There is phrase, often attributed to Niel Bohr the Nobel Prize winning physicist, which states, "Prediction is very difficult, especially about the future."
When Brandt Atkins entered Brebeuf Jesuit from The Orchard School in the fall of 1984, he never would have predicted what a transformative impact it would have on his life and family. As a student with dyslexia, school was often challenging. Each day he was surrounded by teachers and administrators that only saw potential. With Ms. Rocap as a neighbor and Ms. McCarthy at his side, he was determined to utilize all of his resources to ensure a successful high school career.
As a member of the football team, Brandt developed life-long friendships. He would celebrate wins, both on and off the field, with his fellow Braves over the next 30 years. As each gained success, it inspired others to live fully and be at their best. When life's challenges occurred, these same men and women for others helped Brandt find his foundation again, to live his own Examen, to see both God's presence and direction.
In the fall of 2014, Brandt's son, Nick, entered Brebeuf. Over the course of the next four years, Brandt was witness to what an indelible influence Brebeuf had on his son. Nick was smart, confident, humble and kind. He was establishing his own legacy at Brebeuf and meeting Braves that would forever leave a mark on his life.
When asked about his most memorable Brebeuf experience, Brandt reflected not on the events of his time, but that of his son. Seeing Nick receive the Chief's Award and all that he had accomplished at Brebeuf was awe-inspiring for Brandt. Nick had become a man of faith, service and leadership, and it was both endearing and affirming of the school's impact.
Throughout this time, Brandt too had become more involved at Brebeuf, serving on the Alumni Association Board of Directors and sharing his support through The Brebeuf Fund and Braves Open. As his leadership and involvement grew Brandt was overwhelmed with pride and appreciation at how Brebeuf worked to develop discerning and transformational leaders, creating a positive and enduring impact on each and every student.
When the time came to make a few updates to his will, he knew including Brebeuf Jesuit would be a big part of it. This was his way of doing even more. It was a decision that would have an impact on future generations. Brandt is continually impressed by Brebeuf's ability to form students who are open to growth, intellectually competent, loving, and committed to justice and shared, "I am impressed by Brebeuf's ability to provide substantial scholarships for deserving students eager to experience the Brebeuf mission."
For those considering making a planned gift, Brandt encourages his fellow alumni to step forward, Ad majorem Dei gloriam — for the greater glory of God.
You can help Brebeuf teach Jesuit values for another 57 years through a
planned gift.
If a planned gift is something you are considering today — albeit through a
will, charitable remainder trust, gift annuity, life insurance policy or
gift of real estate — we would love to talk more. It's an easy way to
ensure your values will continue to be nurtured in future generations of
Brebeuf Jesuit students.
Contact Leah Gonzalez, Director of Development, at
[email protected]
or 317.524.7089 for questions or more information.
