First Semester Dominican Torch Award Winners

Today, following our All School Mass, we took time to recognize several students and present them with the fall semester Dominican Torch Award. This award, presented twice a year, recognizes those students who live their daily lives in a way that reflects the Four Pillars of Study, Prayer, Community and Service.

These students have inspired others with their generosity and kindness, humility, and compassion. Take a moment to read their heartfelt nominations, written by classmates and teachers!

Maya Ongsingco, SAA 2

One classmate wrote, “I nominate Maya because she is kind, and if someone is hurt, she always goes to check on them. She is a good listener, and she helps others out when we are learning something new.”

Another friend shared, “Maya is smart because she always pays attention when our teacher is teaching. She likes to make people happy and sometimes even shares her snack.”

A classmate added, “Maya is smart, too! She is so good at Math.”

One of Maya’s teachers summed it up perfectly, writing, “She is a pleasure to teach and a true St. Agnes Star!”

 

Jude Philip, SDS 2

One classmate shared, “He is nice to all and very special. He is always looking out for others when they are hurt.

Another classmate couldn’t help but express admiration, saying, “Jude is amazing, and I just love him.”

Yet another friend wrote, “He studies every single day, and that is why he is so smart. He is always wanting to help his friends, and he cares about everybody.”

One classmate observed, “Jude has the best sportsmanship. He doesn’t even get mad if someone beats him, but they usually don’t because he is so good at sports.”

A teacher wrote, “As our class chaplain, Jude’s thoughtful prayers and kind words inspire those around him, and his enthusiasm for learning shines through in the classroom. Jude is always ready to lend a helping hand, and his commitment to serving others strengthens the sense of community among his peers.”

 

Ellie Hudman, SAA 6

One friend shared, “Ellie is caring and very kind. She is one of the funniest people I know. She makes me very happy.”

Another friend wrote, “I was new this year, and Ellie really made my life easier. She has a very strong faith, and I know that because she prays a lot and really pays attention at our school Mass every week.”

Yet another classmate shared, “Ellie helps everyone, and not in a know-it-all type of way but in a genuine ‘I want to help’ kind of way. Ellie helped me when I needed it so much, and I really appreciate that. I could not carry my books because I was on crutches.”

A teacher wrote, “Ellie exemplifies kindness, respect, and a heart full of love. She is a true ‘bucket filler,’ always going out of her way to uplift and encourage her peers with a warm smile and a helping hand. Ellie lives the Gospel every day through her actions, embodying its values with grace and sincerity. Whether it's being a loyal friend, a compassionate classmate, or a cheerful presence in the school community, she radiates positivity wherever she goes. Her respect and helpfulness toward her teachers and classmates alike set a shining example for all of us. Ellie reminds us of the power of love, kindness, and faith in our daily lives, and we are so proud to celebrate her.”

 

Jack Tucker, SDS 5

One classmate shared, “I vote for Jack because he is kind, and he seeks to find the good in other people. He is a friend to all. He tries to stay focused on his work during class.”

Another classmate wrote, “Jack is nice to all during school and outside of school. He really lives the Four Pillars every day.”

Yet another classmate shared, “Jack demonstrates responsibility. He helps the teacher when he has the time. He is nice and stays positive. He really tries to always do his best.”

A teacher wrote, “Jack is an outstanding example of living the Dominican spirit. His kindness, work ethic, and willingness to help make him a leader in our community. He uses his patience and kindness to be a shining light of Christ in and out of the classroom. His dedication to his friends, family, and hobbies are an example we all should strive for.”

 

Elizabeth Onikeku, SAA 7

One friend wrote, “Elizabeth is very kind and considerate. She exhibits prayer and study, prioritizing faith and school. She treats everyone the way she wants to be treated. She reminds people to pray and even encourages her classmates to read from the Bible.”

Another classmate shared, “Elizabeth has a strong love for God and is always trying to learn more about her faith. She loves learning and is one of the smartest people I know. I want to be just like her.”

Yet another classmate added, “Elizabeth is nice, athletic, and smart—what more could you want in a friend?”

A teacher wrote, “Elizabeth’s dedication to her faith, studies, and friendships sets her apart as a true leader in our community. Elizabeth is extremely conscientious in her schoolwork and lives Christ's mission every day. She is kind to all and a natural born leader.”

 

Kaleb Cottrell, SAA 8

One friend shared, “Kaleb exemplifies what a great student should look like. He is engaged in every class. He is always paying attention when it matters. He is respectful to all.”

