Alumnus Makes Lasting Impact Through Educating Future Generations
“Education is simply the soul of a society as it passes from one generation to another.” ~ G. K. Chesterton
“Education is simply the soul of a society as it passes from one generation to another.” ~ G. K. Chesterton
Alumnus Makes Lasting Impact Through Educating Future Generations
Benedictine Media and Culture • Emma R.C. Lyons
Benedictine’s profile of Coley O’Connor offers a compelling portrait of education as a vocation that shapes generations. Through mentorship, rigorous formation, and hands-on teaching, O’Connor found his calling as a classical educator devoted to the full formation of his students. This story captures the heart of educational renewal: teachers formed in wisdom and purpose who help young people grow not only in knowledge, but in humanity.
What if the life you long for is formed one teaspoon at a time? In this episode of Composed, Christine Perrin speaks with classicist, writer, and homeschooling mother Nadya Williams about the small patterns that fill a life: reading aloud on the couch, gathering friends around books and snacks, welcoming children into imperfect homes, and writing in the margins of family life. Together they explore motherhood, Christian human dignity, education, AI, and the hope of building a humane culture through local, faithful, ordinary practices. For mothers who feel stretched thin and are hungry for wisdom, this conversation offers a gentle invitation to begin with one small good thing.
How does a father help his son become a good man? In this episode of Forged, Brian Williams speaks with Marine veteran, novelist, and journalist Elliot Ackerman about the small habits and embodied patterns that shape a man’s life and form the next generation: wearing a suit with intention, writing a thank-you note, keeping a friend, caring for meaningful objects, reading deeply, and learning to live with purpose. Drawing from Ackerman’s series “A Man Should Know,” the conversation explores why fathers, coaches, mentors, and male friendships matter in a culture where many young men are left to make it up as they go. For fathers seeking to lead their homes with wisdom, steadiness, and hope, this conversation offers a clear reminder: formation often begins in the little things. Ackerman also reflects on the Marine Corps, the influence of his own father, the meaning carried by inherited objects, the discipline of writing, and the quiet work of raising children with both acceptance and standards. Together, Brian and Elliot consider how fathers pass on more than advice. They pass on habits, stories, loves, friendships, and a way of seeing the world.
After nearly 20 years of homeschooling, this mother is honest about both the work and the gift of educating her children at home.