Pictured (L-R) Tom Duckworth, payroll administrator, and UIW student Samantha Buentello, 2011-2012 CCVI Spirit Award recipients.

The University of the Incarnate Word celebrated Incarnate Word Day on Monday, March 26 in observance of the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Incarnation of the Eternal Word, God.

The annual Incarnate Word Day festivities included lunch on Dubuis Lawn, the Cardinal Carnival, a golf cart parade, and Mass in Our Lady’s Chapel where the CCVI Spirit awards were presented.

The 2011-2012 faculty/staff recipient of the award was Tom Duckworth, UIW payroll administrator. The CCVI Spirit Award recognizes a member of the faculty, administration, or staff who has demonstrated in service to the university or the broader civic community, the spirit of the founders, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word.

Duckworth was surprised when he found out he was selected for the award. He said working for UIW has given him the opportunity to grow mentally and spiritually.

“I have also had the opportunity to meet and work with remarkable individuals who share with me the core values of the university and the spirit of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word,” he said. “I have received more than I would be able to fully give back, but I give in order for the Mission of the university to continue long after I have gone.”

The student award recipient was Samantha Buentello. The Student CCVI Spirit Award began in 1994 and awards a student who is recognized by peers, faculty and staff as living the Mission of the Sisters and whose actions embody the spirit of human dignity and charity in relationships at the university and/or in the community. This is the highest award a student can achieve at UIW.

“I was very honored and humbled to be selected for this award,” Buentello said. “It is an amazing experience and I cannot wait to inspire other students and show them that when you trust in God and glorify him, nothing is impossible.”