history

For more than 90 years, The Castle on Hackberry Street in the Cincinnati city neighborhood of East Walnut Hills has been a keeper of Purcell Marian milestones and memories.  Founded on the faithful charisms of The Marianists, the Purcell Marian family of schools includes St. Mary, Marian, Regina, Purcell, and Purcell Marian High Schools. Together, we comprise one of the largest Catholic families (15,000+ strong) in Greater Cincinnati, serving a diverse population of students since 1928.

Led by Principal Andy Farfsing ‘95, Purcell Marian is concentrated on inclusiveness and preparing our graduates for post-secondary professional opportunities in our ever-changing world through our Career Initiatives Program and International Baccalaureate Diploma. 

We measure our success on our 3E Guarantee, which guarantees all graduating seniors are either Employed, Enlisted, or Enrolled at the time of graduation.

Additionally, our school community is committed to values and traditions where friendships bloom across the boundaries of socioeconomics, gender, abilities, race, or religion, rendering our students uniquely positioned for successful futures.

Purcell Marian graduates enjoy an enlightened high school experience that gives them a unique advantage at graduation. Our tagline, “Together. Onward Cavaliers!” comes from the original Purcell fight song, embracing our combined history and encompassing the fundamentals that make us different by design.

Marianist Education at Purcell Marian

Purcell Marian is one of just 19 Marianist high schools in the U.S. and one of only four schools with a Marianist Excel Program, which concentrates on providing financial aid, academic and social support, to high-achieving students from urban elementary schools. 

The Society of Mary (Marianists) was founded by three rebel friends during the French Revolution and then brought to the United States in 1849, landing in Cincinnati. Today, Marianist women and men serve as equals, devoted to the ministry of Mary, education, the arts, services to others, and social justice in 34 countries.

Our students increase their knowledge of the Marianist faith by participating in curriculum activities focused on the 5 Marianists pillars.

Year 1 – Community/Inclusivity

Year 2 – Faith

Year 3 – Mary

Year 4 – Leaders in Mission

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