At the start of the 2022-23 school year, Jesuit Dallas welcomed many new faculty members. Mr. Conall Flanagan is the newest member of the Department of Social Studies. The Department of Social Studies focuses on the trends and progresses of the social sciences that help students have a better understanding of the world and themselves.
So, I decided to conduct an interview with Mr. Flanagan and learn more about him.
How did college lead you to Jesuit Dallas? What teaching experience did you have before coming to Jesuit?
After college, I pursued a master’s degree in theology. Then, I attended law school and graduated with a law degree in 2004. Since then, I practiced corporate law for about 18 years. My fields of expertise included corporate banking, mortgage defaults, and everything else besides criminal and family law.
Then, about a year and a half ago, I was teaching Confirmation over at St. Rita. St. Rita had mentioned that Jesuit needed additional substitute teachers.
So, I connected with the theology department and managed to get hands-on teaching experience as a substitute teacher. In the fall, I helped teach theology to freshmen and seniors. In the spring, I was helping Ms. Williams with just any type of sub needs. This ranged anywhere from math to helping AP exams.
What classes do you teach?
At Jesuit, I teach senior government courses and Social Justice & Public Policy (SJPP) classes.
What is your teaching philosophy?
I would say that there is a fundamental purpose in teaching. I must make sure that whatever the goals are for the class, I am imparting in a way that is the most beneficial for the students. This relates to students’ knowledge retention and their enabling to articulate the material in a way that they can remember and apply to their lives. It is not necessarily in an academic fashion in terms of regurgitating the material in order to do well in class. Overall, my teaching philosophy is to, especially with senior courses, ensure that the students apply what they learned to their lives and serve their communities.
When you hear the name Jesuit, what stands out to you the most?
I believe that the Jesuit motto “Man for Others” stands out to me the most. It is very coincidental that I am here, but I feel that this institution reflects a precious value that we need in the community. It’s all about being committed to the faith and tenets and promoting justice and well-being for others. I think this is the reason why the administration placed me in the SJPP program so that my interest and passion for giving is something that Jesuit is reflective of. Overall, I perceive the phrase “Man for Others” as the umbrella of the Jesuit perspective and core values.
How is your experience so far at Jesuit?
I really love Jesuit Dallas and everything aspect of it! Back in college, I played soccer at a collegiate level. Because of my passion for soccer, I decided to help out with our school’s soccer programs. I met Coaches Charlie Delong and David Williams (sophomore counselor) and I developed lasting friendships with them.
Regarding Jesuit Dallas itself, I love the positive and enthusiastic energy of the students here! I love the service aspect of Jesuit as well. I like how the teachers always reinforce that we are not always here to learn, but also to focus on our community and enhance our commitment to service. It’s not about being served by others, but it’s about serving others.
What are you involved in outside of the classroom?
Outside of class, I love to run in the mornings and on weekends. I have two daughters at St. Rita and this keeps my wife and me busy. In addition, I help my wife with her medical practice. Regarding outdoor recreation, I usually go fishing with my daughters.
Regarding my family, I think that we all love traveling. My wife is from El Salvador, and we travel there at least once a year to visit family. We absolutely have a great time with family and friends!
Currently, as an active sports fan, I vigorously root for Manchester United. I grew up playing soccer and supporting Manchester United and watching the Premier League. There are a lot of my colleagues who also watch the Premier League, and root for different teams such as Arsenal or Tottenham. But, I really enjoy watching soccer as a neutral spectator and enjoy the thrill of it!
If you see Mr. Flanagan in the hallways or cafeteria, then remember to give him a warm welcome!
Stay tuned to The Roundup for more news about Jesuit’s new teachers!
