At Incarnate Word Academy, a new academic school year has begun and with it comes new challenges and goals. IWA is thriving with activity and excitement as students, parents, faculty and staff return to campus prepared to target their objectives with positive aim.

Following an extensive collaborative assessment process, IWA has set in motion a new initiative designed to strengthen its mission of providing a climate for learning that roots its students in Catholic spirituality. Now, IWA is proud to announce they have officially launched the IWA Campus Ministry Program.

After careful consideration and several interviews, IWA has appointed its first Director of Campus Ministry, Marc Ortiz. He brings leadership skills with a fresh perspective for the development of this program. "I accepted this new position with much enthusiasm and I look forward to the experiences this incredible year will bring," Ortiz said.

As a part of this plan, Ortiz will establish a comprehensive Campus Ministry Program to empower IWA students to live the Gospel. He will undertake several tasks aimed at developing this important program by directing Christian service, retreats and the faith formation of students and faculty.

In collaboration with the Theology staff and IWA administration, Ortiz will serve the three IWA campus levels. The goals of this initiative include fostering the personal and spiritual growth of each person and providing tangible experiences of lived Christian identity. The mission of IWA will be greatly enhanced with the launching of the program.

IWA recognizes how crucial it is to engage students at this important time in their lives. IWA is committed to educating and supporting the whole child intellectually, spiritually, emotionally and physically.

Ortiz explains, "The most important task I have is that of the spirituality of the campus. My ultimate goal is to make a connection and bring students into a solid relationship with God through the different opportunities available within the ministry program. This not only includes that of the students, but also of the faculty and staff as well."

Ortiz is originally from Ulysses, Kans. where he was born and raised. He moved to Corpus Christi from Phoenix, Arizona where he completed the Theology of Catholic Youth Ministry Certification Program by LIFE TEEN and Franciscan University. He is a graduate of Holy Cross College in Notre Dame, Indiana where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Studies including 15 hours of theology.

As the Director of Campus Ministry, Ortiz is committed to his role at IWA and is delighted to be a part of the Corpus Christi community. After lots of prayer and discernment, he is excited and equipped to continue on the path God has set for him which happens to be right here in Corpus Christi at IWA.