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Life in the City

We love living in the greatest city in America, New Orleans! Our community spirit is one of great faith and adventure. This city offers a great change of pace and allows us to grow closer to God. 

ACE New Orleans

Sophia Buonavolonta

Sophia Buonavolonta

ACE 32
Academy of Our Lady
HS English
Caelan O'Connor

Caelan O'Connor

ACE 32
Holy Name of Jesus
MS Science
Jordan Pavlock

Jordan Pavlock

ACE 32
St. Anthony
4th Grade
Andrew Torti

Andrew Torti

ACE 31
St. Anthony
5th Grade

HometownSophia Buonavolanta

Mendham, NJ

Undergraduate Institution

University of Notre Dame

Undergraduate Studies

Majors: Anthropology, English, & Spanish

Why did you say "yes" to serving as a Catholic school educator through ACE Teaching Fellows?

I did not attend Catholic school growing up, but my time as an undergraduate at Notre Dame taught me the importance of God’s presence in a holistic education. As a Catholic school teacher, I will help my students grow academically and spiritually to become models in the classroom and models of faith.

HometownCaelan O'Connor

Downingtown, PA

Undergraduate Institution

Quinnipiac University

Undergraduate Studies

Major: Behavioral Science

Minor: Biology

What are you most looking forward to most as an ACE teacher this year?

I am most looking forward to meeting and working with all of my students, and getting to know them both inside the classroom and as community members.

HometownJordan Pavlock

Smethport, PA

Undergraduate Institution

University of Notre Dame 

Undergraduate Studies

Major: Psychology

How do you hope to grow in your experience as an ACE teacher?

The greatest growth comes from pairing great adversity with great support. I know that ACE is going to kick my butt (and brain, sleep schedule, and comfort zone). However, I embark on this challenge knowing that it will be worthwhile. How do I know? Because I'm going to go through it with amazing training, people, and an amazing God! Through ACE, I hope to grow my skills, my relationships, and my faith. Let's go!

HometownAndrew Torti

Point Lookout, NY

Undergraduate Institution

Xavier University

Undergraduate Degree

Majors: Political Science & Theology

Minors: Economics & Peace and Justice Studies

What is one of your favorite memories from your first year in ACE Teaching Fellows?

My students and I livestreamed the conclave and watched Pope Leo XIV be elected. When he came out, we all jumped and cheered with joy and excitement.

Interested in ACE Teaching Fellows?

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