Holy Angels School recently announced West Bend native Claire Rolfs as the recipient of this year’s National Catholic Educational Association’s Distinguished Graduate Award.
The school’s mission statement begins with the words: “We belong to a Catholic community which gathers together to proclaim the gospel, serve others and praise God”.
Principal Mike Sternig said, “This year’s distinguished graduate has certainly embodied this mission statement by her service to others through charitable and generous giving.”
In presenting the award, Sternig noted, “As president of the Thomas J. Rolfs Family Foundation, Claire Rolfs has been instrumental in providing support for many varied endeavors. These include support for the Nature Conservancy, American Prairie Preserve, and other recycling and ecology programs. The Foundation has supported the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs ‘Mission: Welcome Home’ program.
“There is ample evidence of the support of the Foundation on campus of the University of Notre Dame. At Marquette University, solutions to education concerns in the community are being sought with the assistance and urging of this year’s distinguished graduate.”
In the West Bend area, Claire Rolfs has been active in supporting the Museum of Wisconsin Art (MOWA). Medical services are more readily available in the community at the Albrecht Free Clinic through the Foundation’s support. West Bend High School graduates have been recipients of an annual major scholarship provided by the Rolfs Foundation.
The Stehling Project at Holy Angels School was established because of the interest expressed by Claire Rolfs to support a school which continues to be “unique, premier and enduring.”
On a personal level, Sternig noted, “I have thoroughly enjoyed every opportunity to meet with Claire because of her wit and charm, her desire to make a difference, and her willingness to step up to any challenge which can improve the community.”