Congratulations to Mason Holtorf, Pacelli High School senior, for being named as Austin Noon Kiwanis Student of the Month.

Holtorf was described as “a great student who is active in many extra-curricular activities including drama, musicals, One Act Plays, football and track and field. He volunteers at every Pacelli event possible, supports his classmates at all their events, is a Eucharistic Minister at Mass, is a mentor to younger students, and is an excellent model of compassion and acceptance in our school.”

Aside from volunteering at different Pacelli events, Holtorf also helped out at a homeless shelter in the Twin Cities, packed food for Feed My Starving Children, and participated in Catholics at the Capitol (learning advocacy strategies to be an active participant in government).

Academically, Holtorf shared that “Pacelli has taught me so much and taught me to try my best, work hard and push myself.  I strive to achieve the honor roll every quarter, at which I have been successful.  Pacelli provides many opportunities for me to try new things both in and out of school. I have also participated in PSEO classes.”

Looking ahead to his post-secondary plans and goals, Holtorf plans to use the Hormel Foundation Austin Assurance Scholarship Program and attend Riverland Community College for his general education and first two years of college. He then plans to transfer to Mankato (Minnesota) State University and complete a degree in law enforcement or fire safety and protection engineering.

For those who inspire him, Holtorf said his mother made the biggest impact on him.

“My mom has had a big impact on me,” he said. “She is always there and is always encouraging me to be a better person. She gives me the push and motivation that I need to be the best I can be.”