Elizabeth A. ’26 Named 2026 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Model of Justice Award Recipient

Elizabeth will be recognized at the 50th Annual Archdiocesan Mass for the Preservation of Peace and Justice, held at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. A reception in Boland Hall will follow the Mass to commemorate this milestone year in the Archdiocese’s history.

Throughout her years at Viz, Elizabeth has made it her mission to foster inclusion and amplify underrepresented voices. As President of the Diversity Club, she has strengthened the school’s commitment to belonging and mutual respect. One of her most notable achievements was helping to launch Viz’s first-ever Culture Night, a community celebration featuring food, music, and performances that honored the diverse cultures within the school.

“What started as just an idea many years ago grew into a successful celebration of the many cultures within our school community,” Elizabeth shared. “It was a night that brought people together and encouraged open conversation about identity and belonging.”

Elizabeth’s leadership extends beyond campus as well. She volunteers with Vitendo4Africa, an organization that supports African immigrants and refugees in St. Louis. Through her work there, she has helped organize events and programs designed to ease the transition to life in a new country, reinforcing her belief in the importance of building welcoming, inclusive communities.

Her advocacy and civic engagement have also reached a national stage. Elizabeth has represented Missouri twice at the YMCA’s Conference on National Affairs, where she presented proposals addressing racial and socioeconomic inequities that ranked in the top 20% nationwide. She currently serves as Student Council Vice President, Attorney General for Missouri Youth and Government, and Cheer Captain, reflecting her ability to lead with both empathy and enthusiasm.

Through her work with Youth Engaged in Philanthropy (YEP), Elizabeth helps allocate $10,000 annually to youth-focused nonprofits across the St. Louis area. She has also served as a Rising Generations Summit Youth Delegate with the Aspen Institute, a Supreme Court in My Hometown Scholar, and a National Youth Advocate with the YMCA, lobbying congressional leaders in Washington, D.C., on youth-centered issues.

“Each of these experiences has shaped my understanding of service and strengthened my commitment to social justice, empathy, and community,” Elizabeth said. “I strive to continue using what I’ve learned to uplift others and help create spaces where equity is emphasized every day.”

Visitation Academy celebrates Elizabeth for embodying the values of faith, leadership, and justice that define the spirit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.