The Catholic Community Foundation of Santa Clara County has recognized Bellarmine junior Ian da Silva as the recipient of its inaugural Catholic Impact Scholar Award.
Bellarmine was among the five Catholic high schools participating in the competition that featured essays submitted by students addressing the question, “How has my Catholic education prepared me to contribute to, engage with and improve my community and the world?” The selection was done by the Foundation’s Grants Committee.
The $5,000 award toward senior year tuition is given to a junior who exemplifies the impact that a Catholic high school education has on a student’s future goals and view of the world around them.
“The rigorous academics at Bellarmine have prepared me to be successful in life, while also teaching me that the best way to use this success is for the good of others,” Ian noted in his essay. “Realizing that my life is not just my own, but for the world, helps me to see that we are all needed to carry the love of God to others …”
Ian’s activities and accomplishments at Bellarmine include participation in robotics, track, campus ministry, and serving as vice president of the Black Student Union. Outside of Bellarmine, Ian’s involvement includes lecturing at his parish and working toward becoming an Eagle Scout.
“Ian works hard to be a man for and with others in all that he does on campus,” said Kristina Luscher, Bellarmine principal. “He embodies all that we hope for in a Bellarmine graduate.”