Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Members of the Gamma Delta Branch of the Epsilon Sigma Alpha sorority recently bestowed their annual art awards upon the students of Villa Marie School for Exceptional Children near Waverly. The awards ceremony, which took place on April 22, has been a tradition upheld by the sorority members since 1972.

Under the guidance of teachers Mrs. Deb Faith and Mr. Jeff Hamilton, the students at Villa Marie School eagerly participate in this artistic endeavor each year. As stated, "Every year, the students, taught by Mrs. Deb Faith and Mr. Jeff Hamilton, each submit an original art project to be judged by the sorority."

The dedication and creativity of the students were duly recognized, with each student receiving an award for their submitted art project. Additionally, one outstanding student from each of the three divisions was honored with the top award for their exceptional artwork. This year, the prestigious top awards were granted to Thomas Thaller, Luke Bartek, and Bella Wynn, as announced by the sorority.

Expressing the long-standing relationship between the sorority and Villa Marie School, it was noted that "Members of the sorority have come to Villa Marie to present art awards since 1972." The event not only celebrates the artistic talents of the students but also highlights the enduring bond between the two organizations.

The annual art awards serve as a testament to the commitment of both the Epsilon Sigma Alpha sorority and Villa Marie School for Exceptional Children in fostering creativity and recognizing the achievements of the students.