Whether it’s through her reminder emails to turn in your jersey at the end of the season or her bright presence lighting up the campus, there’s no mistaking the impact Girls Athletic Director Ms. Dawn Hemm has had on the SHP Community. At an assembly during the first week of school, students and faculty took a moment to acknowledge Hemm’s recent well-deserved recognition as a recipient of the Saint Madeleine Sophie Award for 2025. But what exactly does this honor mean?
Every year, the Saint Madeleine Sophie Award honors individuals in our Sacred Heart Schools community who have made long-lasting and significant contributions to our community, embodying the five Goals and Criteria. Even though by now you definitely know them by heart, here’s a refresher:
- A personal and active faith in God.
- A deep respect for intellectual values.
- A social awareness which impels to action.
- The building of community as a Christian value.
- Personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.
If you’ve met Hemm, it’s no surprise that she received this distinction. Her unwavering service and devotion to living Sacred Heart’s mission for years as the Girls Athletic Director has not gone unnoticed, shaping many student-athletes’ lives and strengthening our community in countless ways.
Her name now joins past recipients on the plaque across from Head of Schools Mr. Richard Dioli’s office, including English Co-Department Head & Creative Inquiry Teacher Mr. Jake Moffat, a 2023 honoree. He described receiving the award as “a dark blue ribbon for adults,” and reflected on how meaningful it felt to have his dedication to fostering deeper connections with students recognized. Of Hemm, he shared: “Her deep and abiding love for SHP athletics and her soul are just synonymous with Sacred Heart.”
Students echo this admiration and have seen her impact on our community. Simona Nayar ‘27 stated, “She has tirelessly worked to ensure that girls’ athletes know they are part of the community. She always has a bright smile on her face, even when you’re dropping by to return your jersey three weeks late.” I can personally attest to that as well–Hemm always made sure I felt supported and a part of the community, even while sidelined with injury. That’s just the kind of person she is: uplifting others and building community, all while radiating pure joy. Sadie Kollar ‘27 reflected on how “As a female student-athlete, having Dawn as a mentor has really helped me become a better person and player, and I’m really grateful for her guidance and support during my time here!”
Hemm expressed immense gratitude for receiving the Saint Madeleine Sophie Award, and mentioned that it “is especially meaningful because it comes from the people [she] works alongside every day—our coaches, staff, and educators—whose dedication, support, and shared commitment to our students continually inspire [her].” That’s the beauty of the award. It gives our community a chance to lift those up to be honored for their tireless work and for, as Hemm described, carrying “forward the spirit of St. Madeleine Sophie,” and living out her legacy here at Sacred Heart.
