[Left to right: Cristina Wendel, Partner at Dentons Canada LLP; Madison Fleck, Award recipient & Student at St. Joseph's College, University of Edmonton; Kelly Whalen, President, ACSTA]
The Alberta Catholic School Trustees’ Association (ACSTA) was honored to recognize Madison Fleck, the St. Joseph’s College recipient of the 2024 Justice Kevin Feehan Award, during our Annual General Meeting and Convention. This prestigious award celebrates students who exemplify faith, service, and leadership while promoting and living the values of Catholic education in Alberta.
The Justice Kevin Feehan Award is given annually to two full-time students, one each from St. Joseph’s College in Edmonton and St. Mary’s University in Calgary, who demonstrate a steadfast commitment to Catholic education. Named in honor of Justice Kevin P. Feehan, a passionate advocate for faith-based learning and a long-time supporter of ACSTA, this $1,500 award reflects his enduring legacy of championing Catholic education and its role in shaping compassionate, faith-filled leaders.
To qualify, recipients must maintain strong academic standing with a GPA of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Preference is given to those enrolled in or who have completed the St. Joseph’s College Certificate in Catholic Education, a program designed to foster a deep understanding of Catholic education’s principles and values.
This year, Madison received the award from Cristina Wendel, Partner at Dentons Canada LLP, and ACSTA President Kelly Whalen, who presented it on behalf of Justice Kevin P. Feehan.
[Cristina Wendel, Partner at Dentons Canada LLP introduces Madison at the ACSTA AGM]
“I am incredibly thankful to the St. Joseph’s College community, as well as Justice Kevin Feehan, for making these opportunities possible" Madison stated, "Thank you to the ACSTA for the continuing support of young educators like myself. I am truly excited to one day be among you all as a colleague.”
Madison’s achievements highlight the transformative power of Catholic education to foster both academic and spiritual growth while nurturing leaders committed to service, justice, and the common good. Her dedication is a powerful testament to the mission of faith-centered education.
Looking to the future, Madison remarked:
“When I graduate from the University of Alberta, I intend to work in a Catholic school. The classes at St. Joseph’s College provide the foundations for becoming a knowledgeable Catholic teacher, and I am excited to bring my experiences from these courses into my own classroom and pedagogy.”
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Madison on this well-deserved honor and offer prayers for her continued success. May God bless Madison and all who champion Catholic education as we work together to build a brighter future rooted in faith, service, and community.
