When students attend Carroll University, they are quickly enveloped with the spirit of service and the encouragement to learn about and engage with diverse cultures. Sometimes it’s in their backyard and other times it’s in another country. Dr. Cynthia Jones-Nosacek ’77 and Dr. Jeffrey Champion ’82 are a pair of alums who have gone above and beyond to make a difference for those in need. Both were inspired while attending Carroll to help the underserved, whether it be locally or with a global mission in mind. “My plan was to work in underserved areas as a physician, and I was told that Carroll had a great reputation of getting students into medical school,” Dr. Jones Nosacek said. “In fact, everyone in my class who applied was accepted.” “I loved the convocations at Carroll, because they made me think more on a global scale,” said Dr. Champion. “I aspired to do some sort of global mission besides a private dental practice. This was instilled in me by Dr. Bud Hudson.” Both Carroll alums have accomplished a great deal in their careers, but it has been their commitment to giving their time and talents graciously to international communities that precede them. Dr. Jones-Nosacek’s Intercontinental Alliance The relationship between the Saints Peter and Paul parish in Milwaukee and the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Padibe, northern Uganda, is a testament to the power of international solidarity and the human spirit’s resilience. Padibe is in a region that endured the horrors of the war between the Ugandan government and the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). Many families had to choose between this terror and life in government camps, such as the one in Padibe, where malnutrition and violence were common. Early Beginnings and Growth of the Partnership The partnership between the parishes began around the time the war was ending. Over the years, it has expanded significantly, touching various aspects of life in Padibe. Initially, the support focused on education, directly assisting over 20 students from primary school to university. As parents started earning income from projects initiated by the partnership, the number of supported students grew to over 100. Several key projects have been pivotal in transforming the community. These include the construction of a sunflower press, which now exports sunflower oil worldwide, providing a significant source of income for many families. Additionally, cassava planting projects have been implemented to reduce food insecurity in the area. Support for SS. Peter and Paul Medical Clinic A significant portion of the partnership’s efforts has been directed toward the SS. Peter and Paul Medical Clinic, run by the Sisters of Mary Immaculate. The clinic has seen substantial improvements, including the construction of a new inpatient and labor and delivery unit. Over the past six years, a dedicated individual from the partner parish who wishes to be unnamed has been visiting the clinic one to two times a year and staying for up to a month each visit. This person’s primary goals are twofold: assessing and addressing Building Bridges Abroad Through Care, Compassion and Service EXPLORATION By Tim Muma F1RST | Fall 2024 19
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