Sofia Parfomak, a senior at Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington, was recognized by the National Catholic Education Association Jan. 31 for organizing a fundraising concert that benefitted the children of Ukraine last summer.
Parfomak was chosen from more than 1.6 million Catholic school students across the country for the Youth Virtues, Valor and Vision Award, recognizing selfless service, determination, innovation and ideals that are changing the world. She received a prestigious NCEA crystal flame and a Chromebook supplied by Archangel Education + Technology.
“Sofia is one of the most versatile and accomplished student/citizens I’ve had the pleasure of knowing in my 38 years in education,” said Head of School Bill Crittenberger. “I am pleased that her joyful commitment to serving others and her infectious enthusiasm has been recognized in this way.”
“It was fun and fulfilling to put on a concert with my friends for a worthy cause,” said Parfomak, who was inspired by her own grandmother’s experiences as a Ukrainian refugee forced to leave her home in World War II. “It was really a surprise and an honor to receive recognition for it, but that’s not why I organized the concert. The most important thing is to support the Ukrainian children, and if this award brings renewed attention to their plight, then it will have helped to accomplish my goal.”
“The very title of the award, Youth Virtues, Valor and Vision, tells us a lot about these young people,” said NCEA President/CEO Lincoln Snyder. “Each one is a witness to the risen Christ and the importance of Catholic schools. These students are the faces of our Catholic faith at work in their communities.”
