Mark Radetic, CPA, is a Managing Partner at MarksNelson LLC and a member of CEF's Board of Directors.
Being a numbers guy (I’m a CPA) I have calculated that between the immediate family of my wife Mary and my immediate family, almost 50 of us have received a Catholic education that included grade school, high school and college. That’s about 750 combined years of Catholic schooling for all of us. Both Mary and I have parents who were raised by immigrant parents and for them a Catholic education was not a given. But as our parents became immersed in their respective parishes (which often was the focal point of their social activities), they understood the importance of a Catholic education for their children and, while it took plenty of sacrifices on their part, (both my wife and I are 1 of 7 brothers and sisters) there was never a doubt that we would receive a Catholic education through high school.
Our families love to reminisce about our childhood and share with each other the wonderful and funny stories of growing up in these schools. They were filled with educators who were priests and sisters, along with laity so committed to their faith. The world has changed and continues to change; the economics are more daunting. For some parents the sacrifices they make now are for just the basics of raising a family, and a Catholic education is a luxury that is sometimes unattainable.
When I was asked to serve on the CEF Board, I wasn’t very familiar with the work of the organization. I decided to go in with my eyes, ears and brain wide open. Now, my mouth is wide open in awe of the wonderful work of CEF in allowing so many families to be able experience the many rewards and benefits of an education supported with the teachings of Christ.
When we tour the schools and see the joyous and spiritual interaction between the students, the educators and the administrators who are so committed to their educational journey, it makes you reflect on those who are unable to be part of these wonderful institutions. It brings to mind the parents who so much want their children to be in a faith-filled environment and the children who would love an excellent education while surrounded by other students and educators who all have one goal…….heaven! CEF has provided a way for me and many others to help change this situation for many families and students, but there are 395 students still waiting for our help. What the CEF has accomplished is astounding. Let’s keep the numbers going!
