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Get to Know STA Director of Admission, Steve Morrison!
Steve Morrison, a 1993 alumnus of St. Thomas Aquinas High School, has come full circle in his professional journey, returning to his alma mater as the Director of Admission in 2023. His path to this role is deeply rooted in his love for St. Thomas and the profound impact the school had on his upbringing.
Born and raised in the St. Thomas Aquinas community, Steve's connection to the school goes beyond just his years as a student. His father, Steve Morrison Sr., and his mother, Susan Guy, were high school sweethearts at St. Thomas, graduating in 1966. Steve Sr. was a key member of the state championship-winning football team, while Susan cheered them on as a spirited member of the cheerleading squad. This foundation of tradition and pride shaped Steve's childhood, and his love for the school was cultivated at an early age.
A standout athlete, Steve excelled in both basketball and football during his time at St. Thomas. His basketball prowess helped him secure two state championships, while his leadership and skill on the football field left a lasting legacy. His commitment to sports, combined with his academic drive, was a testament to his well-rounded character.
Steve's deep connection to St. Thomas continued through his family life. He and his wife, Jennifer, have four children: Emma, 18; Aidan, 17, a senior at St. Thomas and a football team captain; and twins Mia and Conor, 11. Aidan’s leadership and experiences at STA have been a source of pride for the Morrison family. Watching his son walk the same halls, experience the same values, and thrive in the same community has been a reflection of Steve’s belief in the school’s lasting impact.
Reflecting on his time at St. Thomas, Steve credits three key individuals for shaping his life. First, there was Dick Spaulding, the athletic director and football coach. Spaulding’s unwavering commitment to teaching his athletes how to be good people and teammates left a lasting impression on Steve. “I never wanted to let him down or disappoint him,” Steve recalls.
Another influential figure was Gene Beliveau, a history teacher who had also taught Steve’s parents. Mr. Beliveau’s humor, relatability, and accountability in the classroom made a profound impact on Steve. “The way he related to everyone and held us accountable was special,” Steve remembers.
Lastly, Steve points to Ron Holtz, a multi-sport coach and teacher, as a key influence. “Mr. Holtz wore many hats, and he was so professional and relatable in every role,” Steve shares. His leadership on the field and in the classroom was a model of excellence.
Steve continued his commitment to St. Thomas after graduation. He served as an assistant football coach from 1997 to 1999, before transitioning to the admission office in 2023. Reflecting on his role as Director of Admission, Steve says, “This job has made this full circle. I have so much passion here; it’s an easy sell. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made professionally.”
Steve’s mission in his role is to ensure that all prospective students and families know that St. Thomas meets them where they are. “There is something here for everybody,” he says. “The Catholic mission here at STA is unlike anything you can get around here.” His message to future STA students is clear: St. Thomas is a place where each individual can grow, both academically and personally, in a supportive and caring environment.
Having watched his son Aidan navigate the last few years at St. Thomas, Steve feels immense pride in knowing that Aidan is part of a community that takes care of its students both in the classroom and on the field. “I know my son is in a community where they care about you—whether it's in the classroom, on the field, or anywhere else,” he says.
Looking ahead, Steve hopes to leave a lasting legacy at St. Thomas Aquinas. He wants to be remembered as someone who continued and built upon the school’s rich traditions, giving everything he has to the school that gave him so much. “This is not a job; it’s a passion,” Steve declares.
For the Seacoast community, it’s clear why St. Thomas Aquinas High School is such a special place. With dedicated faculty and staff members like Steve Morrison, the school continues to thrive, creating a space where students can excel academically, grow spiritually, and build lasting friendships. Steve’s commitment to the mission of St. Thomas serves as a testament to the school’s lasting impact on its alumni and their families.
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