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Principal
The Rev. J. Christian Beretta, OSFS is the 17th principal of Salesianum School. Having begun his tenure in 2010, he is the longest-serving principal since the school’s founder, Father Fromentin, who held the role from 1903 to 1918.
Fr. Beretta holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from DeSales University, a Master of Divinity from the DeSales School of Theology, a Master of Arts in Sports Psychology from the University of Maryland, a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from the University of Notre Dame, and a doctorate in education from the University of Pennsylvania. There, his dissertation focused on the development of authentically inclusive school communities to better reflect our Gospel call to build a civilization of love.
A native of California, Fr. Beretta was first introduced to the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales at Paul VI High School in Fairfax, Virginia, where he moved during this junior year. He was ordained an Oblate 12 years later at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Wilmington.
Fr. Beretta has served in Catholic education since 1991 as a teacher, coach, campus minister, and principal, both at Salesianum (1991-1993, 1997-1999, and 2010-present) and at Bishop Verot High School in Fort Myers, FL (1999-2010). Collaborating with our dedicated faculty and staff, he is passionate about developing innovative approaches to Salesianum's educational and spiritual mission — preparing the next generation of Salesian gentlemen for life in a rapidly changing world.
A sought-after speaker, Fr. Beretta spends time at the University of Notre Dame each summer, where he teaches students in the ACE Program. In 2023, he was appointed by Governor Carney to serve on the Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association Board of Directors, and he is currently a trustee at Nativity Preparatory School and St. Edmond's Academy.
An avid sports fan, Fr. Beretta relishes every Yankee and Laker championship, while lamenting the ongoing futility of his beloved Chargers.
Salesianum School
Salesianum School educates and develops the whole person based on the teaching of Saint Francis de Sales, whose spirituality can be summarized in “Live Jesus.” As an independent Catholic secondary school founded by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales in 1903, Salesianum challenges young men through dynamic college preparatory and extracurricular programs to live as Salesian Gentlemen devoted to faith, community, and service.