Southern Nebraska Register
Five educators received awards at the third annual Bishop’s Saints & Scholars Dinner, held Oct. 13 at the Embassy Suites in Lincoln.
In 2022, the Diocese of Lincoln began a new tradition of honoring outstanding educators in Catholic schools. The awards are now presented annually at the dinner.
All school personnel, including priests and religious, of Diocese of Lincoln schools are eligible to receive the awards each year. Nominations were sought from parents, teachers, administrators, and students. A small committee of clergy, religious, and lay professionals selected the winners from the nominations.
Sister Mary Alma, of St. James School in Crete, received the St. Thomas Aquinas Award (Administrator of the Year. Her nomination read, in part: “My children have the privilege of attending St. James Elementary School in Crete where Sister Mary Alma, C.K., is the principal and I’ve watched them grow in their love of Christ by following her example of tenderness, love and humility.”
Terri Schilmoeller, music teacher at St. Teresa School in Lincoln, received the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award (Elementary Educator of the Year). The letter nominating her said: “Terri is shining the light of Christ and the Catholic church through music.”
Linda Kirkendall, who retired from Sacred Heart School in Falls City last year, received the St. John Cantius Award (Secondary Educator of the Year). One of the nominations for her said: “She has been the most impactful educator I have ever had in my 14 years of education. She teaches you grammar and English, but her life teachings go above and beyond.”
Kaye Kreikemeier, North American Martyrs School in Lincoln received the St. Catherine of Alexandria Award (Special Education/Underserved Communities Educator of the Year). The letter nominating her said: “Kaye is always looking out for students who struggle. She is an amazing advocate and helps students be successful in ways only she is able to do.”
Gery Kenney, director of campus ministry at Bishop Neumann High School in Wahoo, received the St. John Bosco Award (Support Staff Member of the Year). The nomination said: “Gery Kenney has made the spiritual life of the students a priority and helps the kids embrace their faith.”
Photos by Zach Bailey. More photos and video from the awards dinner are available at wearecatholic.org.
