Table of Contents
John Vatterott: A Lifelong Philanthropist and His Impact on SLUH and Jesuit Education
Remembering John Vatterott – A Remarkable Philanthropist
On October 20, 2023, the St. Louis University High (SLUH) community received the somber news of John Vatterott’s passing.1
A generous benefactor and a staunch supporter of SLUH’s Jesuit Catholic mission, John Vatterott left an indelible mark on the institution.
In 2021, he was honored with the prestigious Sacred Heart Award, making him one of SLUH’s most esteemed non-alumnus awardees.
A Philanthropic Legacy
According to SLUH President Alan Carruthers, John Vatterott embodied the essence of support for their mission. Carruthers expressed his gratitude for Vatterott’s selflessness and outstanding contributions to shaping young men with competence, conscience, courage, and compassion.
John Vatterott, who hailed from a devout Catholic family, was one of 17 children.
Education and Career Journey
In the early stages of his career, Vatterott served as a vocational rehabilitation counselor at the Missouri Department of Education.
In this role, he recognized the need for improved vocational education and took action.
In 1969, he co-founded Vatterott College and served as its president until 2003, addressing the local community’s demand for better vocational training.
A Loyal SLUH Supporter
John Vatterott’s commitment to SLUH endured for many years. He was not only a former parent of a student at St. Louis University High but also a former member of the Board of Trustees.
His dedication reached new heights when he, along with his wife Joan, made the largest and most generous donation in the school’s history.
Extending His Reach
John Vatterott’s passion for education extended beyond SLUH
.He co-founded Loyola Academy and established Access Academies to provide support to middle school children across the metropolitan area.
A Philanthropic Visionary
Vatterott’s philanthropic spirit extended far and wide, as he actively served on boards of directors and contributed to numerous non-profit organizations and Jesuit ministries on both the east and west sides of the Mississippi River.
His unwavering commitment to the Church’s mission, profound affection for the Jesuit community, and boundless support for St. Louis University, truly exemplified his exceptional philanthropic character.
John Vatterott: A Life Filled with Faith and Generosity
Cardinal Ritter College Prep remembers and honors the legacy of John Vatterott, who passed away today. We are deeply grateful to John for over four decades of support and love of our students and mission. His legacy will live on for generations. pic.twitter.com/PV7IWYK7ZX
— Cardinal Ritter Prep (@RitterPrepHS) October 21, 2023
Remembering John Vatterott’s Impact
The passing of John Vatterott has created an irreplaceable void, echoing the profound influence he had on all fortunate enough to know him.2
In this article, we’ll delve into the remarkable legacy he left behind, highlighting the keywords “John Vatterott” and “legacy”
John Vatterott’s Courageous Battle
John Vatterott’s remarkable 15-year battle with cancer showcased his unwavering courage, grace, and deep faith.
John Vatterott: A Remarkable Journey
In his final moments, John embraced death with a serene tranquility rooted in his profound trust in God.
John Vatterott’s Enduring Influence
John’s legacy extends beyond his mortal life, becoming a timeless influence that persists through the lives he touched.
John Vatterott: A Man of Humility and Kindness
Thanks to Frs. Stewart & Gibbons SJs for a powerful Mass of the Holy Spirit. Special to honor John Vatterott & Mary Lee McConaghy as the inaugural recipients of the Sacred Heart Award. The highest award for those who are not alums. 2 incredible ppl!#AMDG #MenandWomenforOthers pic.twitter.com/ejP1jmbv9o
— Alan Carruthers (@Sluhpresident) September 1, 2021
John’s humility, boundless kindness, and his ability to see the inherent goodness in every person endeared him to all who crossed his path.
A New Beginning of Love, Faith, and Compassion
John’s departure marked not the conclusion of a life but the inception of a legacy filled with love, faith, and unwavering compassion.
The Eternal Light of John Vatterott
As the world mourns his physical absence, John’s spiritual presence remains a guiding light for his family, friends, and the countless souls he profoundly impacted.
The Enigmatic Passing of a Generous Benefactor
The specifics surrounding John Vatterott’s passing remain private, respecting the family’s wishes for confidentiality.
Celebrating a Life of Love, Faith, and Philanthropy
John Vatterott’s life was characterized by love, faith, and a commitment to philanthropy. Even in the face of his battle with cancer, he approached his final moments with an unparalleled sense of peace and gratitude.
The Legacy of Kindness and Generosity
John’s legacy is not merely a story of his departure but a profound lesson in the enduring power of kindness and generosity.
