 A common question people ask when they visit Rawhide is, “Do you ever hear back from former students?” We are thrilled to receive phone calls, letters, and visits regularly from alumni. You will enjoy reading about alumnus Sebastian’s many accomplishments since he completed his private placement at Rawhide in 2006.
On January 31, 2009, Sebastian received the Eagle Scout Award from the Boy Scouts of America. He worked from February 2008 through June 2008 to complete the requirements to earn the rank of Eagle. He planned, coordinated, raised funds, and executed his Eagle project, with the help of many fellow scouts, friends, and family members. The project entailed the removal of existing landscaping and re-landscaping a courtyard area at the entrance of Sebastian’s church, St. John of the Cross Parish in Western Springs, Illinois. (See before and after photos below.)
Sebastian currently attends St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy (SJNMA), located in Delafield, Wisconsin. He acclimated well to the “BE-KNOW-DO” military style of the Academy. Since 2006 Sebastian has risen through the ranks, beginning as a new boy, red board rank, then Corporal after his first year; from Sergeant to Sergeant First Class after his second year; and was promoted to First Lieutenant at the beginning of his third year.
His mother, Jan, stated, “Before Sebastian attended Rawhide, we truly believe he did not recognize or understand his potential. We credit Rawhide for helping him to awaken, realize, and share his gifts. There is absolutely no doubt in our minds that the good work started there has continued to grow, and Sebastian is now a shining example of all that we hoped and wished for our son.” |
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 Sebastian has held several leadership positions throughout his years at SJNMA, including Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant, and Platoon Leader. He currently holds the position of Master Sergeant and is Platoon Leader for Delta Company. He is responsible for teaching 20 cadets, ages 14-16 (the little brothers he never had), in all aspects of citizenship, morale, and military training.
Since 1997 Sebastian has been working on becoming an Eagle Scout, starting as a Tiger Scout, moving to Cub Scout and Webelos Scout (grades 1-5), then Boy Scout from 2001 until present. In July 2008 he experienced an adventure most Boy Scouts only dream of. He and his father, along with a crew of eight other Boy Scouts and two leaders, traveled to Philmont Scout Reservation in New Mexico for a ten-day, 95-mile backpacking trek, at altitudes between 9,000 and 12,500 feet.
Sebastian is currently in the process of applying to several colleges to continue his education. He has been accepted at Monmouth College and Western Illinois University but has not yet made a selection. He will probably pursue a Liberal Arts degree and is interested in music, drama, and baseball.
Many Rawhide alumni have amazing success stories in their lives, and Sebastian’s
accomplishments point out the tremendous potential each young man has when given a second chance. This family is forever grateful to the Rawhide team for making such an impact in their son’s life. As you join us in celebrating Sebastian’s achievements, we thank you for making his story possible. |
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 | | | Above: Sebastian stands in the courtyard before starting his Eagle Scout landscaping project. After completion, the beautiful courtyard welcomes people to St. John of the Cross Parish. |
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