Evan Greer, a 2025 graduate of St. Mary’s Ryken High School in Leonardtown, Maryland, delivered the student address at this year’s commencement ceremony on May 27. The 18-year-old senior is known among his peers for his leadership, deep faith and commitment to service. These values have been central to his experience both at home and on campus.
Greer is the son of Derek and Linda Greer, both 1999 graduates of St. Mary’s Ryken and former Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS) Stewards. The program invites select seniors to serve as witnesses to Christ by promoting faith, service and Catholic identity. Evan followed in their footsteps and served as a steward this year.
His younger brother, Zach, is a freshman at the school and plays soccer and varsity golf.
“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 said one of the most meaningful parts of his high school experience was serving as an intern at the Caritas Resource Center, a student-led outreach ministry that collects and delivers donated furniture and household items to individuals and families in need across St. Mary’s County.
Volunteers coordinate requests, load trucks and set up beds, tables and other essentials in the homes they serve.
“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.”
The center also provides meals, toiletries, clothing and seasonal items to people experiencing homelessness. Greer recalled meeting a man who turned to the CRC while living unhoused.
“The CRC helped him with food, clothing and eventually housing,” Greer said. “Now he’s one of our most active volunteers. 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 his work with the CRC helped shape his sense of 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.
In addition to service, Greer was an active student athlete. One of his proudest moments came during a home soccer game against a top-ranked opponent in his junior year.
“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.”
Greer said St. Mary’s Ryken offered opportunities for growth at every level.
“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.”
He credits his Catholic education with deepening 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 acknowledged that many in his generation have drifted from their faith, but he remains hopeful.
“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 encouraged the Church to offer more opportunities for young people to live out their faith through retreats, small groups and community events.
This fall, Greer will attend the University of Notre Dame to study engineering. He hopes to use his education and talents in service to others.
“I want to help people become the best versions of themselves and grow in their faith,” he said.
He is excited to join the Notre Dame community but admitted he is nervous about being far from family and friends.
Greer shared two lessons he’ll carry with him: work hard and lead by example, and always put others first. “Be the hardest worker in the room,” he said. “And remember, God will provide for your needs when you care for others.”
