HFCA student wins Patriot Pen essay contest

Stella French, a member of the Holy Family Catholic Academy’s Class of 2026, was recently awarded top honors in the Patriot Pen Essay Contest, sponsored annually by the local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5151.

The Patriot Pen Contest invites middle school students to reflect thoughtfully on a patriotic theme. This year’s prompt, “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?” challenged students to consider both personal responsibility and civic engagement.

Stella’s winning essay opened with President John F. Kennedy’s enduring call to service: “Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.”

Titled “Faith and Loyalty Toward Our Nation,” her essay explored both large and small ways Americans of all ages can demonstrate patriotism, emphasizing respect, service, and thoughtful participation in civic life.

HFCA students have a longstanding legacy of success in the Patriot Pen Essay Contest, consistently rising to the challenge of this nationally recognized competition.

As the only International Baccalaureate World School in the northwest suburbs, the Inverness school values opportunities like Patriot Pen that align with its mission to develop students who think critically, communicate effectively, and reflect on their responsibilities as global citizens and leaders.

This tradition of excellence would not be possible without the dedication of HFCA’s faculty.

Middle school language arts teacher Anne Pacion inspires students to extend their learning beyond the classroom. She guided Stella and many of the past essay contest winners through the writing process.

“As we celebrate HFCA’s Patriot Pen legacy, we honor Stella and the many students who have represented our school with distinction,” said Principal Dr. Kate O’Brien. “Together, they exemplify HFCA’s commitment to forming minds to lead and hearts to serve.”