After learning they would have a new counselor, seniors shared feelings of uncertainty leading up to the first day of school, but their concerns were put to rest when they met college counselor Jerome Bennett. 

“I was looking for a job at the time, and I’ve heard great things about McGuinness,” Bennett said. “In fact, Ms. Basse and Mr. March both used to work at Cristo Rey, where I worked previously, and they always spoke highly of McGuinness and so when this position opened, it was a good opportunity.” 

Before his move to the school, Bennett explored many other careers, from managing data as a Geographical Information Systems analyst to working as an Oklahoma Regional Admissions Representative for Wichita State University. Eventually, Bennett found his way to college counseling for Cristo Rey OKC Catholic High School, where he worked for four years and found his love of working with students before arriving at McGuinness.

Since arriving, Bennett has been working on adapting to school life while connecting with the class of 2026. 

“I feel like from the moment I walk in the door until the moment I leave, I’ve just been busy trying to get to know the students, trying to get to know the systems that we have in place here,” Bennett said.

So far, Bennett said his transition to the Irish community has been positive. 

“What I’ve really appreciated is [that] the community couldn’t have been more welcoming,” Bennett said. “From the students to the parents, to the families, to the staff, they’ve just been incredibly welcoming and understanding.”