Xavier University unveils St. Peter Faber Academy, appoints first principal

CINCINNATI (WKRC) – Xavier University has announced the establishment of St. Peter Faber Academy, the Midwest’s first Jesuit Catholic laboratory school, set to open in the fall of 2025. The academy, named after St. Peter Faber, an early Jesuit companion of St. Ignatius of Loyola, will serve as a Catholic preschool and elementary school for students from age 3 through sixth grade, with plans to expand to seventh and eighth grades by 2027.

Sarah Bitzer, a Xavier University alumna with 12 years of experience as a principal in the Cincinnati area, has been appointed as the academy’s inaugural principal. Bitzer is known for her focus on comprehensive planning, transformation, and strategic enrollment.

“With the reimagining of this academy, we honor a centuries-long tradition of holistic education inspired by the Jesuits while welcoming an innovative leader to advance that mission in the years to come,” said Xavier University President Colleen Hanycz, in a media release. “Sarah not only has the educational, administrative and operational prowess to carry our academy forward, but equally as important, a demonstrated and steadfast commitment to educating the entire student. She embodies the commitments of St. Peter Faber, making her an excellent choice to blaze this new trail.”

“I am truly excited to embark on this incredible journey with our youngest learners as they experience the transformational learning that comes from being connected to Xavier University,” said Bitzer. “This unique partnership will provide a rare and valuable opportunity for our students to interact with Xavier students and professors. These relationships will provide enriching learning opportunities, further enhancing the student’s educational experience.”

The academy will employ Ignatian Pedagogy, emphasizing excellence and compassion while focusing on the unique qualities of each student. This approach ensures students receive cutting-edge instruction informed by the latest research on learning and human brain development.

Xavier University Provost and Chief Academic Officer Rachel Chrastil said, “This renewed approach for our lab school will build on Xavier’s profound educational legacy and ensure that Xavier continues offering rich experiences for Musketeers throughout their educational journeys. Our renewed vision poises the school for sustained growth, stronger alignment with Xavier’s Jesuit Catholic mission, and greater opportunity for the University’s students and faculty to make a difference at the transformed lab school.”

St. Peter Faber Academy will provide an expanded opportunity for Jesuit Catholic education in the Cincinnati community, creating a natural pathway for students to continue their education at St. Xavier High School, Xavier University, and potentially the proposed Xavier University College of Osteopathic Medicine.