First Semester Upper School Torch Awards

On December 8 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.

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. These students uphold our standards of conduct and represent the core values of 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:

Amelia Tull, SAA Grade 9

One student said: “Amelia exhibits the Pillar of Community because of her kindness and love towards others. She never disappoints when it comes to cheering someone up or making their day better! I know whenever I am with her, she always finds a way to make me smile or laugh.”

A teacher wrote of Amelia: “She brings her best effort every day to the classroom!  Amelia works hard in class, participates, and turns in great work.  I can see the Pillar of Study in all she does. Amelia is a wonderful friend to those around her.  Every day, she comes with a positive attitude and is kind to everyone around her.  Amelia exhibits community and service in the way she treats others.”

Another teacher wrote, “Amelia is very kind and respectful to teachers and classmates alike. She is a conscientious student and always tries to do her best work. Amelia keeps a positive attitude even when the subject matter is challenging. Her gentle and helpful spirit has been a great addition to class.”

Rita Dalimata, SAA Grade 10

A classmate wrote: “Rita Dalimata expresses all of the Pillars daily. She always encourages me to grow in my faith through prayer and invites me to youth group. She also challenges me to study more and improve in school. Rita is always honest and helps me see the best in every situation. Whether it’s in my writing or at theater she tells me where I can improve but also empowers me to do so.”

Another classmate wrote that Rita exhibits the Pillar of Community: “Rita is a really good listener to anyone who might have a problem and is always willing to help.”

A teacher wrote: “Rita is an excellent choice to receive the Dominican Torch Award. She exudes a spirit of all the Pillars in her everyday life. Rita has a firm faith. She is wise and helps her classmates to understand how our faith is lived out every day. Rita takes her studies seriously. She prepares for class and is engaged while in class. Rita is always kind and welcoming, building community in her sophomore class. Lastly, Rita has a servant’s heart and is quick to help when there is a need.”

Claire Wetick, SAA Grade 11

A teacher wrote: “Claire has espoused the Pillar of Prayer as a member of St. Louis Parish, and Youth Group, a Class Chaplain, and a Retreat Leader. Claire also demonstrates the Pillar of Study by her outstanding and conscientious academic performance, always interested and willing to learn. Claire is a member  in both Student Government and Ducks Unlimited demonstrating her commitment to the Pillar of Community. Finally, Claire has exemplified the Pillar of Service through her involvement in the Catholic Work Camp, an organization that serves the neglected, brokenhearted, and marginalized of our community.”

Several students remarked that Claire is always optimistic, dependable, and helpful to her fellow students and a true friend to many.  In short, she is a role model who espouses the values we strive to teach at St. Agnes Academy.

Abby Shearin, SAA Grade 12

One of her friends had this to say about Abby:  "She exhibits the Pillar of Community because she is kind to everyone around her and makes an effort to include everyone in her surroundings. She always warms me with her hugs and her big, beautiful smile that makes me feel better throughout the day."

Another classmate wrote:  "Abby exhibits partnership and friendship because she is always willing to meet new people and grow in her present and new friendships." 

One of Abby’s teachers wrote: “Abby’s dedication to the Four Pillars of Dominican spirituality is inspiring. In class, she is always willing to share her knowledge of and insights on her faith. But what is most impactful is the way she lives it out in her everyday life. Whether leading others to grow in their own faith or making someone feel seen and loved, she embraces the Pillars with a joyful spirit!"