CISE Quarterly Newsletter 🍂 Novmber 2025

“Our students come to us with tremendous potential, and CISE helps us unlock it,” said Katie Puthoff, principal of Holy Family School. “Through the support we receive, our teachers are empowered, our classrooms are stronger, and our students know they are seen and loved.”

That message captures the spirit of the Securing Their Future capital campaign kickoff event, held at the Taft Museum of Art, where supporters, educators, and students came together to celebrate CISE’s enduring mission and future vision. The campaign focuses on four key priorities: investing in teachers, ensuring safe and secure learning environments, expanding access to high school scholarships, and creating career and technical education pathways that prepare students for college, career, and life.

At the event, speakers shared powerful stories of CISE’s impact. Zach Schmucker, high school advocate at La Salle High School, described walking beside students “during a time of huge transition,” helping them see that their future is bigger than their circumstances. Seniors Lofell and Keon, both CISE scholarship recipients, spoke about opportunities they never imagined -opportunities that have shaped their confidence and future plans for college.

Since 1980, CISE has continued to grow and adapt thanks to generous supporters who believe in the power of Catholic education to transform lives. Today, that legacy continues through Securing Their Future, a campaign rooted in faith, opportunity, and hope for generations to come.

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Dear friends of CISE,

As we enter this season of gratitude, I am reminded of how much we have to be thankful for at CISE. The generosity of our supporters creates opportunities for children attending CISE-supported schools, helping them learn, grow, and believe in their potential.

This fall has been filled with moments that capture the heart of our mission, from the kickoff of the Securing Their Future capital campaign to the SGO donor appreciation gathering and the upcoming 8th Grade Career Expo. Each reflects the same spirit of hope, faith and community that defines CISE.

Thank you for sharing your time, talent, and treasure to make a lasting difference. I hope you enjoy reading about the many ways your support is transforming lives.

In gratitude,

Philip R. McHugh, President & Executive Director

Wine Walk Wednesday

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Wine Walk Wednesday in Hyde Park Square last month! Your support helped raise more than $6,700 for students in our inner-city communities!

A big thanks to the participating boutiques, to Awakening Coffee & Wine Shop for the wine tastings, and to our amazing hosts Louise Stakelin and Tricia Headley. We’re so grateful!

SGO Donor Appreciation Family Event

In September, CISE hosted a special family event at The Acres to thank donors who support CISE through our Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO). Guests enjoyed mini golf, the driving range, great food, and drinks while celebrating the impact of tax-credit gifts that make Catholic education accessible for more students. It was a wonderful afternoon of fun, gratitude, and community.

Upcoming: 8th Grade Career Expo

On November 24, CISE will host the 8th Grade Career Expo at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Focused on the theme A Hero’s Journey, the event will guide students as they explore career possibilities and discover how their strengths and dreams can shape their future. It also supports CISE’s ongoing work in career and technical education, helping students connect learning to real-world opportunities and workforce readiness.

CISE Party - Save the Date!

We’re lighting up the night again! Join us for the CISE Party at the Museum 2.0 on Friday, April 17, at the renovated and expanded American Sign Museum. It’s sure to be a bright evening of fun and celebration for a great cause.

Cynthia and Greg Kenny first learned about CISE through Tom Williams, who shared how the organization was founded more than 40 years ago by leaders of the Catholic, Jewish, and business communities. That interfaith beginning especially resonated with Cynthia, who is not Catholic, and reflected values she and Greg both hold dear.

Soon after, they visited one of the schools and were deeply moved by what they experienced. “It was the magic moment when we saw the genuine interest and joy these children had for being where they were and for their teachers’ attention,” Cynthia recalls. “At one point, overwhelmed with emotion, I had to step out of the classroom.”

Since that visit, the Kennys have become dedicated supporters of CISE and are proud donors to the Securing Their Future capital campaign, serving as honorary chairs. Cynthia also served on the Board of Trustees and chaired the Marketing Committee, helping strengthen the CISE brand and message. Her mother, Phyllis Brower, joined them in supporting the CISE mission after moving to Cincinnati. “Greg, Mom, and I believe that CISE is fulfilling a vital role in the community,” Cynthia says. “We do not all start on an equal playing field, and without consistent learning and caring, these children and our city lose.”

The CISE Rosary Project

The Rosary Project, led by devoted volunteers affectionately known as the Rosary Ladies - Louise Stakelin, Tricia Headley, and Susie Castellini - has now reached more than half of the CISE-supported schools. By the end of the school year they will visit all 12 schools. During their visits, the Rosary Ladies teach students about the meaning and importance of the rosary while helping them create their own personal rosaries. These handmade rosaries are later blessed during school Mass, giving each student a tangible reminder of prayer and faith. CISE is deeply grateful for the Rosary Ladies and their dedication to this meaningful ministry that enriches the spiritual lives of our students.

Did you know you can support CISE through your IRA?

If you are age 70½ or older, you can make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) of up to $108,000 per person each year directly from your taxable IRA to CISE.

A QCD is not a tax deduction, but the amount donated is excluded from your taxable income, which can often provide a greater tax advantage. To count for the 2025 tax year, your QCD must be completed by December 31.

If you are 73 or older, your QCD can also satisfy part or all of your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD), reducing your overall taxable income while supporting students in need of a values-based Catholic education. Learn more.

Challenges and Hope

Last month at Good Shepherd Parish, Phil McHugh and Sister Janet Linz, OSF, participated in an inspiring discussion on the challenges faced by students in Cincinnati’s inner-city schools.

Sister Janet, a Franciscan Sister from Oldenburg, Indiana, shared how Purcell Marian High School’s program helps young people build resilience and hope through caring adult support. Phil spoke about the hope and opportunities that a values-based Catholic education offers and how organizations like CISE empower students, strengthen communities, and pave the way for brighter futures.

Friends of CISE - Pete Bushelman Raffle

Pete Bushelman’s legacy continues to transform lives through this beloved annual tradition. Purchase your tickets today for just $100 each for a chance to win one of four cash prizes: $10,000, $2,500, $1,000, or $500. The winning tickets will be drawn at the CISE Party at the Museum on April 17. Winners do not need to be present to win. Contact Kelly Camm at 513-263-3473.

CISE-Scholarship Granting Organization (CISE-SGO)

Did you know a donation to CISE-SGO not only opens doors through education and vital services but also gives Ohio donors a dollar-for-dollar tax credit (up to $750/individual or $1,500/married couple)? That means every dollar you give is one less you pay in Ohio state taxes.

CISE-SGO transforms the lives of thousands of Cincinnati children facing poverty by providing a strong, faith-based education. With our tax designation, your generosity offers both a rewarding return for you and a brighter future for them.