Living lives of peace and service

Choosing to live a life of peace is not always the easiest choice. It requires self-sacrifice, empathy, integrity and courage. Three Messmer Catholic Schools students were recently awarded Robert F. Purcell, S.J. Peacemaker Awards because they have chosen to live their lives as role models and peacemakers. We are proud to honor these three students for their commitment to lives of leadership through peace: St. Rose and St. Leo 7^th grade student Nicole Walters, St. Rose and St. Leo 8^th grade student Rushita Austin, and Messmer High School junior Sam Briggs.

Nicole Walters is committed and focused on her education. Her focus on academics has placed her in a role of leadership in the classroom. She encourages others with her words and actions to always strive for excellence. The oldest daughter from a large family, Nicole is a natural leader, always caring and nurturing.

Rushita Austin is also a natural leader. She uses her talents to make her school and world a better place. In her role as vice-president of the Student Council, Rushita has organized several events to benefit others, including a food drive for those in need, a campaign to benefit earthquake victims in Haiti and a teddy bear drive for children who are victims of fires, violence, and other difficult situations.

Sam Briggs is a caring young man with a deep and profound concern for the world around him. Sam leads by example in his involvement in Peers with IMPACT, a peer-to-peer drug, alcohol and substance abuse prevention and education program. Sharing this message with peers requires courage and conviction, traits Sam exemplifies. Sam’s commitment also involves service to the school and larger community in service projects.

Congratulations Nicole, Rushita and Sam for your award recognition! We are proud of the positive contributions you make to your schools and the community.