Welcome Mr. John Paul Hendrickson - Director of Development

The Chesterton Academy of St George is excited to announce the hiring of Mr. John Paul Hendrickson as the Director of Development. 

Born and raised in Jackson, John Paul completed his bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan where he also met his wife, Valerie. Following graduation, he earned his license as a real estate salesman. As a Realtor, he found joy in the process of building relationships with people and helping them achieve the dream of owning their own homes. 

It was during his time in real estate that John Paul felt called to serve the people with whom he shared his faith.  As an effort to get more involved and make connections with his parish community, he started a young adults group at the Basilica of St Adalbert and led the group until his departure from Grand Rapids.  “It wasn’t until I was able to tie my business and faith together that I found real satisfaction in my work”, John Paul said.  He ended up finding much more than work connections: forming friendships with many parishioners and developing a desire to spend more time working for the Church.

When he and his wife made the decision to move back to Jackson in preparation for the arrival of their first child, he knew that he could no longer continue his path as a real estate agent. “I felt called to give my time and talents to God and to help build his kingdom here on Earth. I am blessed to have that opportunity as I take on the adventure of building Chesterton Academy here in Jackson.” 

One of the founding members and Board President, Tom Hulett, shared his excitement saying, “We are truly blessed to add another genuine, faithful, and driven individual to our Faculty and Staff. Mr. Hendrickson’s love for the Catholic Faith and recognition of the fruits of our labors make him an ideal addition to our community.”

John Paul’s younger sister, Kaelin, is a freshman at Chesterton Academy of St George. After witnessing the positive impact of her time at the school, it became obvious to him that something great was happening here.  After attending the Gala earlier this spring, and seeing the support of the community, he was even more inspired, “What this school has been able to accomplish and the impact it has had in just the first few months is so impressive. I am grateful to be in a position now to help it do even more”, he said. 

John Paul will be taking on a number of responsibilities in this role, including event planning and coordination, marketing, meeting with donors, and leading fundraising efforts. 

Your prayers are very much appreciated as he begins this new adventure.