Exchange Club of Jacksonville Students of the Month: Mary Clare Stinneford and Franco Chaluja

Congratulations to Bishop Kenny High School seniors Mary Clare Stinneford and Franco Chaluja for having been selected by the Exchange Club of Jacksonville as Students of the Month.  Mary Clare and Franco were selected based on Outstanding Scholarship, Leadership, Community Service, and Character.  The Exchange Club recognizes one male and one female student from different schools each month throughout the school year.  All monthly winners will be entered into a student-of- the year scholarship competition.

Mary Clare Stinneford has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to both academics and extracurricular pursuits. A National Merit Commended scholar, Mary Clare is a member of various honor societies including English, Thespian, Mu Alpha Theta, Science, Spanish, and National Honor Societies. Not only does she excel academically, but she also exhibits leadership qualities as the captain of the cross-country team and a BK Student Ambassador. Her passion for music and theatre is evident through her involvement as a philharmonic violinist with the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra. With an impressive number of 845 service hours amassed since her freshman year, Mary Clare is deeply engaged in serving her community, reflecting the core values instilled at Bishop Kenny High School.

Reflecting on her high school journey, Mary Clare expressed her gratitude for the multitude of opportunities she encountered, ranging from theatrical endeavors to faith formation and research through the AP Capstone Program. Her dedication to multifaceted pursuits serves as an inspiration to her peers.

Franco Chaluja embodies the spirit of dedication and leadership both in and out of the classroom. As a member of the English, Mu Alpha Theta, Rho Kappa, Science, Spanish, and National Honor Societies, Franco exemplifies academic excellence. His role as the starting catcher for the baseball team speaks to his commitment to athletic endeavors, where he finds motivation in the team's tradition of 'stamp the board', a ritual that fosters focus and determination. Alongside his athletic pursuits, Franco is actively engaged in various clubs and organizations, including serving as a BK Student Ambassador and an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. His passion for giving back to the community is evident through his accumulation of nearly 300 service hours since his freshman year.

Franco's dedication to balancing academic, athletic, and service commitments showcases his resilience and determination to excel in all facets of life. His leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to community betterment make him a deserving recipient of the Jacksonville Exchange Club's Student of the Month accolade.

As Mary Clare Stinneford and Franco Chaluja embark on the next chapter of their academic and personal journeys, their exemplary achievements and dedication to excellence serve as a source of inspiration to their peers and a testament to the values instilled at Bishop Kenny High School.