The Mary Ward Rose
The Mary Ward Rose is our most prestigious recognition of the graduation ceremonies. It speaks to the heart of our mission. The award is named for the founder of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM).
Mary Ward was an Englishwoman who started the institute in the 16th Century to educate young women. Today, on every continent, Loretto schools continue that mission.
This rose is awarded in Mary Ward’s name to a young woman whose Christian commitment is expressed by her positive influence on others, which leads them to a deeper understanding and expression of their own faith. This outstanding student is active in countless service activities and defines leadership in every sense of the word. The faculty and staff submit candidate names for this award. A discernment process leads to our finalist. The Mary Rose Award is presented to the most outstanding young woman at the Baccalaureate Mass on the evening before her graduation. Please join with our Alumnae Office and the faculty and staff at Loretto High School in congratulating all the exceptional young women who have received this prestigious award since it's inception in 1981.
2007 Mary Ward Rose Recipient
Janelle Neczypor
The Mary Ward Rose Award for the Class of 2007 is a truly outstanding young woman. She has been recognized as one of the most faith-filled individuals on campus. She embodies the Gospel message of “living” as a disciple of Christ. Janelle is a strong, confident, creative and positive person. She is kind, compassionate and encourages others so that they many grow and weather all situations. She is a leader. Janelle was very active on the Loretto S.A.L.T. Team, President of the Shakespeare Society, participated in Locks of Love twice in four years. She worked to assist the homeless and she traveled to our Mission in Mexico. It is an honor to award the 2007 Mary Ward Rose Award to Janelle.
Past Recipients
| Year | Student Recipients |
| 1981 | Rose Berger |
| 1982 | Anne Coyle |
| 1983 | Eileen Johnson |
| 1984 | Laura Elkins |
| 1985 | Alice McTighe |
| 1986 | Kerry Desmond |
| 1987 | Silvia Reynoso |
| 1988 | Mary Ann Blohm |
| 1989 | Laura Jerzak |
| 1990 | Nga Vu |
| 1991 | Susie Fitzpatrick |
| 1992 | April Skou |
| 1993 | Samantha Barker |
| 1994 | Laura Venturini |
| 1995 | Nicole Ottersen |
| 1996 | Quynda Henry |
| 1997 | Heather Phillips |
| 1998 | Kristin Brady |
| 1999 | Amber Orr |
| 2000 | Emilie Stayner |
| 2001 | Alicia Katnik |
| 2002 | Caitlin Henderson |
| 2003 | Kelly Bossenmaier |
| 2004 | Tanya Noujaim |
| 2005 | Amanda Lechner |
| 2006 | Rosary Abot |
| 2007 | Janelle Neczypor |
| Adult Recipients |
| Carol Hicks Spencer |
| Elaine Iwanski '69 |
| Barbara Wroblicky |
| Sr. Nora Lowe, IBVM |
| Sr. Maria Bierer, IBVM |
| Sr. Jean Frye, IBVM |
| Sr. Patricia Hewitt, IBVM |
| Arlene Frazer (at 25th year as Secretary) |
| John deGroot |
| Eileen Thomas |
| Sr. Francis Clarke, IBVM |
| Sr. Jane Frances Ducharme, IBVM |
| Mary Daugherty |
| Sr. Barbara Nelson IBVM |