December Students of the Month: Catherine Buckley and Brady Wagner

Congratulations to seniors Catherine Buckley and Brady Wagner, honored by Student Council as our December Students of the Month for exemplifying the virtues of Generosity and Compassion. Both students demonstrate extraordinary leadership, service, and commitment to their faith, qualities that enrich the Bishop Kenny community each day.

A dedicated student leader, Catherine is involved in a wide range of clubs, including the History, Spanish, and Science Clubs, and she serves as co-president of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. She is also a member of multiple honor societies: English, Mu Alpha Theta, Rho Kappa, Science, Spanish, and the National Honor Society.

Deeply rooted in her faith, Catherine has completed 175 service hours and serves as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. This month, she was recognized with the Christus Vivit National Award from the Diocese of St. Augustine—an honor given to young Catholics who model missionary discipleship in today’s world. Reflecting on her commitment to service, Catherine shared, “I feel that acts of service are very important because God put us on this earth to extend his work. Being involved with the St. Vincent de Paul Society has done so much for our community and we give but also feed our souls in the process of giving to others.”

Catherine plans to attend Catholic University in Washington, D.C., where she hopes to pursue a degree in elementary education.

Brady is an accomplished student and leader who serves as the Executive Officer of the Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps. In addition to participating on the academic, drill, and athletic teams, he has been named both a National Merit Commended Scholar and a Joe Berg Science Scholar. Brady is a member of the English, Mu Alpha Theta, Rho Kappa, Science, Spanish, and National Honor Societies.

Faith and service play an important role in his life as well. Brady is a lector and Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion and has completed nearly 400 service hours. Outside the classroom, he is a sprinter on the varsity track & field team and especially enjoys competing in relays. A thoughtful and dedicated leader, Brady shared, “To be an effective leader you don’t put yourself on a pedestal, you have to give consideration to others and humble yourself for the betterment of the team.”

Brady aspires to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy to become a pilot and pursue a degree in meteorology.