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Alumni Spotlight: Isabelle Seiglie ’21 & ‘23 – A Leader in Catholic Youth Ministry

By October 30, 2024Alumni, Featured Posts

At St. Thomas University, we are proud to celebrate our alumni who embody the mission of our Catholic institution, using their talents to serve the Church and community. This month, we spotlight Isabelle Seiglie ’21 & ’23, Director of Ministry Programs here at STU and a dedicated leader in youth ministry who exemplifies the servant leadership model at the core of our mission.

Isabelle began her journey at STU as a student in 2018, later joining the staff in 2021, and she currently directs a range of ministry programs that strengthen the Catholic identity of STU. Her work includes collaboration with the School of Theology and Ministry and Student Life through Campus Ministry, providing an outward-facing connection to the community through initiatives like the Thriving in Ministry program. Isabelle’s dedication ensures that the mission of STU reaches far beyond campus, encouraging others to take an active role in the life of the Church.

Faith in Action: Empowering the Next Generation

Driven by her desire to give back, Isabelle is committed to fostering a spirit of leadership in the next generation. “I’m grateful for what I received at STU, and that’s why I’m so motivated to give back,” she reflects. “I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it weren’t for the opportunities STU has provided me, and I want to pass that forward.”

Isabelle’s role involves shaping young people into leaders who take responsibility for their faith. She encourages students to lead youth group meetings and make decisions that reflect their vision for the future of the Church. “We need to take responsibility,” Isabelle says. “What do you want to see? Have the courage to say it, and work toward it. The Church needs to respond, but we can’t just sit back and wait.”

A Voice for Catholic Leadership

Isabelle’s impact has extended beyond the STU campus. Earlier this year, she was invited to be the sole young adult delegate representing the United States at the Vatican’s International Congress on Catholic Youth Ministry, a gathering of ministry leaders from around the world. “I was chosen to represent the U.S., and I’m honored,” she shares. “It shows that what we’re doing at STU is making a difference. We are cultivating students who are actively engaged in their faith and stepping up in Catholic leadership.”

She encourages other alumni to stay connected to STU’s mission, whether through events like the upcoming Jubilee Year celebration or by supporting students attending life-changing trips, such as the next World Youth Day in 2027. Isabelle hopes alumni will consider sponsoring students for such experiences. “STU has opened so many doors for me, and I believe in our mission and vision. That’s why I’m here. Now I’m part of helping open doors for others. I’m extending a hand to help others rise, and I invite you to join me.”

Building Ethical Leaders for the Future

For Isabelle, the heart of her work is about forming ethical leaders who embody the values of the Catholic Church. “We’re here to form leaders,” she emphasizes. “Everything we do is for the students, and it starts with people like me saying, ‘You are capable of this too.’ Stay, build what you want to see, and work to make it happen.”

Isabelle’s journey highlights the profound impact of a Catholic education at St. Thomas University, where students are empowered to lead with faith and purpose. Gifts to the Annual Fund play a crucial role in providing scholarships, funding programs, and supporting initiatives that enrich our students’ spiritual and academic growth.

When you give to the Annual Fund, you’re helping students like Isabelle thrive in their education and in their calling to serve both the Church and STU. Your support enables us to continue fostering leaders who live out our Catholic mission in their communities and beyond.

Join us in ensuring that the next generation of STUdents can receive the education, opportunities, and experiences they need to lead with faith. Click Here to Make a Gift Today to support the future of Catholic leadership at St. Thomas University.

Sarah McKenney

Author Sarah McKenney

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