’02 Laura Medina Gieseke

Still as multifaceted as she was as a high school student, Laura Medina

Gieseke continues to embrace opportunities and possibilities as her way of living life. Never confined to one role, she is a teacher, a mother, a coach and a “lifelong learner”; she has also been a journalist, an activities director and Montini Catholic’s Lasallian Educator of the Year. She relishes every role.

Involved in everything from the school newspaper and choir to Nazareth’s first Kairos Retreat, Laura applied effort and diligence to her dreams thanks to the support of the Naz Family. She especially treasures her English teachers for encouraging her to think outside the box and Mr. Michalek for helping her understand the true meaning of school spirit. As a high school teacher she continues to model these lessons with her unique optimism.

“I try to convey both passion and perspective to my students. It’s difficult for them to see – at 14 or 15 years old – that lifelong learning is a part of becoming a well rounded adult, but it doesn’t mean that I stop helping them pursue this path. I try to share my learning journey with them, making mistakes that demonstrate that I haven’t failed, but rather that there is potential for growth.”

Laura is deeply appreciative of the Nazareth environment that nurtured her. “I never felt forced to be anyone but myself - a quiet kid from the south side of Chicago who wanted to take advantage of every opportunity. High school ends, but the memories I made and the opportunities I took advantage of have stayed with me for years.”

She offers a lifetime of thanks for the scholarship that made her education possible. “Every year, I say a prayer of thanks to the family of Michael J. Usher. Their benevolence in awarding me with a gift in honor of their beloved son is a moment I’ve never forgotten. I’m confident that I’ve developed a sense of giving because of the Ushers, and I hope that all of us can find a way to give of ourselves to the world around us.”

When Laura had the opportunity to speak to scholarship donors and students a few years ago, she not only offered gratitude, but also encouraged current Roadrunners to be both curious and bold.

“Take classes that challenge you, join extra-curricular activities, take part in service that sends you into the community. Be the leader that Nazareth expects you to be. I think that if we all remember our childlike ambition, we can all embrace who we are and remain one in Christ.”