Joining a small but accomplished cadre, three members of the Sacred Heart Schools, Atherton (SHS) community were named the newest  recipients of the school's prestigious St. Madeleine Sophie Award.

 

"The St. Madeleine Sophie Award is among the highest honors that a member of this community can receive," said SHS Director of Schools Richard Dioli in his opening remarks. "Those recognized represent a distinguished and varied group, from members of the Religious of the Sacred Heart, to parents, educators, alumni, and staff―all of whom reflect the vision and passion of our founder St. Madeleine Sophie Barat, and all of whom, by their presence among us, keep her vibrant legacy alive."

 

The trio of 2016 awardees―Ruth Cady, Elizabeth Dunlevie, and Carol Schaffer―represent a combined 60+ years of service to and connection with the school. Dunlevie is a former board chair and current trustee, Shaffer and Cady have been employed with the school for a number of years, and both Dunlevie and Schaffer are parents of alumni.

The awards were presented at a formal ceremony for family, friends, and invited guests, held Wednesday night at the Campbell Center for the Performing Arts. Each recipient was introduced by a close colleague.

 

"Ruth exemplifies Madeleine Sophie's spirit of generosity," said Preschool-Grade 8 Principal Francesca Brake and teacher Jesus Ramos, as they shared stories illustrating Cady's deep commitment to the school and its mission. "She's our backbone and our 9-1-1. Ruth educates everyone around her by example, reminding us all that we need to take care of one another and the world around us." Following the remarks, Cady was given special congratulations via video from a host of students, faculty, administrators, and parents from the Lower & Middle Schools community she serves.

 

Citing Dunlevie's many contributions to school leadership, campus preservation and aesthetic growth, former board chair Jeff Chambers praised her "impeccable taste," "wonderful vision," and exceptional ability to "get things done"―all of which resulted in this "magnificent campus which would look entirely different if Elizabeth had never set foot on it." He went on to say, "[As board chair], she continued to push for excellence in every area: academics, arts, athletics, facilities. She never believed we needed to compromise on anything...and never lost sight of the vision to make this place the best it could be for every child―irrespective of interests, backgrounds, or relative ability."

 

Former faculty member Connie Solari closed the night with insight on her longtime friend, neighbor and colleague Schaffer. "Carol's commitment to building a more just and generous world is threaded through her very being...but what makes [this commitment] so powerful is that it takes its energy from her spirituality." Solari continued, "As one colleague said, 'I am so grateful for her vision and deep engagement in the world, its people and their stories. She is the light that allows others' words, visions, and truths to be heard.'...and another commented, 'Carol invigorates my love for theology and faith; [I know] Madeleine Sophie must be working through her.'"

 

All three 2016 St. Madeleine Sophie Award recipients were further celebrated by the entire school community the following day, at the annual Mass of the Holy Spirit on campus.