Mikayla W. ’26 Receives the Archbishop May Service Award

Mikayla’s commitment to serving others is rooted in compassion, humility, and an unwavering desire to live out the Gospel message in her daily life. Guided by one of her favorite scriptures, Matthew 25:40 — “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” — Mikayla embodies the Visitation call to Live Jesus through her actions.

Through her involvement with the National Charity League, a mother-daughter organization with more than 30 philanthropic partners, Mikayla has served alongside groups such as the American Red Cross, Special Olympics, and the St. Louis Crisis Nursery. She also volunteers through her church’s youth ministry, assists with community service projects, and has earned the Presidential Volunteer Service Award each year since 2020.

In addition, Mikayla’s leadership and service extend to her participation in Girl Scouts, where she has earned both the Bronze and Silver Awards and is currently pursuing her Gold Award. Her projects have supported children with cancer, promoted mental health awareness, and uplifted foster families through acts of kindness and connection.

Dr. CeCe Schwarz, Theology Department Chair, shared that Mikayla “is a compassionate and committed young woman who serves others with humility, joy, and perseverance. Her work reflects a deep understanding of the Gospel call to love one another, and she lives this call through both her actions and her leadership.”

With more than 400 hours of community service and leadership, Mikayla’s efforts have been recognized nationally by AmeriCorps and the Points of Light Foundation. Her gentle leadership style, rooted in empathy and grace, mirrors the Salesian virtues of gentleness and generosity.

The Archbishop May Service Award Mass, celebrated by Archbishop Mitchell T. Rozanski, honors students from Catholic schools across the Archdiocese who exemplify Christ’s call to serve others.

Visitation Academy congratulates Mikayla on this well-deserved recognition. Her dedication, faith, and servant leadership are an inspiration to the entire Viz community.