Andy was a St. Rita student who was diagnosed with cancer just prior to the start of his freshman year at St. Rita. Despite this diagnosis, he persevered through his illness and medical treatments with the love and support of his family at home and St. Rita Family. Andy has been described as the “epitome of a Ritaman” by those who knew him well. He studied hard, was committed to his faith, was active in extracurriculars like football, and was a true gentleman.
We invite you to apply for St. Rita of Cascia High School's Andrew Smialek ’08 Leadership Award. Please complete the application form below, including the required uploads. All applicants must have their principal or a current teacher complete the teacher evaluation form linked below.
Complete applications must be submitted no later than Tuesday, October 7, 2025.
Upon receipt of a completed application, applicants will be be contacted and scheduled for an interview on an afternoon of October 13-15. 2025.
If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Noreen Kelliher at nkelliher@stritahs.com or 773-925-6600 ext. 6652.
Please Note: Upon completion of the St. Rita Entrance Exam and the Class of 2030 Application Process, including the Application for Financial Aid, Smialek Leadership Award Recipients will receive priority consideration if they qualify for need-based financial aid.
Additionally, Smialek Leadership Award Recipients who also take the St. Rita Entrance Exam will have their applications rereviewed following the Entrance Exam. The top 10 ranked applications of those recipients will receive a freshman registration fee waiver.