Al Reger Award Winners

Al Reger winners Jeff Raymond and Emily Zagaros pose at the Senior Baccalaureate Mass and Breakfast event.

Remarkable Red Knights Earn Al Reger Awards

Who knew, 18 years ago, that childhood playmates would be the recipients of the prestigious 2022 Al Reger Award? The parents of Emily Zagaros ‘22 and Jeff Raymond ‘22 were high school friends, and their toddlers began their journeys in common surroundings. Now, at BSM, the two seniors were honored by the faculty and staff for “outstanding dedication and zeal to the service of God and school.”

Jeff can best be described as a prominent young man filled with faith and conviction. He is genuinely respected by his peers because of the authentic way he interacts with everyone in his path. He has the gift of making others feel like they are the most important person in the world. He is hard working and outgoing and has positively conquered challenges along the way. Football, hockey, and volunteerism played a significant role in his Red Knight years. Jeff never fails to take the initiative to make his class, team, or school a better place. His classmates and teachers see him as a true leader, always standing up for the important principles in life that guide his actions. His Catholic faith is a deeply important part of who he is, and he shows this by how much he cares for his fellow students. Drake University in Des Moines will be his next academic stop to study actuarial sciences. Emily has been a Red Knight star in so many ways. She approaches everything with genuine excitement and an inherent curiosity to learn. She has tackled the most challenging academics while being committed to athletics along with other co-curricular experiences. Regardless of the venue, Emily’s leadership is constantly on display. She demonstrates the power of grace and humility. Her humor, leadership, and dedication, in so many ways accentuate her special nature. Whether she is cheerleading in support of the Day of Giving, conducting challenging biomedical research, being honored as the Homecoming Queen, or shining on the dance floor, her presence is always noted. She will begin her collegiate experience focusing on medical nursing in Omaha, Nebraska at Creighton University in the fall.

Partners in crime as 2-year-olds, Emily and Jeff certainly made their presence known at BSM. Their positive impact on the community is a testament to their strong faith and character.

The 2022 Al Reger winners have known each other since 2004.