Legacy Club

Karin Popkin celebrates her birthday with several of her grandchildren: Travis, Hanni, Hatcher, Camden and Izzie Popkin.

'People Are Called to Be Here'

Karin Popkin, former Jesuit High School faculty member and Fr. William Hayes, S.J. Legacy Club member, believes that fate brought her to Jesuit not once but twice during her career. Karin first arrived at Jesuit in 1990 as a substitute French teacher. Classes were small with 5-6 young men and there was not much opportunity for students to have speaking partners and to learn the language from one another.

The following year, she became a full-time French teacher. “Once young women came to campus in the fall of 1993, the number of students in French classes tripled and the curriculum expanded,” says Karin. “Going coed was a positive change for the teachers and students.”

Karin took time off from Jesuit to teach French oversees in Ecuador and Thailand from 2000-2003. Her experience living abroad opened up her worldview and her teaching focus changed. “I realized during those four years that as a teacher, I am not only exposing my students to a new language, but I am supporting young people to be compassionate bi-lingual leaders for the 21st century,” says Karin.

When Karin moved back to Oregon in 2005, a position was open at Jesuit and she eagerly accepted. “I believe people are called to be here,” she says. “This is my place and the students are my people.”

Karin returned to campus with a new passion for social justice issues and a global perspective. During her tenure, she started the Global Perspectives Club, took students abroad to study in France, and helped with Setons, Campus Ministry, Brown Bags and more. In addition, current JHS French teacher Emily Schmidt and Karin created the AP French program.

When Karin retired in 2011, she knew she wanted to give back to Jesuit because her experience was so impactful and moving. “I knew a Jesuit education changed lives,” says Karin. “To me, Jesuit is not just about outstanding academics, athletics, drama or the French program; it is about the formation of young people of compassion, conscience and competence.”

When planning for the future Karin decided to include Jesuit in her estate plans. “I am and will always be committed to the Jesuit mission,” says Karin. “I trust my Legacy Club gift will be used to help deserving students come to Jesuit and it will make a big impact on their future.”

“It was my privilege to teach with Karin; I learned so much from her. Her positivity, generosity, enthusiasm and deep care for students was inspiring!”

– Mme. Emily Schmidt

Learn more about the Fr. William Hayes, S.J. Legacy Club by contacting Diane Salzman, Vice President for Development, at dsalzman@jesuitportland.org or 503-292-2663.

Karin Popkin with children and grandchildren on an Oregon vacation.

donate your car CARS

FORJESUIT

You can now donate your car, truck or other vehicle in any condition and support Jesuit High School! Go online to make your donation.