Three honored with Founder’s Awards

As part of Heritage Month at St. Norbert College, members of the campus community gathered last week for the annual Founder’s Award Breakfast, an event that celebrates the Norbertine values that continue to shape the college today. The ceremony recognized three individuals who embody the values of actio, contemplatio, stabilitas loci, and communio through their faith, service, and leadership.

This year’s celebration, which marked the 128th anniversary of the college, included a recording of founder Abbot Bernard Pennings.

2026 Founder’s Award recipients

Gabriella Muñoz ’27
Double major in business administration and political science

Gabby Muñoz has put her faith into action in countless ways at St. Norbert College. Through her work as the president of Knights for Life, she organizes events with responsibility, hospitality, faith, and joy, while encouraging others to stand up for human dignity. Muñoz demonstrates her dedication to the common good through her engagement with the Anselm Keefe Legacy Society in the advancement office, and her leadership positions in Residential Education and Housing. What stands out most is not the breadth of her involvement, but the spirit she brings to each community. Muñoz brings joy wherever she goes, and it flows from a genuine desire to know people, serve them, and help build community.

Danielle Gundrum ’16
Career counselor in the Academic Advising and Career Development Center

As a career counselor, Danielle Gundrum is passionate about making sure all students have the same access to resources, and is working to develop monthly group workshops on career development for SNC students with autism. She is also a member of the college’s Wellness by Design committee, and serves the local community through her work with Paul’s Pantry and Habitat for Humanity. Perhaps the greatest testament to Gundrum’s contribution to communio is the copious number of cards, notes, and expressions of gratitude that she receives from current students and alumni alike. Working tirelessly to connect students to their vocation, Gundrum contributes significantly to creating a community that lasts beyond a student’s four years on campus. 

John Hennecken
Associate professor of music (music theory and composition) and music discipline coordinator

John Hennecken’s service to the college has included membership in the Faculty Senate, the Faculty Personnel Committee, and the Curriculum and Educational Policy Committee, as well as recruitment work with the admission office. He is always willing to lend a hand, and consistently brings a spirit of collaboration and respect to the table. Hennecken is a member of the college’s parish, and composer of sacred and liturgical music, helping others to encounter the transcendent through his compositions, including his Cantata for the Divine Hours, a commission from St. Norbert Abbey for its 100th anniversary celebration. His commitment to the mission of the college, willingness to serve and unwavering support of students have helped cultivate communio on campus.