Agnes Penny, who retired in May after 24 of service to Cardinal Gibbons High School, received a Lewis Award November 3. Penny received the Lifetime Achievement in Catholic Education award, which honors people who have made a significant commitment to the Catholic schools of the diocese, as well as their church and civic communities.

While at Gibbons, Penny worked as campus minister, theology educator, retreat leader and, ultimately, director of Outreach.

“Agnes is someone who once you meet you are changed forever, someone who truly brings the kingdom of heaven here to earth,” Gibbons retreat director Crista Anders, who has known Penny for nine years, said. “Agnes does not know any strangers… she always makes you feel like family.”

The first Lifetime Achievement award was given in 1999. Since that time a total of nine lifetime awards, including the award for Penny, have been given.

The Lewis Award, named for Monsignor Gerald Lewis, was initiated in 1992 by Anne Williams Stahel to honor outstanding educators in the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Raleigh. Each year an Excellence in Teaching award is given.

Photo: Rachelle Garbarine