News
J. B. Mannelly, Jr. Honored with 2023 St. Peter Chanel Award
Marist School awarded the St. Peter Chanel Award to J. B. "Jay" Mannelly, Jr. during the annual St. Peter Chanel Society Recognition Celebration held in October 2023 at the Atlanta History Center. Named in honor of the Marist saint martyred for his faith, the award represents the highest distinction bestowed by Marist. It recognizes individuals whose unwavering selflessness, exceptional support, and dedicated leadership have profoundly advanced the Marist mission in education. Jay Mannelly's outstanding contributions exemplify these values, making him a deserving recipient of this esteemed honor.
Marist School President J. D. Childs praised Mannelly’s devotion to Marist, remarking, “Jay Mannelly—along with those who have previously received the St. Peter Chanel Award—exemplifies an extraordinary and commendable dedication to Marist School that deserves special recognition. He embodies a distinctive humility and gift for hospitality and welcome.”
Bishop Joel Konzen, S.M., Marist School Board of Trustees member and 2021 recipient of the St. Peter Chanel Award, introduced Mannelly at the celebration dinner, saying, “God gives in every way, and he uses ambassadors like Jay Mannelly to show the rest of us how to be kind and useful as his representatives on earth.”
As a parent and grandparent of alumni, as well as a member of the Board of Trustees since 2009, Jay Mannelly acknowledges Marist’s significant place in his family’s life. His commitment to fostering the school’s educational initiatives is inspired by the proverb: “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.”
Recognizing that education is the foundation of life, Mannelly has played an instrumental role in sustaining and advancing Marist’s mission of forming the whole person in the image of Christ. He has generously contributed to the Annual Fund, capital campaigns, the endowment, and various other initiatives aimed at enriching the full spectrum of programs and the financial well-being of the school. His service as the Booster Club president during the 1989-1990 academic year and his induction into the Blue & Gold Athletics Circle in 2017 underscore his enduring commitment to Marist athletics.
Upon receiving the St. Peter Chanel Award, Mannelly reflected on his long-standing connection to Marist, saying, “Marist School has become a large part of my family...One important concept of a Marist family is that family is broader than a last name or blood relative. Marist family is the entire community.” He urged those in attendance to “make a special effort to introduce newer members of the Marist family to ways to participate and lead so they, too, can live and grow in the joyful life that Marist offers.”
Jay Mannelly's dedication and generous contributions of time, talent, and resources have left a lasting mark on Marist, enhancing the educational experience for generations of students. His legacy is a testament to the spirit of community that defines Marist School.
View photos from the St. Peter Chanel Society Recognition Celebration.
Marist School
3790 Ashford Dunwoody Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30319-1899
(770) 457-7201
Atlanta, GA 30319-1899
(770) 457-7201
An Independent Catholic School of the Marist Fathers and Brothers