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Loretto Justice Fellowship
Loretto Justice Fellowship matches social work and pre-law students from the University of Texas-El Paso to social justice internships with El Paso-based partner organizations. These organizations are on the front lines of work aligned with Loretto mission and values. Our Loretto Justice Fellows build the capacity of these local partners, contributing to and learning from the critical impact of these organizations.
Healing Through Service
By Candice Licon, Loretto Justice Fellow Being part of the Loretto Justice Fellowship has been one of the greatest gifts of my life, and I say that with the deepest sincerity. I came into this experience hopeful but unsure of…
Loretto Justice Fellowship Reflection
By Dani Felix, Loretto Justice Fellow It’s only been three months since our Loretto Justice Fellowship orientation, but so much has already changed. I remember that day clearly — I felt both excited and frightened at the idea of meeting…
Where Hope Rests
By Carolina Cardoza-Hererra, Loretto Justice Fellow As time goes by, I’ve realized life has a way of guiding us to the places where we are meant to be. Taking the risk of applying to this Fellowship really paid off and…
In Their Stories I Found My Purpose: A reflection on Las Americas
By Ashley Vallecillo, Loretto Justice Fellow Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center (LAIAC) is more than a legal organization; it is a lifeline for individuals and families navigating one of the most challenging systems in our country. They provide free and…
The People We Choose Not to See: An Essay on Homelessness and Humanity
By Stephanie Menchey* They are everywhere, every city, every state, every country, yet somehow, they remain invisible. Not because they aren’t there, but because we choose not to see them. We cross the street when they approach, tuck our heads,…
Loretto Justice Fellowship thrives
Facing the unique challenges of our times with determination and resolve, the Loretto Justice Fellowship program welcomes its largest cohort to date with 16 Fellows serving with eight partner organizations in El Paso. The fellows come from the communities they…
Meet Our 2025-2026 Loretto Justice Fellows
I am thrilled to introduce our 2025-2026 Loretto Justice Fellows! Fellows gathered at Loretto Academy for orientation in mid-August and are now already almost a month into their year-of-service. With the support of expanded external funding partnerships, 16 Loretto Justice Fellows will…
A Letter to Future Loretto Justice Fellows
By Sofia Quinones Segovia The Loretto Justice Fellowship has been more than just a service year, it’s been a grounding and transformative chapter in my life. Rooted in the Loretto Community’s values of justice, peace and simplicity, the program invites…
Loretto Justice Fellowship End of Year Reflections
It’s the end of the year and the Loretto Justice Fellows have wonderful reflections to share. From Iris Cano: Looking back on my time with the Loretto Justice Fellowship, I can confidently say that it was a highly valuable and…
Loretto Justice Fellowship Spring Retreat
Loretto Justice Fellows gathered April 18-19 for our spring retreat. Each led retreat offerings for her peers — including prayer, personal journaling prompts, facilitated group reflection, sharing and creating art. Outside facilitators guided practices centered on resilience, restoration and nourishment…
Justice Fellows live Loretto’s spirit of service
Ten Loretto Justice Fellows are currently serving with five placement organizations in the El Paso, Texas, community. During the fall 2024 semester, they contributed 2,500 hours of service to people experiencing food insecurity and/or homelessness, to people in detention centers…
IGNITE Event Reflection
A key goal of the Loretto Justice Fellowship program is to carry forward Loretto’s legacy, particularly in empowering Loretto-connected young women to work for justice and act for peace, doing so in ways that are rooted in relationship and supportive…