Dominican Torch Awards Celebrate Students

St. Agnes Academy and St. Dominic School honored students with the presentation of the Dominican Torch Award during the School's celebration of the Feast of St.  Catharine of Siena on April 26. The Torch Awards recognize those students who exhibit, by their example, the Four Pillars of the Dominican charism: Study, Prayer, Community and Service. Students are nominated for this honor by their classmates and teachers, and the awards are presented twice a year.

Below are excerpts from the nominations.

Eden Smith SA2:  “Eden is so kind and willing to do anything for anybody. She is a beautiful girl who is super funny, too! Eden might be quiet, but she has amazing ideas. I’m lucky to be her friend. She is very sweet, kind and has a positive attitude."

A.J. Ongsingco SD1:  “AJ makes the kind of decisions that make him a good leader and friend to others. He sets a good example by following directions and working really hard.  AJ shows an optimistic and positive attitude. He doesn’t have ONE good deed, but AJ does MANY little things that are good and kind."

Olivia Grace McCullough SA5:   “Olivia always thinks about others first. She is kind, thoughtful and hard working. She demonstrates an extraordinary sense of compassion for her fellow classmates. You can count on her to be helpful, resourceful and respectful of all. Her smile and radiance light up the room!”

Will Seelig SD6:   “Will can always make you laugh. He is never mean and, if you are sad, he will be there to help you. He is respectful to the teachers and knows right from wrong. He is a caring person who will always stand up to lend you a helping hand.”

Patrick Scarborough SD8: “Patrick is not only a good student, but he is an amazing friend to me and others. He looks out for everyone. He excuses himself from getting into any form of gossip and always thinks of the best way to brighten everyone’s day. He truly reflects the Four Pillars.”

Abbi Pahls SA8:   “Being around Abbi makes you want to be a better person. She is respected by her classmates and goes out of her way to help in any way she can. Abbi is an inspiration to us all. She never gives up and has been there for me whenever I am stressed or upset.”

Meri Alan Petro SA10:  “Meri Alan truly is full of life, love, and joy—she walks confidently as herself and loves endlessly.  She can always brighten your day, and positivity radiates from her!  Meri Alan prioritizes her faith, friends, family, and the little moments in life. Most importantly, she has a big heart for her faith and—with a big smile—shares her love for Jesus with others.”

Anna Entrekin SA12:  Anna has a kind and caring heart.  She is welcoming to her peers and works cooperatively with any person.  Anna is not afraid to voice her beliefs to her classmates; rather, Anna often guides her peers toward a more righteous lifestyle through her words and actions.  Academically, Anna is intrigued by new ideas, and she has a yearning for knowledge.”

The Torch Awards are presented twice a year by the Dominican Associates.