Giving Back: St. Mary’s High School Junior Career Day In St. Louis, MO

ST. LOUIS, MO – St. Mary’s High School

On Wednesday, March 10, 2021, inner St. Louis City St. Mary’s High School held a career day/workshop for the juniors. Carrie Wegman, the St. Mary’s College Counselor put it together, covering Financial Literacy, Business Management, Health Services, Agriculture, and Marketing. James McGauley (’82 Dragon) of Carrolton joined fellow classmate Andy Schwartz (’82 Dragon) to speak on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and business growth.  Chris Eckert, President of Eckert’s Orchards, Inc. is a seventh-generation Eckert to farm 600 acres of fruit and vegetable crops, as well as run the garden store, the restaurant, and the Eckert’s Grocery Market.

“It was a treat having Chris come in from Illinois to spend the day with St. Mary’s kids. Having the inner city kids be able to talk with a real farmer/businessman/executive opened a lot of minds to a career they may not have been interested in,” said Andy Schwartz.

Battalion Chief Bill Pollihan (’85 Dragon) spoke about Health Services, the importance of frontline/essential workers, and a courageous career if choosing the St. Louis Fire Department. Andy Schwartz said, “Bill and I went to college together at SEMO and were fraternity brothers.  He’s the “GOAT’ of the STLFD”. The day hit all the criteria for St. Mary’s mission of discovering your journey, development in the young man, collaborative community involvement, and comprehensive learning.  Others presenting were Berto Garcia, Jenn McCormac, Jim Robben, Ted Wegman, and Cara Christanell.  Who, by the way, are all city residents giving back to the community! A fantastic day in St. Louis giving back to the next generation.