On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, the Independence Mission Schools (IMS) network gathered for its annual Faith and Wellness Day, a day of reflection, professional learning, and celebration. Guided by the theme “Rooted in Faith, Growing in Wellness: Strong Minds. Loving Hearts.”, the event invited educators and staff to nurture their spiritual, emotional, and professional well-being as they prepare for the school year ahead.
The day began with prayer, opening remarks, and the annual IMS Awards, recognizing teachers, staff, and community members who exemplify our mission. Honorees included Jillian Wood (St. Veronica), Vanessa Maull (St. Martin of Tours), Mary Holmes (St. Malachy), and Sandra Reilly Kehoe (SS. Cyril & Philomena and St. Raymond), all recipients of the St. John Neumann Teacher Impact Award for instructional excellence. The St. Katharine Drexel Award, honoring service and dedication, went to Juan Narvaez (St. Martin de Porres), Annette Washington (St. Malachy), Jess O’Brien (St. Helena-Incarnation), Daisy Diaz (St. Veronica), and Candace Gallagher (SS. Cyril & Philomena). The Angel of the Catholic School Award was presented to Kevin O’Brien (St. Malachy) and Dave O’Brien (St. Helena-Incarnation) for their volunteer service, while Jess Lopez (St. Martin de Porres) received the Christ the Teacher Award for her faith-centered leadership.
Keynote presentations and workshops followed, including Rooted in Faith with Fr. Stephen DeLacy, Nurturing Curiosity with Josh MacNeill of InMinds, and sessions on resilience, self-care, and mindfulness led by IMS educators and staff. Attendees also gathered for Mass at St. Peter the Apostle, reinforcing the spiritual grounding of the day.
Faith and Wellness Day served as both a celebration and a renewal, reminding us that our work is not only about academic growth but also about sowing seeds of faith, love, and resilience in the hearts of students, families, and school communities.
