2016 Archbishop’s Medallion Recipients are Disciples in the New Evangelization

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Catholic News Agency

“Do not be afraid. You walk in the Light of Christ, and the future is bright!” These words of encouragement from Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, were spoken to the 10 high school graduate recipients of the Archbishop’s Medallion. The administration from each high school selects a student that has demonstrated commitment to assist the school, their parish and the community to encounter the Gospel of Jesus Christ promoting Catholic teachings and values. The medallion is encrusted with the Archbishop’s coat-of-arms and crest and is the highest honor a Catholic High School senior can receive. In essence, the students are recognized for embodying and living the fruits of Catholic School education…those of faith, service, community, and academic excellence.

Mariah Arevalos, St. Anthony High School, completed over 800 community service hours and directed the 2015-16 SALVE Retreat at her campus. She will attend The University of Texas at Austin and study Computer Science and Psychology.

Emmanuel De La Cruz, Central Catholic High School, is a member of the Marianist Urban Students Program and lettered in Varsity Lacrosse. He will pursue studies in Government at The University of the Incarnate Word.

Joseph Gagnon, St. John Paull II Catholic High School, is an Eagle Scout and an active member of the Pro-Life Club. He will attend Texas A&M University in the fall.

Lauren Nicole Garcia, Incarnate Word High School, is a peer minister and retreat team leader. She will attend Our Lady of the Lake University and pursue a career in Communication Disorders.

Mary Henriquez, The Atonement Academy, was president of the St. Gianna Molla Pro-Life Club and a strong advocate for apologetics. She plans to attend the University of Houston and major in music, where she hopes to continue giving glory to God in song.

Amanda Hinojosa, Holy Cross of San Antonio, is a faithful participant in Saturday Service Trips and Sunday Sacred Trips, where her team gathers for community worship at different parishes around the city. She will pursue studies in Communication at Abilene Christian University.

Vivian Hinojosa, St. Gerard Catholic High School, is a committed athlete and made a positive impression during her Internship. She plans to attend the University of the Incarnate Word and major in Kinesiology.

Emily Pearson, Providence Catholic School, served as Student Council President and an award-winning orator of poetry. She plans to attend Wellesley and study medicine or political science.

Daniel Rosenfeld, Antonian College Preparatory High School, is a Teen ACTS retreat leader and the outgoing Student Council President. He will be attending the United States Air Force Academy.

Jordan Sirianni, Our Lady of the Hills Regional Catholic High School, has received numerous athletic awards and is a polished actor and debater. He will pursue a degree in Liberal Arts at the University of Texas at Tyler.

Archbishop closed his remarks to the students by charging them to, “keep witnessing to Christ in your colleges and in your workplaces.” He also reminded the recipients that, “God has a wonderful vocation planned for each of you. Be open to that calling!”

Photo Courtesy of Hope for the Future: (L-R) Vivian Hinojosa, St. Gerard Catholic High School; Mary Henriquez, Atonement Academy; Joseph Gagnon, St. John Paul II Catholic High School; Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller; Jordan Sirianni, Our Lady of the Hills Regional Catholic High School; Mariah Arevalos, St. Anthony Catholic High School; Emmanuel F. De La Cruz, Central Catholic High School; Lauren Garcia, Incarnate Word High School; Marti West, Superintendent of Catholic Schools; Amanda Hinojosa, Holy Cross of San Antonio. Not pictured: Emily Pearson, Providence Catholic School and Daniel Rosenfeld, Antonian College Preparatory High School.