John Faris ’24 has made his mark on the Jesuit community by modeling the behavior of a servant-leader.

John’s desire to serve is exemplified by his work with the Sharing God’s Bounty program at St. Philomenes School, a program that provides free warm meals to the less fortunate in a welcoming and hospitable environment. The program has grown to be one of the most popular choices for Jesuit students doing service. Currently, John is the program’s volunteer coordinator. 

“I have served as a leader in this regard to probably around 200 of the Jesuit students currently attending the school,” John said. “I’ve had the opportunity to make a lot of [impactful] connections with them.”

John’s leadership roles go beyond serving at Sharing God’s Bounty. He is also a part of Jesuit’s big brother program.

“As a big brother, I am responsible for mentoring and helping a group of freshmen boys get started at Jesuit on the right foot,” John said. “I have been a mentor to four freshman from completely different backgrounds and act as a leader and role model to them as they come to Jesuit.”

One of John’s close friends, Austin Maples ’24, respects John as an all-around good person and student at Jesuit.

“He’s a great guy.” Austin said, “Always willing to help you out. Honestly, he’s a phenomenal person and he’s a stellar student.”

John thrived as a student in his Physics class, and was able to have a good time and enjoy learning.

“Mr. Simon’s physics was probably my favorite class just because it was so much fun, I learned a lot, and had a good time with friends,” John said.

Physics Teacher Mr. Simon sees John as not only a good person, but a role model in the classroom.   

“[John] was always very bright; he knew what he was doing,” Mr. Simon said. “He was eager to learn. I’ve been on a retreat or two with him as well, and you can see he has a lot of compassion for those around him as well. Definitely a great person.”

Mr. Simon predicts that John’s talents will help him thrive in his years after Jesuit.

“[John] has a good set of gifts when it comes to his interpersonal skills,” Mr. Simon said. “When he goes to college, people are going to love him. ”

After high school, John will continue to use his leadership skills and warm personality to make a difference. He is someone who will always be looked up to, and has left a lasting mark on the Jesuit service program.