Awards at the 148th Commencement

Following is an overview of the awards presented at Prep’s 148th Commencement on June 2, 2026.

Named Awards

John McGovern, ’80 Award

A graduate who embodies leadership and dedication to the spirit of teamwork

Derek Gomez (in absentia)

Jeff Kachel, ’89 Memorial
Student-Athlete Award

A graduate whose perseverance, commitment, and leadership are the marks of a true Prep student-athlete

David Tallarida

Jesuit Veterans Service Award

A graduate whose selfless service to others exemplifies our mission to instill the courage to advance the common good

Laudan Henry

Agape Award

A graduate actively living a life of faith
shaped by the Gospels

Patrick Cansino

Jerome Pedersen, ’92 Award

A graduate who models the virtues Jerome Pedersen lived with such distinction – a gentle manner, good humor, faith,
and generous service to Prep

Ethan Seals

Jesuit Schools Network Award

A graduate who exhibits the characteristics of Jesuit education: Intellectually Competent, Open to Growth, Religious, Loving, and Committed to Doing Justice

Dmytrii Frenkel

Rev. John E. Browning, S.J., ’46 Award

A graduate modeling the virtues Fr. Browning lived with such distinction: courage, wisdom, and humble service in pursuit of justice

Steven Mazewski

Rich & Elisse Hansen, P’03,’09 Award

A graduate who has lived his time at Prep with radical passion, fierce leadership, and a spirit of relentless commitment to excellence

Richie Rosa

Rev. Francis J. Shalloe, S.J. Award

A graduate who best exemplifies loyalty to the ideals of Saint Peter’s, an outstanding spirit of service to the Prep community, and personal development characterized in the phrase “A Man for Others”

Tyler Barksdale

Juan Pablo Lombera

Graduation Speakers

Vincent J. Kennedy, ’39 Award

Presented to the Student Speaker

Aiden Ahn

Charley Rooney, P’67,’69 Award

Presented to the Faculty Speaker

Ms. Grace Morris

Faculty/Staff Awards

Bene Merenti Award

Presented in recognition of 20 years of service to Prep

Mr. Anthony Keating, ’78, P’10

Mr. Kevin Albers

Ms. Peggy Popp-Murphy, P’08

Ms. Erin Stark

Note: Mr. Keating began his service in 2005 and earned Bene Merenti recognition in 2025. He was unable to attend last year’s commencement, and so he was honored on stage this year.

The Sword of Saint Ignatius

To be presented only in moments of particular recognition, recognizes a rare devotion to the mission of Saint Peter’s Prep and is presented to an individual whose influence has shaped the spirit, the character, and the future of our community through years of faithful leadership and service.