The Heart of the Mission Award
The Heart of the Mission Award, lovingly referred to as the “Darstie,” was first given in 2016 and is presented to an individual or individuals from within the Darst Center whose grit, determination, and dedication to the Darst Center mission have allowed the organization to thrive. This individual or individuals has/have made significant contributions to program, operations, vitality, growth, and/or sustainability of the mission.
The Heart of the Mission Award Recipients: (Sisters Pat Murphy and JoAnn Persch, Co-Founders, awarded a precursor to this award at the Darst Center’s 10th anniversary)
Mindy Rueden, Former Executive Director, 10.5 years of service | 2016
Sr. Joy Clough, RSM, Former Board Chair, 8 years of service | 2017
Bob Ortbal, Former Board Chair, 11 years of service | 2018
The Tony Bondi Project, “house band” for over a decade | 2019
Dr. James Grant Gholson, Former Board Chair, SICP service instructor | 2020
Mark Munninghoff, long-time board member, 9 years of service | 2021
Br. Denis Murphy Justice in Action Award
Serving as one of the co-founders and first Directors of the Br. David Darst Center, Br. Denis Murphy, FSC, was an exceptional model of an individual relentlessly striving to create a more just society. Unafraid to rock the boat, yet completely disarming in nature, it was Br. Denis who had the idea to open the Darst Center as a Lasallian social justice ministry designed to educate young people on the burning issues of our time.
The Br. Denis Murphy Justice in Action Award, first given in 2018 in memory of Br. Denis’ entrance into eternal life, is presented to an individual, organization, or foundation from outside the Darst Center whose strong dedication to social justice, fiery spirit, and service to the needs of the community warrants recognition and appreciation. This individual or organization has made significant contributions to the promotion of education, social justice, social inclusion, and/or community development.
Br. Denis Murphy Justice in Action Award Recipients:
8th Day Center for Justice | 2018
Bishop Robert Casey, Aux Bishop of our Vicariate and Co-Founder of Taller | 2019
CROAR, Chicago Regional Organizing for Antiracism | 2020
Lasallian Major Superiors of Men (RELAN Region) | 2021