On November 19, 2025, El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson paid a visit to Loretto Academy Middle and Elementary School. 

Mayor Johnson was given a tour of the school before giving a presentation to the middle and elementary schools on his career path and his experience working in an office of government.

The visit was organized by Career 101 Club President eighth grader Ariana Bowens and Vice President eighth grader Ana Contreras. 

Career 101 Club provides middle school students with ideas and insights into potential career paths for their future as they prepare for high school. 

Even though the visit was a middle school event, the major success for the club provided a powerful message to all students on leadership, responsibility, and determination. 

Idea in the making

The Career 101 Club President, Ariana Bowens, first pitched the idea of the visit to the club sponsor and Middle and High School Counselor, Mrs. Oaxaca, who then contacted the office of the mayor. 

Mrs. Oaxaca provided the office with a set of dates, and Mayor Johnson chose a date and time when he was available. 

The Career 101 Club then contacted the elementary school to coordinate a time when the Mayor could visit the elementary students as well.

Mayor Johnson ended up presenting to the eighth-grade students, then moving to the elementary school and visiting the second-grade classroom. 

Visit and goal

Mayor Johnson spoke to the eighth-grade class about his career path and how he dedicated himself to being in the position he is in. 

He especially noted the importance of leadership, in hopes of inspiring the students not to be afraid of stepping up and being an example. 

The Career 101 Club hoped that through the visit, the Mayor could see that they are the future leaders and next generation of doctors, politicians, and bright minds. 

Vice president of Career 101 Club Ana Contreras said, “We were a little nervous that we would be asking him silly questions, but everyone was asking very thoughtful questions, and I wanted him to see that we are the next generation.” 

Inspiration from his story

Mayor Renard Johnson’s visit to the Loretto Academy Elementary and Middle School left students feeling inspired and motivated to pursue their goals. 

The Career 101 Club hopes that through his visit, they can remind all students that the future is full of endless possibilities.