Congratulations to sophomore Claire Stemberger and junior John Patterson who were awarded first and second prize, respectively, in the 2014 Irish History Essay Writing contest hosted by the local division of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians (LAOH). The winning essays are now sent on for consideration at the state and national levels.
This year's contest asked students to research and write about the origins and present day influence of the Book of Kells.
Laura Corbett from the local division of the LAOH came to Bishop O'Connell to present the awards in person. She praised Claire for her ability to convey her thoughts easily and succinctly, and John for his in-depth research and his sense of humor, which came out in his essay.
The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians is a national organization founded in 1894 in Omaha, Neb. to help young Irish women who immigrate to the United States find comfort by being around others with similar backgrounds and to help them find employment. Today they still hold true to their motto, "Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity." The LAOH today focuses on charity work and promoting Irish history.
Pictured (left to right) - Assistant Head of School Carl Patton, Claire Stemberger (1st place), Laura Corbett (Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians), John Patterson (2nd place), and Head of School Joe Vorbach.