Continuing Impact
While the world mourns his loss, it also stands in celebration of the enduring impact he continues to make through the charitable causes he championed.
Remembering the Remarkable Life of John Charles Vatterott
October 24, 1943 – October 19, 2023
The world bid farewell to a truly extraordinary man when John Charles Vatterott passed away just shy of his 80th birthday. Surrounded by his beloved wife, Joan, their children, and grandchildren, John’s homecoming marked the culmination of a remarkable life – one that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew him.
A “Festival” of Memories: Celebrating John’s Life
In honor of John, his family orchestrated what they fondly referred to as the “Festival of John Vatterott.” This nine-day celebration paid tribute to the man who had touched the lives of countless individuals. John’s captivating smile, deep blue eyes, unwavering sense of humor, and his mantra, “All is well” and “Life is good,” left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The Roots of an Extraordinary Life
John was the beloved son of Mary Patricia Vatterott, the dashing Gregory Vatterott (whose life was tragically cut short), and the courageous Charles Vatterott, who stepped in as John’s loving adopted father. Born into a bustling family of seventeen siblings, John was the ninth child and a cherished member of a close-knit clan.
The Man of Many Roles
John played diverse roles throughout his life – a devoted parishioner of Christ the King, a dutiful son, a loyal brother, a fun-loving cousin, a favorite uncle, a true friend, a loving father, a generous grandfather, a great grandfather, and a faithful husband to Joan Bayot Vatterott. His love story with Joan, which began in high school, was nothing short of extraordinary, and their enduring affection was an inspiration to all who knew them.
A Remarkable Family Legacy
The Vatterott family was a vibrant and boisterous blend of “His-Hers-and-Theirs.” John’s seventeen siblings included
Mary Jane Harris, Patsy Erker, Margaret Danna, Martha Flavan, Kathleen Valenta, Charles Vatterott III, Mary Ann Holden, Gregory Vatterott, Catherine Vatterott, Susan Bresnan, Chris Vatterott, Genevieve Coughlin, Winnie Greathouse, Claire Hundelt, Robert Vatterott, and Betty Vatterott.
A Cherished Brother-In-Law
John was also an amiable brother-in-law to Joan’s sisters, Louise Prindable and Victoria Sharp.
The Heart of a Loving Family
John was the father of John Jr., Katy, Mia, Timothy, Genevieve, and Patrick.
His legacy continued through his numerous grandchildren, including Andrew, Madeline, Patrickson Jean, Brendan, Brian, Will, Kevin, Emma, Charlie, Estela, Benicio, Connor, Lidia, Gus, Dylan, and Adeline. The great-grandchildren, Ramsey, Scarlet, Archie, and McKenna Joan Vatterott, were a precious addition to the family during the “Festival of John Vatterott.”
A Heartwarming Story of Compassion
In 1980, John and Joan extended their generosity by hosting a Vietnamese family, Loc and the late Tam Nguyen, on the Vatterott family farm in New Haven.
This act of kindness forged a lifelong bond between the two families. Subsequently, the farm was transformed into Cedar Creek, serving as a wedding venue and a retreat for corporate, non-profit, and spiritual events.
A Legacy of Success
John was not only a man of compassion but also a business visionary. He achieved remarkable success with Vatterott College, a vocational and trade school specializing in job training and employment.
In 2003, he sold the college to focus on his family and philanthropic endeavors, marking the beginning of a new and rewarding chapter in his life.
A Champion for the Underserved
John’s heart was always with those at the margins of society.
He and Joan actively supported charitable causes, including Access Academies, which empowers at-risk middle school students to succeed in high school and college, and Boys Hope Girls Hope, an organization that guides young people in need towards successful careers.
A Courageous Battle
For the last 15 years of his life, John courageously battled cancer. Throughout this time, he remained remarkably composed, free from fear, anxiety, or regrets.
John’s unwavering faith in God led him to spread a message of love to the world, sharing his grace with everyone he met. His humility and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
A Life Celebrated
Though deeply missed, John’s legacy lives on, and his life continues to inspire others to “find God in all things.”
Honoring John’s Memory
For those who wish to pay tribute to John, consider making a donation to Access Academies or Boys Hope Girls Hope. Alternatively, a simple prayer of gratitude for his life and legacy would be a fitting way to remember this extraordinary man.
A Gift Beyond Measure
John possessed a generous heart that never stopped giving. A part of his enduring legacy is the donation of his body to Saint Louis University Medical School, ensuring that his gift of compassion lives on.
