Why Relationships Matter: CRJS is Leading the Way

CRJS Students with Cristo Rey Tucson Alum, Mia Gallego

Much has been written about achievement and opportunity gaps in education. Less often discussed is what some researchers call the social wealth gap, a concept explored by Bruno V. Manno in his article, “The Social Wealth Gap,” which examines how access to relationships shapes opportunity and mobility and highlights the Cristo Rey model as an example of how intentional relationships and workplace experience can expand social capital for students.

Social wealth refers to the relationships that help young people navigate school, careers, and life. Mentors who believe in them. Adults who explain how systems work. Professionals who are willing to open doors, offer guidance, and say, “You belong here.”

Research shows that this lack of social capital has real consequences for long‑term outcomes. Many students from first‑generation families of limited economic means graduate with talent and determination, yet without access to these critical relationships.

Cristo Rey Jesuit Seattle was founded to respond to this reality.

Our Corporate Work Study Program embeds real workplace experience into the high school journey. Students build professional skills while also forming relationships with supervisors, mentors, and colleagues who help them envision their futures with clarity and confidence.

By graduation, Cristo Rey students earn a diploma and carry with them years of work experience, professional references, and a growing network of adults who know them, advocate for them, and continue to walk with them beyond high school.

A Cristo Rey education is rooted in dignity, formation, and relationship, reflecting the Jesuit belief that young people thrive when they are known, challenged, and supported in community.

We are deeply grateful to our corporate partners who serve as bridge builders every day. Together, we are shrinking the social wealth gap one relationship at a time. When businesses invest in relationships, not just resumes, everyone benefits. Cristo Rey Jesuit Seattle partners are proving it.

On March 31, we hosted Bright Beginnings, a morning on campus with eleven local community leaders to learn more about our Corporate Work Study model, tour the school, and meet some of our remarkable students.
 

To learn more about Corporate Work Study Program partnership opportunities, schedule a conversation with Katie Seltzer, VP of Corporate Work Study, to explore how the model works in practice. Partners make a meaningful impact by supporting students’ professional growth while meeting real business needs, and we are eager to share how a mission-driven partnership can strengthen your organization and our students’ futures!