News Post

St. Joseph’s Academy and Catholic High School students traveled to Estes Park, Colorado, to take part in this year’s Catholic Leadership Encounter (CLE). The intensive workshop was held at the YMCA of the Rockies May 23 through June 1. Forty SJA students participated. 

CLE challenges high school students to develop their God-given leadership abilities anchored in Christian principles. Students participate in team-building activities, outdoor adventures and assessments of the charisms of the Sisters of St. Joseph and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. They are challenged to develop God-centered responses to practical leadership situations. In addition to spiritual formation, students participate in developing skills in active listening, managing conflicts, consensus-building and delegating responsibility.

SJA Director of Mission Integration Jade Spears said CLE is designed, in part, to bring young people into closer communion with each other and God. “It is a blessing to journey alongside our young people on this pilgrimage,” she said. 

Dean of Women Christina Richardson said the weeklong experience was especially meaningful. “It was awesome to see students engage with one another and our Lord,” she said. “There is truly no program like CLE. Even as a group leader, I left the program changed for the better. I would encourage any parent or student who is considering the program to apply for next year.”  

Theology faculty member Timothy LaBauve also accompanied the group. “CLE provides a wonderful opportunity for SJA and CHS students to build confidence and develop leadership skills, to learn more about themselves, to strengthen their commitment to serving the dear neighbor and to encounter God in the beauty of nature,” he said. 

Also accompanying the group were SJA alumnae Blake Hester ’22, Caitlyn Rogers ’23, Thelma Toussaint ’24, Bri Rackley ’25 and Caroline Roussel ’25.