Michael Brady, BA ’82

Affectionately referred to as “Michael B.” during his years at Paul VI, Michael Brady ’82 earned a BA in Criminal Justice at Rowan University (formerly Glassboro State College). After his college graduation, he was employed in the mortgage industry before joining the criminal justice field. Since 1994, Michael has devoted his time to working with at-risk youth in probation and treatment. Currently, he is employed as a treatment coordinator at the Juvenile Justice Commission residential program, the lead agency in New Jersey for juvenile justice reform. The Commission oversees the care of youth placed in its direct custody by family courts.

 

Michael’s goal has always been to stay young, enjoy life, and give back to the community. He counts among his important role models the late Timothy Lenahan ’76, who was a major influence on Michael when he was young. Michael considers Lenahan, the former boys basketball coach at St. Rose of Lima School, an extraordinary mentor, coach, and friend. “Lenny” was a compassionate and upbeat person whose love of coaching helped the team to excel on the court and off, and he is greatly missed.

 

In addition, Michael remembers the influence of Father John Burns, his religion teacher, and Mr. Jim Waters, who taught physical education and typing. Both clearly enjoyed teaching and shared humor and important life skills with their students.

 

Michael is married to Christine (Shand) Brady, Haddon Township High School class of ’84. They have three children, Michael, Vincent, and John “Jack.” All three children attend Temple University. Michael’s sister, Lori Brady, ’76, and his three brothers, Edward “Bud” Brady ’75, Dennis Brady ’79, and Matthew Brady ’83, are also PVI alumni.

 

Michael’s commitment to the community extends beyond the workday. He also chairs the Juvenile Conference Committee in Haddon Heights, which serves under the authority of the Family Division of Superior Court to hear and decide matters involving minor juvenile charges that normally do not require formal court hearings. The Committee makes recommendations to family court staff with the goal of nonpunitive rehabilitation.

 

Michael is dedicated to helping at-risk youth. He believes that everyone should be permitted a second chance, and he emphasizes that adults can be important role models who encourage positive, appropriate behaviors. Listening to our youth is an important practice for all adults and a way to make a real difference.

 

Michael is also a Red Cross donor, an enthusiastic supporter of Paul VI High School athletics, and an active member of the Paul VI Alumni Association. He has chaired the school’s Pauction for 2 years and serves on the PVI golf committee. He enjoys attending the many functions that the school hosts, and he is actively involved in its fundraising efforts.

Michael has been a beacon of light in the advancement of alumni relations through his untiring efforts to involve graduates in efforts to promote for the future good of the school.

 

Michael advises today’s students to enjoy their time at PVI and notes that the memories they make today will last a lifetime. He encourages PVI students and alumni to remember the great opportunities that they were given by the PVI family and reminds them to “pay it forward” by giving back to their communities.

 

He humbly thanks the PVI community for nominating him to the Hall of Fame and looks forward to participating in future outreach and fundraising events.