For Court and Kirstin Carruthers, supporting Cristo Rey St. Martin has always been about creating opportunity and helping young people build the skills and confidence to shape their futures.
Court’s connection to CRSM dates back more than a decade. While working at Grainger, he was introduced to the school and quickly became involved, helping establish a mentoring program for students and later serving on CRSM’s Board of Directors in the mid-2010s. He was also involved in fundraising for CRSM’s current building. Today, Court and Kirstin are continuing that longstanding commitment through a generous lead gift toward the expansion of Suite 2 and the opportunities the new space will make possible for students.
“There are so many things to love about Cristo Rey,” Court said. “Giving first-generation students the opportunity to go to college, the work-study program and the chance to build real capability in students are all incredibly powerful.”
Court, now Vice Chair of TricorBraun, and Kirstin, who built her career as a senior marketing professional, understand the value of practical experience alongside a strong education. Court pointed to CRSM’s Corporate Work Study Program as one of the qualities that continues to distinguish the school.
“Students have a rigorous course load here with five days of school crammed into four days, and then they go out and work a real job one day each week,” he said. “It’s incredible, and my wife and I are proud to be a part of helping kids get this opportunity.”
Originally from Toronto, Canada, Court and Kirstin have made Lake County their home since 2012 and have become deeply involved in the community. Court’s service has included board leadership with organizations such as Lake Forest Open Lands and the Northern Illinois Food Bank, in addition to his professional board experience.
For the Carruthers, their latest gift is an investment not simply in a new space, but in what CRSM students will be able to accomplish within it. As CRSM prepares to expand the opportunities available to students through its partnership with Dominican University, their support is helping make the school’s next chapter possible.