At its October 20, 2026, Special Meeting, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the following individuals as the recipients of the 2026-2027 Award:
Ms. Julie Angiolillo, Retired Superintendent of Education
Ms. Julie Angiolillo devoted 35 years to Catholic education, bringing compassion, wisdom and a deep sense of Christian service to her work with students, families and colleagues. Raised in an Italian Catholic family where prayer and care for others were central, she carried these values throughout her career with the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board as a Teacher, Vice-Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent of Education and Superintendent of Education. As Principal of St. Brigid Catholic Elementary School and later Superintendent responsible for Equal Opportunities Schools, she was a dedicated advocate for vulnerable and disadvantaged students, working to ensure that every child had the opportunity to succeed. Her leadership in Religious Education, Family Life and Faith Formation, Indigenous Education and student engagement helped strengthen Catholic identity across the system. Colleagues remember her gentle spirit, thoughtful listening and willingness to work quietly behind the scenes, always recognizing the gifts and contributions of others. Reflecting on her years in Catholic education, she speaks with gratitude to God and to the many people who have shared in her journey.
Ms. Susan O'Keefe, Chaplaincy Leader at Cathedral High School
Since beginning her career with the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board in 1999, Ms. Susan O'Keefe has given exceptional witness to the Gospel through her ministry, compassionate pastoral care and dedication to Catholic social teaching. Beginning as a Religious Education teacher at St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School, she later served as Chaplaincy Leader at St. Thomas More CSS and Cathedral High School, helping generations of students grow in faith and recognize their responsibility to care for others. Known for her generosity, compassion and unwavering presence, she has accompanied students, families and colleagues through times of celebration, uncertainty, grief and loss, offering comfort, encouragement and prayer. Through retreats, liturgical celebrations and faith formation opportunities, she has helped young people develop a deeper relationship with Christ. Her commitment to social justice is reflected in initiatives such as Halloween for Hunger, De Mazenod Door, and her support for Indigenous reconciliation and equity initiatives within the Board and through provincial chaplaincy leadership. An active member of St. Ann and St. Patrick parishes, Ms. O'Keefe continues to share her gifts through liturgical and youth ministries. Her ministry is perhaps best reflected in the many students, families and colleagues who know they can turn to her for guidance, understanding and support.
Very Rev. Fr. Andrew Quarshie, Pastor of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish and Dean of the Hamilton Deanery
Very Rev. Fr. Andrew Quarshie has made an outstanding contribution to Catholic education through his joyful ministry, pastoral leadership and dedication to strengthening the relationship between home, school and parish. Born and raised in Ghana, where he was ordained to the priesthood in 2009, Fr. Quarshie came to Canada in 2015 and was appointed Pastor of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Stoney Creek in 2023. In June 2026, he was named Dean of the Hamilton Deanery. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree and is the author of two books on faith and pastoral leadership. Through his ministry with seven Catholic schools, Fr. Quarshie has encouraged young people to encounter Christ through classroom visits, sacramental preparation, retreats and liturgical celebrations. Initiatives such as the Blessing of the Backpacks, Rosary Clubs, altar server ministries, children's choirs and youth leadership opportunities have strengthened connections between students, families and parish life. He also generously supports Board-wide Masses and celebrations, sharing his time and pastoral presence whenever called upon. Known for his warmth, humility and love of music and singing, Fr. Quarshie has a special ability to connect with young people and make them feel welcome in the Church. His familiar greeting, "God is Good All the Time and All the Time God is Good," captures the joy and enthusiasm that characterize his priestly ministry.
Mr. John Valvasori, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees
Throughout more than four decades of service to Catholic education, Mr. John Valvasori has demonstrated exemplary leadership, humility and a steadfast commitment to the good of students. During his 35-year career with the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, he served as a Teacher, Department Head, Vice-Principal and Principal, including 17 years as Principal at Cathedral High School, Cardinal Newman Catholic Secondary School and St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School. In each role, he fostered school communities rooted in faith, academic excellence and respect for the dignity of every person. Elected as a Catholic school board trustee in 2010, he subsequently served as Vice-Chairperson and, since June 2025, as Chairperson of the Board, providing thoughtful leadership and advocating for the distinctive mission of publicly funded Catholic education. His dedication to young people extends into the community through more than 30 years of involvement with Sparta Soccer Club, including over 20 years as President. He has also helped prepare future educators as an Adjunct Professor of Education at Canisius College and serves his parish community at St. Catherine of Siena as a Minister of the Word. A devoted father and grandfather, Mr. Valvasori is recognized for his integrity, compassion and genuine concern for others. His quiet leadership reflects a deeply held belief that service to others, rather than personal recognition, is at the heart of Catholic education.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, congratulations are extended to each of this year's recipients, who are shining examples of extraordinary service and dedication to Catholic education.
The Mass honouring the recipients and Awards Ceremony will take place on Tuesday, November 24, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of Christ the King.
For more information
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www.hwcdsb.ca
