Sophomore Ana Paulina Quiroz received the Serviam Award at a special liturgy for the sophomore class on Wednesday, February 5.

The Ursuline Mothers' Club Beth Rayfield Memorial Challenge Award, or the Serviam Award, recognizes a member of the sophomore class who embodies the principles of Serviam (Latin for 'I will serve'). The award is made based on a written student reflection and individual record of service.

Ana started volunteering at Crossroads Community Services (CCS) this past summer. She assists individuals in three areas: processing, intake, and shopping. However, her favorite areas are the intake and shopping because she is able to engage individually with those she serves.

CCS is a brick and mortar food bank and warm home to some of Dallas’ most unfortunate. Located in a less affluent sector of Dallas, it gives low-income families and individuals access to pantry staples and fresh produce. 

“Not only does CCS offer fresh food, but they also treat all who enter through the doors with the dignity they deserve,” Quiroz said.

She finds this project enlightening because she is immersed in a new environment with different people who she can empathize with.

“Although they lived in poverty, many came with a joy I found intoxicating and reaffirming of the truth that money does not buy happiness,” she reflected in her essay.

Her service constantly reminds her of her human purpose: “love to serve and serve to love.”

Ana is active at Ursuline. She enjoys beign involved with Ambassadors and is an officer for Model UN and the Together in Spirit Club. Her favorite subjects are English, World History, and Chemistry. During the school year, she also attends a service club called United to Lead, where a group of high schoolers focuses on a different issues pertaining to elementary schools. 

Read Ana's Essay.