When JP Misenas spoke to the crowd of 500 at last spring’s FACE Gala Auction Dinner, he shared his aspirations, “One day, I wish to become a successful music artist or a family practitioner – possibly a singing doctor – who is able to contribute to FACE, helping others who have been in my position.” The crowd responded with warm smiles and thunderous applause – it is evident that JP is an optimistic young man, full of hope and bound to succeed.
In 1995, after a disabling injury left his father unable to work, JP’s family did not feel so hopeful. Mary Helen Misenas and her husband, Jimmy, were faced with many challenges providing for their five children. They felt they would have to abandon the Catholic education they so desired for their children. “Catholic schools offer a safe environment and enhance the students’ spiritual life,” she said. “My husband and I feel strongly that Catholic education is important – it teaches good values that serve as a guiding light through life.”
Fast forward to today. JP is a freshman at Contra Costa College with a 19-unit schedule (12 units being a full load), is pursuing studies in pre-med and music, and hopes to transfer to UC Berkeley his junior year. For now, he has chosen to stay close to home to help his family. He is committed to helping his four siblings – all honor students at Salesian High School – with their studies. His brothers and sisters retain their honor status while maintaining a busy schedule with co-curricular activities in campus ministries and music.
“For the past ten years,” JP says, “FACE has granted my family some financial freedom (to continue our Catholic education). It has played a key role in my life and my siblings’, giving us a common reason to achieve higher standards and perform with excellence.”
FACE honors JP and his family, as well as the generosity of the many donors who give the gift of Catholic education to young people throughout the Diocese of Oakland. For JP, his brothers and sisters, and so many more, doors are being opened.
St. Barnabas