“Voices of the CSC” 2026 Newman Gala

2026 Newman Award Recipients:
Carol and Reggie MacDonald

In recognition of their extraordinary dedication to the mission of the Catholic Student Center at WashU, we are delighted to announce that Carol and Reggie MacDonald will receive the 2026 Newman Award at the "Voices of the CSC" Newman Gala on October 17, 2026, at the Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza.

The Newman Award is the CSC's highest honor, presented annually to individuals whose service and generous leadership have strengthened the mission and community of the Catholic Student Center.

Members of the CSC community for nearly 20 years, Carol and Reggie have faithfully served both students and CSC Friends in countless ways. They chaired the Newman Gala committee in 2016, and Reggie currently serves on the CSC Advisory Council.

The MacDonalds also have supported the CSC Cares Mental Health Initiative since its inception. Their generosity helps provide professional counseling to students facing emotional and mental health challenges. 

"Carol and Reggie radiate the vibrant hospitality that is a hallmark of the CSC community," said CSC Chaplain Fr. Brian Fallon. "The humble, quiet way they live their faith is inspiring. It's a real joy to honor them with this year's Newman Award."

Another ministry especially close to their hearts is Welcome Table, through which they regularly host WashU students for meals and conversation throughout the school year.

"Carol and Reggie have treated us like part of their family," said WashU senior Jack Patton, who has gotten to know the MacDonalds through Welcome Table. Patton and his girlfriend, Lizy Lopez, have shared many meals with Carol and Reggie. "Our meals together have been one of the highlights of our time at WashU because we've been able to connect with such an amazing couple."

Despite their many contributions, the MacDonalds insist that the greatest reward has been the opportunity to help fulfill the CSC's vision "that every student who encounters the Catholic Student Center Community is known, loved and cared for."

"Our support for the mental health counseling program has been a meaningful part of our own faith journey as we have searched for the elusive answer to the question: 'What can I do to make a difference?'," Carol said. "We are humbled to be recognized in this way, yet our journey with both students and CSC Friends has been, and continues to be, its own reward."

The MacDonalds especially appreciate the CSC's unique role in welcoming both students and CSC Friends from the wider community. They praise the welcoming spirit fostered by Fr. Brian, his predecessor Fr. Gary, and the staff and volunteers who make the CSC a house with open doors where they clearly hear the message, "All are welcome."

Carol and Reggie strive to extend that same welcome to everyone they meet. They celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary this past April. They describe their family as made up of "three beautiful daughters, three great sons-in-law, eight energetic grandchildren and two awesome 'bonus' grandchildren."

"I don't think it's a coincidence that we found such beauty and friendship in the CSC community," Carol said. "It seems fitting that along our journey for a spiritual home, we were led to the CSC nearly 20 years ago."

Carol retired in 2015 following a career as a certified hand therapist. Reggie retired in 2023 after helping lead his family's third-generation business. Today, they devote much of their time to family, travel, and service.

"Our family had a brass plaque in the house, featuring a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson: 'The ornament of a house is the friends who frequent it,'" Reggie said. "And it seems fitting to us that we were led to the CSC, a place that is frequented by so many friends. We are forever grateful to call the CSC home, and we cherish every beautiful ornament!"

Join us for the 2026 Newman Gala and help us honor Carol and Reggie!