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2025 St. Robert Bellarmine Award Recipient: Tim Pavolka B'76

Bellarmine is proud to announce Tim Pavolka B’76 as the distinguished recipient of the 2025 Saint Robert Bellarmine Award, the school’s highest honor. 
Tim’s deep relationship with Bellarmine spans decades. A proud graduate of Bellarmine’s Class of 1976, Tim and his wife Patti are parents to three alumni, Matt B'05, David B'08, and John B'13. Tim’s significant impact on the school includes his service as a former chair of the Bellarmine Board of Directors, involvement in numerous committees - including the 2012 President Search Committee, and active leadership roles in several strategic fundraising campaigns. Before joining the Board, he served on the Facilities Committee and played a vital part in the campaigns to build the St. Ignatius Loyola Center, the Connelly Campus Center, and the installation of new bleachers and field turf on Memorial Field. 

Tim’s commitment to service is evident in everything he does at Bellarmine. Whether volunteering for alumni phonathons, leading work parties to beautify the campus grounds, or helping clean up after events, Tim is always eager to serve.   

“Tim exemplifies what it means to live with the roar of a Lion heart — a spirit of courage, dedication, and service…Tim has consistently embodied the values of faith, service, and leadership that are central to Bellarmine Prep,” said Bellarmine President Dr. Kelly Goodsell. “His unwavering commitment to the school and its mission is a testament to his deep connection with the community, and his belief in the transformative power of education and service. Tim is more than just an alum; he is a true ‘person for others,’ living out the Jesuit ideals of Ignatian Spirituality in his life.”
 
Tim’s commitment to Catholic education extends well beyond Bellarmine. He generously supports other institutions and was most recently instrumental in launching the Cristo Rey Jesuit High School in Seattle. 

Bellarmine’s current Board Chair, Gavin O’Brien, shared his thoughts: “Tim Pavolka embodies the essence of a 'Grad at Grad.' His extraordinary devotion to Bellarmine has been inspiring over the years. His vision and leadership have been instrumental in shaping Bellarmine into the exceptional college preparatory school it is today, paving the way for its success as it moves into its next century.”

Congratulations, Tim! Your steadfast service to and support of Bellarmine have profoundly impacted the lives of our students and community and contributed to the development of our school.  We are profoundly grateful for all you have done and continue to do to strengthen and amplify Bellarmine’s mission. 

The Saint Robert Bellarmine Award, the school’s highest honor, is bestowed upon individuals of distinction who have made remarkable contributions to the school and broader community – reflecting the very essence of Bellarmine's mission. As the schoolʼs highest honor, it is awarded annually at the Gala. We hope you will join us Saturday, March 1, to see Tim receive this prestigious award.
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