50 for 50: Chris Losurdo

For more than two decades, QCH’s alternative high schools have played a critical role in supporting young adults who have struggled in traditional high schools, helping them succeed in school and prepare for life beyond graduation. In this feature, we speak with Chris Losurdo, founding principal of Voyages South, one of QCH’s transfer schools.

"I was first connected to QCH when I was a social studies teacher at the original VOYAGES high school. What stood out immediately was the role of their counselors. In more traditional schools, students can become invisible. At VOYAGES, counselors truly knew the students—their backgrounds, challenges, and needs—and that connection mattered.

When a student builds a strong relationship with a counselor, it often leads to a stronger connection to school and to learning. That’s what helps students show up, stay engaged, and finish high school.

When I helped open Voyages South, there was never a question about partnering with QCH. Their advocate counseling and hands-on support form the foundation that allows the school to focus on academics. QCH also plays a critical advocacy role, pushing for students to stay and succeed when systems might otherwise push them out.

Success for our students goes beyond graduation. It’s about preparing them to work, communicate, and navigate the world with confidence. Voyages South is one of the city’s strongest transfer schools, and that success would not be possible without this partnership.

As QCH celebrates 50 years, my hope is simple: continued investment in counseling and student support so we can keep meeting young people where they are and helping them move forward."

—Chris Losurdo