The Catholic Community Foundation of Northeast Indiana was honored to present the 2026 Catholic Community Foundation Teachers Award during this year’s You Can Lend a Hand Luncheon series, celebrating educators who faithfully form students in both mind and spirit.
Made possible through a generous endowment supporting Catholic education, the award recognizes teachers who embody faith, excellence, and a deep commitment to their students and school communities. These educators are not only instructors, but witnesses—guiding young people to grow in knowledge, character, and relationship with Christ amid the realities of today’s world.
We are proud to recognize this year’s recipients:
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Starr Harless, St. Rose of Lima School (Monreoville)
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Elizabeth Schuler, St. Bernard School (Wabash)
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Sarah Pellico, St. Matthew Cathedral School (South Bend)
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Linda Waltz, St. Anthony de Padua School (South Bend)
Each honoree received a $1,000 personal award, along with $500 for their classroom and $500 designated for their school’s endowment fund held at the Catholic Community Foundation—an investment that supports both their immediate work and the long-term strength of Catholic education.
Foundation CEO Mackenzie Ritchie participated in both luncheon events, helping present the awards and affirm the vital role Catholic educators play in shaping the next generation. Her presence underscored the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting schools, teachers, and students across the diocese.
As highlighted throughout the luncheon series and in Today’s Catholic coverage, Catholic educators continue to meet modern challenges with creativity, resilience, and a deep sense of mission. Their work extends far beyond academics, forming students in faith, values, and service—preparing them to lead lives rooted in purpose and compassion.
We are grateful to partner in recognizing and supporting these outstanding teachers, and we thank Quality Dining Inc. for presenting this meaningful luncheon series.
To learn more about the events, read coverage from Today’s Catholic:
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Fort Wayne (April 7): https://todayscatholic.org/catholic-educators-honored-for-forming-faith-amid-modern-challenges/
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South Bend (April 24): https://todayscatholic.org/catholic-school-educators-honored-in-south-bend/
Please join us in congratulating our 2026 award recipients and thanking all Catholic school educators for the incredible impact they make each day.