Members of Students for Human Dignity & Diversity in Action at St. Mary’s Dominican High School welcomed the Peace Center After School Program’s young students to their school for an annual Christmas Party. It was a first-time visit for all but two of the students. They were delighted and surprised when they entered the party room, transformed into a winter wonderland, with food, sweets, and goodie bags. Silver Christmas bells were the most popular memento for the young guests who are five to 12 years old. 

This fall, the student organization began their outreach component at the Peace Center, located near Dominican, where they mentor students in the After School program. The Dominican Sisters of Peace opened the Peace Center in September 2014, as a neighborhood outreach organization for people of all ages.

“Tutorials and activities that focus on diversity, self-esteem, preparation for high school and beyond are the important building blocks for the partnership,” said Vallerie Maurice, who is Students for Human Dignity & Diversity in Action moderator with adviser Maureen Wright. “The goal is to assist each student to realize their self-worth and reach their full potential.”

Members of Students for Human Dignity & Diversity in Action at their annual Christmas party (front row, from left) are Nayah Thomas, Kaylie Nguyen, Sanai Jackson, Jayla Domino, and Emily Anding. (Row 2): Angelle Nash, Elana Perriott, Audrey Wild, Sydni Griffin, Victoria Williams, Kaitlyn Bartholomew, Caitlyn Dumas, and Baileigh Goines.

St. Mary’s Dominican High School student Selae Walker assists a student with a math lesson while fellow student, A’Nya Wheatley reviews a spelling list with her young partner at the Peace Center.

St. Mary’s Dominican High School student Angelle Nash guides a young student during a reading session, while fellow student Sanai Jackson helps her partner with writing.