The Joan and John Vatterott Family Foundation’s Charitable Endeavors
In 1992, #BHGH Board Chair, John Vatterott, & his wife, Joan, traveled to Guatemala to meet w/ our inaugural class of @EspJuv scholars!#FBF pic.twitter.com/cnU4fM7HzF
— Boys Hope Girls Hope (@BHGHNetwork) September 1, 2017
In the world of philanthropy, few foundations shine as brightly as The Joan and John Vatterott Family Foundation.3
Established in 2007 and based in the picturesque city of Naples, Florida, this 501(c)(3) private foundation has been leaving an indelible mark on charitable organizations.
Their primary goal is to support deserving nonprofits by meticulously managing security investments to yield substantial profits, which are subsequently channeled into various grant programs.
In this article, we will explore the foundation’s mission, financial standing, and its significant impact on the charitable landscape.
The Foundation’s Mission
Grantmaking for a Brighter Tomorrow
The Joan and John Vatterott Family Foundation operates with a clear purpose – to assist carefully selected charitable organizations.
Their commitment to the cause is evident in the significant number of grants they provide each year. In the most recent fiscal year, they generously distributed 33 grants to various grantees, exemplifying their dedication to supporting worthwhile causes.
Notable Grantees
Among the numerous grantees, Boys Hope Girls Hope stands out as a prominent beneficiary of the foundation’s generosity. This substantial grantmaking allows these organizations to further their charitable functions and make a positive impact on the community.
Financial Overview
A Strong Financial Backbone
The financial prowess of The Joan and John Vatterott Family Foundation is a testament to their unwavering dedication to their mission. In the fiscal year ending in 2021, the foundation reported total revenues of $417,097.
This substantial figure reflects their commitment to making a tangible difference in the nonprofit sector.
Maximizing Profits for Grants
The foundation’s unique approach to managing security investments is key to their financial success.
By investing with the sole intent of maximizing profits, they ensure a steady stream of funds for their grant programs. This financially sustainable model has allowed them to consistently support the causes they believe in.
Personnel
Leadership and Dedication
At the helm of the foundation is John C. Vatterott, who serves as a Trustee. His leadership and commitment to the foundation’s mission are evident in the positive impact it has on charitable organizations.
It’s worth noting that Mr. Vatterott diligently fulfills his role without any compensation, showcasing his passion for the cause.
Form 990s
CRCP faculty and staff have completed another successful overnight strategic planning retreat at Cedar Creek, generously hosted by John and Joan Vatterott. Thank you to our dedicated CRCP team as we prepare for the upcoming school year! #LionPride pic.twitter.com/OUr79V7uuO
— Cardinal Ritter Prep (@RitterPrepHS) June 13, 2018
Transparency and Accountability
The foundation’s commitment to transparency is reflected in their submission of Form 990s. These documents, provided annually, offer a detailed account of the foundation’s financial activities.
This commitment to accountability is crucial in maintaining the trust of donors and partners.
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Organizations Similar to The Joan and John Vatterott Family Foundation
To put the foundation’s work into context, here are some organizations with a similar 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status:
- The New York Songspace – Based in New York, NY, they reported revenue of $115,000.
- Stanley’s Garden Foundation – Located in Tenafly, NJ, with reported revenue of $338,074.
- Jes Avanti Foundation – Hailing from Hughesville, MD, they reported an impressive $877,640 in revenue.
- David E Bohannon Foundation – Operating out of Urbandale, IA, with revenue of $307,356.
- Strength To Love Foundation – Making a difference in Chicago, IL, with $175,875 in revenue.
- Centro Bono Foundation – Serving Charlotte, NC, and reporting revenue of $413,015.
- Marshall Community Fund – Located in North Rose, NY, with reported revenue of $295,707.
- Futuro Brillante – Making a positive impact in San Diego, CA, with $452,873 in revenue.
- Musculoskeletal-Orthopedic Research and Education Foundation – Based in Phoenix, AZ, they reported an impressive $1,272,150 in revenue.
- E Kupaku Ka Aina – The Hawaii Land Restoration Institute – Located in Wailuku, HI, they reported $263,306 in revenue.
These organizations, like The Joan and John Vatterott Family Foundation, play a vital role in supporting charitable causes and making a difference in their communities.
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John Vatterott: The ACCESS Academies Initiative
In today’s society, the key to bridging the gap between the privileged and the underprivileged lies in education. In an era where securing high-paying jobs is already a challenge, it becomes nearly insurmountable for individuals who drop out of high school and never pursue higher education.4
Shockingly, over 3 million high school students in the United States drop out every year.
