A “Fireside Chat“ with Reverend Andrew Wawrzyn '90

Q: As a proud member of the Class of 1990, how did your Loyola Academy experience influence your vocation and the path that ultimately led you to the priesthood?

A: It was on Kairos in September of my senior year when I finally named the possibility that I was being called to priesthood. My classmates were supportive of my discernment. Also, Fr. Reuter and other Jesuits helped me discern priesthood in general and the Society of Jesus or the Archdiocese of Chicago, specifically. My vocation story is long because I entered the Jesuit order in 1997, but left to be a priest for the Archdiocese of Chicago in 2010. The reasons for leaving the Society center mainly around wanting to serve the local Chicago Church as a diocesan priest. I am very grateful for my Jesuit formation and still have friends in the order.

 

Q: Thank you for becoming LA Loyal. What inspired your recurring gift and sustained support?

A: Because I am proud of my education at Loyola and believe it to be a fine school. I have tried to support its mission in some way over the years. Now, knowing how important a good education is, I want to make sure Loyola’s opportunities are available to students who might not be able to afford the tuition. So, I gladly support the tuition assistance program.

Q: As someone who has worked extensively in education and ministry—teaching, directing retreats, and serving in parishes—how do you see ongoing donor support shaping the faith and formation of young people today?

A: Loyola has always tried to provide a well-rounded education for its graduates. It tries to not only develop a students’ academic skills, but also a spiritual life. Providing a good education is difficult enough, financially, to add the spiritual dimension requires more resources for a school. I hope, in my small way, as a donor, I can help graduate students who can think critically, pray, and serve others in the world.