Brother Mickey McGrath to Receive Marianist Award

The University will honor Brother Mickey McGrath, OSFS, with the Marianist Award, presented annually to Catholics who have made significant contributions to the Catholic intellectual tradition. McGrath will receive the award on March 1, in conjunction with his visit to campus to participate in the Marian Forum on Feb. 28. 

McGrath is the first visual artist to receive the University’s Marianist Award. His work reflects the rich diversity of faith rooted in the Incarnation, God's entrance into human history through Jesus Christ. His latest book, Madonnas of Color, provides an example of his contributions. 

“Brother Mickey McGrath's art-making gives expression to his faith in the continued presence of Christ in our world,” said Sandra Yocum, University Professor of Faith and Culture. “His vivid and colorful images give witness to the beauty and wonder in our world, especially in the lives and works of holy people from Mary, the Mother of God, to Dorothy Day and Thea Bowman.” 

This is the first time since 2020 the University has presented the Marianist Award to a Catholic intellectual. The award was not presented in 2021 or 2022 due to pandemic protocols, and Yocum said the award’s revival helps the University continue to deepen its engagement with Catholic scholarship. 

Adapted from the original article by the University of Dayton.