I am a Jesuit scholastic in my first year of Philosophy and Theology studies at Loyola University Chicago.  I was born and raised in Hawaii and worked in both the private and nonprofit sectors before joining the Society of Jesus in 2009.  Aside from my interest in immigration issues, cooking is one of my favorite hobbies, especially Japanese, Cuban, and Mexican cuisine.

Stine Odegard

Hello, everyone!  My name is Stine Odegard, and I am a first year graduate student in the Higher Education program.  I am really grateful and excited to be a part of this fabulous team of co-leaders for this trip to Mexico!   I currently work as an Assistant Resident Director for Simpson/BVM in Residence Life here at Loyola.    Before coming to Loyola, I had the honor of working with alternative break immersions at another institution, so I am so grateful to return to being involved in this kind of experience that enriches and challenges me in meaningful ways.  I have been to CCIDD once before, but I am excited to return for the full program, to learn new things and to gain new perspectives with our team from Loyola!!

Tyler Tittle

Hi my name is Tyler and I am a junior studying Biology. I became interested in social justice issues after reading the book Disturbing the Peace: The Story of Father Roy Bourgeois and the Movement to Close the School of Americas.  This book brought to my attention the dire situation that people face under the threat of militaristic governments and inspired me to learn more about social issues in Central America.  Traveling to Cuernavaca, Mexico is very exciting to me because I will be able to implement my knowledge from researching and from the viewpoints of people I will soon meet.

Hollie Swidarski

I am a freshman here at Loyola studying Marketing and graphic design.  I love traveling and very excited to experience the Mexican culture through this ABI Program.  At school I am also involved with Loyola Campus Crusades and running club.  I am planning on running a half marathon later this month and am doing the Chicago marathon next fall.

Susana Vergil

I like to explore cities when I am touring other countries. One of my goals is to learn how to speak Russian. I am a Cubs fan.

Luke Montgomery

My name is Luke Montgomery and I am from St. Louis, Missouri. I am a sophomore Biology/Anthropology double major, Pre-Med student at Loyola. In addition to that, I am a Resident Assistant in a freshman residence hall. I am a very adventurous individual and love to go skiing, camping, rollerblading, and pretty much do anything in the wonderful outdoors.

Molly Falkner

My name is Molly Falkner and I am a junior with a major in Psychology and minors in Classical Studies and Sociology. My interests include animals (especially cats!), volunteering, theater and biking. My plans for you the future are to get a Master’s Degree in Higher Education Administration and to work in a university like Loyola, helping students. I am excited to learn about the culture and life of the people in Cuernavaca and then apply it to my life.

In a matter of 3 months, the seven of us have come together – each bringing our own talents, ideas, and experiences – to form a powerhouse group ready to dive in to Nazareth Farm and all it has to offer us.

We are ready to build community, build our faith through prayer, live simply, and do justice through service in the Appalachia community. In return, we have opened our hearts and minds to prepare for all God will show us on our trip. We are ready to give and receive in order to grow and be changed by our experience.

As we immerse in our journey, we hope that you will join too by keeping us your hearts, minds, and prayers. Thank you for all of your support thus far and we look forward to sharing our experiences with you when we return.

And, here we go…!

God Bless,

Kelly