Ben Farnese a 100% born and bred South Philadelphian, started his education career graduating from McDaniel Elementary, Vare Jr. High School & South Philadelphia HS. He pursued his love of teaching and graduated Temple University in 1949 with a B.A. in Education. After his Mater’s degree, a Principal’s Certificate followed. After a decade of teaching he was ready for administration, serving as a supervisor of Physical Education and then Vice principal for 6 years, a junior high principal and finally principal of “Southern”. Ben held that position for 17 years, longer than any predecessor. 32 of his 38 years have been spent educating and administering kids from his beloved South Philadelphia. Ben served on the Executive Board of the SPHS Alumni for many years. He was inducted into the SPHS Cultural Hall of Fame in 2002.