The Michigan Area’s “Class of 2024” was received into the Order at the November 16 Investiture Mass in New York. With eight new Dames and Knights, the Michigan class makes up 10 percent of all newly-invested members in the American Association. Pictured above (left to right) at St. Patrick’s Cathedral are Alan Wegienka, KM; Angie Wegienka, DM; Brian Kupchella, KM; Dr. Cathy Stark, DM; Mike Nihem, KM; Dr. Jill Page, DM; and Steve Arnold, KM. (Not pictured: Dan Sharkey, KM.)

Among the many memorable moments of the week: A “hug blessing” conferred by His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan on newly-invested Knight Mike Nihem and his wife Katie, who are expecting their third child.

Another high point was recognition of Michigan Auxiliary Kristen Andree with the Pro Merito Melitensi Award. Established in 1920, this award is mainly given to non-members of the Order to recognize activities that have conferred honor and prestige on the Order. For Kristen, the award was given in recognition of her work with Malta Camp USA, a summer camp for young adults with intellectual and physical disabilities.

Kristen is pictured above (at right) with Michigan Area Chair Andy Smith, KM, and Associate Erin O’Kane of New York City, another Malta Camp volunteer who received the award. Kristen is the daughter of Carolyn Andree, DM, and the late Gerard Andree, KM.

The Michigan Area will hold its final meeting of 2024 on December 7, with Mass at the Grosse Pointe Academy Chapel. The celebrant will be Archbishop Allen Vigneron, GCChC, the Area’s principal chaplain.  Brunch will follow at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial.

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