CCO Campus Ministry

Home / Newsroom / Reflections of a recent college grad: "Over time, Jonny became a mentor."

Reflections of a recent college grad: “Over time, Jonny became a mentor.”

Nick Corsi graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in April 2009. This is his account of the CCO ministry’s influence on his college years, particularly through the work of staff member Jonny Cagwin.

Through the University of Pittsburgh’s Habitat for Humanity Chapter, dozens of students get to experience what it is like to actively take part in changing the world. This organization has grown to be one of the most popular and well-known campus groups and is proud to have an incredibly active membership and leadership board that drives Habitat’s initiative locally and abroad. The success our chapter has seen in the past couple of semesters has also been in part due to the dedication, selflessness, and initiative of our advisor, [CCO staff worker] Jonny Cagwin.

Jonny has a gift for working with college students and enables them to make a difference. Working as an adult advisor in a college is not an easy pair of shoes to fill. Being at crucial points in their life journeys, college students in service and leadership organizations are seeking much more than just something to do. They are seeking growth, experience, and the will to be part of something much bigger than themselves. These students are also at a point where enjoying the days of their youth is a necessity in the majority of activities they participate in.

Jonny’s unique presence combines genuine servant leadership with a fun-loving spirit. He brings the teachings of Christ to college students in a way that few can accomplish. By understanding the balance necessary in communicating and interacting with students, Jonny enriches their experience with Habitat for Humanity, the University of Pittsburgh and the world in which they depart to.

My personal experience with Jonny has been nothing but a true pleasure. Our friendship started when we were roommates on my first spring break trip. His willingness to have a conversation with anyone was evident from the very beginning. As he slowly found his place as our organization’s formal advisor, I began to work with and look up to Jonny as much more than a formal advisor. Over time, Jonny became a mentor.

The last six months of my college career were largely defined in my growth through Christ. This spiritual growth spurt was catalyzed and cultivated through Jonny’s invitation for me to participate in the Jubilee Conference and his willingness to have weekly one-on-one discussions that centered around growing in faith.

Jonny brings a special and unique presence to any organization. His dedication and example through faith and leadership are the seeds necessary for the growth and development of tomorrow’s faith-based leaders.

—Nick Corsi, University of Pittsburgh Class of 2009