Brescia University Celebrates Excellence: 10 Distinguished Alumni Recognized at Inaugural Laurel Awards

Brescia University recently marked its 100th anniversary with a special celebration honoring 10 distinguished alumni during the inaugural Laurel Awards ceremony. This event, organized by the Alumni Association, Athletics Department, and President’s Office, aimed to bring together the university’s highest alumni honors in one memorable evening.

The name “Laurel Awards” draws inspiration from the laurel tree, a symbol of success and strength which holds significance in both Wahr and the Ursuline Sisters of Mount St. Joseph, who founded the university. The awards celebrate honorees for their lifetime achievements and invite them to share how their experiences at Brescia shaped their personal and professional journeys.

One of the highlights was Jason Cox, a 1997 graduate, who earned the title of Bearcat of the Year. This new accolade recognizes someone who truly embodies the “Brescia Difference.” A native of Louisville, Cox has contributed to Brescia in various roles, including as alumni director and head golf coach. Today, he runs The Golf Emporium in Owensboro with his wife, Tracy.

The prestigious Father Charles Saffer Alumni Hall of Fame Award went to Androniki (Andrea) Michaelidou, a 1985 graduate from Cyprus. Inspired by Brescia’s speech-language program, she started her own clinic in Nicosia and worked at Makarios Hospital for over 35 years, making a lasting impact in her community.

Sister Judith Nell Riney, a 1971 graduate, received the Outstanding Alumna Award. Not only was she Brescia’s long-serving library director, but she played a vital role in transitioning the library to a digital system, which modernized access to information for students. Riney is set to retire this May after years of dedicated service.

Additionally, two exceptional former student-athletes were inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Will McKenzie, a 2016 graduate, was a golf standout and a beloved announcer for Bearcat events. Natalie Jones Schweinzger, a 2020 graduate, made her mark in volleyball, earning numerous all-conference accolades.

The Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) Award was presented to Mazvita Ngorosha, class of 2022. Hailing from Zimbabwe, she emerged as a campus leader and is now making strides as a software engineer at Abbott in Los Angeles, focusing on innovative medical device software.

Four alumni received Distinguished Alumni Awards for their significant contributions to their fields and community:

• Monsignor Patrick Bishop (1971) served multiple parishes and took on leadership roles throughout Georgia. He was honored with the title of Monsignor in 2000 during Pope John Paul II’s tenure.
• Joan Hayden (1975) is a respected music educator and business leader, becoming the first woman to lead both the Daviess County Lions Club and the Daviess County Farm Bureau.
• Janet Istre Howard (1981) is the current CEO of the Western Kentucky Regional Blood Center. She began her medical career while still a Brescia student and plans to retire in late 2025.
• Chris Reid (1981) serves as president of Independence Bank, having grown it into Kentucky’s largest privately-owned bank.

These awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also highlight the strong community that Brescia fosters. It’s a testament to how education can transform lives and empower individuals to make a difference. Looking ahead, future alumni can find inspiration in these honorees, reminding them of the endless possibilities that come with a Brescia education.

For more information on Brescia University’s programs and alumni, visit Brescia University.

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