Montini Catholic High School in Lombard is proud to announce dual honors for sophomore Michael May as their November Student and Artist of the Month. Michael was nominated by Theatre Director, Jaclyn Martin for his artistic success and by World Language (Chinese II) teacher, Sumin Xu, for Student of the Month accolades. 

"Michael is an outstanding student and role model for his peers," said Mrs. Xu. "He is kind and respectful. He is a self motivated hardworking student and participates greatly in Chinese class. His positive attitude and diligent academic performance ranked him at the top of this class." She also nominated Michael due to his enthusiasm and involvement as a Bronco student. 

"Mrs. Xu’s Chinese class is always a highlight of my day," says Michael. "It is an entertaining, engaging, and yet challenging class where I learn and improve my Chinese skills everyday. Mrs. Xu is truly passionate about teaching Chinese, and is a very encouraging teacher that always pushes my classmates and I to do our best. I plan on continuing to learn Chinese throughout high school with Mrs. Xu as my teacher!"

Michael's passion for theatre and his diligence to hone his craft has also earned him the Artist of the Month honor. Like Student of the Month honors, it is one that only ten Montini students acquire per year. Theatre Director Jaclyn Martin initiated his nomination and was thrilled he was selected as Artist of the Month - she considers it a well deserved honor. "Michael portrayed Peter in this year's Fall Play, Peter and the Starcatcher, a story that follows the origins of the infamous 'boy who never grows up.' He was a clear choice for the lead in this show; his ability to fully understand a character allows him to connect with the audience and to successfully tell the story," she observed. "He is also very collaborative with his fellow castmates and crew members."  Michael worked with Ms. Martin as a freshman, playing Mr. Green in the Spring Play, Clue. "He is so talented. I am so proud of his dedication to our theatre program, and I look forward to what Michael will bring to the table in future Montini Catholic shows!"

Michael was extremely excited to learn that he had made Montini history by securing both Artist of the Month and Student of the Month acknowledgements at the same time."I am super proud of myself and so honored that I was selected." He admits it wasn't until he decided to pursue a part in the play during his freshman year in Clue that he discovered an interest in acting. "I love performing at Montini, I love working with the other cast and crew, they are all very hard working and funny." He also values the direction and guidance from his director. " I enjoy working with Ms. Martin, she pushes me, as well as all our actors, to do our very best. She always brings positive energy to theater rehearsals."

As an active member of Montin's student body, Michael divides his time among several activities. He is a member of the Volleyball team, Montini's Chamber Choir as well as the A Cafellas singing group. He has earned a spot in the Tri-M Music Honor Society, reserved for students who exhibit exceptional scholarship, leadership, service, and character. He joined Broadcasters Club and is responsible for making morning announcements and updating Broncos on the goings-on at school. Additionally he is an active member of Student Government, Lasallian Youth, History Club, Chinese Club and Ping Pong Club (President).

"I’m not yet sure if I want to pursue theater after high school, but I would like to have a career in the performing arts," says Michael, who would love to see SpongeBob The Musical, on the Montini stage. "My favorite thing about theater has to be hearing the audience laugh and cheer. My least favorite would be balancing school work with my theater schedule." He encourages those interested in theatre but not sure whether to take the leap to jump in and go for it. "Montini's theatre community is very close and supportive of each other."

Mrs. Xu is elated to know that Michael was selected for not one, but two honors. "Michael's caring nature and personality, his active participation and commitment and his passion and curiosity to learn bring a great positive energy and inspiration to my class and I'm sure to all he is involved in. I am so happy for him for earning this honor."

Michael graduated from Albright Middle School in Villa Park. He is a parishioner of St. Pius X Parish in Lombard.