Journey to Washington, D.C.: A story of growth, gratitude, grace 

This piece is sponsored by Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools.

By Brody Tynan, class of 2026, student at O’Gorman High School

Last summer, O’Gorman High School senior Brody Tynan added an impressive new title to his resume: 2025 South Dakota Boys State Governor.

Tynan went on to become the only delegate chosen to represent South Dakota at the American Legion Boys Nation in Washington, D.C.

For an unforgettable week in July, he joined the nation’s top young leaders for hands-on lessons in government, policy and civic engagement.

Tynan shares the experiences that shaped him and the vital role O’Gorman High School played in helping him reach this remarkable achievement. 

During my time at Bishop O’Gorman Junior and Senior High School, I have been challenged academically, deepened my faith and developed meaningful friendships in the classroom, clubs, sports and faith-based activities that I have participated in. 

Being a student at O’Gorman has taught me many lessons, both inside and outside of the classroom, that I am confident have set me up for future success. Here are five areas in which O’Gorman has impacted me the most: 

Academics

The rigorous curriculum has expanded my knowledge of sciences, math, history, English and theology; all of my teachers and courses have taught me to think critically and have set me up for future academic success. I am very grateful for the outstanding teachers at O’Gorman who love their jobs and care about the welfare of each and every student. 

Friendships

The positive and fun environment at O’Gorman has allowed me to meet new people, foster deep friendships and connections, and strengthen my social skills. Getting involved in various clubs has allowed me to get to know my classmates even better and appreciate their unique personalities. Those personalities have added to the vibrancy of the social and academic environments at O’Gorman. 

Athletics

Being a member of the cross country and track teams has taught me dedication, discipline, how to lead and be a good role model. Participating in these sports has also taught me whether you win or lose, it is the effort and positive attitude that you bring to the competition that is most important. Additionally, athletics has allowed me to meet new students throughout the state and region who have also positively impacted my life.

Faith

My faith in God has grown stronger while I have been a student at O’Gorman. It has been especially meaningful to me to have a spiritual mentor like Father Tony Klein. When my father was sick with brain cancer and passed away, Father Klein’s kindness, friendship and spiritual encouragement helped guide me through this difficult time. Most importantly, my spiritual development at O’Gorman has taught me to trust in God’s plan for my life. 

Confidence

While being a student at O’Gorman, not only have I grown academically, socially, athletically and spiritually, I have also developed self-confidence. The confidence that I developed as a student is what propelled me to take the leap of faith to successfully run for Boys State governor this past June. 

Looking back upon this transformative period in my life, I will never be able to thank the O’Gorman administration and its faculty enough for their hard work and compassion that have shaped me into the person I am today. Without these experiences, I may never have been able to achieve the same success at Boys State, let alone have the confidence to go. 

The unique experiences that O’Gorman has offered me have provided me the confidence to know that I will be successful in life, regardless of the path I choose. Success can be viewed as many different things, but to me, success means finding the true joy that lies within the relationships we build with those around us.