Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana Celebrates Second Annual Junior Leadership Journey Art Gala

Empowering students to believe in themselves and their abilities helps build a stronger future. This spring, Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana hosted its second annual Junior Leadership Journey Art Gala, providing middle school students from participating network  schools an opportunity to showcase their creativity, leadership growth, and artistic talents to family, friends, and community members.

On Friday, May 15, students from St. Casimir School, St. John Bosco School, and St. Stanislaus School participated in the Junior Leadership Journey Art Gala at St. Casimir School in Hammond. On Wednesday, May 27, students from Queen of All Saints School hosted their own celebration, showcasing their artwork and leadership journeys to family and friends.

For Gisele Jones, director of scholarship programs and leadership development at Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana, the event embodies the organization’s mission.

“Our mission is all about the children. This event allows them to be front and center. It is less about us and more about them,” Jones said. “The students share the stories behind their artwork and reflect on what leadership means to them. This is what Big Shoulders Fund is all about: giving students the confidence to step forward and lead.”

Overall, 152 students participated in the Junior Leadership Journey program. Since the inaugural Art Gala last year, Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana and its partner schools have continued to strengthen their commitment to student leadership development.

The Junior Leadership Journey is designed to help middle school students develop self-confidence, communication skills, collaboration, and leadership abilities before entering high school.

Sixth grader Richard Goshen of St. Casimir School said the program transformed his understanding of leadership.

“At first, I thought leadership was just about being in charge or standing your ground,” Goshen said. “As I went through the program, I realized it’s also about building up others as you go. It’s about understanding people and finding ways to make yourself and those around you better.”

Tristan Andreev, a sixth grader at Queen of All Saints School, credits the Junior Leadership Journey with helping him become more confident, while encouraging collaboration among his classmates.

“The program has helped me learn about cooperation and leadership,” Andreev said. “Looking at everyone’s artwork, they all look great while each piece tells a different story. My project is called Hope, and it represents peace and relaxation.”

Nancy Repay, principal at St. John Bosco School, has already seen the change in growth, leadership, and kindness for the students from her school.

“This is our first year participating in the program and we’ve already seen growth academically, socially, and emotionally,” Repay said. “It helps students develop healthy habits and become outstanding citizens. Big Shoulders Fund staff have supported us immensely, providing coaching and consistently asking how they can help our students succeed.”

Matt Chico, principal at St. Casimir School, appreciates how the event highlights student creativity while fostering leadership and collaboration.

“This event is the result of the strong partnership between us and Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana. It gives students an opportunity to develop their leadership skills, showcase their talent, and engage in team building exercises,” said Chico.

Chico also values the opportunity for students from different schools to connect through the program.

“We’re all here together today,” Chico said. “It helps us strengthen that partnership with some of our sister schools within the Diocese of Gary.”

Kim Gondeck, principal at Queen of All Saints School, views the Art Gala as a meaningful growth opportunity for students.

“They’re all dressed up and excited to see everything come into fruition,” Gondeck said. “As a principal, there are challenges every day, but this is one of those moments you can simply cherish. You can see the culmination of work that’s been done over the year by these students, and they’re proud to share what they’ve accomplished.”

Additionally, Gondeck is thrilled to see how each student has uplifted one another in their work.

“They’re congratulating one another and sharing encouraging feedback. That positive communication piece can sometimes get lost today, so it’s wonderful to see our students uplifting each other and celebrating one another’s success.”

For Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana is committed to creating opportunities for educational growth and community engagement. The Art Gala provided students with a platform to discuss their work, reflect on their leadership journeys, and appreciate the creativity of their peers.

“It helps the students feel more confident in discussing their art and sharing their ideas,” Jones said. “Some students may have been hesitant to speak about their work at first, but through practice and encouragement, they find their voice. We’re here to give them opportunities to lead and support the person next to them.”

For more information on the Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana and its student leadership programs, you can visit bigshouldersfund.org/northwest-indiana.