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In 1970, Al Reger led the effort to save Benilde High School from possible closure. Dedicated to Catholic education, Reger helped find the solution and encouraged others to join him in supporting the work of BSM and its mission to provide students with the best classroom experience possible. In recognition for his dedication to BSM and Catholic education, each year two members of the graduating class receive the Al Reger award for their leadership and service to the community.
From this year’s Class of 2024, the Al Reger award recipients are Lucia Halstrom and Michael McDonald. “Being here gave me an opportunity to grow and develop my leadership skills,” Halstrom said, while McDonald was humbled by the award, “It is an honor to have my work compared to the efforts of Al Reger.”
Michael McDonald and Lucia Halstrom, recipients of the Al Reger Award.
Both students were active in their own unique way at BSM, reflecting the diverse opportunities available to all students. For Halstrom, this meant serving as head manager of the boys’ hockey team and captain of the girls’ golf team while McDonald was passionately involved in the arts.
“The education at BSM has taught me to dive deeper into content, ask questions, and advocate for myself,” Halstrom explained, noting, “I was able to make connections, build relationships, and get involved!”
As her math teacher, Mary Seppala, saw first-hand how Halstrom engaged with others in school, “As a student, Lucia is well prepared, motivated, and engaged, while as a person she is a ball of sunshine - always has a smile and a friendly greeting or story to share,” Seppala said.
For Halstrom, her faith journey flourished at BSM. “The journey of learning not only enriches our understanding of the Catholic faith, but also provided me with the opportunity to serve others,” she explained, referencing the two years of volunteering as a tutor for students at Mobile Hope, an organization helping student excel in school.
McDonald feels strongly that BSM prepared him in ways he never thought possible. “I feel that every aspect of my BSM experience has in some way contributed to my leadership potential.” In class, McDonald caught the attention of his AP physics teacher, Tanner Stevens, “Michael is a great student, focused and wants to learn for learning’s sake. What makes him stand out is his commitment to his family and the community. Michael was intent on contributing to BSM, working hard to not let challenges prevent him from being a positive role model for others. He made the classroom experience better by his presence,” Stevens said.
Both Halstrom and McDonald had certain moments stand out at BSM. “My favorite memories at BSM are centered around my involvement in the activities that I took part in,” Halstrom said, while McDonald remarked, “I had made an effort at the beginning of junior year to put myself out there and make new friends, and I felt a really strong sense of belonging in the BSM community, which was a massive change from previous years, and it assured me that everyone can find a place at BSM.”
Whether leading or supporting and encouraging one another, McDonald and Halstrom affirm Al Reger’s belief that Catholic education continues to provide the skills needed to open doors to wherever students want to go in life.