Department of Theology & Ministry Awards

Mel Storm Arete Award

This is an award with a scholarship that comes from an anonymous donor. It is named for Mel Storm, who is not the donor, but is a prominent part of our department's history. The ministry major who receives this award shows ministerial promise and good academic ability.

Mel Storm Arete Award for Christian Ministry: JEFFREY WOJTOWICZ

Jeffrey Wojtowicz models the best possibilities for distance learning. Although we only interact with him online, we feel as if we know him as well as any seated student because of how completely he pours himself into his work. He exemplifies diligence, curiosity, and honesty in his work and in his interactions with classmates, consistently providing work of high quality. His presence in the class elevates the level of discourse, and his comments demonstrate that he engages both the material and other students well. In this way, his work displays an obvious pastoral concern. Jeffrey is thirsty both for knowledge and for the wisdom to apply that knowledge in ways that will build up others around him. He sets a high bar for his peers through his attention to detail in his work, while at the same time providing encouragement to those same peers who are learning along beside him.

Mel Storm Arete Award for Youth Ministry: KAITLYN KALAJ

Again this year, the award goes to Kaitlyn Kalaj. Kaitlyn can always be counted on to provide exceptional work that demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the material. We continue to be impressed by her engagement, her ability to read difficult texts, and her ability to respond in a thoughtful way. It is rare to encounter students who just seem to “get it” as soon as new information is presented. Kaitlyn is precisely that kind of learner. She has a unique ability to immediately synthesize new material with her current understandings, and the ability to articulate those connections well. Kaitlyn is a thoughtful, reflective, and eager student. She cares deeply about approaching ministry with a heart open toward God and people. She is a gifted student, and we are glad to have her around for another year!

Ministry Department Award: KATIE ROMANO

This award goes to a graduating senior, and therefore it does not come with a scholarship. But we give this award to recognize and honor a person who has completed a degree in our department, and done it in an exemplary fashion.

This year, that person is Katie Romano. Katie is extraordinarily conscientious, engaged, and eager to learn. Amid numerous involvements outside the classroom, she is always prepared for class, and the quality of her assignments shows a level of dedication that is difficult to find. In addition, Katie brings a depth of insight to her work that extends beyond just the academic context to connect the concepts to life in a broader way. It is always a pleasure to have students like Katie because it is a joy to teach someone who both wants to learn and is willing to put forth the necessary effort. She has been a real blessing to our department! Wherever she goes, we are confident that she will be a valuable contributor to God's work in the world.