“What is bringing you hope in these challenging times?” Fr. John Foley, SJ was talking by Zoom with a newly hired employee of the Cristo Rey Network office – to introduce himself and talk about the Cristo Rey Mission and its history – when she unexpectedly posed this question to him. What a way to take the conversation to a … Read More
Volunteer Project at The Ray Bradbury Experience Museum
Thanks and appreciation was extended to CRSM student volunteers: Charlize C. ’22, Mauricio C. ’21 and Jonathan C. ’23 for their help in preparing for Mr. Bradbury’s 100th Birthday celebration. As a business partner of Cristo Rey St. Martin, The Ray Bradbury Experience Museum (RBEM) offers Cristo Rey students a working experience and area residents a fascinating look into the … Read More
“If I Could Do College All Over Again”: An Interview with Leslye Franco Soberanis
Leslye (CRSM ’16 Carthage College ’20) and I talked after she finished her day as a volunteer at Cristo Rey St. Martin. As a recent college graduate, she is in the middle of her search for a position that fits her many talents and passions; some of which include training, global corporations and living abroad. Like many of her fellow … Read More
July President’s Pen: Today is the Feast of St. Ignatius Loyola
Today is the Feast of St. Ignatius Loyola. Among his many inspired writings, including The Spiritual Exercises, he is purported to have said, “Pray as if God will take care of all; act as if all is up to you.” Another saying attributed to him is, “Love is shown more in deeds than in words.” We love our students and we … Read More
“Commitment and Time Management”: An Interview with Cassandra Abarca
Cassandra (CRSM ’18 Alverno College ’22) and I spoke on the phone not long after a Boston-based non-profit announced that she had been elected to the organization’s 2020-2021 cohort of Newman Civic Fellows. Like most recent college prep graduates, her journey during the Covid-19 pandemic can only be described as unpredictable. But it is clear that her ambition and mastery … Read More
June President’s Pen: If not us, who? If not now, when?
IF NOT US, WHO? IF NOT NOW, WHEN? Variations of these words are attributed to numerous people over time going back all the way to Hillel the Elder. Hillel is a significant figure in Judaism and one of the most famous sages of the Talmud. Rabbinical scholars believe that Jesus of Nazareth was likely familiar with some of his teachings. … Read More
The Origami Art of Eric C. CRSM ’23
Eric is a rising sophomore. His interest in Origami began when, as a six year old, he folded his first Origami crane. He has since completed many pieces of varying complexity with subjects ranging from penguins to Pokemon characters. Eric submitted his piece titled, “Swan” to the April student art show (CristoArt2020) which unfortunately was cancelled due to the pandemic. … Read More
“A Long and Winding Road”: An Interview with Rogerr Oliva
I talked with Rogerr (CRSM ’13 NIU ’19) from his office at home in Gurnee, IL. His journey to graduation from Northern Illinois University involved enough twists, turns and detours to discourage any driver. But Rogerr (yes, two Rs) is not like most. His gracious and unassuming attitude comes through immediately, as does his intellect. The course of his academic … Read More
May President’s Pen: How are things going with Cristo Rey St. Martin?
“How are things going with Cristo Rey St. Martin?” In these pandemic times that seemingly simple question is really quite complex. A whole lot is going on right now, some of it heartbreaking, but much of it inspiring and hopeful. Let’s start with our families. About 1/3 of our parents lost their jobs in the first couple weeks of lockdown. … Read More
“Resilient, Adaptable and Determined”: An Interview with Jessena Fields
I talked with Jessena (CRSM ’15 SIU ’19) as she was beginning her exit from Carbondale, IL after her recent graduation from Southern Illinois University. Heading toward Houston, her plans include growing her successful on-line business, eventually reopening her hair and clothing boutique and getting her master’s in marketing. After speaking with her I came away knowing I spoke with … Read More