Center for Catholic Education at UD

By Emma Grace Geckle

Our ECHO program is thankful to have Claire Riggan share her welcoming spirit and hard-working attitude to serve students in our Catholic schools during 2019-2020. 

What do you do at the Center for Catholic Education?  

I am a Marianist PULSE Volunteer working with ECHO. I plan and organize retreats for the Peacemakers (a 7^th and 8^th grade leadership group), and work alongside the counselor and family advocate at St. Benedict the Moor School. 

Tell a little about yourself and what led you to working with ECHO program in the CCE?  

While attending college in Honolulu, Hawaii I got involved with Campus Ministry and took advantage of every opportunity I had to do community service and work with the marginalized. While discerning my post grad opportunities I knew I wanted to join Marianist PULSE to continue my passion of service and figure out graduate school options. For my nonprofit placement I was paired with ECHO. I do a lot of mentoring and one-on-one work with students, as well as plan retreats and other projects along the way. I am grateful to be working with ECHO and I look forward to seeing how the rest of the year goes. 

Describe your family: 

My immediate family includes my mom and dad, my older sister Ryann-who is 26, and my 2 younger brothers-Grant who is 20 and Tate who is 10. We have 2 dogs, Millie and Billie, who we adore. We like to call ourselves a "dysfunctional" family because you never know what you're gonna get with us, with our busy schedules and fun personalities! 

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?  

I enjoy exploring new coffee shops and restaurants with friends, participating in community service, hiking, and spending time with my family in my free time. 

Why do you support Catholic Education? 

I support Catholic Education because I believe it supports the whole child.  Not only does it provide personal, social, and physical education/support but spiritual nourishment which is an integral piece to a child's school experience. 

Who is your role model? 

My great grandmother, Rita Jenn. She has inspired me wither dedication to the Lord and her acts of service. She was the woman who never stopped giving. 

Tell us three fun facts about you.  

1. I converted to the Catholic Church my junior year of college.
2. I've been skydiving.
3. My favorite sport is ice hockey.

Edited by Lindsey Bronder.