Second Semester Lower School Torch Awards

Second Semester Lower School Torch Awards

On April 23 we gathered as a Dominican family to worship and pray together at our All School Mass. Afterward, we had the honor of presenting the Dominican Torch Awards to four of our Lower School students and two of our Junior High students.

The Dominican Torch Award, given twice a year, honors students whose lives shine with the Four Pillars of our Dominican tradition: Prayer, Study, Community, and Service.

These students were nominated by classmates and teachers who see their kindness, their leadership, and their generous spirits each day. Their actions—big and small—have inspired others and strengthened our school.

Congratulations to the following award recipients! Please enjoy these excerpts from their nomination forms-they make it easy to understand why these students were chosen by their fellow classmates and teachers:

AJ Dale, SDS Grade 2

AJ is known for being funny, happy, and someone who truly works hard each and every day. His joyful personality keeps his classmates smiling, and his lighthearted sense of humor makes even the busiest school days a little brighter. You can always count on AJ to bring a smile—sometimes even when he’s just being himself!

A classmate said, “AJ is funny, happy, and works really hard. He always makes us laugh!”

His teacher shared, “AJ always does his best and demonstrates what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and heart. He is faith-filled and approaches every challenge with his best effort. AJ does not seek recognition, but instead works quietly behind the scenes, consistently doing what is right and supporting those around him.”

Whether he’s making someone laugh at just the right moment or quietly doing the right thing when no one is watching, AJ is a wonderful example of kindness, joy, and hard work for our community.

Makayla Omambia, SAA Grade 3

Makayla is known as one of the happiest students in her class, and her joy is truly contagious. Her classmates describe her as someone who is always kind and willing to go out of her way to help others.

One classmate said, “Makayla is always smiling and helping everyone. She makes our class a happier place.”

Her teacher shared, “Makayla brings such a beautiful energy into the classroom. She genuinely celebrates others. One of the most special things about her is how excited she gets when her classmates answer a question correctly—she claps and expresses true joy for them. Makayla is consistently kind, thoughtful, and eager to help in any way she can. She models what it means to care for others and builds up those around her every single day.”

Another teacher said, “If the world were full of Makaylas, every problem could—and would—be solved.”

Makayla’s positive attitude brings light to her classroom and beyond!

Cressey Toohig, SAA Grade 4

Cressey is known for her kindness, honesty, and the deep respect she shows to both her teachers and classmates. She carries herself with a quiet confidence that others naturally look up to, and her character makes a lasting impression on everyone around her.

Classmates said, “Cressey is always kind and respectful to everyone—teachers and friends.”

One classmate shared, “You can trust her with anything because she never spills secrets.”

And another added, “People look up to her. She would make a perfect leader, and she always tells the truth.”

A teacher told us, “Cressey is a great example of a Dominican Torch recipient, living out all of the Pillars every day. She leads not by seeking attention, but by consistently doing what is right. Her honesty, kindness, and respect for others make her someone her classmates can depend on and admire.”

Cressey’s gentle spirit and genuine concern for others make her a valuable member of our school community!

Bennett Butterick, SDS Grade 4

Bennett is a student whose quiet strength and genuine kindness make a lasting impact on everyone around him. He leads not with words, but through his actions—consistently showing others what it means to care, include, and give your best.

A classmate said, “Bennett is athletic and works hard at everything, so he’s good at everything!”

One teacher shared, “Bennett naturally embodies the Dominican Pillars by the way he treats his classmates and everyone around him. His actions reflect a deep respect for others and a commitment to doing what is right.”

Another teacher said, “Bennett is genuinely kind-hearted and intentional about making others feel seen and included. He has a quiet way of noticing who might be on the outside, and he makes a point to bring them in. That kind of awareness and compassion is something truly special.”

Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in the everyday moments that often go unnoticed, Bennett leads with humility, kindness, and purpose—making his community stronger simply by being part of it.

Sophia Orman, SAA Grade 7

Sophia is a student who shines in every aspect of school life, especially in her dedication to study and her care for others. She leads with both strength and kindness, creating a positive impact wherever she goes.

Classmates said, “Study is a standout for Sophia. She works hard and takes her learning seriously.”

One classmate shared, “Sophia stands up for everyone in hard situations. She is loving and a great leader. People like to listen to her because she is responsible—and very funny! She is also always fair.”

Her teacher said, “Sophia is an outstanding star at St. Agnes Academy. She truly lives what it means to embrace Prayer, Service, Community, and Study. She is always willing to help out, and her leadership, compassion, and dedication make her a remarkable example for others.”

With her strong character, joyful spirit, and commitment to doing what is right, Sophia is a true light in our community.

Connor Allison, SDS Grade 8

Connor is known for his strong character, positive attitude, and the consistent way he shows up for others—both in and out of the classroom. He is someone his peers can rely on, and his presence truly makes a difference in the lives of those around him.

A classmate said, “Connor is a great friend. He is always respectful to teachers and classmates and is there to help you on bad days.”

Another classmate shared, “I play basketball with Connor, and he is a great athlete because he excels both on and off the court.”

And another added, “Connor is respectful and barely has any demerits… honestly, we’re not even sure he knows what a demerit is”

A teacher shared, “Connor puts his best foot forward in the classroom. He comes prepared, with a smile, ready to learn and contribute each day. He strives to shine in all that he does—and he truly succeeds.”

Connor’s kindness, respect, and commitment to giving his best make him a wonderful example of leadership and integrity in our school community.

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!