Reina Garcia, Cohort 24

My name is Reina Garcia, and I grew up in Little Village, a neighborhood on the Southwest Side of Chicago. As the daughter of Mexican immigrants and the eldest in my family, I often served as a trailblazer for my parents as they navigated the American education system. They made countless sacrifices to afford to enroll me at our local Catholic K-8 school. Good Shepherd Catholic School established a supportive and thriving community that uplifted our family despite the financial and safety challenges we faced. Thirty years later, I remain deeply grateful for their decision, which allowed my sisters and me to fully commit to our education and faith. 

Despite a fulfilling 14-year career in education, I feel most connected while working at Catholic schools. It is within these institutions that I have found a true sense of purpose and fulfillment. The mission of Catholic education—to educate the whole person, mind, body, and spirit—resonates deeply with me. I feel blessed to have served as the Director of College Counseling at my alma mater, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, for the past five years. As a Network, we are best known for our Corporate Work Study Program, but what stands out most to me about Cristo Rey Jesuit is the men and women for others who make up our student body. The love and energy that permeate our hallways make Cristo Rey a magical place to learn and serve. My own experience as a first-generation college student has significantly shaped my perspective on education and my role as an educator, so I feel fortunate to walk alongside our students and their families as they make important decisions about their futures. 

Working at Cristo Rey has been life-changing, both personally and professionally. At Cristo Rey, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of Catholic education and have felt inspired to become a principal to continue providing life-changing education and opportunities to students from my community. As a Catholic school leader, I will have the privilege of fostering an environment where faith and learning go hand in hand. I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Remick Leadership Program. As a Remick Leader, I know I will receive the spiritual formation necessary to continue growing and the academic foundation and support to lead effectively.

 

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