Each year at our annual auction, we honor members of our community who support our ministry at Sacred Heart Villa with The Heart of Hearts Award. On Friday evening, April 26, 2024, we will honor three people who have made their mark on The Villa for many years - in many impactful ways.
We will first recognize Mrs. Louisa Cottone who has been employed at Sacred Heart Villa since 2009. Her job titles over the years have included: a Nursery Assistant, a PK assistant, office manager, and is currently the registrar and assists Sr. Bridget with acknowledging donors. Louisa has a great love for the Sacred Heart of Jesus and loves the congregation of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Gentleness and kindness are modeled every day by Louisa. A humble soul, she never likes to receive credit for her accomplishments or things she has done to help others. She loves our little children and speaks to them with a soft, kind voice. Louisa is truly a team player and would do anything that you ask her to do. She is a blessing to Sacred Heart Villa.
Second, we honor Andrew Gayer, a former parent of the Villa who has served on Sacred Heart Villa’s Advisory Board since 2015. Andrew and his wife, Laura, fell in love with the charism of Sacred Heart Villa. Andrew will tell you that he instantly felt right at home and knew The Villa was the right school for their little two-year old daughter Sophie and later their two younger sons. All three children graduated from our kindergarten program. Over the years, the Gayers became involved with the school's various activities and fundraisers. As a structural engineer, Andrew has been able to bring his knowledge and skills to the table to make many recommendations and oversee some projects tall and small over the years. Andrew along with another board member were instrumental in installing the red shade sails that hang high above the playground in the backyard of the Villa. He has helped to secure experts in various fields of construction to inspect and give suggestions to structural projects. He and another Villa alum dad installed the new firetruck on the playground on a very hot August day last summer. These are just a few of the countless ways Andrew has given of his time and talent to Sacred Heart Villa over the last twelve years. We are blessed!
Third, we will honor Matt Sutherland, a former Villa dad and member of the Villa’s Advisory Board. The Sutherland family first came to Sacred Heart Villa when their son was 3 years old in 2014 looking for a new daycare. Matt began to offer his services which were eagerly welcomed. In March of 2015, he joined the Advisory Board of Sacred Heart Villa. As an architect, Matt offered a wide range of skills and knowledge to assist the facilities committee. He has donated his services to many Villa projects over the years including: the design of the playground red shade structure, total renovation and redesign of all SHV restrooms, renovation of the stage in the Villa playroom, consultations on waterproofing and repairs to the roof, parapet and facade and participation on a Strategic Planning Committee. Matt even helped with the removal of the walk-in cooler and freezer in the Villa’s kitchen. He is generous of his time, talents, and loyalty to The Villa. We are again blessed.
We are pleased to honor Louisa, Andrew & Matt with the Heart of Hearts Award during the auction program and recognize them for their dedication and commitment to Sacred Heart Villa.