Keady Legacy of Hospitality: The Beginnings of Woodside Priory School

Peter Keady and Robert Jennings Keady

In honor of my parents: Margret Jennings Keady and William Leo Keady

And Siblings: William McCall Keady, Robert Jennings Keady, Michael Jennings Keady, Peter Keady, and Richard Emmett Keady

In 1956, as communism tightened its grip on Hungary, a group of Benedictine monks sought refuge in Northern California, determined to preserve their faith and mission. Among those who welcomed them to Portola Valley was my mother, Margaret Jennings Keady. True to the spirit of hospitality—one of the core Benedictine values—she recognized their need and gathered kitchen equipment and blankets to help Father Egon and his fellow monks stay warm as they adjusted to their new home. Her generosity was more than a simple act of kindness; it reflected a deep commitment to making others feel welcomed and cared for, a value that remains central to Priory’s identity today.

Margret Jennings Keady

From those humble beginnings, Woodside Priory was born, built on the very foundation of hospitality that Margaret and the Portola Valley community extended to the monks. Woodside Priory has grown into a thriving institution where the Benedictine tradition of welcoming others continues to shape its mission. This spirit is evident not only in the close-knit community but also in the diverse opportunities offered to students. Whether competing at a high level in athletics, robotics, and Model UN, or participating in plays, concerts, and musicals, students experience an environment that nurtures both their talents and their sense of belonging. With over 30 clubs starting in sixth grade, the Priory fosters a well-rounded and enriching experience, ensuring that every student finds their place.

My family has been fortunate to experience firsthand the warmth and hospitality that define Woodside Priory. The school’s small class sizes ensure personalized attention from a faculty that includes both Benedictine monks and highly esteemed educators. The rigorous curriculum not only prepares students for higher education but also instills a strong foundation of character, encouraging them to share their gifts with the world. Many of my family’s children have attended Priory and successfully pursued four-year college degrees. One of my brothers was so inspired by the Priory’s mission and values that he temporarily joined the order, dedicating his life to faith and education.

Under the leadership of Patrick Ruff, a dedicated headmaster, Woodside Priory School continues to thrive. The hospitality that welcomed the monks nearly 70 years ago defines the school today, ensuring that every student who walks through its doors is met with the same warmth, care, and sense of belonging.