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

Five educators were recognized at the third annual Bishop’s Saints & Scholars Dinner on October 13, held at the Embassy Suites in Lincoln. The event is part of a tradition started by the Diocese of Lincoln in 2022 to honor outstanding educators in Catholic schools.

Each year, all school personnel within the Diocese of Lincoln, including priests and religious figures, are eligible for these awards. Nominations are submitted by parents, teachers, administrators, and students. A committee consisting of clergy, religious members, and lay professionals selects the winners from these nominations.

Sister Mary Alma from St. James School in Crete was awarded the St. Thomas Aquinas Award (Administrator of the Year). Her nomination highlighted her influence: “My children have the privilege of attending St. James Elementary School in Crete where Sister Mary Alma, C.K., is the principal and I’ve watched them grow in their love of Christ by following her example of tenderness, love and humility.”

Terri Schilmoeller received the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award (Elementary Educator of the Year) for her work as a music teacher at St. Teresa School in Lincoln. Her nomination stated: “Terri is shining the light of Christ and the Catholic church through music.”

Linda Kirkendall was honored with the St. John Cantius Award (Secondary Educator of the Year) after retiring from Sacred Heart School in Falls City last year. A nomination noted: “She has been the most impactful educator I have ever had in my 14 years of education. She teaches you grammar and English, but her life teachings go above and beyond.”

Kaye Kreikemeier from North American Martyrs School in Lincoln received recognition with the St. Catherine of Alexandria Award (Special Education/Underserved Communities Educator of the Year). Her nominator wrote: “Kaye is always looking out for students who struggle. She is an amazing advocate and helps students be successful in ways only she is able to do.”

Gery Kenney was awarded the St. John Bosco Award (Support Staff Member of the Year) for his role as director of campus ministry at Bishop Neumann High School in Wahoo: “Gery Kenney has made spiritual life a priority for students and helps them embrace their faith,” according to his nomination.

Photos taken by Zach Bailey can be viewed along with more photos and videos from this awards dinner at wearecatholic.org.