Catherine McAuley Award
Catherine McAuley , the Foundress of the Sisters of Mercy , exemplified in her life the unique ability of one person , with vision and dedication , to impact society for good in a lasting and effective manner . Catherine McAuley ’ s personal belief that “ one person can make a difference ” animates all those touched by her influence as it is passed on through Mercy Institutions .
To encourage this spirit of Mercy , Gwynedd Mercy University awards one graduate each year the distinguished Catherine McAuley Award in recognition of the student ’ s spirit of service , dedication to Christian values and generosity in contribution to the good of others .
Recipient : Mary Claire Leva Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Mary Claire is a Peer Tutor and a Student Leader on the Campus Coalition for Civic Engagement , which serves to motivate student activism and civic engagement on and off campus . She is also a member of the Philosophy Society , which promotes intellectual , philosophical discourse on campus , and of the University ’ s chapter of the American Association of University Women . Mary Claire also participated in the first cohort of the Weaving Equity into Leadership program that promotes antiracism , and completed the Griffin Student Leadership Institute Exceptional Leaders program . Mary Claire has volunteered at Laurel House , working with survivors of domestic violence and learning more about their needs . Her work at Laurel House has led to an interest in SANE nursing as well as working with survivors of sexual assault . As a nursing major , Mary Claire completed clinical rotations at several local hospitals where she was able to learn about and utilize her skills in trauma informed care . Mary Claire will be attending the University of Maryland ’ s Masters of Public Health program this fall .