Looking back on my life so far, it is difficult to imagine just how different it would be without Catholic education. From my years as a student at Holy Trinity Catholic School in Lenexa and Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, to the time spent as a professional at Rockhurst University, Catholic education has provided me the academic, professional, spiritual, and social foundation for my adult life.

Some of my favorite memories of Catholic education as a student came in my four years at Saint Thomas Aquinas High School. From the teachers who challenged me in the classroom, the coaches who pushed me to be the best athlete I could be, and my friends who I am still close with to this day, my four years as a Saint helped form me into the person I am today.

Over the past six years I have been fortunate enough to advocate for Catholic education through my work at Rockhurst University in alumni relations and development. Through my work I have met countless others who show the same belief and passion for Catholic education, not just at Rockhurst University, but other Catholic schools in the area. Seeing how much they continue to invest through service on volunteer committees, boards, and financial donations, has both inspired and challenged me to do the same.

Being a part of the Futures Committee for the Catholic Education Foundation has given me that chance to give back and give deserving students the same opportunity that I had as a young student. While feeling the personal “rush” and satisfaction (spoken like a true fundraiser…) when asking others to support CEF has been a positive aspect of being involved with the group, one of my favorite memories was getting a tour of  John Paul II Catholic School from its students. I walked away feeling a little old (those students were a whole lot different than I was at their age) but more importantly, so impressed with how well-spoken and well-rounded they were for their age.

Knowing that CEF helps make a Catholic education possible for some of these students through scholarships inspires me to give my time and resources to this outstanding organization. I hope you will join me in doing the same by purchasing tickets to our upcoming Art Event at Boulevard Brewery on Thursday, Feb. 28. Not only will you get to sample the best beer in Kansas City and bid on outstanding local artwork, you will be making a positive difference in young students’ lives. Purchase your tickets now at https://www.cefks.org/events/art-event-2019