President Mark welcomed Roxana High School students Lilliana and Noah as the September recipients of our Service Above Self award.
Noah Smith
Noah Smith, a senior at Roxana High School who truly embodies the meaning of “Service
Above Self.” Noah is involved in nearly every corner of campus life- from Chamber Choir, Vocal
Ensemble, and Marching Band, to Student Council, National Honor Society, Student
Ambassadors, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He is also active in the Riverbend Growth
Association Youth Committee, where he helps represent his school and community.
As the drum major of the Roxana Marching Band, Noah has shown remarkable leadership.
During Illini Band Day at the University of Illinois, when his director had to step away, Noah
organized and directed the band on his own. His steady leadership and calm presence made
sure his classmates had a positive and memorable experience.
Noah’s service goes far beyond the school walls. He has volunteered at Riverbend Family
Ministries, helped with community Christmas programs, supported Catholic Charities, assisted
with Jr. High musicals, and rung bells for the Salvation Army. He also faithfully serves at his
home church, Leclaire Christian Church in Edwardsville.
What motivates Noah most is the joy of seeing the impact he makes on others — especially
children smiling at a holiday event or community members uplifted by his help. After high
school, Noah plans to pursue veterinary medicine, with the goal of becoming a licensed
veterinarian. His character, leadership, and servant heart make him a model of what this award
represents.
Lilliana Ray
Our next honoree is Lilliana Ray, a senior at Roxana High School who has built her reputation
not only as a dedicated student and athlete, but also as someone who consistently puts others
first. Lilliana has balanced a demanding schedule, competing in both volleyball and softball
while also coaching youth baseball. She is an active member of National Honor Society, serves
as a Student Ambassador, and participates in the Best Buddies program, where she supports
students with disabilities.
One of the best examples of her servant spirit happened when she was umpiring a youth
softball game. A young pitcher was struggling and losing confidence, and no one had stepped in
to help. Lilliana took the initiative to call a timeout, walk to the mound, and speak directly to the
player. She reassured her, shared advice on positive self-talk, and then offered practical
pitching feedback. The young girl struck out the next two batters and left the field smiling again.
For Lilliana, the risk of criticism from coaches or parents was far less important than the well-
being of that child.
She continues to serve by volunteering with Special Olympics, assisting at youth field days, and
giving her time to younger athletes. Helping others, she says, brings her happiness because
she gets to see them happy in return. After graduation, Lilliana is committed to Lincoln Land
Community College, where she will continue her softball career while beginning her studies in
law. Her long-term goal is to become a corporate lawyer, but no matter where her path takes
her, her compassion and leadership will continue to make a difference.
Lilliana’s story reminds us that serving others is not about recognition, but about lightening
someone else’s load and expecting nothing in return. That is exactly why she is so deserving of
this award