Congratulations to DLS Counselor Monique Cardenas, winner of the “Golden Guide Award” presented by the University of Notre Dame, awarded to teachers and counselors for excellence in advising students in the college search and application process. 

Cardenas is one of only three counselors in Michigan to receive this award. 

DLS Chief Operating Officer Dan Rohn, said, “Congratulations to Mrs. Cardenas on this well-deserved honor, which highlights her dedication to guiding students through the challenges of applying to top academic schools. This award reflects both her commitment and De La Salle’s mission to help our students reach their highest goals.”

Students admitted to Notre Dame submit their nominations for the award that “recognizes teachers and college counselors who have gone above and beyond in helping their students through the college search and application cycle.” 

DLS graduate Luke Jablonski, the Class of 2025 Valedictorian, now a freshman at Notre Dame, nominated Cardenas for consideration. 

Luke said,

“Mrs. Cardenas was a huge help to me throughout the entire college admissions process. She was always willing and able to answer questions I had about certain colleges, what colleges look for in applicants, and if I had filled out everything in my applications correctly.”

In the congratulatory letter to Cardenas, the Notre Dame Assistant Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions, Deb Johns, wrote,

“Here at the University of Notre Dame, we have the joy of welcoming a group of compassionate, dedicated, and mission-driven students to our campus each August. But we know that behind each student is an encouraging team of teachers, counselors, and family who have supported the student through long hours of essay writing, transcript tracking, and soul searching to get them to that first day of college classes. Although we will never know every example of intentional guidance and care, we are honored to celebrate your story of professional excellence.”

The Notre Dame Admissions officer, Hali Murphy, who works with Cardenas on DLS applications to the university, said,

“I work in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions as the area counselor for your high school. I just wanted to send a quick note of congratulations for being recognized as an impactful counselor in your school community. We couldn’t do our work without amazing counselors like youI I look forward to continuing to work alongside you and your office. We’re so grateful for all that you do!”

Cardenas joined the DLS Staff in the Fall of 2024 and tirelessly worked with students in the Class of 2025 on the college application process. 

She said, "Receiving this award means more than words can express. To know that my impact was felt in a way that inspired someone to speak up on my behalf is amazing. I’m truly honored and deeply grateful."  

Andrew Campbell, Dean of Students and Director of Counseling, said, ““It is great to see that Mrs. Cardenas' efforts are recognized by the students.”

Annmarie Michol, DLS Vice Principal for Academics, said, “I am thrilled to congratulate Mrs. Cardenas on receiving the prestigious Golden Guide Award from Notre Dame! In her short time with us, she has proven to be an invaluable asset to our school community, guiding juniors and seniors with dedication, insight, and genuine care through their college and career readiness journeys. Her college expertise, enthusiasm, and unwavering support have made a lasting impact on both students and colleagues alike in a very short time. I am grateful for her commitment to helping our students achieve their full potential and are proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition!”