Showing 10 of 40 articles
Family
'HOUSING IS HEALTH'
Dr. Paul Gregerson's journey from fearing Skid Row to becoming a leader in addressing healthcare challenges for the homeless reveals the profound impact of personal transformation and unexpected opportunities. After years as an emergency room internist, Gregerson redirected his career following his experiences in a homeless health clinic while obtaining his Executive MBA at Notre Dame. He found fulfillment in serving this vulnerable population, inspired by his upbringing and a deep-rooted commitment to social justice.
Vita
A DREAM FOR AFRICA
Valiwe Ushe has a background that shapes his commitment to community service, instilled in him by his mother's rigorous cleaning habits. While growing up in South Africa, he sought to help others through initiatives like a charity drive he proposed during high school. Even after his idea was rejected by the school principal, Ushe took the reins to create the Circle of Influence Projects Society, focusing on supporting schools and children's homes in Zimbabwe, as well as training young South Africans to drive change in their communities.
Family
A FUTURE IN HIS PAST
Ruviel Sibaja, a Notre Dame graduate with a Master of Nonprofit Administration, faced an array of job offers but chose to return to his roots in Tamuin, central Mexico. Driven by a desire to give back to the community that supported him during his difficult childhood, he is working with Grupo GUSI to establish a charitable foundation focused on improving housing and education in the region. Despite the challenges of poverty and limited resources, Sibaja is committed to making a difference, fueled by his own experiences and the support he received throughout his life.
Family
FROM B-SCHOOL TO PRESCHOOL
The story of Khalil Matta illustrates a profound commitment to community in the face of crisis. After witnessing the impact of the Syrian refugee crisis on his hometown of Bhamdoun, Lebanon, Khalil, a retired professor, took it upon himself to start a school to support the influx of displaced children. Amidst the shadows of Bhamdoun's once-thriving past and its current struggles, his efforts aim to provide education and hope for those in need.
Family
ERIN’S CHOICE
Erin Barnes, a 2010 alumna, made a significant life change from a corporate career path to full-time caregiving after her mother, Brenda, suffered a life-altering stroke. The article narrates the emotional journey Barnes experienced, reflecting on both her mother's influential career and the impact of family decisions on their lives. As Brenda worked to regain her independence, Erin embraced her mother's philosophy on balancing work and family, ultimately reshaping her own priorities.
Family
Salt & Light: THE CHANGE-UP
Amanda McKendree, a former standout softball pitcher, reflects on her journey as her father faces a rare and fatal disease. Growing up in a family passionate about softball, she recalls heartfelt memories with her father, Joe, who was both her coach and biggest supporter. However, their lives took a dramatic turn when Joe began experiencing alarming symptoms that led to a difficult diagnosis of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, a condition that has changed their family's future. Through her story, McKendree sheds light on the deep emotional impact of caregiving and the challenges families face when grappling with a
Salt and Light
Milani Wins
Ken Milani, an Accountancy Professor and lifelong Cubs fan, shares his unwavering support for the team alongside his reflections on life's challenges. Growing up in a working-class family, Milani finds parallels between his community's perseverance and the Cubs' tenacity. With a new season on the horizon, a cherished candle symbolizing the Cubs' 2016 World Series victory highlights his joyous journey from a long-suffering fan to one celebrating recent successes.
Salt and Light
AACTION Figure
Katie Hench, a graduate of Notre Dame, has turned her lifelong understanding of autism—sparked by her relationship with her younger brother Jon—into a successful career as the CEO of Infiniteach, a Chicago-based software startup. Founded in 2013, Infiniteach develops technology to assist individuals with autism, focusing on early academic skills and adult living strategies. The company's innovative apps use techniques like video modeling and visual supports to help users navigate job expectations and enhance their daily lives.
Salt and Light
Just to say their names ...
Mark Faldowski and his West Point football teammate Mike Viti established Legacies Alive to honor Gold Star families after serving in the Army and losing friends in combat. In 2014, they embarked on a 4,496-mile walk from Seattle to Baltimore, visiting Gold Star families along the way to connect them and identify their needs. Their journey aimed to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by service members and provide support to the families left behind.
Salt and Light
Holly Powers: The Power of One
Holly Powers (MBA '11) reflects on her experiences in South Africa, where she witnessed the devastating stigma surrounding HIV and the hesitance of individuals to seek treatment. After seeing this firsthand during her consulting work in 2011, she returned in 2014 and noticed some progress, although the disparity between infections and treatment still loomed large. Inspired to shift the narrative, Powers launched a photo essay series titled "Positivity — Living with HIV in South Africa," aiming to portray the daily lives of those living with HIV and challenge the misconceptions surrounding the disease.