Principal Bill Lessa unexpectedly found himself becoming the longest-serving educator at Hayes High School Cardinal after starting as a social studies teacher back in 1971.
On Thursday, the Bronx School auditorium was filled with students, faculty, alumni, and friends who gathered to honor Lessa’s retirement.
The Mass of Honor was memorable, concluding with a standing ovation that lasted several minutes, with people chanting “less principal” throughout the hall.
“I wanted to be here for these kids, and I always wanted to work with them,” Lessa, 75, shared post-ceremony.
He reflected on his career, saying he had many chances to leave but chose to stay because he saw how appreciative the students were—many of whom lack support in various areas.
The Archdiocese of New York noted that Lessa is the longest-serving educator in a single Catholic school in the Bronx and among the few in New York state to have dedicated over 50 years.
After graduating from Iona College in 1971, Lessa began his journey at Cardinal Hayes and soon married his wife, Mary Anne.
Initially a social studies and religion teacher, he took on the extra role of mentoring counselor, spending years guiding students through the university admissions process.
In 2008, he became interim principal, a role that quickly grew to define his life.
“Being a teacher and principal gave me the chance to really make an impact,” he explained.
For Lessa, his students have always been his greatest motivation. When asked about his proudest moments over his 53-year career, he highlighted the success of his graduates.
He expressed pride in alumni like former New York Jets guard Willie Colon and Dr. Jesus Jail Marty, who have come back to share their career achievements.
“If I hadn’t met these individuals, things might have turned out differently. It’s our job to make a difference,” he noted.
“And it’s a cycle; it’s a yearly opportunity to reach new students,” he added.
Throughout his time, Lessa has witnessed many changes at Hayes Cardinal, including financial hardships that forced several nearby Catholic schools to close.
This year’s graduating class consists of about 30 young men, a stark contrast to the 450 graduates who walked the stage in his first year.
Lessa credited the school’s endurance to the decisions made by families but was recognized by the school community as a steadfast leader.
Father Stephen Gonzalez, the school pastor, praised him: “You exemplify faithful service, strength in adversity, and unwavering resolve.”
Fortunately, Lessa isn’t ready to leave just yet.
Although he will no longer be the school principal, he plans to engage with the alumni network, leveraging connections he cultivated over the decades.
“I want to get started soon—no vacation plans for me,” Lessa said.
“This institution has been my life for nearly 54 years; I’m not exactly the ‘relaxing’ type,” he added with a smile.