Education Week reports that the majority of these dropouts come from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds, with a staggering 75 percent of U.S. crimes being committed by high school dropouts.
Education undeniably serves as the bedrock for future success and well-being. For the past decade, ACCESS Academies, officially known as “Creating Challenging Education for St. Louis Students,” has been a beacon of hope for students in underserved areas.
ACCESS Academies is committed to providing top-quality, values-based education to empower these young minds. John Vatterott, the president of the board, emphasizes their mission, stating, “ACCESS transforms the critical middle school years into a springboard for high school success.
We make a seven-year commitment to each student, commencing in middle school and extending throughout high school.”
Currently, ACCESS Academies operates from three locations: Most Holy Trinity School & Academy in North St. Louis, St. Cecilia School & Academy in South St. Louis, and St. Louis the King School at the Cathedral in the Central West End.
Their holistic approach includes scholarship support, a rigorous core curriculum, extensive tutoring, life skills training, enrichment opportunities, and an extended school day and year.
Notably, parental or guardian involvement is a mandatory component of their program.
“Our primary objective is to facilitate each student’s admission into a college-preparatory high school, and we have a remarkable track record,” Vatterott proudly asserts.
Over the past decade, more than 600 students who attended ACCESS middle schools achieved a 98 percent acceptance rate into prestigious college-prep high schools.
Subsequently, they benefited from the ACCESS Graduate Support Program, which offers tuition assistance, tutoring, mentoring, counseling, ACT preparation courses, and various support services to ensure sustained success.
Remarkably, 99 percent of these students graduated from high school on time, and 94 percent pursued college or other forms of post-secondary education.
As Vatterott succinctly puts it, “It’s not rocket science. ACCESS provides a structured education, high expectations, the right environment, and follow-up support. It works.”
One of the standout features of ACCESS is its inclusive approach. They accept students regardless of their grades, test scores, race, ethnicity, or religious affiliation.
While the program’s high school students receive some support through the Annual Scholarship Dinner, hosted by ACCESS and the Vatterott Foundation, it’s worth noting that they receive no public funding.
Therefore, their reliance is on the generosity of St. Louis residents who understand the value of investing in the future of their community.
As Vatterott aptly states, “There is no resource more valuable than our young people.
We’ve gained invaluable experience over the past decade, and our goals for the future are crystal clear: to expand our reach into other underserved areas, including Ferguson, broaden our follow-up support program into the college years, and continue empowering students to break the cycle of poverty and despair.”
Bridging Educational Disparities
The significance of education in narrowing the socio-economic divide.
The ACCESS Academies Approach
A detailed look at how ACCESS Academies is making a difference in the lives of underprivileged students.
A Proven Track Record
Highlighting the exceptional success rate of students who have been through the ACCESS Academies program.
An Inclusive Mission
Discussing ACCESS’s inclusive policies that welcome students from diverse backgrounds.
The Road Ahead
Exploring ACCESS Academies’ future plans and their commitment to changing the lives of underserved students.
FAQ’S
1. Who was John Vatterott, and what was his impact on SLUH and Jesuit education?
John Vatterott was a generous philanthropist and a staunch supporter of St. Louis University High (SLUH) and Jesuit Catholic education. He received the prestigious Sacred Heart Award in 2021, and his contributions to SLUH left an indelible mark on the institution.
2. What is the legacy of John Vatterott in the field of education?
John Vatterott’s legacy in education includes co-founding Vatterott College to address the need for improved vocational training. He also co-founded Loyola Academy and established Access Academies to support middle school children in the metropolitan area. His dedication to education extended far beyond SLUH.
3. What was the mission of The Joan and John Vatterott Family Foundation, and how did it support charitable organizations?
The foundation’s mission was to support charitable organizations by carefully managing security investments to yield substantial profits, which were then channeled into various grant programs. In the most recent fiscal year, they distributed 33 grants to various grantees.
4. What is the significance of ACCESS Academies in bridging educational disparities, and what is their approach?
ACCESS Academies plays a vital role in bridging educational disparities by providing top-quality, values-based education to underserved students. Their approach includes scholarship support, a rigorous core curriculum, tutoring, life skills training, enrichment opportunities, and parental involvement.
5. What are the future plans of ACCESS Academies in expanding their impact on underprivileged students?
ACCESS Academies plans to expand its reach into other underserved areas, including Ferguson, broaden its follow-up support program into the college years, and continue empowering students to break the cycle of poverty and despair.
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