BG President Linda Brodeur was recently honored with the 2016 Educator of the Year Award at Enterprise Bank’s Celebration of Excellence.

According to the Celebration of Excellence website, this award "recognizes and honors an individual in the field of education who has made a significant impact over the course of their tenure and created a long-lasting and valuable legacy."

Brodeur has been a part of the BG community for nearly 25 years as a science teacher, then as principal, and now as president of the school. Before that, she said, she admired BG from attending its sister school, Mount Saint Mary, and hearing about it from her brother and other relatives.

"To be back as an adult was a dream come true," she said.

Now in her second year as president, Brodeur said a big part of her job is making sure that things are running smoothly so that the principal can stay focused on the academic side of the school.

"In assuming the role of principal, I was fortunate to enter a school that is truly student-centered and focused on its mission, and that’s a tremendous tribute to Mrs. Brodeur’s leadership over the years," said Principal Jason Strniste.

The president is also the spiritual leader of the school, and Brodeur has made history as the first female president of BG and the first lay president.

"I am the one to ensure that any decisions, policies, processes, etc., are in line with the mission of BG and the Charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart," Brodeur said.

Her other responsibilities include finances and being the school’s official spokesperson.

"I get to tell people -potential students, parents, donors, and employees – about the school that I adore," she said.

"Without a doubt, it’s the students," she said about her favorite part of BG. "I enjoy watching them grow and change over the four years."

Strniste said Brodeur’s passion for BG and for education is the biggest reason why she deserved the Educator of the Year Award.

"Mrs. Brodeur has been committed to BG being an excellent school in all respects," he said.

Holly Boivin is a sophomore at Bishop Guertin High School in Nashua.