Selah Riehl is one of the first students to come to mind when I think of those who live lives of service. Every interaction with a teacher, student, or stranger shows her impeccable character, compassion, and kindness. As she shared, Selah’s parents are the ultimate example,

“My parents are what first got me interested in service. Growing up, they’ve always talked about how important it is to help others, but more importantly, they truly live that out. Watching them lead with kindness and generosity has really shaped the way I see service and inspired me to get involved myself.”

As one of three siblings on campus, and a dad who teaches in the High School, Selah’s family embodies what it means to be part of the SMA community. Our Loretto School Values mirror their values, and they live as examples for the rest of us. 

Selah has been involved in many activities, sports, clubs, and leadership roles. At times, we see students fill their schedules to pad their résumés and college applications, but that’s not Selah. She is intentional and purposeful with her actions and time. Knowing how much she gives of herself, it is fitting that she finds serving others such an essential part of her life. 

“Service matters to me because it helps me step outside of my own world. School and extracurriculars can feel really overwhelming at times, and volunteering gives me a chance to slow down and focus on others. It’s grounding to hear people’s stories and connect with them. Service reminds me of what’s important and brings a sense of purpose and gratitude into my life.”

During her four years of high school, Selah has focused on two service organizations: the Food Bank of the Rockies and STAMP.  The Food Bank of the Rockies is the largest hunger-relief organization in this region. There are various ways for volunteers to contribute, and, as Selah shared, the need for their reach is ever-increasing. 

“Volunteering at the Food Bank of the Rockies is always such a positive experience. It’s fun, welcoming, and the long-term volunteers are incredibly kind and helpful. It's also amazing and inspiring to hear about the vast reach of the organization that has provided food across the state of Colorado and Wyoming, the measurable impact, and the number of people who have received food.” 

We value our longstanding partnership with the Food Bank of the Rockies, often taking groups there for service days, and it has consistently been a favorite among student volunteers. Hardworking students like Selah appreciate the physical work on the assembly lines, or learning how to use a pump jack when filling orders in the warehouse. With food insecurity increasing daily, every effort is needed and appreciated. 

Selah’s other service placement, STAMP, stands for ‘Students Taking Action Making Progress’. High school students, like Selah, dedicate themselves to preparing and leading a conference for middle school students about social justice-related topics. Through months of preparation and meetings, high school students create a purposeful event. Selah shared, 

“STAMP has also been such a meaningful experience for me. The people involved are amazing, and the program is incredible, bringing together students who care deeply about social justice. Working alongside passionate, motivated people makes it feel like we’re truly building something meaningful together. Every part of STAMP is made possible by the hard work behind the scenes, and it really shows how powerful teamwork can be. None of it would be possible without everyone supporting one another.”

One of the many benefits of our service program is that students often get to meet and work with youth and adults outside the SMA community who share their passions and values. Selah and the other students who volunteer at STAMP believe in the power of conversations and community building. They learn the importance of teamwork and a shared vision, and see their efforts pay off when their students become engaged in their sessions. 

All of our students impress me, but a few stand out for how they act when no one is watching. Whether during Outreach Club events or just in the hallways, I’ve seen Selah walk the walk. She acts with integrity and brings a calming presence to our community. I know her parents are proud of who she is in this world, as are we. May she find meaningful connections in the lucky community she joins next, and may we all slow down to remember to do the same.