When Charlie Proctor '21 was asked to participate in a fundraiser for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, he was quick to say yes. The motto in his family mirrors the motto at Saint Ignatius; to be a Man for Others and give back when you can.
"Saint Ignatius plays so well into our culture as a family," Charlie's mom says. She and her husband have instilled in their children an example of hard work and the importance of giving back.
Charlie says that is what excites him most about participating in the Students of the Year program with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
"I really like how little people in the world can do big things," Charlie says.
Students of the Year is a philanthropic leadership development program for exemplary high school students. During the campaign, participants foster professional skills such as entrepreneurship, marketing, and project management in order to raise funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), the world's largest nonprofit fighting blood cancer.
Charlie says he was motivated by the idea of the Sophomore Service program at Saint Ignatius, and this is his way to get involved and make an impact on the world around him.
A longtime participant in theatre, Charlie heard about the program as he was performing as Chip in the performance of Beauty and the Beast. It didn't take him long to accept the challenge.
He has found his place on stage at Saint Ignatius too. He is currently a member of the Cat-o'-Tonics, was in the cast of Spamalot, and will be a member of the cast of the Harlequin's spring musical The Wedding Singer this April.
When asked about Charlie his mom says, "he really has a huge heart." And if given the opportunity to speak with him, that is evident.
"I love that the money goes straight to the Society and directly to those who need the help," Charlie says. And thanks to the example set by his parents, Charlie says, "when I'm older i'm definitely going to give back to Saint Ignatius."
His goal is to raise $50,000 over the seven-week period. The title Student(s) of the Year is awarded to the candidate or co-candidates in each community that raise the most funds during the competition.