The Knights of Columbus is an organization founded on the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. The core values of this organization include: integrity, professionalism, excellence, and respect. Every year for the past 15 years, our Knights of Columbus has recognized two St. Francis 8th grade students that exhibit these core values. This award is based on longitudinal performance and interactions, as well as how involved the students were in assisting with service projects, their leadership roles, and whether or not they unify their peer group and maintain positive interactions with everyone. The recipients for the 2025-2026 school year are Hattie Harmon and Brandt Kemlock!

Hattie Harmon has been an exemplary student academically throughout her years at St. Francis. She makes the Principal’s List each semester and maintains a 4.0 GPA. She demonstrates her faith by serving the school and parish as an altar server. She is involved in the cheer program as the cheer captain, the chess club, and photography club. She enjoys swimming, skiing, dance, playing the piano, and reading. Hattie plans to attend Woodrow Wilson High School and the later the University of Virginia where she plans to study to become a dermatologist. Hattie had this to say: “St. Francis has respectful students and teachers. I like the fact that I have been given a faith-based education.”

Brandt Kemlock has been an exemplary student academically throughout his years at St. Francis. He makes the Principal’s List each semester and maintains a 4.0 GPA. He demonstrates his dedication to his faith by serving the school and parish as an altar server. He plays basketball for St. Francis, as well as being a member of the chess club and photography club. He enjoys playing the guitar, legos, and video games. Brandt plans to attend Oak Hill High School and later attend trade school to become an electrical engineer. Brandt had this to say: “You get a more personal connection to the teachers and learn about the Catholic faith at St. Francis.”