News Post

At the third annual Catholic High School Service Summit, senior Alex Brennan received the first award in honor of Maggie O'Neill, the retired Director of Volunteer Engagement at Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington. The newly-created award from Catholic Charities recognizes a student leader who is committed to "faith through service." 

When she heard her name, Alex said, "I felt surprise and deep gratitude, realizing that my weekly commitment to this Catholic Charities program [St. Maria's Meals] has resonated so meaningfully with others."

Cardinal Robert McElroy wrote Alex a letter congratulating her on the award, noting, "Your years of volunteering with Catholic Charities, faithfully and selflessly supporting St. Maria's Meals each week, serving those experiencing hunger and homelessness, demonstrate a deep sense of compassion and responsibility. The dignity and kindness you bring to each interaction is noteworthy and reflects the very heart of our mission."

"It was very meaningful to see my service described with such grace and generosity, and it was truly special to realize that a leader of the Church took the time to recognize my personal service efforts and reflect on them so thoughtfully," said Alex of the letter.

Alex has been dedicated to putting the Salesian Little Virtue of Thoughtful Concern for Others into action throughout her time at Visitation.

"Visitation has taught me to lean into the Salesian virtue of gentleness, showing me through our school’s focus on hospitality that true service is about being intentionally present for every neighbor I meet," she said.

Alex added, "I believe that through my service engagement, I have lived my faith by treating every guest with Christ-like dignity, making a conscious effort to learn their names and engage in genuine conversation so they feel truly seen and valued."

Cardinal McElroy noted this in his letter as well, saying, "I am told that most clients know you - and have been heartened by your effort to get to know them individually, imparting a sense of humanity, compassion, and dignity - all in keeping with Matthew's Gospel, Chapter 25."

In addition to serving through Catholic Charities, Alex has spent time serving N St Village and Turning the Page. She also was part of the initiative that led to the development of the Catholic Charities-hosted Catholic High School Service Summit, the event at which she was then honored this year.

Her experiences "have each fueled my desire to pursue a lifelong path of service and advocacy and have ensured that the connections I’ve made remain a permanent priority in my life," Alex said. 

Cardinal McElroy concluded by sharing that Alex's "example of service and leadership is an inspiration to many who can follow her path." Kudos, Alex!