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December 11, 2020“We the people…”
Those first three words of the United States Constitution have always held a special place in my heart — the same for many Americans. Yet during a year of election turmoil, a global pandemic and civic unrest, they simultaneously feel both out of touch and ubiquitous.
During this time of uncertainty, I have been struck by a feeling of gratitude for my experience at Villa Angela-St. Joseph High, a school rich in history, diversity and community. In May 2015, I stepped out of Ss. Robert and William Parish as a VASJ grad, like my dad had done nearly four decades ago from St. Joseph High School, ready to take on the world as a VASJ alum. Now, just like the teachers who shaped my perspective — such as Maureen Joseph, Gary Minadeo and Melissa Grai, to name a few — it’s my turn to educate the youth of America. And as a United States government teacher at a neighboring Catholic school, I have been working to do just that.
It would be easy to say that my experience at The Ohio State University or one of my various internships led me to the point in my life where I am today, but when I truly take time to reflect on my life, VASJ always comes to mind. It is the place where I learned the importance of civic engagement, where I learned to lead as student council president, where I learned patience, hard work and compassion are key to being successful, but they are not the only factors of success. It is where I learned that not everyone got the same start in life as I had. It is where I learned my love of service. It is the place that shaped the trajectory of my future in the best way possible.
As I sit at my desk on this freezing December day, I think about how 2020 has been a roller coaster of a year. What has not changed, though, is my gratitude for my alma mater. Education in a diverse setting is something that cannot be replaced through reading a textbook, watching a documentary, or studying a research article.
“We the people” could easily be replaced with “We the Vikings” at VASJ. United, one community, centered in faith, leadership and justice. Today, and every day, I am thankful to be a part of this community.
After graduating from VASJ, Alison Sukys '15 attended The Ohio State University and obtained a bachelor's degree in public policy in 2019. She continued her academic career at Cleveland State University and earned a master's degree in education in 2020. Alison currently teaches 10th grade United States government and is the Model UN moderator at Beaumont School in Cleveland Heights.