Another classmate wrote, “Kaleb wants to make a positive impact on our school. He includes everyone, leaving no one out, which is what we all should do. He loves to make his friends smile and laugh. Everyone loves to have Kaleb around.”

Yet another classmate added, “Kaleb is kind and caring and is quick to include everyone. He likes to be a friend to all. He is respectful to his classmates and his teachers. He always does his best.”

A teacher wrote, “Kaleb makes the right choice even when it is hard. He is not afraid to go against the crowd if it means making the right choice. He is the first to volunteer in class and to assist both teachers and students when they need it. He is very humble and puts others before himself.”

Another teacher shared, “Kaleb is a bright young man whose quick wit brings a laugh or a smile to many of his classmates. Gifted in both the classroom and on the stage, Kaleb is a young man of many talents. Beyond intelligence and ability, however, Kaleb is liked and respected by his peers because is a young man of good will and contributes to an environment where his classmates feel welcome.”

 

Abbi O’Dell, SAA 9

One friend shared, “Abbi is one of the friendliest people I have ever met. Abbi has a positive attitude and helps you see the bright side in any situation. She is always willing to help anyone in need. Abbi’s optimism and generosity make her a joy to be around.”

Another friend said, “Abbi shows how strong her relationship with the Lord is. She models the Pillar of Prayer. She is always kind to others, even if you are not close friends with her. Her faith and kindness inspire everyone she encounters.”

A teacher added, “Abbi radiates love for God and others. She is welcoming and thoughtful to everyone. Abbi has deep insight into her faith in God, and she willingly discusses it with others. She has a pure heart and shares her passion for the faith.”

 

Margaret Hayden, SAA 10

A classmate wrote, “Margaret is always a great friend to turn to whenever you need her. Whenever you feel alone, she is always there, smiling and happy. She makes sure you do YOUR very best at whatever you're doing. For example, when she knows there's a big test or assignment the next day at school, she will text and remind you to make sure you remember. This has helped me many times when I have forgotten.”

Another classmate said, “She always has a smile on her face and is ready to tell anyone about Jesus. She is funny and a very good example of a follower of Jesus who lets her faith lead her in everything she does.”

A teacher wrote, “Margaret demonstrates all of our Dominican Pillars. She is prayerful, studious, brings people together in community, and serves with a generous heart. She is kind to everyone, honest, and genuinely seeks to do her best in everything she does.”

 

Fallon Drzyzga, SAA 11

A teacher wrote, “Fallon espouses the ‘Pillar of Prayer’ as a member of St. Michael Parish, the St. Louis Parish Youth Group, the St. Agnes Liturgical Choir, and the retreat leadership team. Fallon also demonstrates the ‘Pillar of Study’ by her outstanding and conscientious academic performance, always interested and willing to learn. Fallon’s membership in Student Government, the Key Club, the Pep Club, Angels Among the Stars, and the Spanish Club demonstrates her commitment to the ‘Pillar of Community.’ Finally, Fallon has exemplified the ‘Pillar of Service’ through her involvement in the Catholic Work Camp, where she spent part of her summer at Martha’s Community Farm outside Philadelphia, harvesting food for a food pantry for the needy, coaching basketball at the St. Agnes summer camp, and participating in the Forever Friends partnership with Madonna Learning Center.”

A fellow student remarked, “Fallon is always optimistic and helpful to her fellow students and a true friend to many. She is one of our brightest Stars at St. Agnes Academy.”

 

Emma Maye Leonard, SAA 12

One of Emma Maye's teachers wrote, "Emma Maye lives out the Dominican Pillars through her joy and kindness to all those she encounters. She is always willing to share her faith and lead others to it. Whether leading her class in prayer or coordinating service events, Emma Maye exemplifies our Dominican Pillars."

Another teacher shared, "Emma Maye demonstrated a strong commitment to the Pillars of Study, Community, and Service in her ECC internship. She cared deeply for our young PK students and dedicated herself to learning about being a caregiver for young children. She was well-loved and very helpful during her time in the ECC."

When asked about Emma Maye, some of her PK learners said:
"I like when she plays on the playground with me."
"I like that she visits us. She's nice."
"She always plays with me, and she always writes with me."
"She is fun and reads us funny books."

Congratulations to all our Dominican Torch Awards recipients. You are excellent examples for us all, and we appreciate your commitment to the Four Pillars and living a virtuous life!