Mrs. Comella Receives Lewis University's Educationis Lumen Award
Barb Dawson • November 6, 2024

"She is a very talented educator!"

Montini Catholic congratulates teacher and alumna, Melanie Comella '10, on being the recipient of Lewis University's Educationis Lumen Award. The annual award, from the College of Education at Lewis University, is presented to a graduating student and recognizes accomplishments as an educator, including: excellence in teaching, dedication to the teaching profession, commitment to Christian ideals of education, and inspiring and guiding others to make a difference. Melanie was recommended for the award by Montini's Assistant Principal of Academics and Curriculum, Ms. Sara Lhotka.


"Melanie exemplifies a commitment to teaching and learning and the development of learning communities here at Montini," said Ms. Lhotka. "Throughout her time here I have watched her grow into an exceptional teacher and role model to her students. I have witnessed her professional growth, her willingness to accept different assignments, and her ability to draw the best out of her students. Melanie is highly respected by both students and colleagues because she believes in her students and always gives her best while having high expectations of her students."  Ms. Lhotka was proud to nominate Melanie for this prestigious award citing her outstanding skills as an educator and her willingness to experiment with a variety of teaching strategies. "She is a leader in the department with innovative and practical strategies to improve student learning. She always adapts to new technologies and is always willing to share what she has learned with the entire department. She understands the importance of working collaboratively with her colleagues, and above all, she is a very talented educator."


Melanie is enjoying her 11th year teaching English at Montini, a Lasallian college preparatory high school, beginning her career immediately after completing her degree at the University of Illinois in 2014. She earned her Master of Education-MEd Curriculum and Instruction at Lewis University in 2017.


Image above:  Melanie Comella (center) with Lewis University Professors Hyeseong Lee (left) and Dr. Deb Augsburger (on right)


SHARE THIS POST

12 Bronco Athletes Commit to Colleges in May

By Barb Dawson • May 19, 2025
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Congratulations, Class of 2025!

By Barb Dawson • May 19, 2025
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Montini Band Earns National Championship Title!

By Barb Dawson • May 14, 2025
This month, Montini Catholic's Band is celebrating a National Champion (Class A) title in the National Catholic Band Association's national band competition. "We are incredibly proud," said the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Music Director Donnie Glowinski. "This is the first time in school history that Montini Catholic has earned this title." Each year, Catholic high schools from across the country are invited to submit performance recordings to be adjudicated by a panel of expert judges. "This prestigious honor is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent of our student musicians. Their commitment to excellence has brought great pride to our school community," added Glowinski. "Every year, we work on becoming better musicians, and every year, the band rises to the challenge. I am so unbelievably proud of the work this group has done this year and everything they have accomplished. I am really looking forward to the future to see what these students will be able to do!" In the summer of 1953 a small group of concerned band directors, led by Director of Bands Robert F. O’Brien, met on the campus of the University of Notre Dame to discuss the Catholic School Band, its particular problems, and what might be done to further its development. Fr. Theodore Hesburgh Notre Dame President, gave the welcome speech. Mr. O’Brien then proposed goals for the organization and the NCBA was born. Today, NCBA's office is located at Villanova University Office of Music Activities. The NCBA recognizes the value of music within the Catholic school community. Their mission is to establish high musical, educational and ethical standards in Catholic schools' band programs. Image Above: Montini Catholic band members front row l to r: Olivia Marin, Kayli Gergen, Maggie Cyze, Miranda Meier, Sarah Gudmundson, Camile Arnold and Abby Milas; Second row: Roberto Williamson, Margaret Palkoner, Chris Reyes, Michael Patacsil, Maddy Aguilar, Lailah Stubblefield, Simon Poulin, Raphael Patacsil, Mason Maldonado, Cristian Alcantara, Kevin Barrett and Andrew Shin; Back row: Colin Murray, Tyler Whitlock, EJ Schicker, Lucas Van Witzenburg and Oghosa Idemudia Not pictured: Julia Gergen and Eric Hu
More Posts