Ursuline Sister Thomasita Hayes awarded Golden Shamrock

Shawe Memorial Junior Senior High School and Pope John XXIII Elementary, which are united under the Prince of Peace Catholic Schools, presented the 2003 Golden Shamrock Award to Sister Thomasita Hayes for her vital role as part of Shawe Memorial's history.

"This year's recipient has affected the lives of many people in this community and this recognition is long overdue," said Marta Belt, director of Development and Marketing for the Prince of Peace Catholic Schools.

The Golden Shamrock Award was created in 1993 to honor special members of the community who have dedicated a portion of their lives to the betterment of the Catholic schools in Madison, Ind.. The plaque awarded reads, "For commitment and contributions in service to the students in the Catholic Schools."

Sister Thomasita joined the Shawe Memorial Faculty in 1969 and retired in 1999, after 30 busy years. She taught all levels of math and spent her after school time as advisor to the Junior class. She was both cheerleading and pep club sponsor. She scrubbed the floor on her knees when it was needed and she sewed cheerleader uniforms and prom dresses. But, she is best known for making her pies and fried chicken.

In a 1995 Shawe newsletter, Sister Thomasita is quoted as saying that she is most proud of the students she has taught, the accomplishments they have achieved and the influence she has had on them in math and as people.