“Go forth and set the world on fire.”
-St. Ignatius Loyola

Our initial exposure to U of D Jesuit was from other parents, and through our conversations, it became apparent that there was something special going on at this school. Those conversations introduced us to phrases like “men for others,” “go forth and set the world on fire,” and “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam.” We quickly realized these mottos were more than just words. They reflect a philosophy that thrives at U of D Jesuit; one that mirrors the Jesuit tradition started more than 470 years ago by St. Ignatius Loyola.

Fast forward to our first auction, we were amazed by the number of alumni in attendance. In conversations with alums, one thing stood out – each one was proud to be a U of D Jesuit graduate. They showed it in their donations to the school and in giving of their time and talents. It seemed unusual for a high school having that kind of lasting effect on its students, but here, it’s the norm.

Of course, the experiences of our three sons are what really drove home the true legacy for us. When our sons shadowed at the school as eighth graders, they knew almost immediately it was the right place for them because of how they were treated and what they witnessed – a diverse group of students who were thoughtful and welcoming. There was a code that regardless of who you were, what you looked like, or where you came from, you were a part of the school and its tradition.

U of D Jesuit offers quality academics, as well as a blueprint for living a rich and fulfilling life. Our sons have prospered by embracing the philosophy of men for others, a belief that has continued in their endeavors and relationships today. The U of D Jesuit gift to our sons is a legacy of acceptance, love, and service.

AMDG,

Jean and Mike Charboneau

“Legacy is not leaving something for people. It’s leaving something in people.”
-Peter Strople

Reflecting on what the U of D Jesuit legacy means to us, we feel the quote above sums up our feelings. The school is truly a special place. The men who graduate from U of D Jesuit are left with a legacy within them that is unique and exceptional.

Our family’s journey at U of D Jesuit began when our son, Michael ’16, joined the Academy lacrosse team in the spring of 8th grade and enrolled as a freshman the following fall. Fortunately, for us, it continues as our son, Andy ’21, enjoys his years there. We met families that first lacrosse season that we count as cherished friends to this day. Through them, and during our years at the school, we have learned about the school’s Jesuit mission of educating the whole person and helping the boys grow into “Men for Others.” We saw that the Cubs not only learn important academic skills and participate in service and athletic activities, but they also embrace an approach of doing all of these things for the greater glory of God and with the goal of always being and doing “more.” As we have seen in our boys and in the graduates we know, these Cubs integrate Jesuit values, the pursuit of justice, and concern for the marginalized into their personal cores. The U of D Jesuit legacy wasn’t just left to them, it resides in them. And they carry that legacy out into the world to make it a better place.

Living and knowing first-hand the extraordinary legacy of U of D Jesuit, nothing could be more rewarding than making this beautiful experience attainable for as many young men and their families as possible. What better way is there for each of us to live out these values than to do what we can to help remove financial obstacles for those hoping to join our Cub family? With your generous support, we hope to share the gift of U of D Jesuit and its legacy with as many deserving families as possible.

God Bless you and your family,

Tina and Bert Donovan (Michael ’16 and Andrew ’21)

AMDG

“Love is shown more in deeds than in words.”
– St. Ignatius Loyola

“Men for Others,” the Jesuit mission that played such an essential part in our son’s education here, also captures the essence of what it means to be a part of U of D Jesuit. Our son gained a true sense of how service blesses others. This mission encouraged him to seek a place in this world as a giver toward mankind. In an age where “me first” is so prominent, U of D Jesuit offers a respite from this worldly thinking and provides a space where young men can challenge themselves to be different than what the world tells them.

We want as many young men as possible to experience such a life-changing and life-giving education. Service is something we embrace as a family, and we can think of no bigger act of service than to help a deserving student overcome the financial barrier of attending U of D Jesuit. Supporting this year’s auction is one of the most meaningful ways we all can serve and touch the lives of others.

As new members of the U of D Jesuit alumni family, we hope to live out the adage, “Once a Cub, Always a Cub,” by giving back in the same way we would if our son was still a student. We thank you for doing your part to keep the U of D Jesuit legacy alive through service and generosity.

Together, by supporting this year’s auction, both current and future generations of Cubs will be blessed, and they in turn will bless countless others.

May God continue to bless your families, and all who love this special school we call home,

Andy and Maggie Vyletel, Jackson ‘19