Ignatian Award

At Strake Jesuit, we often speak of what it means to be a Man for Others, to live a life marked by faith, generosity, and service. Each year, the Strake Jesuit Ignatian Award recognizes an alumnus whose life reflects the academic, religious, and social values of the Jesuit tradition. He demonstrates outstanding generosity to the community, and through professional achievement, has made a meaningful impact on the world around him.

From his early days as an altar boy at St. Thomas More Catholic Church to his time here at Strake Jesuit, the man’s life was always grounded in faith, service, and love for others. At Strake Jesuit, he found joy in music and technology, participating in the Guitar Group and the Strake Jesuit Educational Television, or SJET, program. But more importantly, he embraced the call to be a Man for Others, a call that became the foundation of his life’s work.

His passion for helping others led him first to become an EMT and then a Registered Nurse, dedicating himself to the care of the sick and vulnerable. For over two decades, he brought not only skill but compassion and hope to patients with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders, becoming a leader in Deep Brain Stimulation programming. He also consults with doctors, even in the operating room, to improve the lives of countless individuals.

But his service extended well beyond his professional life. He gave his time generously, volunteering for over 12 years at a camp for children with Tourette Syndrome, offering support to families at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, and sharing his gifts through music ministry at St. Thomas More. Those who knew him describe him as honest, humble, and always a cheerful man whose faith was evident in both word and deed.

He honored and respected his family and friends deeply. He was, as many said, a “Big Brother” to those around him.

It is our privilege, on behalf of the Strake Jesuit community, to present the 2025 Ignatian Award posthumously to Michael Almaguer, class of 1975. In honoring him, we affirm that a life lived for others, a life fueled by faith, commitment, and love, has a lasting impact that endures beyond this world.

Please join us in recognizing and celebrating the extraordinary life of Michael Almaguer ’75.