Filled with Gratitude and Anticipation

As this academic year closes, I am filled with gratitude for all that the Ignatian Center community has accomplished and excitement for what is to come. At our recent Donor Appreciation Reception, it was great to get to know our board members and benefactors better. We were all  inspired by our students as they shared the ways in which they have engaged SCU’s vision for a more just, humane and sustainable world. Your support unquestionably makes a difference for our students and the lives they touch.

We are thrilled to report that through the Ignatian Center’s Arrupe Engagement program 1,037 students fulfilled the ELSJ core requirement (Experiential Learning for Social Justice) in which students engage in critical and reflective community-based activities. But that number alone does not tell the full story of the program’s success. Students’ comments in exit surveys reported that they noticed how they grew in their capacity to partner with underserved populations. Arrupe students also shared their firm commitment to continue growing and serving others.

And one more point of light - our newly named 2022 Jean Donovan Fellows have committed to even deeper formation and service. This remarkable group of 14 students will spend 6-8 weeks of their summer break working with communities with little access to wealth, power, and privilege - all in the name of deepening their understanding of solidarity and vocation. In the fall, we’ll share the Fellows’ stories and reflections on their path to becoming people for others - here, there, and everywhere.

Alison Benders
Executive Director, Ignatian Center
Vice President, Mission & Ministry

Enriching Lives and Bridging Differences

We are excited to introduce the 2022 Jean Donovan Fellows! These 14 amazing SCU undergrads will engage with communities from around the country, addressing social justice issues ranging from climate crisis awareness and action to food justice. We can't wait to hear about their life-changing experiences!

Meet the 2022 Jean Donovan Fellows

Summer 2022 Fellows

 

Arrupe Engagement by the Numbers

84% of students agreed that the experience allowed them to understand and appreciate the formal and informal knowledge, wisdom, and/or skills that individuals in the communities posses.
84% of students agreed that the experience deepened their understanding of how individuals' social identities can lead to experiences of privilege, marginalization, or social injustice.
85% of students agreed that they developed a greater sense of commitment to using their abilities and gifts to benefit underserved populations.