Second Semester Upper School Torch Awards

On April 4 after our All-School Mass we had the honor of presenting the Dominican Torch Award to four of our outstanding Upper School students.  The Dominican Torch 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 uphold our standards of conduct and represent the core values of our school.

Classmates and faculty members nominated the award recipients because they noticed something special about them and the ways in which they live out the Gospel daily. Congratulations to our deserving award winners: Genna Gardino, Michelle Loredo, Emma Caesar and Dylan Jeanfreau.

Below are excerpts from their nomination forms, recognizing the many ways these students exhibit a loving and faithful life.

Genna Gardino, SAA Grade 9

Genna is a shining example of what it means to live out the Four Pillars, and her classmates and teachers have shared many kind words about her. Her kindness, humility, and dedication make her a true role model in our school community.

One student shared: “Genna shows all the Pillars, but if I had to pick one—it would be Community. She shows kindness and supports everyone and anyone she meets. She brings a positive attitude to every situation or conversation she is in.”

Another classmate added: “Genna represents the Pillars of Service and Study. She is always finding time to help others, and she is always focused on what she has set her mind to. Genna really represents all the Pillars and always strives to be better.”

A teacher also praised her character, saying: “Genna’s humility and kindness make her a joy to be around each day. She is thoughtful in her interactions, strives to include those who may feel left out, and leads with maturity. She embraces challenges with enthusiasm and uplifts her classmates with her positivity.”

Michelle Loredo, SAA Grade 10

Michelle is cherished by her classmates and teachers for her kindness, thoughtfulness, and deep faith. She is a shining example of what it means to live the Dominican Pillars every day.

A classmate wrote: “Michelle is a shining example of the Pillar of Community because she is always trying to help others and is so kind to everyone she meets! She's an amazing friend and truly strives to do her best!” She continued: “Michelle expresses a strong love of learning, and partnership and friendship. She's incredibly smart and is always on top of everything. She loves to help others in their learning and always jumps at the chance to help others understand the concept as well. She has a huge heart and is the best friend anyone could ask for.”

Another classmate wrote: “No matter what Michelle does, she puts in 100%. In every class I'm in with her she always pays attention and participates. She is never afraid to ask a question. She is a good role model for others and makes me want to do better in school. She has the biggest heart of anyone I know and always wants the best for others. In the hallways walking to classes, I always see her trying to talk to others and trying to make their day better. She knows how to care for herself and for others.”

A teacher wrote: “Michelle demonstrates all our Dominican Pillars. She is always attentive in class, both during prayer and during my lesson. She serves with a generous heart and is loved and respected by her peers. She is kind to everyone and always willing to help others. She is a true leader. She is well deserving of this award.”

Emma Caesar, SAA Grade 11

Emma is an outstanding student who lives out the Dominican Pillars in every aspect of her life. Her dedication to Prayer, Study, Community, and Service makes her a role model for her fellow students and a “Shining Star” of our school.

A fellow student remarked: “Emma is a true friend to everyone she meets. She has a heart of gold and is always there for anyone in need. Emma’s kindness and generosity shine in everything she does. Whether offering a word of encouragement, lending a helping hand, or simply sharing a smile, she has a way of making others feel valued and supported.” 

Another friend wrote: “Her compassion extends beyond her close friends—she is the kind of person who notices when someone is struggling and steps in without hesitation. She embodies the spirit of empathy, making every space she enters warmer and more welcoming.”

A teacher wrote: “Emma espouses the Pillar of Prayer on a regular basis. She has taught St. Louis Vacation Bible School during the summers, served as a school retreat leader, and been very involved with SEARCH and Stars for Life. Emma demonstrates the Pillar of Study by her outstanding and conscientious academic performance, always interested and willing to learn. Emma demonstrates and exemplifies her commitment to the Pillar of Community and Pillar of Service by her work in the Key Club, her position as Junior Class Minister of Service, and her commitment to the Forever Friends partnership with Madonna Learning Center.”

Another teacher explained: “Emma is an outstanding example of what it means to live with faith, compassion, and commitment. She not only treats others with kindness but also leads by example, showing integrity and dedication in all aspects of her school life. Whether in the classroom or on the field, she consistently demonstrates strong moral character, and a heart devoted to doing good.”

Dylan Jeanfreau, SAA Grade 12

Dylan is honored for her dedication to living out the Dominican Pillars. Her leadership, faith, and commitment to others have left a lasting impact on her school community.

In her nomination of Dylan, one student wrote:  "She exhibits all the Pillars, but I think the Pillar she most exhibits is Study.  She has great grades on top of taking harder courses than required.  She contributes much of her time to study and does not let her grades slip during any situation." 

Another friend said this about Dylan:  "She embodies what it means to be a Christian by living her faith. Dylan is inclusive and loving toward anyone she meets and makes you feel seen and cared for. Being friends with Dylan has allowed my confidence to grow because she is constantly uplifting and supporting those around her. I'm so thankful I have the privilege to call such a humble, compassionate, and driven girl one of my best friends."

One of Dylan's teachers wrote: "Dylan lives out the Dominican Pillars through her hard work—in and out of the classroom. Her willingness to step up and get involved truly sets her apart. Whether helping classmates better understand a concept or serving at both school and community events, Dylan exemplifies our Dominican Pillars through faith in action."

Congratulations to all our Dominican Torch Awards recipients! They are wonderful examples for us all, and we appreciate the joy and loving spirit they each bring to our Dominican Community.