Dec. 16, 2011
The Catholic University of America has joined the Cristo Rey Network of partner colleges and universities that support the success of graduates from the Cristo Rey high schools. Cristo Rey schools employ an innovative and highly successful model of college-preparatory education for underprivileged urban students.
According to the organization, 100 percent of Cristo Rey students are accepted to two- and four-year colleges. Says Michael Mack, dean of undergraduate studies and professor of English at Catholic University, "We're proud to be part of this exciting, transformative movement."
As a partner university, Catholic University will work closely with students and their parents as well as counseling staff in Cristo Rey Network schools in Newark, N.J.; Baltimore, Md.; Philadelphia, Pa.; and Washington, D.C. "We already have Cristo Rey alumni studying at Catholic University," says Mack. "This partnership formalizes and extends our efforts to enroll more Cristo Rey graduates in the coming years."
CUA will work closely with the Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School in Washington by offering four high-school students a cooperative work experience at CUA and helping Don Bosco students navigate the college and financial aid application process.
"For Cristo Rey graduates who come to CUA, the University is committed to providing them the support they need to be successful," explains Mack. "This commitment flows naturally from our mission, and it is perfectly consistent with our recent efforts to create a more supportive environment for all CUA students."
The first Cristo Rey high school was founded in 1996 in Chicago based on a combined college prep/cooperative employment model created by Rev. John Foley, S.J. In addition to their schoolwork, students work five days each month in an entry-level job at a professional company, with the fee for their work being directed to underwrite tuition costs. As of 2001, 24 Cristo Rey schools have been founded in 22 cities across the United States, with more than 6,500 students working at 1,500 corporate work-study jobs.
"Cristo Rey has a strategic vision for pursuing ambitious ideals - which makes it an ideal partner for CUA," concludes Mack.