By: Najla Alexander
Academy of the Holy Angels students Camila Reynoso, Taylor Glynn, Trinity Savage, and Breanna Hetzerhave received the Sister Catherine Green Kindness Award in appreciation of their inspirational attitudes, according to officials.
Officials say these teens, who were honored during the November 21 Thanksgiving Prayer Service, exemplify the kindness for which S. Catherine was known.
A School Sister of Notre Dame, S. Catherine was a member of the AHA Religious Studies Department from 1982 to 2014. Officials say she is remembered for her ready smile, nurturing spirit, and ability to offer a sympathetic ear and warm encouragement.
Camila Reynoso, a ninth grader from Englewood Cliffs, is very kind, responsible, and friendly to everyone she meets. Friends say she brings them joy and makes them laugh.
For some, a day without this Angel is simply not complete.
"She always has a smile on her face and brings positivity to school every day," one person said.
Another classmate added, "She is always there for me and others when we need her. If any of her friends need anything, she puts whatever she is doing down to make sure they are okay. She is the most positive person I have ever met, and I am so glad she is in school with me."
Sophomore Taylor Glynn of Hoboken was recognized for being funny, sweet, selfless, and present for those who need someone to listen.
A friend said that Glynn is "never afraid to go out of her way to help others. She has often given me aid in studying and a shoulder to cry on when I do badly on a test."
One classmate said, "She always wants me and all her friends to succeed and will always put us before herself."
Another peer said, "Whenever I am upset, she is always there to pick me back up and provide me with comfort. She also always helps her other friends and me with things we are struggling with, which shows how selfless she is."
Trinity Savage, a junior from Englewood Cliffs, was recognized for being "kind and nice to everyone. She is always there for me and is super caring."
Another AHA community member said, "She is a transfer student this year. I am amazed at how well she has adjusted to Holy Angels. She has an infectious smile and is always looking for ways to help other students with their studies. She has a wonderful personality and seems to get along with everyone. She is a worthy candidate for this honor."
Senior Breanna Hetzer of Nutley earned her award for her positivity, helpful nature, and sense of humor.
"She has a very positive attitude and energy which automatically brighten my day when I am with her," one person wrote. "She can always cheer me up when I am feeling down and cares so much about her friends."
A friend said, "Personally, she has been so helpful to me. I've been recently injured, and without even asking, she has volunteered to help me with everything, even when she is inconvenienced. She also committed her time to help a girl understand her math homework during community time instead of (doing) her own work."
Another peer called Hetzer one of the kindest people she has ever met. She explained, "Whether it's compliments or hugs, she shows that she cares for her friends constantly. She loves to help out and uplift her friends and peers, and I couldn't think of someone more deserving of this award."