This year a familiar face has rejoined the Jesuit High School Sacramento community. Dean Joey Elftmann from the class of 2000 has quickly become known throughout the community as a friendly and outgoing face, who eagerly works to ensure the wellbeing of all students. 

As a Jesuit alumnus, Dean Elftmann uses his understanding of what it is like to be a student to bring positivity to the role of Dean.

“When I was a student here, I was very involved in student government and athletics,” Dean Elftmann said. “All of these experiences have allowed me to gain valuable perspective on student life, and now that I’m back at Jesuit I hope to bring a sense of joy and optimism to the Dean’s role while supporting students to do their best.”

Dean of Students La Roddric Theodule believes that Dean Elftmann is the perfect person to fill the role of assistant dean because of his capability to understand and support the students on campus.

“He wants to see people succeed,” Dean Theodule said. “He wants to be a part of a good support system for all of our students. And so his desire to be good, be supportive, and be with people along this journey through high school is a great fit. It’s perfect for what we need in order to carry out our goal of being able to care for each individual person.”

Dean Elftmann makes it his goal to help students understand the truth that the purpose of the adults on campus is to promote student well-being. He wants what is best for every student, and strives to make sure that everyone feels embraced in their learning environment.

“My main priority is for students to know that they are cared for and supported in all areas of campus life, by their counselors, teachers, school staff, and especially from the Dean’s Office,” Dean Elftmann said. “My hope is that when I interact with students around campus and at various student-life events, students feel respected and seen. I want students to understand that our intention is to take great care of the work we do, help students work through hard situations, and generally support them to feel welcome and safe on campus.”

Assistant Principal for Academics Mr. Colin O’Connor ’04 values Dean Elftmann as a person who is always willing to go out of his way to build bonds with students.

“[I admire] his willingness and desire to be out on campus or in the Harris Center getting to know kids before they make their way down to the office,” Mr. O’Connor said. “Getting to know them in that preemptive way is definitely a strength of his.”

Dean Elftmann’s outgoing nature exemplifies the role of the Dean’s office as he works to understand and adapt to the needs of each student he encounters. His impact on the school will continue to grow as he inspires everyone around him to act more like a “Man for Others.”