Eddie Fay considers himself a youth advocate, an apropos label given his resume includes stewarding elementary school athletes within the Archdiocese of Chicago, coordinating programming for a suburban parks department, and supporting restorative justice programs in Chicago Public Schools. He wants all young people, particularly those from vulnerable populations, to lead healthier, happier, more fulfilling lives.

“I enjoy teaching them life skills and how to stand up for themselves while being tactful in the process,” he says.

As an SCPS student studying applied psychology, Fay’s passion for youth development accelerated his understanding of how to be a better advocate. Inspired by Loyola’s mission to elevate others and enhance communities, Fay learned how to evaluate complex questions, investigate social problems, and analyze human behavior—all skills promising to propel his work with youth.

“It was Loyola and its Jesuit teachings that really enhanced my time at SCPS,” Fay says. “Knowing and understanding that we are all here together and, while our circumstances may be different, we all matter and should be valued for being us.”

Next up for Fay: a Loyola master’s degree program in community counseling with a focus on mental health in youth and adolescents.