Recognizing Mercy Girl Greatness

Awards

Mercy Girls do remarkable things in the world. They build business empires, fight for the disadvantaged, defend our country, volunteer countless hours in service of others, and so much more. At Mercy, we want to honor and recognize the achievements of our amazing graduates. We do so through the Alumnae Circle of Mercy Award and Alumnae Service of the Year Award. Each of these distinguished awards are bestowed upon alumnae who have characterized themselves as leaders in their field, or by their personal accomplishments, or by the time they spend helping others.

We know there are thousands of Mercy Girls across the globe who are deserving of these honors. Let us know who you think we should consider! A committee of Mercy Advancement staff members and a member of the Board of Trustees will review the nominations. The recipients will be presented with their awards at the Alumnae Reunion in October.

Alumnae Circle of Mercy Award

This award is presented annually to a Mercy graduate whose accomplishments, personal or professional, are deserving of recognition. The recipient’s life should reflect the Mercy values of excellence, compassion, faith, leadership, and service. Please nominate a woman who meets one or more of the following criteria:

  • Notable achievement in her profession or career
  • Exceptional support of church, parish activities or other volunteerism
  • Personal achievement

Alumnae Service of the Year Award

Presented annually, this award recognizes an alumna who has given of her time and talent for the benefit of Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women. The person has demonstrated extraordinary dedication to the school and has been an ambassador for Mercy. She has a passion for Mercy and its mission to educate young women in academics and faith.

Nominating Process

To nominate an alumna, please submit a detailed explanation as to why your nominee should be recognized by Mercy, and for which award. Please include your name and contact information. Anonymous or self-nominations cannot be accepted. All nominations need to be submitted by September 1, 2022.

Send nominations to:
Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women
1437 Blossom Road
Rochester, NY 14610
Attention: Mary Lawrence-Khalil

You may also e-mail nominations to mlawrencekhalil@mercyhs.com.

Past Recipients

  • 2018 – Mary Jo Gugino Colligan ‘70
  • 2017 – Claire Mongeau ’07 and Renee Tudisco Ortiz ‘83
  • 2016 – Barbara Conradt ‘69
  • 2015 – Barbara-Ann Mattle ’55
  • 2014 – Andrea Zopp ’74
  • 2013 – Mary Lou Freda Ognibene ’57
  • 2012 – Margaret Lane Oberst ’73
  • 2011 – Patricia Hoffman Schwimer ’64
  • 2010 – Lisa Guarnere ’99
  • 2009 – JoAnn Wolesgla Mancuso ’65
  • 2008 – Rena Kuipers Tolsma ’76
  • 2018 – Julie Spath Hetterich ‘80
  • 2017 – Linda Roessel Vandenberg ’68
  • 2015 – Pam Fennell Baker ’74
  • 2014 – Kristin Vanden Brul ’79
  • 2013 – Judith Trabert ’67
  • 2012 – Sr. Nancy Whitley, RSM ’51
  • 2009 – Andrea Tomaino ’80
  • 2008 – Karen Ralph ’72

Experience the Circle of Mercy

To truly understand how life changing Mercy is, schedule a visit. Tour the campus, meet us in person, and talk to our students and staff. From information sessions and tours, there are many ways to learn about the Circle of Mercy.

Your Journey to Mercy