Niagara University student Jacey Diez chosen for OLV Youth Service Award

Jacey Diez, a Niagara University senior studying TESOL and elementary education, has been chosen as the recipient of this year's Our Lady of Victory Youth Service Award.

Diez, of Lewiston, will be honored during the Our Lady of Victory Homes of Charity's annual Friends of Father Baker Reception this Nov. 11 at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo.

According to organizers, the honoree must have a proven record of dedication to servicing children and youth in Western New York and beyond. He or she should also be under 30 years old and committed to advocating for or working on youth-related issues.

Diez has been very active with the office of campus ministry during her undergraduate career at Niagara University. She has volunteered with the St. Vincent de Paul Society and coordinated the university's soup kitchen outreach program at St. George's Church in Niagara Falls. She has also participated in six service missions to blighted areas in Buffalo, Philadelphia and the Republic of Panama.

In May 2014, Diez was named a "Woman of Distinction" by the Niagara Gazette for "achievement, public service and entrepreneurial leadership in the Niagara community." Last May, Diez was recognized for her creativity during the Niagara University Student Government Association's annual leadership gala.

Additional information on the Our Lady of Victory Homes of Charity, including how to purchase tickets to the Friends of Father Baker Reception, can be found online at www.homesofcharity.org.