The GRACES of Catholic Education

Episode 11: Continuing a Legacy of Faith: Andrew McCloskey and The Ambassador's Fund

I’m honored to introduce my guest, Andrew McCloskey, President of the Ambassador’s Fund for Catholic Education, a transformative force in our region for nearly six decades. Founded in 1967 by Andrew’s great-grandfather, Matthew H. McCloskey Jr., a renowned building contractor and U.S. Ambassador to Ireland, the fund began with a $500,000 gift to strengthen secondary education rooted in Catholic faith. Since then, it’s awarded over $63 million to support schools, parishes, and innovative programs across the Archdiocese, from vital COVID-19 relief for families to forward-thinking initiatives like Malvern Prep’s Catholic Values & Launchpad Collective and Father Judge’s Welding Program. Renamed in 2020 to reflect its broader vision, the fund now champions bold ideas, including support for special needs students, ground breaking initaives lik my very own Project GRACES and the soon to launch teacher formation program, Beacon Academy. I’ve had the privilege of working with Andrew on projects funded by the Ambassador’s Fund, and I can tell you he’s a visionary leader who carries forward a family legacy of faith and generosity. As a St. Joe’s Prep, and Notre Dame graduate, a dedicated father, and a faith filled Catholic, Andrew embodies the same priorities his great-grandfather set—family, faith, and friends—while guiding the fund toward a future of innovation and inclusion.

Episode 12 Leading with Faith: Jerry Parsons on Sustaining Catholic Education in Philadelphia

today we're honored to have a true embodiment of faithful service with us—Jerry Parsons. Jerry is the Chairman of CTDI, a leading international electronics services company he co-founded in 1975 with his father Don and brother Richard. Under his visionary leadership, CTDI has grown into a global powerhouse in the communications industry, pioneering innovative test systems, automation, and robotics for telecom, cable, and consumer devices. But Jerry's impact extends far beyond business; he's a humble, unassuming leader who lives out the scriptural call to be a 'good and faithful servant.' In the community, Jerry serves as President of the Foundation for Catholic Education, supporting over 100 elementary schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. He's also Co-Chair of the Archdiocese's Executive Board of Elementary Education (EBEE), a dedicated supporter of organizations like the Chester County United Way, Penn State Brandywine, Bishop Shanahan High School, the SHINE Cancer Foundation, Chester County Hospital, the YMCA of Chester County, and Partners in Outreach. His contributions have earned him prestigious honors, including CEO of the Year from the Chester County Economic Development Council, the Outstanding Alumni Award from Penn State, the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award, the Barry Award, and the Papal Honor of Sir Gregory the Great. A Penn State graduate with a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Jerry resides in Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, with his wife Eleanor. They're the proud parents of three children and eight grandchildren. Today, Jerry joins us to discuss why Catholic education remains vital in today's world, the collaborative efforts sustaining our schools, and inspiring stories of impact. Jerry, thank you for being here—it's a privilege to have you share your wisdom and experiences. Foundation for Catholic Education: • Website: https://foundationforcatholiceducation.org • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/foundation-for-catholic-education • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=the%20foundation%20for%20catholic%20education PA Tax Credits: https://www.foundationfce.org/eitcostc Bishop Shanahan High School: https://www.shanahan.org/ SS. Philip and James School: https://school.sspj.net/

Ep. 10. A Principal for Others: Bill Gennaro and the Future of Inclusive Catholic Education at Archbishop Carroll

Today, I’m thrilled to introduce William "Bill" Gennaro, principal of my alma mater, Archbishop John Carroll High School in Radnor, Pennsylvania. A St. Joseph’s Prep graduate, Bill embodies the Jesuit charism of a "man for others," a principle that has guided his eight-year journey at Carroll as a teacher, department chair, Assistant Principal of Student Services, Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs, and now Acting Principal. From spearheading Carroll’s Social Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion plan to pioneering the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s first high school peer mentorship program for students like Michael Schuller and Mia, both with intellectual disabilities, Bill’s leadership has made Carroll a national model, drawing visitors from as far as Denver. Through his collaboration with St. Katherine Day School, he ensures all students thrive spiritually, academically, and socially. Join us as we explore his inspiring journey, rooted in faith and a commitment to excellence. Archbishop Carroll: https://www.jcarroll.org/ Rising Together Alliance: https://www.risingtogetheralliance.org/ St. Joe's Prep: https://www.sjprep.org/ Whose our Next Guest? Click here to tell us: https://forms.gle/URgXSYzmpmUns9AC9

Bonus Solo Episode: When God's the Bus Driver: 5 Signs You Know He's in Contol

This episode is based on another podcast from Christy Wriight @ Get Your Hopes Up with Christy Wright. I have found many of her episodes thought provoking, uplifting, and joyful. I used Christy's 5 signs and put them in the context of so many things I hear teachers say everyday. I hope you enjoy this bonus episode as much as I did making it!

Epiode 9 Part Two: From Volleyball Champs to Vicar: Reverend Stephen P. DeLacy’s Story of Vocation and Victory

Today, I’m thrilled to sit down with Father Stephen DeLacy, a priest of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia whose infectious joy and positivity light up every room he enters. I’ve known Father Steve for years, and I can honestly say he’s one of the most uplifting people I’ve ever met—always wearing a smile, always radiating happiness, as if he’s never had a bad day in his life! Born and raised in Delaware County, Father DeLacy’s journey to the priesthood is a story of faith, resistance, and surrender to God’s call. From his days as a CYO kid and high school athlete to earning an accounting degree at West Chester University, coaching championship volleyball teams, and serving as a youth minister, he tried to outrun God’s plan but eventually answered the call. Ordained in 2004, he’s served in parishes, led retreats, ministered in high schools, and spent eight years as Vocation Director before becoming the Vicar for Faith Formation with Youth and Young Adults in 2021. Known for his legendary ice breakers and surprising knack for beer pong—don’t worry, with water—Father DeLacy is a true gift to our faith community. Let’s dive into his incredible story! Office for Faith Formation with Youth and Young Adults https://offyya.org/ The Well A Conference for Young Adults https://phillyyam.org/thewell/ Who is Father Bill Atkinson https://www.bonnerprendie.com/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1234151&type=d&pREC_ID=1465153 Steps to Spontaneous Prayer: Praise List an attribute of God Ask for Something Thank God End in His Name Who do I have to talk to? Click here to tell me! https://forms.gle/woa5aZY4EmkY3xj7A