Peer Mentors Receive Awards
Congratulations to Rylie Hurst '26, who received the Advocacy Award, and Jordan Smith Jr. ’26, who received the Lumen Cordis Award at the Porto Charities Gala on Friday, April 24, 2026.
The Advocacy Award is named after St. Timothy, a companion and helper to St. Paul, and is awarded to an outstanding current or former peer mentor from one of the four diocesan high schools who has a personal, long-standing commitment to accompany members of the disability community and help make academic and social life accessible. Rylie has served as a peer mentor at PVI for two consecutive years and has demonstrated that her commitment to peer mentoring goes far beyond gaining exposure to working with students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities; she has built meaningful friendships with the individuals she supports.
The Lumen Cordis Award, Latin for "Light of the Heart," recognizes those who lead with a spirit of radical inclusion and compassion by shining a light on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Jordan has used his national spotlight as a top basketball player in the country to lift up students with disabilities and support Special Olympics.
St. Paul VI Catholic High School is a private Diocesan Catholic preparatory school for girls and boys in grades 9-12 in Chantilly, Virginia, seeking to help our students Grow in Grace and Wisdom. Our school is part of the Diocese of Arlington and offers rigorous academics, an inclusive community focused on spiritual and leadership formation, and a proud athletic tradition featuring nationally renowned programs competing in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference and the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association.
St. Paul VI Catholic High School is an accredited member of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
St. Paul VI Catholic High School is an accredited member of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
