🎓 Congratulations to Our 2025 Senior Award Recipients!
This past weekend it was our honor and privilege to present the Senior Awards. These young people who are graduating from high school embody what it is to be a fully committed disciple by giving of their time and talents in service to the mission of Jesus both in our parish and the greater community. They are a remarkable group of adults, and it has been a true blessing to watch them grow into who they have become.
These awards celebrate not just accomplishments, but the quiet dedication, creativity, and compassion that have enriched our parish in countless ways.
🌟 About the Awards
OLA Senior Recognition Award seeks to recognize youth who have made an outstanding contribution to the life and spirit of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish during his or her high school years.
OLA Senior Service Award seeks to recognize youth who have pursued a notable dedication of service to the parish and wider community during his or her high school years.
Alex Stopera Award is given by the Stopera Family in memory of their son & brother, Alex. The award is given in recognition of the on-going contributions, service, and commitment demonstrated by the Youth of OLA Parish. The Stopera Family states: “We see the difference that you make in parish life. Knowing that there are dedicated youth who cherish their faith, see the needs of others near and far, and give so freely of their time and talents gives our family great joy.”
Mr. Bill Award is given in cherished memory of Bill Edwards who ministered and served our OLA Parish community in so many ways: Lector, Parish Council, Catechist, Children’s Liturgy of the Word and, of course, games director for the annual Vacation Bible School (VBS). This award recognizes a particular member of our parish youth whom we feel best demonstrates the qualities of Bill Edwards—giving freely of time and energy, dependable and hopeful.
🌟 2025 Senior Award Honorees
🏅 Service Award
Regan Morrissey
Honored for her inspiring commitment to service, from her leadership in Vacation Bible School to her heartfelt belief that service is a reflection of who we are in Christ. Her presence has touched both our parish and the wider community.
“It is in helping others that I learn how to better myself, and through my faith, I have learned that serving others is not something we should do—it’s something we must do.”
Regan has been a dedicated presence at OLA, especially through her involvement in Vacation Bible School and youth ministry. Her joyful participation in service, combined with deep reflection on its importance, makes her an example to all. A letter of recommendation from the director of King’s Kids Youth Theater praises her ability to bring both reverence and joy to the Living Nativity program.
Regan will attend the University of South Carolina in the fall to study Exercise Science.
🏅 Recognition Award
Elizabeth Joy Rys
Recognized for her joyful and unwavering presence in the life of the parish—especially through music ministry. Her radiant spirit and love for our community have made her a true witness to the faith.
“Our Lady of the Assumption has been a constant presence in my life since I was very young. It’s more than just a place of worship—it’s a second home. Through the parish I have built relationships of all ages, and I’ve always felt accepted and supported for
who I am. This community has shaped me in countless ways and helped me grow into the person I am today.”
Inspired by her experience at the National Catholic Youth Conference, Elizabeth has shared her voice in our choir and constantly invited others to share in the joy of ministry. Her authenticity and confidence have grown over the years, and her letter of recommendation praises her as a “loving, giving person.”
Elizabeth plans to attend SUNY Oneonta to study Family and Consumer Sciences.
🏅 Alexander Stopera Award
Katarina Romeo-Mullin
A gifted singer and artist, Katarina has inspired us with her voice and creativity. Her humility, faith, and acts of kindness have left a lasting impact on the hearts of many.
“Each time I sing, I imagine a string straight from my heart to heaven connecting to God and all the angels. I sing to God in thankfulness for the gifts He gave me, entrusting me with the ability to share such a moving way to praise Him.”
Katarina has been a vibrant member of our Contemporary Choir, growing from a shy child to a confident and prayerful musician. She also offered her artistic gifts, painting a Beatles portrait for a woman in a nursing home who expressed joy each time she saw it. Her service is full of grace and heart.
Katarina will attend Nazareth University to study Musical Business and Vocal Performance.
🏅 Mr. Bill Award
Mackenzie Hunter
From youth leadership and catechesis to VBS and beyond, Mackenzie’s years of quiet service and joyful example reflect the very heart of what it means to serve in Christ’s name.
“From the first time I read the youth CORE Team mission statement, the closing line has always stuck with me, ‘…and the fun that a life of faith can bring’. I’ve made so many friendships, which makes serving the community even more enjoyable, and meeting them through the church helped me realize that faith really does build stronger bonds.”
As a longtime CORE Team member, lector, catechist, and more, Mackenzie has made an immeasurable impact through her steady presence and enthusiasm. Her recommendation calls her an excellent example for other teens and highlights her deep commitment to the Church’s mission.
Mackenzie will attend Siena College as part of the Honors Program and is expected to continue serving others through faith-centered leadership.
We give thanks for each of these young women and pray that God continues to bless them as they begin a new chapter of their journeys. May they always know they have a spiritual home at Our Lady of the Assumption.
As Fr. Rutherford shared during the celebration, “If these young people are the future of our Church, then we are in good hands.”
