Press Releases
Saint Xavier University Senior Jenifer Huestis Honored With Sister Mary Paulita Morris Service Award
Huestis shows commitment to university and community through leadership and service
Note to media: Spelling of ‘Jenifer’ is correct.
CHICAGO (Dec. 4, 2003) – Recognizing her service to Saint Xavier University, the Church and the community, senior Jenifer Huestis received the 2003 Sister Mary Paulita Morris Service Award at the University’s Founder’s Day ceremony, held Dec. 3.
Each year, the award is given in honor of Sister Paulita, a Sister of Mercy who served on Saint Xavier’s Board of Trustees for 24 years – longer than any other trustee. In addition to the merciful service she extended to those in need, Sister Paulita was known for her scholarship, her leadership and her sincere interest in people and the development of personal spirituality.
Huestis, a sociology and international studies major, “has earned this award through her commitment to others and for demonstrating the Mercy ideals of respect, caring and justice in all that she does,” said Saint Xavier President Judith A. Dwyer in her announcement to the campus community.
In her years at Saint Xavier, Huestis has volunteered with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Chicago Special Olympics, the Chicago Food Depository, the Archdiocese of Chicago, the Girl Scouts of Chicago, Little Company of Mary Hospital, and other organizations.
A Chicago resident, Huestis has led a cell phone drive to benefit battered women; recruited volunteers for the Special Olympics; gathered school supplies for underprivileged children; collected food for the Chicago Food Depository and coordinated activities for inner-city minority youth to provide a safe environment when school is not in session. She has also served as a tutor in math and Spanish.
Before graduating in May, Huestis plans to combine her commitment to academic excellence and community service by conducting research on immigrant rights and bilingual education issues in a city neighborhood.
Huestis’ academic achievements include high school salutatorian, Illinois State Scholar, National Dean’s List, Presidential Scholar, All-American Scholar, Saint Xavier Dean’s List and Honors Program membership