November 30, 2016

Fr. Joseph P. Parkes, S.J., President, Cristo Rey New York High School

Cristo Rey New York High School is a co-sponsored ministry of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus.

On October 24, 2016, Cristo Rey New York High School (CRNY) hosted its 3rd annual Access to Success Dinner at the University Club. The night was lit up with excitement by friends of Cristo Rey, corporate clients, university partners, board members, faculty, and alumni. All gathered to share in the school’s success. With a room filled with over 300 guests, Cristo Rey New York raised over $570,000!

Among the evening’s moving moments was the presentation of two awards to individuals who have shown a tremendous amount of devotion to the school and its mission. The Celebrating Our Success Award was presented to the late Stephen Bepler, formerly a Vice President of Capital Group, and accepted by his beloved wife, Kim Bepler. The Ensuring Our Future Award was presented to Jack De Gioia, President of Georgetown University.

The pinnacle of the event was a heartfelt speech from student emcee, Elba Obregon’ 17, during which time she spoke about the impact Cristo Rey has made on her family. As the child of an immigrant mother and the youngest sibling of two alumni, Cristo Rey has certainly left its mark on the Obregon family.

“My mother came to this country with great expectations for herself and her family. She entrusted those expectations to Cristo Rey New York. And the School has made right on its promise.” Elba shared these moving words, capturing one of the main objectives of the school: to touch the lives of every family that enters its doors. What a great way to end such a powerful night!