Congratulations to five Niagara Catholic graduates, who received Father Patrick Fogarty Awards at the Catholic Education Foundation of Ontario Awards Dinner in Toronto October 25.
Kimberly Saunders (Saint Paul CHS), Maja Wszolek (Saint Francis CSS), Dona Biju (Denis Morris CHS), Gabriel Forte (Notre Dame CS) and Ethan Parnell (Holy Cross CSS) were recognized at the dinner.
Dona Biju was a high achieving honour roll student at Denis Morris Catholic High School, and a kind-hearted leader who promoted Catholic Education throughout her school and her community as an alter server in her parish. Dona is pursuing a Nursing degree at McMaster University.
Ethan Parnell was an exceptional student at Holy Cross, making meaningful contributions across academic, social, and athletic spheres. In his senior year, he demonstrated leadership by guiding the school's annual pilgrimage walk and actively supporting numerous charitable initiatives. As the school mascot, Ethan brought energy and spirit to many events, and his involvement extended beyond the classroom to international student trips, where he offered support and leadership.
Ethan was honored with the Principal’s Award, recognizing his embodiment of Catholic values, his well-rounded character, maturity, and deep compassion for others. His commitment to both school and community life has left a lasting impact.
Ethan is currently pursuing Kinesiology at Western University.
Gabriel Forte is a committed parish musician and accompanist and has served faithfully as an altar server and Minister of the Word at St. Alexander Parish. He volunteers with Pelham Cares and actively supports social justice initiatives both at his parish and at Notre Dame College School.
While at Notre Dame, Gabriel was honored with the Serra Club Award for his dedication to our Catholic Faith. He was also a member of the Jazz Band and Combo and played on several sports teams. His leadership, service, and musical talent reflect a deep commitment to faith, community, and excellence. Gabriel is studying Health Science and Music at Western University.
Maja Wszolek was active in leadership and faith development at Saint Francis Catholic Secondary School, through her roles as Faith Ambassador, Pilgrimage committee member, and participant in the music ministry. Outside of school, Maja has served her parish community as an alter server at Our Lady of Perpetual Help and volunteered many hours with the St. Catharines' Scouting and Polish Society. Maja is currently attending the University of Waterloo studying Mechatronics Engineering.
Kim Saunders is currently studying concurrent education (primary/junior) at York University. In addition to being a Proficiency Award winner and Niagara Foundation for Catholic Education Scholarship recipient, Kim was a student who excelled in the arts, receiving Advanced standing at Starfest, and taking part in the school’s vocal ensemble, and Saint Paul Catholic High School’s production of Mean Girls.