A Story of Hope: Bringing Hope and Building Respect

by Shakiib Wauyo

Reflecting on my journey with Holy Cross, I am deeply moved by how transformative, nourishing, inspiring, and exciting my experience has been. The values of Holy Cross have not only guided me but have reshaped me into a better, more compassionate person. As I prepare to step out into the world, I am filled with hope and purpose, ready to have an impact rooted in the mission of Education for Service.?

At St.Edward's University , I have lived out this mission every day, fostering a sense of family and community that sets the Hilltop apart. It is a place where hope finds fertile ground and respect flourishes. From the moment you step onto campus, you feel the shared commitment to care for one another and the world around us. This culture of respect is not just a value we uphold; it is woven into the very fabric of our community. I have lived to witness this every single day, whether it's in my classrooms, president’s office, Recreation and Wellness Offices or even just walking around our beautiful campus.?

Fostering Respect on the Hilltop?

Building respect starts with how we treat each other. On the Hilltop, I have witnessed and experienced countless moments of kindness and inclusivity that reflect this value. Whether it’s a smile exchanged between strangers on the sidewalk, a student supporting a classmate during challenging times, or professors taking the time to truly listen and guide, respect is lived out in tangible ways.?

But it goes deeper than just interactions. It’s also about creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and heard. Student organizations, service projects like BIG Event, and events on campus all work to build bridges across cultures, perspectives, and experiences. These opportunities remind us that we are stronger together, united by our shared commitment to justice, love, and community and I believe there is no greater power than people coming together to accomplish a common goal. It reaffirms the power of community and how much more we are able to accomplish together.?

A Sense of Family?

The Hilltop feels like home because of the people who create that sense of belonging. There is an unmistakable bond among the Holy Cross family, a bond that transcends differences and draws us together. It is felt in the dining halls, where meals become moments of connection. It is found in classrooms, where dialogue and collaboration are encouraged. And it is seen in service projects, where we come together to uplift others. I have had the privilege of experiencing all those moments, I have served our campus community in every possible way and it has been rewarding. I have had the opportunity of hearing other people’s inspiring stories, sharing culture and creating meaningful connections.

Programs like Holy Convocation, Retreats with Holy Cross Institute, Holy Cross Cup and campus ministry initiatives strengthen these ties. They remind us that being part of a community is about more than just coexisting; it is about building each other up and carrying each other forward. They help us renew our commitment to the Holy Cross Values that have held us stronger together for generations.?

Bringing Hope to the World?

At the heart of Holy Cross is the call to bring hope to the world, a mission I am proud to embrace. St. Edward’s has shown me that hope is not passive; it is active, intentional, and rooted in service. Through service-learning opportunities, community engagement, and acts of advocacy, we are not just learning about the world; we are working to transform it.?

As I prepare to take this mission beyond the Hilltop, I carry with me the lessons I’ve learned and the values I’ve embraced. Hope is a powerful force, and when paired with respect, it can inspire real, lasting change.?

To my fellow Hilltoppers: let us continue to build a community of hope and respect, on campus and beyond. Together, we can create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the Hilltop, bringing light to the lives of others and strengthening the legacy of Holy Cross.?

“Bringing hope and building respect” is not just a phrase; it is our way of life. Let’s keep it alive, here and everywhere we go.