Meet Cortez

The next installment of our Summer Spotlight series recognizes Cortez Washington '26 as he prepares to attend Yale University, where he plans to study Political Science on a pre-law track.

Reflecting on his time at Loyola Blakefield, Cortez credits the school's commitment to forming men for and with others for shaping both his leadership and sense of community.

"Loyola Blakefield has provided me with so many opportunities that have had a remarkable impact on my life in many ways," Cortez shares. "Being a peer educator and a leader in the Black Student Union and Multicultural Club has allowed me to internalize the value of cura personalis, or caring for the whole person, by building community and engaging in service and social justice."

Through his involvement in the Ignatian Honors Program, Peer Education Program, Justice Summit, Creative Writing Club, Black Student Union, and Multicultural Club, Cortez embraced opportunities to lead, serve, and foster a culture of solidarity and brotherhood.

One of his most memorable academic experiences came in Greek III Honors with Ms. Wise. The class explored Odysseus in America, a work that examines Homer's The Odyssey through the experiences of Vietnam War veterans.

"Throughout the year, we talked about how themes of trauma and PTSD are prevalent in the Odyssey and similar to the struggles that veterans face," Cortez said.

He also expressed gratitude for the educators who helped shape his Loyola experience, offering special thanks to Ms. Moore, Ms. Jefferson, Mr. Bowers, Mr. Medina, Ms. Holmes, and Mrs. Blackburn for their support and dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives on campus.

As he prepares for the next chapter at Yale, Cortez leaves Loyola with a deep appreciation for community, service, and academic inquiry. We congratulate him on his accomplishments and look forward to seeing the impact he will make in the years ahead.