Our History

The story of Saint Michael the Archangel High School (SMAHS) began in the mid-1990s, years before our doors officially opened. Cofounder Hugh Brown, concerned about the lack of Catholic high school opportunities for his daughter after eighth grade, discovered that families in Fredericksburg faced only three options: homeschool, commute to Northern Virginia, or move away. Distressed by this reality, Brown, his wife Ann, and fellow cofounder Ed Dihlmann began working toward the establishment of a Catholic high school in the Fredericksburg area.

Early efforts included numerous meetings with religious orders and the local diocese, but when these attempts bore no fruit, the founders placed their trust in the Holy Spirit and resolved to move forward on their own. Drawing on their business backgrounds, they gathered parents and Catholic business leaders who shared the vision. In 2002, the Catholic Business Network of Central Virginia (founded in 2001 by Brown and Dihlmann) created a “Catholic High School Subcommittee” to explore the idea further. Through perseverance, faith, and community support, Saint Michael the Archangel High School, Inc., was formally established in June 2004 as a nonprofit Catholic high school under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

From 2004 to 2006, the founding board laid the groundwork—developing policies, raising funds, creating a “Culture of Life” curriculum faithful to Church teaching, and establishing infrastructure. In September 2006, SMAHS welcomed its first 12 students at a temporary campus located on the lower level of an office building.

In 2008, SMAHS acquired a permanent 19-acre campus with a 37,500-square-foot facility featuring classrooms, two gymnasiums, a 25-yard indoor pool, and space for future growth. By spring 2010—just three and a half years after opening—SMAHS achieved full accreditation from SACS CASI, far ahead of the average accreditation timeline. In spring 2019, Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Diocese of Arlington formally recognized SMAHS as an independent Catholic high school.

Today, Saint Michael the Archangel High School continues to serve the Fredericksburg community by offering a classical, college-preparatory education rooted in the Catholic faith to students in grades nine through twelve. Guided by the intercession of our patron, Saint Michael the Archangel—an enduring example of courage and fidelity to the Lord—we remain committed to forming young men and women who live out their Catholic faith and defend the culture of life with conviction.

The school remained steadfast during the pandemic, thoughtfully supporting its students, faculty, and mission. In 2020, SMAHS successfully refinanced its mortgage to ensure long-term stability. In 2024, the appointment of a new principal inspired a renewed mission and vision, with bold goals for growth, expansion, and continued excellence in Catholic education.