December 3, 2024
$5 Million Gift from Lou & Valerie Joseph Builds Momentum for Vision ’30 with a Commitment to Forming Future Leaders
A Transformational Gift to Enhance Facilities, Empower Educators, and Support the Formation of Young Men into Leaders of Tomorrow
CLEVELAND, OH—Saint Ignatius High School is excited to announce a transformational $5 million gift from Lou & Valerie Joseph. This transformative contribution advances the Vision ’30 Capital Campaign and supports the school’s mission of forming young men into compassionate, faith-driven leaders committed to serving others. The Josephs have a deep connection to the school as the proud parents of three Saint Ignatius graduates: Matthew '09, David '11, and Garrett '13.
The Josephs' gift reflects their commitment to the transformative power of a Saint Ignatius education and its lasting influence on students. Their generosity will directly support the construction and renovation of academic facilities designed to foster collaboration, intellectual growth, and character formation. The gift also underscores their commitment to empowering the dedicated faculty, staff, and coaches who guide students on their journey to becoming “Men for Others.”
“Saint Ignatius is a place where young men are not only educated but transformed,” Joseph shared. “This school shapes students into thoughtful, kind, and service-minded leaders who will leave their mark on the world. It is an honor to support the mission of Saint Ignatius and the incredible educators and staff who make it possible.”
The Vision ’30 Campaign is rooted in the Jesuit mission of academic excellence, faith formation, and accessibility. The Josephs' gift will help advance these priorities by supporting the construction of state-of-the-art facilities like DiSanto Hall, enhancing the learning environment for all students. Additionally, their investment celebrates the Saint Ignatius community who dedicate their lives to shaping young men with the skills and values needed to excel in life.
Rev. Ray Guiao, S.J. '82, President and Chief Mission Officer of Saint Ignatius, expressed gratitude for Joseph’s support: “Lou & Valerie Joseph’s generosity is a testament to their belief in our mission. They recognize that the process of forming Men for Others—who embody faith, leadership, service, and compassion—depends on the extraordinary work of our faculty and staff. This gift will impact every student who walks through our doors and every teacher who helps guide them.”
Through the Vision ’30 Campaign, Saint Ignatius is focused on preparing its students for the challenges of tomorrow. In addition to the construction of DiSanto Hall, the campaign prioritizes enhancing student mental health resources, expanding accessibility for families, and fostering academic and spiritual excellence. These efforts ensure that every student, regardless of background, can benefit from the life-changing experience of a Jesuit education.
Joseph added, “The greatest gift I gave my sons was the opportunity to receive a Saint Ignatius education. It has given them the tools to succeed academically, lead faithfully, and serve others with humility. Beyond that, it has provided our entire family with a sense of community, shared values, and a deeper connection to faith and service."
About Saint Ignatius High School
Saint Ignatius High School opened its doors on September 6, 1886, and is a Jesuit college-preparatory school for grades 6-12. The school enrolls more than 1,400 young men who hail from 96 cities in a nine-county region. Located near downtown Cleveland in the vibrant and energetic Ohio City neighborhood, the school occupies 23 acres, including 19 buildings and three athletic fields. The school has 113 faculty members, 90 percent of whom hold advanced degrees. Academically, Saint Ignatius is a regional and state leader in National Merit finalists and Advanced Placement scholars. Nearly 100 percent of Saint Ignatius students go on to four-year college programs at universities across the United States.
Please visit Saint Ignatius High School's website for more information about how to support the Welsh Academy and the Campaign for Vision 30.