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May 5, 2025Faith-filled, service-oriented, passionate learner–these are the qualities that earned 110 students the Monsignor James DeGroot Christian Leadership Award this year. Administrators and educators from each elementary school selected ten young people, from various grade levels, who consistently demonstrated these virtues throughout the academic year. The annual ceremony, celebrated by the Bishop, took place at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church on April 30. Each student was presented with a certificate and pin recognizing their leadership and commitment to living out their faith.
Named in honor of Monsignor James DeGroot—a Dutch immigrant who dedicated his life to the service of the Church and Catholic education—the award highlights the enduring legacy of a man who served Catholic schools in many capacities within the Diocese of Stockton.
St. Bernard Alumna and past award recipient, Kimberly Paschal, shared her wisdom and encouragement with this year's awardees:
"Christian leadership is not about standing above others or telling people what to do–it's about lifting others up, encouraging them and being an example in your daily actions of how to be Christlike…It is in serving others, especially in the most difficult times, that we demonstrate what I believe to be the foundation of Christian leadership: servant leadership..[putting] others first before our own personal gain or authority. When we place ourselves in service of others, we reflect God’s love to others.”
Congratulations to all of the students who were recognized this year for their exemplary witness of faith. They serve as role models among their peers and are well on their way to a bright and purposeful future!
