The freshman recipient of the Pillar of Tradition Award is definitely continuing on her family’s legacy, with parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles all being proud alumni. Mr. Juguilon states that as a freshman, she stepped up and became an active member of the Socratic Club. She continues the tradition of spiritual growth and leadership by becoming one of the first members of the Elyria Catholic Altar Society, and in the process, leaving her mark on the school, starting a new tradition. Mrs. Stites was impressed with her willingness to help with whatever was needed at the Gala. This student stated that she knew it was always something her family did and now it was her turn. Miss Lanzola also notes her leadership skills and how she is using them to continue the tradition of our school by both lectoring at Mass and helping to lead the 7th grade retreat. We all look forward to seeing what this student does in her future years at Elyria Catholic to leave her print on the traditions of our school.
The recipient of the Pillar of Tradition Award at the freshman level is Emma Basinski.
SOPHOMORE
Mrs. Brennan says that our sophomore recipient is a very active participant in class and always carries a positive attitude. He is also very welcoming to all students. Our soccer coach, Coach Kempton, adds that this student has been a leader since he first stepped on the EC campus 2 years ago and not just on the soccer field. He encourages his teammates and classmates to better themselves in the classroom, on the playing field and in their faith. He truly shows his honor, respect and devotion to his faith, family, school, and community through his continued hard work and
loyalty that never dies. We also recently received an email from a parent that this sophomore has been using his time away from the EC campus creating homemade ear savers on his 3D printer for healthcare professionals, showing his kindness and concern for others-a true EC tradition! He is the son of an alum and we are excited to see his creativity and compassion continue over the next two years.
The recipient of the Pillar of Tradition Award at the sophomore level is Bailey Dalton.
JUNIOR
For our junior recipient, Mrs. Stites states that “as the Director of Alumni I learn every day a new way someone is living out our storied phrase,
"Loyalty that Never Dies." This student, more times than not, is teaching and personifying this phrase. I have the honor to witness firsthand her commitment and unwavering loyalty to her friends and classmates. Her actions and words of kindness towards her peers show her respect and understanding of how to represent all of the pillars of EC. While her character is well represented when interacting with her friends and classmates, she also shows loyalty through her commitment to the Theater Department. Like so many in this program she is oftentimes goofing off, but when it comes down to it, she is passionate about leaving the program better than she found it. For these reasons and more I believe she is more than deserving of this award.”
The recipient of the Pillar of Tradition Award at the junior level is Alana Santiago
SENIOR
Mrs. Ziegelmeyer says “When I think of tradition, this senior instantly comes to mind. Not only is he a multi-generation Panther (including having a great grandmother who was a member of one of the first graduating classes at EC), but as a student, he has fully embraced many of the traditions enjoyed by so many Panthers over the years. He is probably one of the biggest student supporters for all EC sports. Whether it be dressing up in the weekly spirit theme at football games, rooting on the girl’s soccer team during rainy playoff games, or cheering loudly at both the girls and boy’s basketball games, he is always present in support of his fellow Panthers. He joined the track team last year and was looking forward to leaving his print during his senior track season. This senior is also a faithful member of the EC pallbearer ministry, a new tradition for EC.”
The recipient of the Pillar of Tradition Award at the senior level is Michael Thoman.