Name: Patrick Evans ‘04
Profession: Director of Marketing at Cleveland Public Market Corporation
Student Activities: Intramurals
Favorite Teacher: Joe Popelka ‘84 (Sophomore Biology) – “He embodied the Ignatius mindset, went the extra mile to help students grow both personally and academically, and truly lived out the Grad at Grad principles. I appreciated it then, but I appreciate it even more now.”
Time As A Student:
Some of Patrick’s best memories from Ignatius are the everyday moments—especially senior lounge chats with two close friends, a friendship that remains strong to this day. More than anything, he credits Ignatius with teaching him how to think critically through a moral lens, a lesson that has stayed with him throughout his career.
Professional Career:
Patrick’s passion for marketing stems from his love of business strategy and mission-driven work. After earning an advertising degree from Syracuse University, he began his career at ADCOM, a Cleveland ad agency, where he was introduced to nonprofit marketing. He later held leadership roles at the Cleveland Botanical Garden and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Now, as Director of Marketing for the Cleveland Public Market Corporation, Patrick is helping to shape the future of the historic West Side Market, a longtime neighbor of Saint Ignatius in Ohio City. Recently transitioning from city management to nonprofit leadership—a growing trend nationwide—the market has received numerous transformational gifts to support its growth and broke ground on major renovations in early May. Patrick and his team are focused on preserving its diverse, family-run vendors while embracing growth and an exciting new chapter.
We thank Patrick for inviting Fr. Ray Guiao, S.J. and others from Saint Ignatius High School to break ground and celebrate this special moment with our neighbors.
Advice to Current Students:
“There’s a stereotype or expectation that comes with going to Ignatius, but at its core, Ignatius is teaching you how to be a compassionate, caring, intelligent Man for Others. Use those Grad at Grad values and skills to pursue what truly excites you. And remember, it’s okay to take the unconventional route.”