Franciscan Sister Receives Catholic Schools Week Elizabeth Seton Award

Paul Keggington

January 26, 2010

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s-award-003.jpgNational Catholic Schools Week is celebrated by each of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity involved in this important educational mission of the Catholic Church. For Sister Leonette Kochan, OSF, this year’s commemoration holds special meaning. She was presented the Elizabeth Seton Award on January 25, 2010 at Salpointe Catholic High School, Tucson, AZ. This is the seventeenth year that Salpointe Catholic High School has presented this award to outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to Catholic Education in the Diocese of Tucson.

 

Here’s a portion of what the day’s program said about Sister Leonette: 

  • Beginning in 1966, taught junior high in Green Bay, WI, Algomas, WI and Yuma, AZ
  • Held elementary principal positions 1980-2004 at Immaculate Conception School, Yuma, AZ, St. Mary School, Kaukauna, WI, St. Nicholas School, Zanesville, OH and St. Agnes School, Mingo Junction, OH
  • Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity Director of Education 2002-204
  • Since 2004 Santa Cruz Catholic School principal, Tucson, AZ
  • constantly emphasizes the importance of Catholic identity in her students and those around her; believes in preparing students not only for the next level but for life by instilling the importance of discipline and respect
  • regularly participates in parish Masses, begins school days with prayer and encourages students to become involved in student liturgies
  • active leader, always present for student activities, fundraisers, family and athletic events
  • works closely with San Miguel High School and is on the St. Augustine High School board; Diocesan Sexual Abuse Oversight Board and assists with the Notre Dame Committee for South Tucson Catholic Education
  • Bishop Gerald Kicanas noted: “Sister Leonette is a strong, courageous and gifted principal who has worked tirelessly for her community. She is highly respected and valued by all in the community and has had a significant impact in its educational mission, both at Santa Cruz as well as San Xavier and in Yuma.”

s-award-011.jpgThe second recipient of the award this year was Brother Nick Gonzales, principal of San Miguel Catholic High School. Brother Nick’s commented, “This was a big honor for South Side Tucson, since both recognized are from schools from there. It’s like the scripture, ‘Can any good come from Nazareth (South Side Tucson)?” 

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