The Bishop Roger Gries Heart of a Servant award recognizes an individual or group for a specific effort or cumulative efforts over the years to broaden, enhance, educate, and connect the Catholic community of Greater Cleveland.

2025 Awardee, Sr. Juanita Shealey, CSJ, at the 2025 Bishop’s Luncheon.

Nominations are currently being accepted for the 2026 awardee. In making a nomination, please consider Impact, Character, Commitment, Leadership, and Innovation. Clergy, other religious, and laity are all eligible. Nominations must be submitted by August 1, 2025.

CLICK HERE FOR NOMINATION FORM

The First Friday Club Board of Trustees will select the 2026 awardee later this summer. The award will be presented as part of the Bishop’s Luncheon on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

Heart of a Servant Awardees

2025 – Sr. Juanita Shealey, CSJ

2024 – John FitzGerald

2023 – Sr. Rita Mary Harwood, ND

2022 – Bishop Roger Gries