BEE Newsletter

As we step away from school, I invite you to revisit some of the meaningful moments of connection, celebration, and resilience that shaped this semester. These moments remind us that even in challenging times, when we center intention and connection, our small and large communities are what help us to carry forward with hope and purpose. May we carry that same intention into the new year.

In this letter I will highlight some of the beautiful work and collaborations I have been a part of through the Office of Belonging, Equity, and Excellence, as I believe this work has been an anchor in building community.

Director of Community Engagement and Belonging Maricel Hernandez shares highlights from celebrations and community-building work among SI affinity groups this past semester.

As this remarkable year swiftly draws to a close, I find myself pausing to reflect on the many vibrant moments that have defined our journey together. For the Office for Belonging, Equity, and Excellence, in particular, it has been a year of significant learning and impactful connection.

Nov. 8 was National First-Gen Day and the SI community recognized and celebrated faculty and staff who are first-generation college graduates in an effort to advance an asset-based narrative on first-generation student experiences and outcomes.

The DEIB Parent Committee was established in 2022 to advance education, foster inclusive decision-making, and promote equitable access to programs, events, and resources for parents, caregivers, and students at St. Ignatius.

We started the school year with our annual Magis First-Year Retreat in August, welcoming more than 40 first-year students to SI and the Magis Program.

Affinity groups promote awareness, inclusivity, and respect for diversity at St. Ignatius. The student affinity groups gather throughout the year to support the identity formation of their members and provide a safe space for students who self identify within each affinity group.