Teen honored with performing arts award

Helen Ruble, daughter of Barb and Dan Ruble of the Nokomis neighborhood, and a senior at Visitation School (Mendota Heights), has been recognized for her achievements in the study of the performing arts during her four years at Visitation. Helen was honored in an awards assembly at the school on May 11.

The Sister Marie Thérèse Conaty Medal is awarded annually to a senior who has proven to be an outstanding performing artist during her four years at Visitation.  The award is named for a beloved sister at Visitation, Sister Marie Thérèse Conaty, who served as the Chamber Choir director for many years and played with the VISTA orchestra—even in retirement. Sister Marie Thérèse brought to each class a love for music that has inspired generations of students who had the privilege of playing or singing with her.

Ruble, a violinist, was one of the two recipients of the award this year.  Susan Peel, Visitation’s orchestra director, noted that Ruble was in Visitation’s orchestra for four years, and was twice selected to be part of the Tri-Metro Orchestra. Ruble was an ambassador for her church music program by performing for senior care centers, played in the pit orchestra for school and community musicals, and was a mentor and teacher’s assistant for younger orchestra students at Visitation.

Peel added that “Helen’s giving spirit, undying work ethic and mature understanding of how she can best give to the music program at Visitation, and larger community, are why she stood out and was honored with this award.”