Last Friday, 14 August, a number of students became 2020 Champagnat Award recipients, engaging in a modified and COVID-19 safe award ceremony in the College library. Contrary to the usual whole-school award ceremonies, recipients received their certificates in front of their fellow award recipients in the absence of parents and the rest of the college. Whilst the traditional handshake was not appropriate for the circumstances, each student held their certificate up with pride with wide smiles across their faces. Although our parents could not be there, a photograph was captured of each student receiving their award from Mr Lo Cascio to remember and highlight the occasion. It was a relaxed atmosphere, with the worry of tripping up the stairs to the college stage far from the minds of students for once. 

It was great to see so many recipients this year, especially as each recipient was required to fit a specific criteria based on the values of Marcellin Champagnat. Over a hundred students across all grades fit the criteria this year and it was outstanding to see multiple students receive an award for the second, third or even fourth year in a row. Regardless of the unprecedented times which have fallen upon us, we were grateful to have been recognised for our efforts as well as for the opportunity to take part in the awards ceremony. While there was a limited audience, every person in the room was supportive of each other and a sense of pride ran through each and every face. 

Congratulations to all Champagnat Award recipients!

Tahlia Bell and Eseta Malaesilia 

(Year 10 Murray Leaders)