CSB presents Centennial Service Award

College of Saint Benedict student Kathryn Smith was presented the Centennial Service Award during the Bennie Day of Service on Saturday, March 22, at Claire Lynch Hall, CSB.

The Centennial Service Award recognizes a current CSB student for her service in the local community. Criteria for the award include a dedication to the Benedictine Values, a commitment to serve the common good and strong civic encouragement and leadership.

Smith, a junior nursing major from Hermantown, Minn., was honored because she continues to demonstrate strong leadership, community involvement and an understanding and kindness towards others. She is the daughter of Bart and Lisa Smith of Hermantown.

Smith has worked with the All Saints Academy Aftercare program in St. Joseph for three years. She also works at the nursery at Resurrection Lutheran Church in St. Joseph and has participated in service projects through several CSB programs.

Connie Bonacci, Funzone director at All Saints Academy, nominated Smith for the award. "Katie is responsible and dependable," Bonacci said. "She loves working with the church and children and she is a very giving and understanding individual."

"I was really surprised and honored, especially when I learned that Connie nominated me," Smith said. "I love working at All Saints Academy, the kids are terrific and I am really touched that Connie would take the time to nominate me."

"The Centennial Service Award Committee unanimously agreed that Kathryn should be the first Centennial Service Award recipient because of her strong leadership at All Saints Academy," said Christa Troup, one of the coordinators for Bennie Day of Service. "The Benedictine value of community living is one of her top priorities among the people she works with. She leads with a great example of what service should be about and I congratulate her."