Archbishop Stepinac High School students Lucas Bednarczyk ’27 and Michael McTiernan ’27 were recognized as Student Visionaries of the Year at the Blood Cancer United Annual Gala, held on March 26 in Stamford, Connecticut.
Leading their team, Courage Over Cancer, Bednarczyk and McTiernan raised more than $124,000 in support of Blood Cancer United, the nation’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a world without blood cancer. Their remarkable achievement highlights both their commitment to service and their ability to inspire others around a meaningful cause.
“Being part of this campaign showed us how powerful student leadership can be when it’s driven by something bigger than ourselves,” said Bednarczyk. “We are grateful for everyone who supported our mission and helped us make a real impact in the fight against blood cancer.”
McTiernan added, “This experience pushed us to grow as leaders and teammates. Every dollar raised represented hope for families affected by blood cancer, and we’re proud to have been part of something so meaningful.”
“Lucas and Michael have demonstrated what it truly means to lead with purpose and compassion,” said Principal, Paul Carty.” Their commitment to making a difference in the fight against blood cancer, and the incredible impact of their team’s efforts, reflect the very best of our community. We are immensely proud of their leadership, generosity, and the example they set for others.”
The Student Visionaries of the Year campaign is a prestigious, seven-week philanthropic competition that empowers high school students to develop leadership, teamwork, and project management skills while raising critical funds for blood cancer research and patient support. Student-led teams participate in honor of individuals affected by blood cancers, helping to advance the mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and myeloma, and improve the quality of life for patients and their families.
The annual gala serves as the program’s culminating event, celebrating the dedication, compassion, and impact of student leaders from across the region.
Bednarczyk and McTiernan’s success stands as a powerful example of how young leaders can make a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer.
