Debbie Rateau, Director of College Counseling at Cristo Rey Boston, knows firsthand how daunting the college application process can feel. 

As the first in her family to attend college, she remembers navigating every step with little guidance and strives to be the mentor she once needed. “I try my best to support students in the same manner that I would want someone to advise or support my own child,” she says. 

Debbie’s commitment to students often extends well beyond the school day. In the depths of the pandemic winter, Debbie worked virtually with Alanna Perez to finalize her college applications. “I remember ringing in the New Year with her on Zoom as we worked on perfecting her essays for Princeton University.” With Debbie’s support, Alanna was admitted to Princeton, graduated this past May, and is now pursuing her master’s degree at UC Berkley.  

Stories like Alanna’s show how Debbie and her team go above and beyond. Whether it’s guiding students through essays, organizing college visits, helping families navigate financial aid, or continuing to support alumni as they move through higher education, she consistently shows up with encouragement and positivity. 

Reflecting on her years at CRB, she feels most proud of how the College Counseling office has grown. She shares, “I am so grateful for the adults that I have worked with, the resources that I have learned about, and the amount of people invested in our students.” 

Last school year, Debbie’s dedication was recognized across the Cristo Rey Network when she received the Outrageously Bold Award. The award, chosen by her colleagues, celebrated the impact of her leadership at Cristo Rey Boston and her dedication to ensuring that every student feels seen, supported, and capable of pursuing ambitious futures.  

Off campus, Debbie enjoys spending time with her daughter, soon to be a high schooler, and listening to Haitian Kompa music, which reconnects her to her roots. Through her steady commitment, compassionate care, and bold leadership, she continues to make a lasting difference in students’ lives, ensuring they not only apply to college, but step into the future with confidence.