The mission statement of Bishop Guertin High School reads in part, "Building upon the educational tradition of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, we develop a school community which includes students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends. Together, we foster an environment of respect, compassion, and trust in which young people can grow and develop. The formation of the spiritual, intellectual, creative, emotional, social, and physical dimensions of each person is made possible within a safe, supportive, faith-filled environment in which each person is known, valued, and treasured.”

David Giarusso, the Associate Director of Admission at Bishop Guertin and this year’s recipient of the Catholic Leadership Award brings this mission to life each and every day. One of David’s nominators wrote, “David Giarusso is an essential pillar of our community and a shining example of leadership within the Catholic faith.  He embodies the lifelong pursuit of intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth, reflecting the noble mission of St. Anselm College. His commitment to personal and professional development, dedication to service, and leadership within local and broader communities make him an outstanding candidate for the Catholic Leadership Award."

David is a man of faith in action, a true servant leader. For David, opening the educational doors to hundreds of young men and women is not just his job, but truly his vocation. David has the keen ability to make connections and build relationships not only within the BG community but also in the greater Nashua community and beyond. David is an ambassador of the transformative power of a Catholic education.

Another of David's nominators writes, "I firmly belive that Fr. Andre Coindre, founder of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, must be satisfied and amazed that his 1820s mission of providing a formative education for young men and women is being lived out to the fullest extend in 2023 at Bishop Guertin High School thanks in large part to the work of Dave Giarusso."

Ametur Cor Jesu! Ametur Cor Mariae: Loved be the heart of Jesus, Loved be the heart of Mary— the motto of the Sacred Heart Brothers and the inspiration and foundation of David's work.