Nearly 200 eighth-grade students from schools supported by CISE took part in the inaugural CISE Career Exposition “A Hero’s Journey” on Monday, November 24, at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The event featured more than 30 Cincinnati industry partners providing interactive introductions to high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing, engineering, construction, healthcare, public safety, information technology, and civil service.

Since many CISE students may be the first in their families to graduate from high school or pursue postsecondary education, early career exposure helps them make connections between education and opportunity. It also builds confidence and helps students identify strengths that can shape future goals.

This event was part of CISE’s expanding focus in early workforce readiness and Career and Technical Education (CTE), led by CISE's Mari K. Thomas, PhD. The goal is to help students build confidence, curiosity, and clarity about career pathways as they prepare for high school and beyond.

Article by David Cooley, Catholic Telegraph

Happy New Year,

As we begin a new year, I want to thank you for the role you play in the lives of CISE-supported students and schools. Your generosity and belief in our mission continue to make a meaningful difference for children and families across our community.

I’m grateful to share that our 2025 annual campaign raised more than $5 million. This is a record result, and it reflects the deep commitment of our donors, partners, and supporters. At the same time, our Securing Their Future capital campaign continues, and the momentum we are seeing gives me great confidence as we work to strengthen our schools, support educators, and expand opportunities for students. Currently, we have secured pledges and gifts which exceed 70% of our $35 million goal. Thank you!

In this newsletter, you’ll read about several ways your support is already at work. We’re highlighting the CISE Career Expo, which helps students explore real-world pathways to college, career, and life. You’ll meet educators and donors who are making an impact every day, learn about new partnerships through The Parent Academy, and find details about upcoming events that bring our community together. Everything we do at CISE is rooted in the belief that access to a values-based Catholic education can change the trajectory of a child’s life. 

Thank you for your continued support! I am deeply grateful for your partnership and look forward to all that we will accomplish in the months ahead.

With gratitude,

Phil McHugh, President & Executive Director



For Dr. Bob Flick and his wife, Heather, supporting CISE is about passing forward the values and opportunities that shaped their own lives. Lifelong westsiders and strong supporters of Catholic education, the Flicks understand firsthand the transformative power of faith-based schools and dedicated educators.



Since becoming involved in 2012, the Flicks have been steadfast champions of CISE - as loyal donors, Spring Party supporters, and through Dr. Flick’s service on the board of trustees and advisory board. Through the Flick Family Foundation, established by Dr. Flick’s parents and supported by their extended family, they are generous investors in Securing Their Future, CISE’s first-ever capital campaign. One of their greatest joys has been supporting high school scholarships and celebrating students as they take the next step toward college, career, and life.

Inspired by generations of teachers in their family, Heather and Bob place special importance on investing in educators and strengthening school communities. Their commitment reflects a shared belief that when students are supported academically, socially, and spiritually, entire communities are strengthened.

A Great Party for A Great Mission

CISE is excited to return to the iconic American Sign Museum on April 17, 2026, for Party at the Museum 2.0. Set inside the museum’s newly expanded space, bigger and brighter than ever, the evening brings friends and supporters together for great food, an open bar, a DJ, dancing, raffles, a silent auction, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet educators and learn more about the 12 CISE-supported grade schools.

New this year, host a party table for your friends and colleagues - table seats 8. Buy your party and raffle tickets today!

A Heart for Good

CISE alum Brooke Rouse is hosting her first-ever fundraiser in support of Catholic education, with proceeds benefiting CISE, on February 14, 2026. The Valentine-themed evening will take place from 7–10 pm at Pinnacle Pointe Clubhouse and will include food and drinks, dancing, raffles, and festive surprises. Admission is $10 at the door, with free parking available. Space is limited.

Cincinnati International Wine Festival

Since 1991 the Cincinnati International Wine Festival has granted more than $8 million to over thirty Cincinnati nonprofits - CISE is honored to be among the nonprofit beneficiaries. The 35th annual Cincinnati International Wine Festival will be on March 5–7, 2026, at the Cincinnati Convention Center. Attending the Cincinnati Wine Festival is a great way to enjoy a fun event while also supporting CISE.

Jennifer Ostertag brings nearly three decades of service to Catholic education, marking her 28th year with the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. She spent 21 years in the classroom teaching grades 2 through 8 and is now in her seventh year as principal of St. Teresa of Avila School, which is proudly in its first year as a CISE-supported school.

A proud westsider, Jennifer attended St. Dominic School, graduated from Seton High School, and earned her degree from Mount St. Joseph University. She continues to live on Cincinnati’s west side with her husband and three children - two sons and a daughter. Outside of school, she enjoys cheering on her youngest at soccer games. She also loves going on camping trips with her family.

Empowering Families Through the Parent Academy

Recently, Mount St. Joseph University celebrated the Fall 2025 graduates of The Parent Academy of CISE & Mount St. Joseph University. Through this eight-week program, parents and caregivers gained the tools, knowledge, and confidence to support their children on a path toward college, career, and life. The joint celebration with St. Lawrence and St. Francis de Sales reflected shared values, strong partnerships, and a collective commitment to breaking cycles of poverty through education, advocacy, and connection.



Each year, the Parent Academy partners with two CISE-supported schools. For Spring 2026, Xavier Jesuit Academy and Corryville Catholic have been selected to participate in the program. Through guidance, advocacy, and meaningful connection, the Parent Academy continues to equip families to support their children’s academic success and future pathways.

CISE Staff Updates

As our organization continues to grow, staff roles evolve to meet the needs of our schools and students. Mari Thomas will now manage relationships with partner Catholic high schools while continuing to lead CISE’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming. Cate O'Brien will continue to play a critical role in supporting and strengthening CISE’s growing network of grade schools, working closely with school leaders to ensure consistent support, strong partnerships, and lasting impact.

Claim Your 2025 Ohio Tax Credit

You can still receive an Ohio tax credit for your 2025 tax year by making a donation to CISE Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) by the tax filing deadline.

A gift to CISE-SGO provides a dollar-for-dollar Ohio tax credit of up to $750 for individuals or $1,500 for married couples, while helping open doors to a values-based Catholic education and essential support services for students across Cincinnati.

Great News! A new federal SGO tax credit is expected in 2027, expanding opportunities for donors nationwide. Stay tuned for more details in upcoming newsletters.

A NEW WAY TO SUPPORT CISE

Did you know you can donate directly from your checking or savings account?

This option is especially helpful if you give monthly, since bank accounts tend to change far less often than credit cards, making your recurring support easier and uninterrupted. To learn more, contact Kelly Camm at KCamm@cisekids.org or 513.263.3473.

Your next CISE Quarterly Newsletter will arrive

May 5, 2026