The Origin of the Hermit
From the school’s early days in 1959, the mascot for St. Augustine Prep has always been the Hermit.
Today, many wonder why this peculiar name was chosen.
In reality, there is a rich history behind the selection.
St. Augustine Prep was founded by the Augustinians, a Catholic religious community inspired by the teachings of St. Augustine of Hippo. Before his death in 430, Augustine wrote a Rule of life focused on living “with one mind and one heart intent upon God” — a principle that still guides the Order today.
Often Imitated, Never Duplicated.
St. Augustine Prep is the only school in the United States to be known as the "Hermits."
In the 13th century, Pope Innocent IV united several hermit communities under this Rule, forming what became the Order of Hermits of St. Augustine — later shortened to the Order of St. Augustine in 1968.
Our Hermits mascot honors those founding Augustinians. Just as they lived in brotherhood in the rural hills of Tuscany, St. Augustine Prep continues to form young men in faith, community, and brotherhood in Richland’s “Proud and Peaceful Glen.”