Virtual Ignatian Inquiry Sessions

Virtual Ignatian Inquiry Sessions

The JSN is eager to encourage a spirit of inquiry across the many layers of our work in Jesuit education. With our Virtual Ignatian Inquiry Sessions we seek to promote content-based resources for the schools and tell the stories of our schools and the educators in them. 

Upcoming Session

Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from 3 to 4 p.m. ET

Caring for Our Common Home by Learning From Integral Ecology: Coral Reef Fisheries in the Face of Climate Change

Around 13% of the world’s population depends on coral reefs, but these crucial ecosystems are threatened by climate change, overfishing, and pollution. Bryan Galligan will share his experiences working with coral reef dependent communities in East Africa as they confront the effects of the planetary crisis. After discussing what climate change looks like for these frontline communities, Bryan will show how integral ecology provides a framework for action using his own research as a case study. 

This session will be of interest to all leadership, faculty and staff across the Provinces who support the mission of Jesuit education and seek greater insight into animating the Universal Apolostic Preferences in their school communities. 

About the Speaker

Bryan Galligan, S.J. is a Jesuit of the U.S.A. East Province in formation for the priesthood currently studying theology at Boston College. 

Bryan’s academic research focuses on coral reef fisheries ecology. His recent publications explore ways to maintain ecological function while producing increased nutrient yields for human consumption in East Africa and the Western Indian Ocean. He has also written about ocean governance and policy from a justice perspective. 

As a research and policy analyst at the Jesuit Justice and Ecology Network Africa in Nairobi, Kenya, Bryan lead the network’s global environmental advocacy and research agenda from 2021–2023. In addition to research and publication, this work also included engaging with food and climate negotiations at the United Nations, providing capacity building on environmental governance for faith-based actors, and supporting collaboration among Jesuit social and ecology institutions in Africa. 

Recent Session

The Principal’s Experience: Exploring Doctoral Research that seeks to Understand the Experiences and Perceptions of Novice Principals Leading Traditional Jesuit Secondary Schools – Dr. Michael Wood

The role of the Principal is one of the most unique and complex in our schools, connected to nearly every facet of our communities. Yet the experience of being a Principal is not often understood until a leader sits in the position. This session explores the doctoral research undertaken by Dr. Michael Wood, Principal of Jesuit High School in Sacramento, California, who sought to explore the experience of new Principals at traditional Jesuit Secondary schools. In sharing his research across the Network, Dr. Wood highlights the value of preparation for this key leadership position, support, role clarification, and the President-Principal model.
About the Speaker

Michael Wood has worked in Jesuit secondary education for over 20 years. He began his career in Jesuit education at Loyola High School in Los Angeles in 2003 where he spent 12 years as a Theology teacher and Dean of Students. In 2015 he accepted a position as Principal at Jesuit High School in Sacramento where he is a graduate from the class of 1999. After graduating from Jesuit High School, Michael attended Loyola Marymount University to study Theology and earned a bachelor’s degree in 2003 and master’s degree in 2008. After moving into school leadership at Loyola High School, Michael began his doctoral work at Creighton University where he earned an Interdisciplinary Doctorate in Leadership in 2019.

Email: michael.wood@jesuithighschool.org 

Past Sessions

Reimagining the Role of a Teacher with Adaptability and Purpose: Reflections from a Faculty Member Energized by AI
Sent to Collaborate in the Reconciliation of All Things in Christ: Reconciling with Jesuit Slaveholding in the United States