What impels you to support Tribe Rising? And why should other people care about what Tribe Rising is doing?

My initial support was because of the enthusiastic ‘ask’ of fellow parishioners. As time passed and I learned more about the challenges the Gurap children faced in life and in getting an education, I wanted to help provide opportunities for these beautiful children. How could others not care about children being denied an education, no matter where they live? Tribe Rising is showing what caring for other is all about.

Was there someone in high school that influenced you as a student, or set you on a career path?

I was fortunate to have a wide range of teachers in high school who supported and encouraged me.

What was the best trip you have ever taken?

I took advantage of eleven Road Scholar learning adventure trips. All were outstanding. Perhaps the Seine River trip tops the list. Starting in Paris, visiting the exquisite Notre Dame Cathedral, the historic D-Day landing site and the memorable American cemetery, the Benedictine Abbey of St. Wandrille, the cathedral in Rouen, Monet’s garden at Giverny…

What is the best book you have read in the past 12 months?

I’ve read a range of books; however, this one truly reached me – Mitch Albom’s memoir “Finding Chika”…a beautiful, moving, loving, heartbreaking sharing of a young Haitian girl, born 3 days after the 2010 earthquake with a brain tumor. Truly God guided Mitch
and his wife in caring for Chika.

What is the one think you’d like to share with the Gurap students?

We at Mount Carmel are so very happy to see the Gurap children so happy! Continue to take advantage of the expanded educational and living opportunities because sharing our resources and our prayers changes us all.