Power of Connections That Grow Through Generosity and Faith: Honor’s Story
At the Catholic Foundation of Michigan, generosity is more than an act of giving—it is a powerful connector that unites people and turns opportunity into lasting impact. Few stories illustrate this more clearly than that of Honor White.
Kathleen Kalpin CobbledickIn 2025, Honor was awarded the Kathleen Cobbledick Scholarship, established in memory of longtime Shrine Catholic High School and Academy staff member, Kathleen Cobbledick. Kathleen had a passion for helping others and believed that students with both talent and heart should have access to a Catholic education.
Following Kathleen’s passing, her family created this scholarship fund in her name and partnered with the Catholic Foundation of Michigan to carry her legacy forward. For Honor, that opportunity has been life-changing.
“It is always a joy to partner with the Foundation, whose commitment to legacy scholarships makes Catholic education possible for so many of our students, all while honoring the memory of beloved individuals.” — Sarah Cerone, Principal of Shrine High School & Academy
Watch the video below to hear Honor share more about her experience coming from public school and how Catholic education has shaped her life.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the Cobbledick family. It was an honor to be chosen to carry on Kathleen’s legacy,” shares Honor.
Honor’s story came full circle at the Catholic Foundation’s annual gala, where she was invited to offer the opening prayer. At the gala, she also had the opportunity to meet the evening’s emcee, Fr. Mike Schmitz, a nationally recognized speaker and host with Ascension Press. Rather than letting the moment pass, Honor took advantage of the opportunity and asked Fr. Mike if he would be willing to speak with her journalism class.
That simple ask turned into an extraordinary opportunity. Just weeks later, Father Mike joined Shrine’s student journalists virtually from Duluth, Minnesota, answering thoughtful questions about faith, social media, and his vocation. The livestream drew in multiple classes across the school, creating a shared experience that extended far beyond the journalism room.
Moments like these reflect the broader mission of the Catholic Foundation of Michigan. Through scholarship funds entrusted by donors, lives intersect in meaningful ways and carry forward legacies while forming the next generation in faith, leadership, and service.
In Honor’s story, one family’s generosity becomes something greater than a single gift. It opens doors, fosters connection, and strengthens our communities both for today and for generations to come.