From Left-to-Right: Graham Kelsh, Lainy Gentry, and Matthew Lindeman

Purcell Marian is proud to announce the recipients of the Marianist Founders Student Awards. The Awards, given to students who truly represent the spirit of the three Marianist founders, were awarded following a mass in honor of celebrating the school's Marianist heritage.

Fr. Chaminade Award - Graham Kelsch

Awarded to a male student who leads by example and inspires others to grow in their faith. They understand the importance of their education and are very motivated.

Father William Joseph Chaminade was a profoundly spiritual French priest dedicated to fostering devotion to Mary and rebuilding the Catholic faith in post-Revolutionary France. He founded the Marianists and emphasized the importance of education, community, and spiritual formation. Chaminade's devotion to the Virgin Mary as a model of faith and his commitment to the renewal of the Church through lay and religious communities have had a lasting impact on the Catholic Church.

Mother Adele Award - Lainy Gentry

Awarded to a female student who leads by example and inspires others to grow in their faith. They understand the importance of their education and are very motivated.

Mother Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon established the Daughters of Mary Immaculate, a congregation she established with the guidance of Father William Joseph Chaminade. Deeply devoted to the Virgin Mary, she dedicated her life to young women's spiritual and educational formation, especially in the aftermath of the French Revolution. Her work focused on promoting faith, prayer, and service to the community. Mother Adèle is recognized for her holiness, and her legacy continues through the Marianist Sisters.

Marie Therese Award - Matthew Lindeman

Awarded to any student who shows leadership through compassion and service to others, goes above and beyond in helping others, and has a heart for social justice, etc.

Marie Thérèse Charlotte de Lamourous was a French Catholic woman known for her deep faith and role in restoring the Church in France after the Revolution. She was instrumental in the foundation of the "Accueil," a religious community dedicated to the care of fallen women and the rehabilitation of prostitutes, offering them spiritual guidance and a new path in life. Lamourous worked closely with Father William Joseph Chaminade and supported his efforts in rebuilding the Church. Her compassionate ministry and commitment to mercy and reconciliation left a lasting impact on the Catholic Church.