Local talent

In some of Chicago's most recognizable locations, Loyola graduates are serving the city in ways both big and small.

Photos by Lukas Keapproth

Crafty business

David Avram (’02)

“Chicago is the city in which I have been fortunate enough to realize my own dreams, and it seems only fitting to continue to find ways to do the same for others.”

Owner and co-founder, Great Central Brewing Co.

Natural service

Kristin Field (’11)

“I love contributing to such a unique, beautiful, and peaceful place in Chicago that is free and open every day of the year for all to enjoy.”

Volunteer Programs Coordinator, the Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance

Next-gen green

Alison Paul (’03)

“We help connect kids to nature through hands-on activities. It's our hope that they can become tomorrow's leaders and environmental stewards.”

Youth Conservation Action Manager, The Field Museum

Our big divide

Nilsa Ortiz (’15)

“Chicago is not known as the city of ‘bridges.’ However, my job allows me to help families build bridges. These bridges shape lives toward a better one.”

Clinical Program Manager, Gads Hill Center

Behind the bench

Young B. Kim (’91)

“My entire legal career to date has been in public service in Chicago, at both the state and federal levels.”

Magistrate judge for the Northern District of Illinois

Hometown heroes

Lucas Luecke (’00, ’07)

“I have a direct hand in not only preserving and maintaining the beauty of Wrigley Field—but also ensuring that the century-old baseball gem will continue to connect generations.”

Infrastructure Engineer, Chicago Cubs

Artful education

Madeline Shearer (’14)

“I have the amazing privilege of working inside of a treasure chest, filled with objects from all places, cultures, and time periods.”

Assistant Director of Institutional Relations, Art Institute of Chicago

Deep thoughts

Michael Masellis (’07)

“If we are meant to ‘go forth and set the world on fire,’ it seems sensible to work near water!”

Lead Animal Care Specialist, Brookfield Zoo

Parks and rec

Erin Ebbesmeyer (’15)

“I'm passionate about working with communities and have always enjoyed spending time along our amazing lakefront and in our parks, so pursuing a career in parks and recreation made sense.”

Special Projects Facilitator, Chicago Park District

New discoveries

April Lewis (’18)

“The museum offers programs that allow children and adults the chance to expand their knowledge in science.”

Guest Services Coordinator, Museum of Science and Industry

Citizen science

Aaron Hammond (’11)

“I love working with the thousands of volunteers and the hundreds of different plant and animal species that call Lincoln Park home.”

Assistant Director, Park Management and Sustainability, Lincoln Park Conservancy