Each year, the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board invites nominations for the Award for Distinguished Service to Catholic Education. The award recognizes former or current teachers, administrators, support staff, parents, clergy, religious, Catholic ratepayers, trustees and/or organizations who have made an extraordinary contribution to Catholic Education.
At its April 21, 2026, Special Meeting, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the following individuals as the recipients of the 2026 Award:
Mr. Peter Mamer, Retired Teacher and Former OECTA President:
With more than 30 years of service to the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, Mr. Peter Mamer made an extraordinary and lasting contribution as an educator, mentor, and leader. He began his teaching career with the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board at Holy Family Catholic Elementary School, where he developed a deeply student-centred approach, always valuing the dignity and individuality of each learner. He later spent many years at St. Agnes Catholic Elementary School, where he played an integral role in a strong, family-oriented school community, before continuing his teaching journey at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Elementary School. Known for his exceptional commitment to students, he dedicated countless hours to extracurricular activities, coaching a wide range of sports and fostering teamwork, confidence, and leadership. His contributions were recognized with the Catholic Youth Organization’s Bishop’s Medal in 1995. In addition to his classroom work, he contributed to school life through involvement in initiatives such as the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board’s Science Fair, professional development, and OECTA Christmas Charities. In 1999, he was elected President of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association for Hamilton-Wentworth, where he served until his retirement in 2005, providing strong advocacy for teachers while maintaining respectful and collaborative relationships across the system. Known for his humility, when asked about his work, he would simply respond, “I’m a teacher.” Following his retirement, he has continued to serve the community through volunteer work with the Cancer Assistance Program and through active involvement in his parish. His impact is reflected in the many students, colleagues, and communities he has supported throughout his career.
Ms. Imaculada “Mac” Moniz, Elementary Teacher:
For more than 25 years, Ms. Imaculada “Mac” Moniz has been a foundational presence at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Elementary School, demonstrating a strong commitment to Catholic education through her work as a teacher, mentor, and faith leader. Since beginning her career in 1989, she has fostered engaging and inclusive learning environments where all students feel valued and supported. In addition to her work across disciplines, including French, Science, and Physical Education, she has made a significant impact through her leadership in athletics as the school’s CYO representative, coaching a wide range of teams while ensuring programs are accessible to students of all abilities. Known for encouraging students who may lack confidence to participate and succeed, she has helped many develop a strong sense of belonging, resilience, and self-worth. Over the course of her career, she has supported generations of families, building lasting relationships and becoming a trusted presence for students seeking guidance and encouragement. Beyond the classroom, she contributes to student and staff well-being through her involvement on the Care Committee and plays an active role in strengthening the school’s sense of community. A quiet yet powerful witness to Catholic faith, she integrates Gospel values into daily interactions and supports liturgical life and outreach initiatives. Her impact on students, families, and the broader community is both meaningful and lasting.
Mr. Terry O’Sullivan, Retired Superintendent of Education:
With a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years, Mr. Terry O’Sullivan made an extraordinary contribution to Catholic education through his leadership, service, and deep commitment to students, staff, and community. Beginning his career in 1971 with the then Hamilton-Wentworth Roman Catholic Separate School Board, he served as a teacher, coach, Vice-Principal, Principal, and Superintendent of Education, providing thoughtful leadership across key areas including Religious Education, Family Life, and Student Success. He played an important role in advancing Catholic education through initiatives such as the introduction of the Christian Service program, the development of Faith Animators, and the strengthening of collaboration among school chaplains. Known for fostering inclusive school communities and building strong relationships with students, families, and parishes, Mr. O’Sullivan’s leadership was grounded in faith, compassion, and a strong sense of vocation. Following his retirement in 2005, he continued to contribute to education and the broader community through his work with EQAO, Canisius College, the Sisters of St. Joseph, and through ongoing volunteer service with the Good Shepherd Centres. His legacy reflects a lifelong commitment to Catholic education and to the well-being of others.
Ms. Theresa Haworth, Transition Coordinator:
Since beginning her career with the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board in 1984, Ms. Theresa Haworth has been a dedicated champion for students with complex special education needs, ensuring they are valued, supported, and fully included within both the school community and the broader Hamilton community. Serving in roles including Educational Assistant, Job Coach, and Transition Coordinator, she works across all seven Catholic secondary schools and is widely recognized as a trusted leader and advocate. She plays a central role in coordinating transition planning and serves as a key liaison between school teams, families, and community partners, ensuring supports for students is responsive, collaborative, and rooted in best practice. Ms. Haworth has been instrumental in the growth and development of the Supported Community Work Experience Program, overseeing all aspects from student readiness for a work experience, to employer partnerships and ongoing support. With each student, she helps to create meaningful opportunities to build confidence, independence, and a pathway beyond graduation. She has also strengthened system capacity through the development of community partnerships, grant-writing initiatives, and collaboration with external agencies and organizations, expanding access to inclusive opportunities for students with high needs. Guided by a deep commitment to the dignity of each person, she consistently goes beyond her role, advocating for equitable access, supporting families through times of transition, and celebrating the achievements of students who too often go unseen. Her impact on students, families, and the broader community is both profound and lasting.
Mr. John Morelli, Secondary Religion Teacher:
For nearly three decades, Mr. John Morelli has dedicated his career to Catholic education as a Religious Education teacher at St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School. Since 1998, he has fostered inclusive and respectful learning environments rooted in Gospel values, with a strong focus on the personal development of each student. In addition to his work in Religious Education, he has contributed to curriculum initiatives and supported school-wide efforts through involvement in literacy and numeracy committees. Mr. Morelli has made a significant impact on student life through his leadership in athletics, including establishing the school’s Ultimate Frisbee program and coaching badminton for nearly 20 years, achieving consistent success at the league level. He is best known for his leadership in student-led Christian service initiatives, first guiding students in global outreach projects through Free the Children and later founding the St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School Halloween for Hunger campaign. Over the past 25 years, this initiative has grown into a large-scale effort engaging hundreds of student volunteers each year, collecting tens of thousands of pounds of food in support of local organizations such as Neighbour to Neighbour. By mentoring student leaders to organize and lead the campaign, he has helped foster a culture of Christian service, leadership, and social responsibility within the school community, and inspired other schools to adopt similar initiatives. Known for his humility and his ability to connect with students, Mr. Morelli consistently encourages young people to recognize their gifts and use them in service to others. His influence is reflected in the many students he has inspired to live out their faith through action.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Chairperson of the Board, Mr. John Valvasori, congratulated each of the outstanding individuals being recognized this year and thanked them for their shining example and extraordinary contribution to Catholic Education. The Mass honouring the recipients and Awards Ceremony will take place Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., at the Cathedral Basilica of Christ the King.
