Alumni Stories
The de Paul Difference in action
At The de Paul School, every student’s journey is unique — and every success story is worth celebrating.
Here, we share the inspiring paths of alumni, parents, and families whose lives have been transformed by a community that believes in the power of learning differently.
From young students struggling in the classroom to confident college graduates, business leaders, engineers, medical professionals, and educators, each story reflects what’s possible when the right environment, support, and belief come together.
These are the voices of resilience, confidence, and discovery. They remind us that with the right tools and encouragement, learning differences can become lifelong strengths.
Read their stories. Feel their determination. Celebrate what’s possible with The de Paul School.
Jesse Schmitt, ‘06
Senior Special Teams Analyst Notre Dame University Football
South Bend, IN
“de Paul was the stepping stone I needed to propel me in the right direction. It’s not just a two- or five-year decision—it’s a 40- or 50-year decision that can change the direction of your life.”
Brynn Gerstle, ‘04
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Cardiac Surgery ICU
The Christ Hospital
Cincinnati, OH
“At de Paul, I was shown love, patience, and compassion day in and day out. I was told I could do anything. And I knew all of my teachers believed in me every single day. That made all the difference.”
Austin Dahlem, ‘04, P.E.
Civil Engineer
Denver, CO
“By the time I got to my master-level engineering courses, I vividly remember our professors encouraging us to think differently from our traditional school mindset to creatively solve problems. I had been “thinking differently” my whole life. I thrived in my advanced degree courses.”
The
Hatcher
Family
Kesia Hatcher,de Paul alumni + alumni parent
CEO and founder, Hatching House Mentoring Services
“I’m so grateful we identified my children’s challenges early and enrolled them at de Paul quickly. I would do it all over again – even with the financial challenges we faced. It changed the trajectory of our lives. It really did.”
The
Johnson
Family
Leslie Johnson, wife and parent of 3 de Paul alumni and de Paul CFO
“I know how vital The de Paul School is to our community and to children who learn differently. It changed my children’s lives, and I’m grateful to help other students find the same success. That sense of purpose keeps me deeply dedicated to ensuring its mission continues far into the future.”
