Growth, community, and belonging.

These three components were the backbone of alumni Brendan Lyles's time at The Franciscan School. When his mom became a teacher at TFS, Brendan began in the middle of 3rd grade and graduated in 2008. Though the transition in 3rd grade was tough, he credits the faculty and students for helping him make it through and feel like he belonged. “I remember playing in the classrooms after school with the other teachers’ children and the sense of community that brought,” shared Brendan.

Though we often think of the fun times as what makes a place unique, as a licensed mental health counselor, Brendan shares that the ability to grow at TFS made the most significant difference. “TFS helped me learn more about who I am and want to be. To me, TFS meant a chance to learn, struggle, and understand who I am.”

Not only was it in those moments that Brendan grew, but two faculty members in particular stood out. “I remember spending time with Ms. Leone after school. She always had a smile on her face and would welcome us all into the room to relax after a long day. Mrs. Moser helped foster my love of science and problem-solving, which I carry to this day. It helped shape how I view the world and how things work.” Brendan shares that his favorite memories came from spending time after school with the teachers and their kids, having fun, and interacting with the older kids he looked up to.

Following his time at TFS, Brendan attended Cardinal Gibbons High School and then N.C. State University, where he double majored in Political Science and Criminology and graduated in 2016. He interned at the Wake County Juvenile Detention Center the summer before his senior year. He observed and interacted with up to 24 juveniles while applying what he learned in school.

Following this, Brendan went to western North Carolina, receiving his master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Lenoir-Rhyne University. His practicum and internship during that time was in community mental health, which he shared was impactful on how important it is to have someone just listen. “There were several times I heard, ‘You are the only person I can talk to.’ or ‘I don't have anyone else’. It was a challenging but rewarding experience; I was able to be in the position to offer support to so many people.”

Since then, Brendan has been a practicing mental health therapist in Raleigh, working with children, adolescents, and adults. He is currently working with a private group but hopes to one day have his own practice and be a clinical supervisor to help support other clinicians in their professional journeys. 

When reflecting on his time at TFS and what he could share with current students, he says, “Have fun! But really, it is important to continue to have fun in your life. Embrace your quirks. Don't let someone take your fun away from you. Embrace what makes you happy.”