Stryker is known to most as the leading medical and surgical manufacturer. In Irving ISD, this global giant is known for its humanitarian spirit. 

Bob Harris, chief executive officer of the district’s long-standing partner, Level Pathways, communicated with Stryker about Irving ISD’s need for male mentors for the district’s new mentorship initiative, All Pro Dad.

Several male employees from Stryker signed up to become mentors and attended Irving High School’s All Pro Dad meeting last spring. 

Stryker Associate Manager Luis Henriquez signed up as mentor through All Pro Dad because he wanted to give back. Growing up, Henriquez was raised by a single mother, and he believes it’s incredibly important for children to have a father figure in their life. 

Se’Vaughn Carter, senior sourcing manager for Stryker, decided to volunteer his time because so many people poured into him when he was young. One of his earliest memories was of a coach mentoring him.  

The corporation’s philanthropic nature doesn’t stop with Irving ISD. It’s part of their culture. 

Stryker provides employees time and resources to “do good” through the Stryker Committee Activities (SCA) and their steering committees, including Stryker African Ancestry Network, Veterans and WISE (Women in Science and Engineering). 

Along with being a mentor for All Pro Dad, Carter is part of the “Stryker African Ancestry Network.” During the school year, Carter, with this network, partnered with Irving High School to clean up their courtyard. 

Courtney Stanaland, senior staff quality engineer, heads up the local SAC and WISE corporation’s community outreach.   

“The Stryker Committee Activities is one of the coolest things we do,” says Stanaland. “These employee resource groups make a difference in the medical field and in the community. This initiative is going to keep growing.”

Angela Corello, Stryker’s production scheduler and Irving High School graduate, is also involved with SACs because they are a great avenue for employees to get engaged. Now in her ninth year at the corporation, Corello is a senior at DeVry University working on her bachelor’s degree in business management. 

Thanks to companies like Stryker and their dedicated employees, our students, families and the greater community are benefitting tremendously. 

To learn how your organization can partner with Irving ISD, complete the Partner in Education application today at IrvingISD.net/PIE.