LA MESA ACADEMY
SALUDOS
A message from the Editor
Hola,
As a Comms professional, I am used to being behind the scenes. Writing, designing, refining, snapping to keep you informed, encouraged, and connected Therefore, it’s not often I get to reach out to you directly But as we send out this edition of the student newsletter, I wanted to lift the curtain of my work and share something with you. Pause with me, and be certain:
You’re making history. Estás haciendo historia.
Each of you is part of a movement that’s not only shaping La Mesa Academy, but redefining what theological education can look like. You are setting trends, asking bold questions, and leading in ways that will open doors for others to walk through. Whether in your classes, in your communities, or in the quiet moments of your own spiritual journey, you are paving the way to something truly special. What an adventure it is to witness this.
This newsletter is full of reminders and resources to help you through a time that can feel busy, uncertain, or just plain overwhelming. But more than anything, I hope it gives you a moment to breathe. To pause. To remember that you are part of something meaningful, but th don’t have to carry it all alone.
Behind every graphic, social post, and update, I’m always thinking of you: of how to make La Mesa clearer and more vibrant to honor the work you are doing. You are the heart of this place, and it’s my privilege to help tell your story
RESIDENCY isrightaroundthecorner!
Cohort One, it’s almost time to welcome you back on campus! It seems like it was only yesterday when we met you in-person for the first time. We cannot wait to welcome you back! Our time together is always a treasure.
RESIDENCYISFROMAUGUST11TO AUGUST14.
You will be participating in an intensive during your time here. Please make plans to attend, as this residency is mandatory. If you have absolutely any questions about residency, your travel, or other concerns, please contact Karina, your Program Coordinator at karina.aragon-buchanan@emory.edu
THE STUDENT CORNER
학생 코너
THE STUDENT CORNER LA ESQUINA ESTUDIANTIL
LAMESAFACULTY
The transformative journey of La Mesa Academy is guided by the wisdom, dedication, and passion of our extraordinary faculty. These scholars and practitioners walk alongside our students, offering their expertise, mentorship, and support every step of the way. Meet the faculty members who are shaping the future of faith and leadership through La Mesa!
Next edition, we will highlight our Disintginguished Faculty, so stay tuned!
학생 코너
THE STUDENT CORNER
LA ESQUINA ESTUDIANTIL
LAMESAFACULTY
LizaMiranda
JessicaLugo
SamuelMainoo
KevinPark
MaressaPandermon
DanielPrieto
AgbileOliver
RobertOwusu
EmmanuelPadilla
THE STUDENT CORNER
LA ESQUINA ESTUDIANTIL
학생 코너 LAMESAFACULTY
We are so grateful for each member of our faculty team. Their gifts, wisdom, and encouragement make La Mesa Academy a place where students not only learn, but truly thrive.
AmyBarkerValdez
VictoriaShen
JoSuse
JessieWashington
AlexandraZareth
학생 코너
THE STUDENT CORNER
LA ESQUINA ESTUDIANTIL
La Mesa IN METRICS
11
Birthplace Locations
This cohort hails from many birthplaces! Some birthplaces include Germany, Ghana, Ecuador, Colombia, and Puerto Rico.
Al l a re wel come here! Our current students i denti f y a s three ethni c a nd i denti ti es, na mel y :
Ethnic Identities
La ti nx/La ti ne Bl a ck Af ri ca n Ameri ca n 10
Members of the LGBTQIA+ Community
At La Mesa, we encourage our students to be their full selves in the spaces we create for them. 10 students publicly self-identify as LGBTQIA+.
Our students call 11 places accross the Americas home. Georgia, however, is home to the most La Mesa students! Currently, 8 students call GA home. is home for the largest # of students
COHORTONE...
PLACEHOLDER
Cohort One, we know this season has been a lot. Papers, work, family, ministry some days it feels like everything is happening all at once. So here’s your gentle reminder: it’s okay to pause. In fact, it’s necessary! Beginning on June 28 you start that break until residency. th
In the spirit of caring for the whole you: mind, body, and spirit, we’ve gathered a few ways to help you slow down and take a breath. Whether you’ve got five minutes or a whole afternoon, we hope something here brings you a moment of peace.
If you would like your own packet of relaxation and companion cards, please email our student worker, Chris, at christopher.ng@emory.edu
Reflect:
Take ten minutes to write a note to your future self. What are you proud of right now? What are you learning?
Move:
Try a stretch break, a walk around the block, or a few minutes of mindful breathing.
�� Listen:
Create a playlist of songs that help you reconnect with joy, stillness, or energy whatever you need today.
�� Rest:
Make a cup of tea or your favorite warm drink and do nothing else while you sip it. Just be.
�� Unplug:
Light a candle. Put your phone down. Stare out the window. It’s not wasted time it’s sacred time.
Think of one word to meditate on as you trace the labyrinth with your finger.
학생 코너
THE STUDENT CORNER LA ESQUINA ESTUDIANTIL
LAMESA’SSUMMERTEAM
We are working hard for you during the Summer! These are the staff members and student workers who will be available for you during this time. We will be praying for you all.
KarinaAragon-Buchanan
CarlaCarmona-Dillon
ChristopherNg
IsraelDiaz-Freytes
FOLLOWUS ONSOCIAL
