Alumnus Demonstrates Jesuit Mission in Chicago

ALUMNUS EXTENDS JESUIT MISSION IN CHICAGO
—Melissa Nyman

Most business school applicants probably aren’t working on proposals to create a full-scholarship institution for youth in some of Chicago’s roughest neighborhoods—but Matthew Lynch (C’99) did just that before becoming founder and president of the Chicago Jesuit Academy (CJA).

CJA, an all-boys school, serves fifth- through eighth-grade students with educational and economic needs by providing access to a Catholic, college-preparatory education in the Jesuit tradition. The school also offers long-term resources to help students develop skills that they need to become successful in high school, college, and beyond.

“Growing up on the west side of Chicago [as many CJA students do], or in similar neighborhoods around the country is just so incredibly hard,” Lynch said. “I have tremendous respect for our students and I marvel at their courage in doing what they do.”…Continue reading this Georgetown College story.

Matthew Lynch (C’99) is the founder and president of Chicago Jesuit Academy, which gives low-income students in Chicago a path to college. Photo by Steve Donisch.

The 2015 Jesuit Heritage Week takes place this week, Jan. 25-31, at Georgetown. This special week of activities focuses on the work of the Jesuits, both around the world and here on the Hilltop. Distinguished faculty and special guests come together for thought-provoking programs on spirituality, social justice, the arts and education, giving students the opportunity to meet and become acquainted with individual Jesuits.

In honor of the great work done by these invaluable members of the Georgetown family, the College has published a story on alumnus Matthew Lynch (C’99), founder and president of Chicago Jesuit Academy, which gives low-income students in Chicago a path to college. Lynch’s work as an educator has been greatly influenced by Georgetown’s Jesuit tradition. Read an excerpt at right, and follow the link to read the full story.

Title:Alumnus Demonstrates Jesuit Mission in Chicago