Mother McAuley’s Career Day welcomed 105 alumni and community members, inspiring students with insights from diverse professional fields. (Photos by Kelly White)

Mother McAuley High School welcomed a network of accomplished alumni and community members Friday, Feb. 6, for its annual Career Day, giving students a glimpse into a wide variety of professional paths.

Maria McCormack Lappe, Class of 2016 and Associate Director of Alumnae Relations, said this year marked the third consecutive Career Day since the event returned following a pause during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Career Day has been an annual event at Mother McAuley, though it paused for a few years due to COVID. This year, we are thrilled to continue this tradition,” Lappe said.

Alumnae representing careers in business, healthcare, art and design, and engineering share their experiences with students at Mother McAuley High School’s Career Day.

The fair drew 105 participants, including nearly 90 alumnae, as well as current and former parents, community members, and friends of McAuley, located at 3737 W. 99th St. in Chicago. Careers represented ranged from law, business, and healthcare to art and design, engineering and computer science, real estate, education, and government.

“I love the duality of the event,” Lappe said. “It’s so important for our current students to be exposed to women and men in different career paths, and it’s equally important to have our alumnae come back to the school that gave them the confidence to pursue their dreams.”

Students spent the day attending sessions and engaging with professionals, asking questions about education, career development, and navigating the challenges of various industries. For many, the event was a source of inspiration and practical guidance as they consider their futures.

With Career Day, Mother McAuley continues to connect past and present students, fostering mentorship, networking, and a shared sense of community that strengthens both the school and its graduates.