Saint Joseph School is proud to announce that 7th Grade student Sophia Surowaniec has been selected as our school’s winner in the 2025 Lions Clubs International Peace Poster Contest. Sophia’s poster—created for this year’s theme, “Together as One”—has advanced to the district level of the competition.
Sophia is the daughter of Piotr and Kristy Surowaniec of North Grosvenordale, CT. She is an active member of our school community as a member of Saint Joseph School’s Eagles Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society, Treasurer of the Children of Mary Sodality, a member of the Varsity Cheer Team, and an Assistant Coach for the Eaglets Cheer Team.
The Peace Poster Contest offers an opportunity for children in schools and youth groups everywhere to express their visions of peace through their art. Members of the Lions Club are an example to the world that, through service, everyone can give and receive so much joy, kindness, hope, and peace. In celebration of Sophia’s accomplishment, Webster-Dudley Lions Club member Dr. John Kalinowski visited Saint Joseph School to personally notify her of the exciting news and to pose for photos with our winner.
Sophia is also a repeat winner for Saint Joseph School—her 2024 submission was selected to move on as well. Students develop ideas for the contest during art class with Saint Joseph School’s Art Instructor and Fine Arts Director, Ms. Brighid Campbell, who helps students thoughtfully express meaning through design, symbolism, and message.
This contest is a natural fit for Saint Joseph School because it invites students to put faith and values into action—using creativity to promote the dignity of every person, kindness toward others, and a spirit of unity. In many ways, Sophia’s message of peace reflects what we strive to live each day at SJS through our mission of Religion, Respect, and Responsibility.
Congratulations, Sophia! We are so proud of you.
