On a monthly basis, we acknowledge a Foundations student, a high school student, and a faculty or staff member who help bring excellence to light in others. At Marist, we celebrate individuals who create the conditions for those around them to share the very best of what God has placed in their hearts.

The Illuminator Award, as this recognition is known, represents our mission-directed commitment to the “communal pursuit of excellence.” At Marist, we are deeply invested in the success of each community member, in cultivating ways for our students and our staff to flourish and shine brightly.

Giving out and announcing these awards every month is real joy. But beyond that outward display, what’s really special is seeing just how many nominations we receive. We routinely have over 100 in a given month, and each nomination calls out something special someone has done to help others be their best. Each nomination is a wonderful acknowledgement of just how many in our community are centering others and putting them first in a way that helps unlock something special within themselves.

Reading the nominations each month has become one of my favorite tasks because each one is a terrific reminder of how many in our community are invested in others’ growth and formation at Marist. It is a joy to see that recognized by so many. We want the light in each of our students to radiate brightly for all the world to see as they become ever more perfectly formed in the image of Christ, the true source of all light.

“People do not light a lamp and put it under the bushel basket; rather, they put it on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:15