From Scholarship to Service: Rayshawn's CTK Journey

Rayshawn’s story is one marked by resilience, faith, and deep gratitude, shaped by the support of his family and the Jesuit values at Christ the King Jesuit College Prep. Born in Chicago and raised between Rockford and Cicero, he learned early how important it is to be adaptable and purposeful. Now a junior living with his mother and siblings—who inspire his drive to excel academically, personally, and spiritually. When Rayshawn received the Daniel Murphy Scholarship, several schools were options, but CTK stood out for its Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP), offering a fresh experience in a tight-knit community.​

Through CWSP, Rayshawn worked at Advocate Health, greeting patients, guiding families, and delivering flowers—building confidence, compassion, and a passion for healthcare. “I liked seeing people smile,” he shared. “It made me realize how much small acts of kindness can mean”. Now, as the only male in CTK’s inaugural Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, he’s set for clinical training at the University of Chicago this semester. After certification, he plans to work as a CNA while in college, embodying CTK’s blend of academics, real-world skills, and service.​

Rayshawn engages fully in CTK life, serving as a student ambassador, National Honor Society member, and ABBA (Achieving Better Beyond Athletics) participant—a brotherhood linking faith, purpose, and growth beyond sports. ABBA’s mentor-mentee model fosters academic, professional, physical, and spiritual development, aligning with Jesuit ideals of being “men and women for and with others”. Mentorship shines brightest with Mr. Joyner, his advisor and ABBA leader. “I am very hard on myself about grades,” Rayshawn admits. Mr. Joyner taught him to celebrate successes over small setbacks, providing vital perspective amid his high-achieving mindset. Teachers, like Mr. Gallmeier, further inspire him through their genuine and personal support.​

Service learning reinforces his values via dignity breakfasts and food pantries, linking classroom lessons to aiding those in need and strengthening CTK’s community. Looking ahead, Rayshawn is considering colleges like Howard, Morehouse, Yale, or Stanford for business and healthcare studies, carrying CTK’s foundation of faith, leadership, and service. “CTK has helped me grow as a person—professionally, spiritually, and academically,” he says. “It’s about becoming better inside and out.” What makes CTK special? “The community,” Rayshawn insists. “Everyone knows and cares for one another. You build real relationships.”. Thanks to his family, the guidance of mentors, and the generosity of donors, Rayshawn is living out CTK’s mission—growing through rigorous academics, real-world experience, and a deepening commitment to faith and service.