John A. Fodera ‘62
From student to principal and eventually the first laity president, John A. Fodera’s journey is a testament to the power of St. Peter’s education and how one’s story can inspire successful chapters for many others. As a 2024 Hall of Fame inductee, John Fodera embodies the unwavering commitment to education, community and faith that characterizes the St. Peter’s family.
Like many families, John’s parents faced financial challenges that, without support, may have limited John’s opportunities. However, a four-year scholarship from St. Peter’s Boys High School would allow the future school president to discover his potential, funding his continued education at St. John’s University with a four-year scholarship. After earning his master’s degree in foreign policy from Georgetown University, John made good on his promise to give back to his alma mater for the support the Christian Brothers and the St. Peter’s family showed him. In 1968, John accepted a teaching position and the 2024-25 academic year marks his 58th year at the school.
Throughout his tenure at St. Peter’s, John has taught history, math, English and more and assumed the role of principal. Under his leadership, the student body grew from just 350 to the largest in the school’s history. The school successfully navigated its way out of a financial deficit, raising over $20 million for building improvements.
To John Fodera, St. Peter’s is more than a school. He considers it a second home and the community as his second family. Over the years, John has become a mentor to many, offering the same guidance and support he was shown during his student years.
As he continues with St. Peter’s, John strives to repay the kindness that helped him become the man he is today by inspiring those around him to do the same. Beyond the president’s desk, John is a loving husband to his wife, Barbara, and father to his two daughters, Jennifer and Elizabeth, and son, Christopher, a fellow St. Peter’s alumnus.
