Maureen’s Message: Seeking Excellence
“As part of their induction, each student wrote a personal essay that spoke to who they are becoming. Their reflections revealed humility, gratitude, resilience, and a sincere desire to grow into the people God is calling them to be.”
By: Principal Maureen Engen
“If today you hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” – Psalm 95
As we enter this season of gratitude and reflection, these words from Psalm 95 remind us how essential it is to stay open to God’s call, just as our students strive to do each day.
Honoring students striving for greatness
Last night, we had the tremendous joy of inducting 62 outstanding students into the National Honor Society. These young men and women have answered the Lord’s invitation to pursue excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, and character. As part of their induction, each student wrote a personal essay that spoke to who they are becoming. Their reflections revealed humility, gratitude, resilience, and a sincere desire to grow into the people God is calling them to be.
Reflections of character and faith
Here are just a few examples of their goodness:
- “I try to be honest and empathetic by being intentional with my words and actions, willing to help anyone in any situation.”
- “I’m easily overshadowed by whoever is most talkative, but I don’t let that stop me from leading. I account for 100% of the people who receive direction from me.”
- “I grew up in a home where my grade mattered less than the effort I put in. That mindset helped me take the most challenging classes and earn a 4.5 GPA.”
- “My work ethic came from early struggles in school. A teacher tested me for dyslexia and dysgraphia — both positive. My parents and future teachers have helped me build the mindset for success I have today.”
- “Service has been part of my life since age 5. So, entering high school, service was something I expected. I used Spring Breaks my freshman and junior years to serve in West Virginia.”
- “People are always watching, especially at school. As a senior, I know younger students look to me, and I want to be that girl who leads them in the right direction.”
- “Don’t become a well-rounded person. Well-rounded people are smooth and dull. Become a thoroughly spikey person.”
- “I struggle with anxiety, but I push myself every day. When I overcome obstacles, it motivates others and pleases the Lord.”
- “Of all the NHS pillars, character is my strongest. I am kind, courageous, mentally tough, and I never lose my spirit. Miege teachers and coaches have taught me how to be tough when I feel like I have nothing left. I am grateful.”
These words reflect far more than academic achievement. They reflect the formation of the heart. They show us students who listen to God’s voice, who lean into challenges, and who desire to make their school, their families, and their communities better.
Photos from this week’s Summit Night from junior Paul Olson
Pursuing excellence through daily life
“Be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope.” – Romans 12:11-12
As we move toward the end of first semester, I am reminded of the encouragement from Romans 12 about rejoicing in hope. I see this scripture lived out at Bishop Miege every day through students’ joy in learning, their leadership in Herd, clubs, and athletics, their perseverance in difficult moments, and their commitment to treating each other with compassion.
Thank you for partnering with us in supporting students in spiritual, academic, and personal success. Your trust, your communication, and your faith in our mission allow us to walk alongside each student as they “rejoice in hope” and continue becoming who God intends them to be.
Bishop Miege truly is a special high school where students flourish in faith, friendship, purpose, and excellence.