First Semester Lower School Torch Awards

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. Following All School Mass on December 8, we recognized four of our Lower School students and two Junior High students with this award.

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, strengthened our school community, and reflected God’s love in beautiful ways.

Hattie Maness, SAA 2 

Hattie is a joyful and caring presence whose kindness spreads throughout the classroom. Her classmates describe her as someone who never forgets to encourage others and always looks for ways to include everyone in games and activities.

One friend wrote, “Hattie always makes sure no one feels left out. She plays with everyone and helps people when they feel sad.”

One of Hattie’s teachers shared, “Hattie is a responsible and caring student. She takes care of her classroom job without ever needing a reminder, and she’s always the first to ask if she can help a classmate or me. Her positive attitude makes everyone around her feel loved, seen, and included. Whether it’s at recess or at the lunch table, Hattie always makes sure others feel welcome. She’s also a terrific student. She comes to class prepared, turns in her work on time, and gives her best every day. Hattie is truly an all-around wonderful kid who brings so much joy and kindness to our classroom. She doesn’t just talk about doing the right thing—she lives it every day. Her gentle spirit brings peace to her classroom, and her joy makes learning brighter for everyone around her.”

Liam Demoss, SDS 3

Liam is known for his strong sense of responsibility and his thoughtful, caring nature. His classmates shared that Liam is someone they can always count on—whether they need help solving a problem, finding a friend, or simply sharing a laugh.

One classmate wrote, “Liam is patient and fair, and he treats everyone the way he wants to be treated.”

Teachers describe Liam as a leader who leads without seeking attention.

One teacher wrote, “He sets a wonderful example by completing his work with integrity, showing respect in every situation, and offering help before being asked.”

Liam’s calm presence and sincere kindness create a classroom environment where others feel safe, valued, and supported.

Gracie Francis, SAA 5

Gracie is a compassionate and dependable student who brings a sense of warmth and encouragement wherever she goes. Her classmates wrote about her gentle nature and her gift for building others up.

One friend shared, “Gracie pays attention to people’s feelings and helps them feel better just by being herself.”

Her teachers wrote that Gracie is thoughtful and diligent in her studies, always striving to understand more deeply and help others along the way.

A teacher shared, “Gracie’s compassion for others is matched by her dedication to learning. She works hard, stays focused, and shows gratitude for every opportunity. Whether she is supporting a classmate or diving into an assignment with determination, Gracie is a wonderful example of a student who reflects Christ’s love through her actions.”

Gabe Sain, SDS 6

Gabe is a respected and admired member of his class. His classmates describe him as someone who makes others feel seen and appreciated.

One friend wrote, “Gabe listens when you talk, cares about what you say, and always tries to help make things better. He brings positivity wherever he goes and has a way of encouraging others simply by being steady and kind.”

Another friend wrote: “Gabe is always kind and always understands. He is funny and prayerful. He is always optimistic.”

His teachers shared that Gabe approaches his studies with maturity and consistency.

One teacher wrote, “Gabe puts effort into everything he does. He asks thoughtful questions, stays persistent when work becomes challenging, and shows responsibility beyond his years. Whether in the classroom, the hallway, or on the playground, Gabe leads with kindness, humility, and genuine character.”

Another teacher wrote, “Gabe continually acts out the Pillars of our school through his work with Manna House. He leads his classmates in collecting socks for the less fortunate of our community.”

Michael Yatsula, SDS 7

Michael is known for his thoughtful heart, strong moral compass, and steadfast dedication to doing what is right. His classmates wrote that Michael is a friend who makes everyone feel included and valued.

One friend shared, “Michael is respectful, funny, and always there for people. He’s someone you can trust.”

Another classmate wrote: “Michael prays a lot.”

His teachers admire his maturity, his consistent effort, and his willingness to help without being asked.

They wrote, “Michael sets a quiet but powerful example. He participates fully, shows real interest in learning, and treats his peers and teachers with genuine respect. In prayer, service, and community life, Michael demonstrates the kind of integrity that strengthens our entire Junior High.”

Charlotte Gardino, SAA 8

Charlotte is an exceptional young woman whose kindness radiates through every part of our school community. Her classmates admire her positive attitude, her empathy, and her ability to make others feel welcomed and appreciated.

One friend shared, “Charlotte is the kind of person you want to be around. She makes people feel special and always has something kind to say.”

Though naturally gifted, her teachers have watched her grow as both a student and a learner through hard work and a desire to seek true understanding, not just information. These qualities—along with many others—make Charlotte a wonderful example of a St. Agnes–St. Dominic student.

One teacher said, “Charlotte is a bright young woman with a genuine willingness to help her classmates and teachers in all ways. She brings levity to the classroom with her understated but well-timed sense of humor.”  

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!