In Solidarity - Past, Present & Future

As I write this message, the Ignatian Center is thrilled to be hosting Santa Clara University’s Mission Week, an annual celebration that raises awareness about our Jesuit educational tradition and its impact today. We are devoting special focus this year to the 35th anniversary of the murder of six Jesuits and their housekeeper and her daughter at the Universidad Centroamericana in San Salvador, El Salvador on November 16, 1989. It is an event that galvanized the student body on Santa Clara’s campus, including their construction and placement of the crosses that have stood witness in front of the Mission Church ever since. 

We are also looking forward to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Santa Clara University: hosting the Opus Prize, which recognizes faith-based “unsung heroes” around the globe whose entrepreneurial spirit and creativity contribute to change in some of the most marginalized communities. Please review the schedule and join us for some of the landmark events.

In this issue of our newsletter, we are delighted to share the experiences of our Jean Donovan Fellows, including our group of four Jean Donovan Intensive Fellows. These students were chosen to spend the summer in Lima, Peru, partnered with internships in coordination with the Jesuit Universidad Antonio Ruiz de Montoya. Their stories tell of encounters, challenges, joys, and growth — the very best of our Ignatian spirituality at work — and invite all of us to consider how and with whom we are called to learn and make an impact today - here, there, and everywhere.

Matthew Carnes, S.J.  Executive Director, Ignatian Center Vice President, Mission and Ministry

2024 Jean Donovan Fellows

As the 2024 summer came to an end, our 19 Jean Donovan Fellows wrapped up their engagement with community-based organizations from around the world and shared their experiences and reflections of this time spent in accompaniment with organizations addressing social justice issues.

Read the JDF blog here