SMCHS Commencement - Distinguished Service Award - May 2026

SMCHS Commencement - Distinguished Service Award - May 2026

Introduced by Principal Doll, this year’s recipient is Mrs. Jean Becker. An SMCHS alumnus from the class of 1982, Mrs. Becker returned to serve the school community as an employee starting in October 2006. Over her two decades of service under four principals, she has faithfully cared for and organized the lives of more than 1,500 students. From assisting the activities department and supporting drivers' education, to becoming a notary for the student Rome pilgrimage and beautifying the campus for graduation, Mrs. Becker exemplifies the true heart of a servant. Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too. Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org. [https://lightofchristfoundation.org]

SMCHS Commencement - Student (Emma) - May 2026

Reflecting on her class's four-year journey at Light of Christ Catholic Schools, Emma expresses deep gratitude to parents for prioritizing a Catholic education and thanks the faculty and staff for keeping faith at the center of their academic life. Drawing wisdom from scripture, she shares reflections on Jeremiah 29:11 and Matthew 25:21, encouraging her fellow graduates of the Class of 2026 to trust in God's unique plan for their futures, find joy in their callings, and always strive to live a life centered on faith. Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too. Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org. [https://lightofchristfoundation.org]

SMCHS Commencement - Student (Katherine) - May 2026

Katherine expresses heartfelt gratitude to the families, faculty, school board, and Bishop Kagan, who made this milestone possible. She beautifully details how the graduating Class of 2026 has brought the school's mission to life, encountering Christ in the everyday moments of living, academic learning, and through dedicating over 4,300 hours of collective community service. As her classmates prepare to step into their next chapters, Katherine offers a powerful reminder to carry their faith forward and continue being a light to those around them. Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too. Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org. [https://lightofchristfoundation.org]

SMCHS Commencement - President Gerald Vetter - May 2026

President Vetter reflects on the deep significance of milestones, the unique bond this class shares with its school administrators, and the foundational role of daily prayer. Drawing on the symbolism of a rainy graduation day, he reminds the graduates that they are true symbols of "life and hope" as they venture out into the world. President Vetter challenges the Class of 2026 to embrace two powerful phrases they've heard throughout their academic journey: "have a great day or not, the choice is up to you" and "it's always a great day to be a Saint." Listen to his moving call to action centered on faith, the inspiring lives of the saints, and the lifelong impact of choosing to set the world on fire. Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too. Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org. [https://lightofchristfoundation.org]

SMCHS Commencement - Principal Connor Doll - May 2026

Principal Doll expresses his deep gratitude to the bishop, school board, administration, and dedicated faculty for their unwavering support and commitment to the "formation of souls." In a major highlight, he proudly announces that the graduating seniors have collectively earned more than $2 million in scholarships. Reflecting on his four-year journey alongside the students, Principal Doll leaves the graduates with two powerful certainties to carry into their next chapters: that they are deeply loved, and that their lives hold profound meaning and purpose. Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too. Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org. [https://lightofchristfoundation.org]