Every once in a while, we all need a little appreciation for what we do. As the spirit of the holiday season continues, gratitude is at the forefront of our mind. To emphasize this idea, offering appreciation and recognizing the work of exceptional students and faculty or staff members is important. For this article, one student and one staff member are highlighted to demonstrate the well deserved appreciation for all they do.
Many girls at Rosary participate and volunteer for school events or are in a leadership class. However, it takes a dedicated Royal to be involved in almost all the leadership and extracurriculars that Rosary offers. These are the few girls you see working almost every event, whether it’s for a Campus Ministry retreat or an ASB or ambassador function. They are examples of and for the school, and emulate Rosary’s charisms.
One senior, Finley Hawkins, exemplifies this kind of involvement. Finley has been part of almost all the special events and service opportunities throughout her four years at Rosary. At each event, you can spot Finley offering assistance with lots of enthusiasm and friendliness. Her consistent willingness to help and the energy she brings are qualities to follow after. I asked her some questions about her experience in volunteering for many of Rosary’s special events:
Q: What are the big events you have done for the school?
A: Some of the bigger events I have done for the school are events such as being a model in the Servite Fashion Show, multiple Open Houses, and speaking at Red, Wine, and Gold fundraisers. Some of the more exciting ones have been being a part of homecoming court, being a red and gold captain, a Kairos leader, and being a member of ASB.
Q: What activities do you participate in?
A: I have been a campus minister for four years, an ambassador for 3, a red and gold captain for 2, a white team member for 1, an ASB chair member for 1, a volleyball player for 4, as well as a student athletic trainer (in training) for 2.
Q: Do you feel appreciated by the school?
A: I absolutely feel appreciated by Rosary. They have shown their gratitude for me and the fact that they continue to ask me to work certain events, give speeches, or help talk to the parents at events is more than enough appreciation to me.
Q: Do you see the impact of all the work you put in/how does it make you feel?
A: I definitely do. There was one specific time I hosted a shadow; she then asked for my number and proceeded to text me and tell me how much she appreciated me and how welcomed I made her feel throughout the day. Those moments are the moments that make me want to keep working towards helping Rosary. It makes me feel like I can make a difference and what I’m doing around this campus really does show to other people. I want to be remembered as someone approachable, someone that makes a difference and I think that being involved and leading others is a big part of the legacy I want to leave.
Q: Why do you do so much for the school?
A: Over these past 4 years, Rosary has given me so many different opportunities. I would be a totally different person if I had not attended Rosary. I think that helping out around the school and wanting to make a difference is the least I can do. I want other girls to have the same experiences I’ve had here and I think that volunteering my time and helping out is the best way I can achieve that goal.
All staff and faculty members at Rosary contribute their time into fostering a positive school environment. However, one staff member in particular is known to brighten any individual’s day while she sets up for events or when she offers a small chat. Mrs. Shults does a lot for our school, and her radiant personality is a vital part of our school community. Her passion for Rosary is truly inspiring. I also interviewed Mrs. Shults to gain insight on her involvement within our community:
Q: How did you get your job? What prompted you to do what you do or choose Rosary?
A: My best friend taught here for 16 years and after my son graduated from Servite I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do. So I came and volunteered in the Social Studies department for 4 years. Then a new principal came and I was moved to a front desk job and then to the position I do now.
Q: What is your job title?
A: I am the Hospitality and Event Coordinator.
Q: What do you do for your job, what events have you worked on recently and how have you contributed?
A: Some events I’ve worked recently are the RAD Winter Formal, and the Together for Christmas event for incoming freshmen. At these events, I usually supply snacks and serve dinner to help with overall planning.
Q: Do you feel appreciated by the school?
A: I definitely feel appreciated by the school. The faculty and staff always appreciate it. The girls are always very appreciative and I feel very loved by our community.
Q: Do you see the impact of all the work you put in/how does it make you feel?
A: Yes, I see the impact. I get to see girls on a daily basis grow and blossom in their four years and I get to interact with the incoming classes. It makes me feel fabulous. I love my job; it fills my heart with joy.
Q: Why do you do so much for the school?
A: I do so much because I love my job. Everyday I wake up and I am happy to come to work.
Mrs. O’Campo ’02 and Dr. Pautsch talked about their appreciation for Finley and Mrs. Shults. Mrs. O’Campo exclaimed, “Words cannot express my gratitude for all the work and energy Mrs. Shults gives to the Rosary community. At times, I think she lives on campus because she is committed to making sure everyone is taken care of. No matter the time or day, she will answer the call to help anyone. I love her and Rosary would not be the same without her.” When asked about Finley, Mrs. O’Campo described, “Our students are always pulled in so many directions, but when you ask Finley to help with anything, she is always there with a smile and joke. She encompasses the Rosary spirit and charism. Ms. Finley Hawkins is sure to leave her mark at Rosary.”
When asked about Mrs. Shults, Dr. Pautsch offered her gratitude: “From the moment I returned to Rosary, Mrs. Shults has been a Godsend. When it comes to all things hospitality, I don’t have to worry. She’s organized and meticulous but she’s also a joy to work with and she finds joy in all those around her.” About Finley, Dr. Pautsch added, “Finley is truly living our charism by having a service heart. She exudes joy.”
Our entire Rosary community is thankful for the dedication of both these individuals. Rosary would truly not be the same without all the work they have put in.
