carry myself.

With Omnia ad Jesum per Mariam (“Everything to Jesus through Mary”) in mind, how did St. Mary’s provide a foundation for your education?
St. Mary’s provided far more than academic knowledge; it offered a true foundation for how to live, learn, and grow. The school’s values helped me understand the importance of humility, purpose, and service. Through this lens, my education became not just about completing coursework, but about developing character.

St. Mary’s also taught me to manage my time, structure my responsibilities, and mature quickly. The teachers and leaders in the community held us to high expectations, but they also guided us with care. Their example shaped my approach to learning and laid the groundwork for how I plan, communicate, and make decisions today. That foundation has stayed with me across every stage of my education and career.

What is your current career?
Commercial Real Estate Leasing & Advisory

What’s your proudest accomplishment so far?
Without a doubt, becoming a parent to Everly and Aiden. They are my greatest source of motivation and pride.

What do you do for fun?
I stay active through working out and enjoying (watching and participating in) various sports.

Anything else you want to share about yourself?
I value determination above all else. This was cemented one time at St. Mary’s when I was so determined to make it on time for a test that I ended up riding my Razor scooter all the way from Hempstead, LI. That memory still reminds me to never give up.

What would you tell a prospective family as to why their child should attend St. Mary’s?
I would tell any prospective family that St. Mary’s is a place where students grow not only academically, but as people. The school teaches the roots of discipline, responsibility, and professionalism at an early age. It’s a community that nurtures confidence, builds strong moral character, and sets students up to succeed in any path they choose.

At St. Mary’s, your child will be challenged, supported, and surrounded by teachers and leaders who genuinely care about their development. It’s an environment that shapes young individuals into capable, thoughtful, and hardworking adults. The lessons I learned here stay with you for life.

Final Thoughts
Ryan’s journey shows how St. Mary’s not only prepares students for academic success but also shapes the values, determination, and character that last a lifetime. We are proud to count him among our alumni and celebrate the accomplishments and impact of our graduates in every field.