The Cristo Rey Network announced the recipients of the 3rd annual Corporate Work Study Impact Awards, recognizing 2024-2025 Corporate Partners. Presented at the recent Cristo Rey Network Annual Meeting in Las Vegas, the award recognized Corporate Partners that demonstrate exceptional commitment to providing meaningful and rewarding Corporate Work Study experiences for Cristo Rey students nationwide. 

The national movement proudly partners with more than 3,500 Corporate Partners across 41 Cristo Rey schools. This year’s multicity award recipients represent four of nearly 50 multicity partners engaged in three or more markets. 

Corporate Work Study Impact Awardees:

Ascension Healthcare, one of the nation’s leading non-profit and Catholic health systems, integrates Cristo Rey students into hospital and clinic environments where they contribute meaningfully to mission-driven healthcare operations. Through mentorship, structured placements, and long-term workforce planning, Ascension is building a strong pathway for Cristo Rey students from high school to college and into healthcare careers.
Participating Cristo Rey school markets: Baltimore, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Milwaukee

CIBC, a leading financial institution, offers Cristo Rey students invaluable exposure to the financial services sector, helping them build practical skills and supporting their personal growth and professional development. The company’s robust mentorship model ensures that each student receives dedicated guidance, skill-building resources, and ongoing support, empowering them to develop workforce readiness and leadership skills essential for future success.
Participating Cristo Rey school markets: Atlanta, Chicago, East Bay

CommonSpirit Health, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit healthcare systems, is a longtime Corporate Partner, hosting 73 students across five markets annually. CommonSpirit exposes students to real-world professional settings, directly preparing them to be competitive and successful in the broader business landscape. Their commitment to Cristo Rey student associates extends well beyond Corporate Work Study placements, as they actively support ongoing engagement and long-term talent development.
Participating Cristo Rey school markets: East Bay, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Sacramento

Gallagher, one of the world’s largest insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting firms, has proudly partnered with Cristo Rey Network for more than 15 years. Through hiring, mentorship, and ongoing career guidance, Gallagher supports students well beyond graduation and serves as a powerful pipeline for opportunity that fosters professional growth and strong work ethics. 
Participating Cristo Rey school markets: Chicago, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, New York

“We are proud to recognize these partners for the role they play in shaping the lives and futures of Cristo Rey students,” said Cristo Rey Network President & CEO Kelby Woodard. “These companies stepped up. They demonstrate what is possible when opportunity is shared. Our students gain real experience, confidence, and access to the kind of social capital that changes lives. At the same time, employers gain dedicated, capable young people who contribute in meaningful ways and strengthen their talent pipeline. This is a model that works for students, for employers, and for our society. We are grateful for their partnership and for the example they set for others across the country.” 

In addition to national awardees, the Cristo Rey Network recognized two local Cristo Rey St. Viator Las Vegas College Preparatory High School Corporate Partners:

AIS, a prominent technology provider specializing in office technology solutions is deeply committed to student growth and long-term success. AIS provides students with hands-on experience in areas including administration, research, sales, app development, and video editing, giving them opportunities to help build real tools while learning to code alongside professionals. 

Smart City Networks, an event technology company provides student associates real-world work experience through cross-departmental rotations. This cross-training model allows students to explore different roles and interests within the company while also building strong work habits and supporting professional growth.

The Cristo Rey Network Corporate Work Study Program places every student in a professional job one full day each week throughout all four years of high school. Student associates connect classroom learning to career preparation, while employer partners gain early access to talented young people who contribute today and help build the workforce of the future. By integrating work experience with academic rigor and college preparation, Cristo Rey equips students for long-term success in college, career, and life.

Check out the Corporate Work Study Impact Award Video honoring our recipients here.