The Ignatian Solidarity Network has named Kristen Trudo ’14 a recipient of the Moira Erin O’Donnell Emerging Leaders for Justice Award. The award recognizes young adult alumni of Jesuit universities who demonstrate social justice leadership in their communities.
Last year, Trudo chose to do a year of post-graduate service in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in St. Louis, Mo., where she supported college prep programming at a low-income middle school.
A psychology and English double major and a prolific writer, Trudo blogged about her insights as a Jesuit Volunteer and a queer woman of color on the Ignatian Solidarity Network’s website. Much of her writing exposes injustices embedded in institutions that impacted her life and the lives of students at her service site. She also organized a racial justice working group at her placement, challenging leadership to consider the best ways to serve the predominantly black student population.
“Kristen has emerged as a leader within the Ignatian family, helping to guide the conversation and presenting opportunities for action,” said Christine Dragonette, the Director of Social Ministry at St. Francis Xavier (College) Church in St. Louis.
At LMU, Trudo served as the president of Gryphon Circle service organization and joined honors societies for both her majors. She was one of 20 seniors to earn a Presidential Citation for academic achievement, leadership and service.
Trudo received the O’Donnell Award at the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice.
