This year’s third annual Fall Flannel Fest and Father Ben 5K once again brought together the Stella Maris Academy community, celebrating school spirit, friendly competition and a shared commitment to supporting student activities.

The Fall Flannel Fest grew out of a desire to support student activities and strengthen the Stella Maris Academy community. Members of an activities fundraising committee recognized the growing costs associated with extracurricular programs and sought a way to raise funds while bringing together students, families and supporters in a fun, family-centered setting.

The result was the Fall Flannel Fest, a celebration that combines everything people love about autumn. The event’s name was chosen to evoke the spirit of outdoor seasonal fun, reflecting the organizers’ vision of a fall tradition that would build awareness of the young school and foster Sentinel pride. Flannel, synonymous with the season, proved the perfect fit.

This year’s festivities began with the Father Ben 5K, held on the Stella Maris Sentinel Trail. The wooded course winds through the academy’s 138-acre property, offering runners a challenging trail experience unlike a typical road race. Restored into a full 5K loop by members of the school community, the trail has become one of the campus’s distinctive features.

The race honors the late Father Ben Hadrich, Stella Maris Academy’s first chaplain. A familiar and beloved presence in the hallways, Father Ben greeted students each morning, enthusiastically supported school activities and was an avid runner. When the academy completed the wooded trail system on its property, it was only fitting that the course and annual race bear his name. The connection became even more meaningful when Father Ben passed away last year, shortly after the inaugural Father Ben 5K. Today, the race serves not only as a community event but also as a lasting tribute to a priest whose joyful presence helped shape the culture and spirit of Stella Maris Academy.

Following the race, families gathered for an afternoon of food, games and activities that offered something for all ages. Students played a central role throughout the day, helping organize events, serve food and welcome guests. Their involvement reflects the school’s commitment to teaching the value of service. Whether assisting with activities or working behind the scenes, students gained firsthand experience in giving back to their community while contributing to the event’s success.

The community response has continued to grow each year. Last year alone, approximately 230 runners participated in the Father Ben 5K, with more than 300 additional attendees joining the Fall Flannel Fest festivities.

For organizers, the months of planning are worthwhile because the event represents something larger than fundraising. More than a source of support for student activities, it serves as a celebration of the faith, service, community and school pride that define Stella Maris Academy.

The Fall Flannel Fest and Father Ben 5K provided an opportunity for the Stella Maris Academy community to come together, honor Father Ben’s legacy and celebrate the shared mission and values that continue to guide the school.