Chicago Tribune: “Y2K-related poem captures Ray Bradbury Summer Writing Contest: ‘An opportunity to celebrate … writers’”
Click here to read the Chicago Tribune article written about Rachel Rodriguez Yancy, CRSM Class of 2013 alum.
Donor Spotlight: Court and Kirstin Carruthers
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.
Back to School at CRSM!
CRSM kicked off the new school year with a schoolwide assembly focused on connection, reflection, and the strength of our community.
Students were welcomed back by the full CRSM staff, who introduced themselves and reminded students of the many educators and professionals who are here to support, encourage, and guide them throughout the year.
Some of the most meaningful moments came from students themselves. Several shared reflections about their favorite teachers and the impact those educators have had on their lives. Their words highlighted the importance of the relationships built at CRSM and the lasting influence that caring, committed adults can have on young people.
Students also heard from CRSM alum and current faculty member Edwin Morales, who shared a powerful message about resilience. He encouraged students to persevere through challenges, continue growing, and recognize the strength they already carry with them.
The assembly was a meaningful way to begin the year by celebrating relationships, elevating student voices, and reminding every student that they belong to a community that believes in their potential.
We look forward to all that the new school year will bring at CRSM!
CRSM CNAs Prepare for the Medical Field
This summer, Cristo Rey St. Martin students continued their journey toward becoming Certified Nursing Assistants through our CNA training program, offered for the second year in partnership with Dominican University.
Throughout the program, students built important healthcare skills through classroom learning and hands-on training. A key part of their experience took place right here on campus in the simulation lab, where students practiced patient care skills in a supportive, real-world learning environment. They also completed clinical training off campus, gaining valuable experience in professional healthcare settings.
Following the summer program, students prepared for and took their CNA certification exams early this fall. We are proud to share that 100% of CRSM’s CNA students passed their exams. Their success is a testament to their hard work, commitment, and compassion, and we are excited to see them take the next step as skilled healthcare professionals.
Thank you to Our Generous Work-Study Training Week Volunteers
Preparing CRSM students to enter the workplace with confidence would not be possible without the dedicated volunteers who generously donate their time, talent, and professional expertise. During Freshman Corporate Work Study Program Training Week, volunteers helped our incoming students develop essential workplace skills through interactive speed networking and Shark Tank-style activities.
During the speed networking event, students rotated through conversations with volunteers and practiced introducing themselves, making professional small talk, asking thoughtful questions and communicating with supervisors. Volunteers also discussed workplace expectations, including how to stay productive during slower periods, communicate when stepping away, and respond professionally after making a mistake.
Amy Wagliardo of Gorton Center was impressed by the students’ enthusiasm. “Every time I come to one of these, I am amazed at the energy and excitement the students have, the insights they have and the questions they ask,” she said.
AbbVie volunteers Dimitri Rhaburn and Sara Carbajal also helped students prepare for situations they may encounter in their new roles. Carbajal emphasized the importance of strong communication, explaining that “having a broader perspective on communication skills will help the students to be amazing in the workplace.”
Students later put many of those skills into action during a Shark Tank-style challenge. Working in teams, they created original businesses or products and pitched their ideas to a panel of judges from AbbVie. The activity encouraged creativity, teamwork, problem-solving, and public speaking while challenging students to answer questions and respond to professional feedback.
Together, the events gave freshmen a supportive space to practice the interpersonal and professional skills they will soon use at their Corporate Work Study placements. CRSM is grateful to all the volunteers who shared their time and expertise as our newest students prepare to take their first steps into the workplace.