MERCI BEAUCOUP AWARD

The Merci Beaucoup Award has been established to pay tribute to those who have embraced the philosophy of the Sacred Heart education in their everyday lives. The Merci Beaucoup Award is given to an individual, who though not a Duchesne graduate, has made significant contributions to Duchesne.

Following is an excerpt from the awards ceremony.

Ron Quinn has been a visible and invaluable force in the advancement of Duchesne Academy for more than eleven years.  Ron and his wife Teri began their association with Duchesne when their daughter, Jennifer enrolled as a ninth grader in 1998.  From the beginning Ron has invested himself in Sacred Heart education and has continually said “yes” when asked to serve in a variety of roles.  

Ron was a dedicated trustee for nine years. He served as the Chair of the Finance Committee, followed by Vice-Chair of the board and from 2005-2008 he was Chairman of the Board of Trustees. During his tenure on the board Ron guided and led Duchesne through two successful capital campaigns that resulted in several improvements, additions and renovations.  However, to label Ron Quinn as a brick and mortar man would be doing him a great disservice. 

Ron’s leadership has been defined by his abiding passion for the mission and vision of Sacred Heart education. He speaks genuinely about the graduates of Duchesne and the difference they will make in our country and our world.  Ron recognizes the shoulders upon which we all stand and he has a deep gratitude for the Religious of the Sacred Heart who sacrificed and dedicated themselves to providing the foundation upon which we continue to thrive. The first time Ron visited St. Charles, Missouri and walked the same sacred grounds as our beloved namesake, Rose Philippine Duchesne, his devotion to Sacred Heart began and he has nurtured and deepened it every step of the way. Ron’s love for our history was made abundantly evident this year when he and Teri funded a “pilgrimage” for nineteen Duchesne teachers, administrators and staff to travel to St. Charles to visit Saint Philippine’s shrine and to tour her first convent at Florissant.

Over the last eleven years, Ron has left his mark in many ways. His support and guidance during difficult days and his joy and enthusiasm during times of celebration have come to be important threads in the day to day fabric of the school.  It is particularly fitting that the Alumnae Association recognizes Ron Quinn, a truly dedicated and devoted member of our Sacred Heart family. With profound gratitude we say “Merci Beaucoup”.