| White House will salute nine Catholic educational leaders January 25, Wednesday, in Washington, D.C. Recognition is prelude to upcoming National Catholic Schools Week Dr. Karen Ristau, NCEA president, will represent Catholic educators nationwide at this event. |
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of Communications
January 23, 2012Office of Communications
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
White House Highlights Leaders in Catholic Education as “Champions of Change” For Helping to Prepare America
WASHINGTON, DC – On Wednesday, January 25th, the White House will honor nine leaders in Catholic education from across the country as Champions of Change for their service to their communities and our nation. These extraordinary individuals have made a significant impact on the students, families, and educators through Catholic schools and universities throughout America. Their innovative ideas and dedication to students and to the wider community, demonstrate the strong commitment to ensuring that every child has an opportunity for greatness.
“We are thrilled to recognize these extraordinary Champions in Catholic Education at the White House. Each of these nine leaders embody the values of education, innovation and service through their stellar contributions to Catholic schools and the communities they serve,” said Alexia Kelley, Senior Policy Advisor, White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. “These Champions, like their colleagues in Catholic education across the country, inspire all of us to build up our communities and our nation’s young people.”
The Champions of Change program was created as a part of President Obama’s Winning the Future initiative. Each week, a different sector is highlighted and groups of Champions, ranging from educators to entrepreneurs to community leaders, are recognized for the work they are doing to serve and strengthen their communities.
Joseph Womac (Seattle, WA)
As the Executive Director of the Fulcrum Foundation for the past eight years, Joe Womac has worked tirelessly on behalf of at risk students and Catholic schools in jeopardy of closing. Under his leadership, the Fulcrum Foundation has raised $60 million, which has led to over 10,000 low income students being sent to tremendous Catholic schools in western Washington State. Thanks in large part to Joe’s efforts and Fulcrum’s programs, Seattle is among the largest regions in the country that has not closed any Catholic schools and instead has opened schools during the past decade. Last year, every single high school senior supported by the Fulcrum Foundation graduated. Of those, 99% are now attending college.
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