On Friday, October 25th, 2019, the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries and Office of Hispanic Apostolate hosted the fifth annual Saints in the City: an awards banquet honoring the youth of the Diocese of San Jose who have carried the torch of discipleship with fearless faith, enduring hope, and bountiful charity. The evening event recognized young disciples and honored their commitment to the great commission and their eager response to the new evangelization. Sophie Ciechanowski '20 received the Saint Francis of Assisi Award.

"Sophie embodies the spirit of St Francis to preach the gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words," shared Kathleen Quiazon, director of mission and ministry at Notre Dame. "Her gentle and consistent spiritual seeking inspires her to recognize God's goodness in creation, contemplative dialogue, liturgical prayer, and in those family, friends, and neighbors around her. In her leadership at Notre Dame San Jose as a peer ministry leader, Sophie models the way of faithful discipleship for her peers as she also invites them to join her in various ministries and moments of faith. Sophie has joined other Notre Dame students from around the world to live with a joyful heart and a commitment to justice."

At Notre Dame, Sophie is a member of the Peer Ministry Leadership Team and a retreat leader. She has traveled across the United States to attend leadership conferences and dialog with other Notre Dame students and sisters from around the world.