John and Mary Madden have been dedicated supporters of San Miguel Schools since 2000, serving as sponsors to many students over the years. In addition, for the past seven years the Madden's have hosted events on San Miguel's behalf at their home in Florida, inviting friends to learn about the work of San Miguel.

The Madden's first heard about San Miguel through a friend involved with the schools, who encouraged the Madden's to take a look at the work that is happening at the Back of the Yards and the Gary Comer Campus. John Madden's history with the Christian Brothers, as a graduate of St. George, and Mary's connection to the Austin neighborhood, compelled them to take part in the mission of San Miguel Schools.

"Access to quality education is vital to our society," John says. "We must give every child the opportunity to get a great education so that they can be productive citizens. They can then enjoy the great things education can bring - high self-esteem, the ability to hold a good job, and provide for and raise families that are well educated and aspire to mighty deeds."

The Madden's drive to continue supporting San Miguel Schools comes from "the opportunity to see first hand the success of the San Miguel model. Watching youngsters who entered with 2nd grade reading levels and raising them to high school standards in just four years is a truly remarkable achievement," says John.

John and Mary understand the importance of guiding these students not just through middle school, but supporting them through high school and beyond. "The San Miguel graduates are readily accepted at the best high schools in Chicago," says John. "When they started, they had little chance to even graduate from grade school and now they are graduating from some of the finest universities. These students had a life changing experience at San Miguel Schools. Mary and I are determined to see that more and more of these youngsters have every opportunity for this transforming experience and that is why we continue to support this work."

"The heroes of the mission are the school teachers, administrators, staff, volunteers and parents. It takes total dedication by all parties to make this a unique place," John says. The mission of San Miguel Schools is strengthened by the unwavering support of John and Mary Madden.  The Madden's continue to serve as a vital piece of the San Miguel mission.