Ursuline Academy is thrilled to share that the 2025 recipient of the Archbishop May Service Award is Ava Brindell! Each year, this award is given by the Office of Catholic Education and Formation to a senior from each Catholic high school in the archdiocese to recognize the outstanding leadership and community service shown through their actions.
Ava is dedicated to the greater St. Louis community through her involvement in T.A.S.K., Simon Says Early Childhood Center, Sweet Celebrations, serving as a retreat leader for her parish youth ministry program, and serving the Ursuline Academy community. One would never know that Ava has completed over 435 hours of service, because it is not something that she voluntarily shares with others. Serving is truly an authentic aspect of who she is.
One of Ava’s most notable acts of service is her involvement with Mustard Seed Communities. A couple of years ago, Ava participated in a mission trip to Jamaica with Mustard Seed Communities, where she served adults and children with physical and mental challenges. Ava’s magnetic personality and ability to find the good in everyone allow her to authentically love the person in front of her. She joyfully lends a helping hand wherever she is needed, whether that be physically helping with a task or showing emotional support to those she serves. Ava’s ability to step out of her comfort zone and truly embody our Gospel to serve even in a foreign country is one of many aspects that make Ava stand out from the rest of her peers.
Ava has truly grasped this vision of Christian living as a young woman, and she allows it to be the foundation of all she does. She brings enthusiasm and a whole-hearted spirit to anything in which she is involved, with such a selfless attitude. Ava is an outstanding example of Serviam, and Ursuline Academy is proud of her service and achievements.