USCCB Summer Intern Gregory Jenn

Gregory Jenn is a rising junior at the University of Notre Dame. Originally from Fullerton, California, he is a first generation college student majoring in Romance Language and Political Science with a Latino Studies Minor. As a Political Science major, he is fascinated by the political structures of governments across the world and how these governments interact. Because of his interest in international politics, a mastery of several languages is essential. Gregory decided to major in Romance Languages because of his proficiency in Spanish and his desire to learn more languages such as Italian. On campus, he has served as a research assistant to Professor Luis Fraga of the Political Science and Latino Studies Departments. He assisted him in research for comprehensive immigration reform across the United States by analyzing current debates, public responses, and current laws to see what changes could made. Additionally, they researched U.S. Latino participation in Catholic education and how Catholic schools can incorporate the largest group of Catholics in the United States. One of the outcomes they anticipate is how to encourage young Hispanics to attend college. This past Spring Break, he traveled to Immokalee, Florida where he stood in solidarity with migrant farm workers, learning about their daily struggles. In his free-time, Gregory enjoys performing in and watching the theatrical arts. From viewing live-theatre to watching a movie, he loves to delve deep into the creativity the arts offer. After his four years at Notre Dame, he aspires to attend law school. His career interest in social justice issues for Latinos is a driving mechanism for him in deciding what his career ambitions will be. Gregory is also discerning a call to the priesthood, specifically a Servite priest.

This summer, Gregory served as an intern for the United States Conference for Catholic Bishops in the Secretariat of Cultural Diversity in the Church. In this capacity, he served directly under Alejandro Aguilera-Titus. Over the course of his internship, he helped manage the social media platforms for the V Encuentro. He was tasked with reaching out and engaging to 2nd and 3rd generation millennial Latinos by working with Dr. Patricia Jimenez in the creation of memes and other social messages to be spread across our social media platforms. In addition, he assisted with the translation of our V Encuentro brochure and editing of the V Encuentro Guide that will be distributed to parishes across the country. Gregory states,

I am proud to state that over the course of my time serving as an intern, our facebook post engagement reached upwards of 16,000 on a single post, our page likes increased by 143%, and the percentage of our millennial demographic largely increased. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as an intern for the V Encuentro and the USCCB. I have profound respect and thankfulness to Alejandro and Patricia for this tremendous opportunity for this humbling experience that has enriched my faith and work ethic.

ENAVE is extremely grateful for Gregory, as he brought enthusiasm, creativity, and passion to his work this summer. 2016 © ENAVE. All Rights Reserved.