LEMONT, IL — Everest Academy is proud to announce Father Thomas Koys, Pastor of St. James at Sag Bridge in Lemont, as the recipient of the 2026 Semper Altius Award. Father Koys will be honored at Everest Academy's annual "Unmasking the Grace of Giving" Gala on Saturday, November 14, 2026.
The Semper Altius Award is presented each year to an individual who is an inspiring example of living the Catholic faith and who has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to Catholic education. Semper Altius — "Always Higher" — reflects Everest Academy's mission of forming young people who strive for excellence while keeping Christ at the center of their lives.
For Everest Academy, Father Koys is much more than a neighboring pastor. Since the school first opened its doors, he has been one of its greatest champions.
He has served for several years as an advisory member to Everest Academy's Board of Trustees, attended school and community events, encouraged parishioners to support the Academy's mission and fundraisers, and generously supported tuition assistance.
Just as importantly, he has strengthened the Everest community through his prayers, spiritual guidance, encouragement and steadfast belief in Catholic education.
Ordained in 1985, Father Koys has devoted 41 years to the priesthood.
A Chicago-area native, he attended St. Mary Elementary School in Riverside, Archbishop Quigley Preparatory Seminary and Niles College Seminary at Loyola University. He continued his studies at The Catholic University of America and the University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary and is identified in Catholic publications as Thomas Koys, M.A., S.T.L.
His priesthood has also included a meaningful connection to St. Teresa of Calcutta and the Missionaries of Charity. Throughout all 41 years of his priesthood, Father Koys has offered Masses for the Missionaries of Charity, the religious congregation founded by Mother Teresa. He also had the privilege of meeting and working with Mother Teresa.
Father Koys' ministry has reached far beyond the parish.
In July 2014, he served as a guest chaplain for the United States House of Representatives, delivering the opening prayer before the House after being sponsored by then-Congressman Dan Lipinski.
He is also an author, historian and speaker. His book, The Ashes That Still Remain, was published in 2002, and he has shared his perspective on Catholic faith, culture and history through radio and public programs.
A lifelong student of Catholic and American history, Father Koys has found creative ways to make history and the faith come alive. At St. James, he has organized historical programs exploring the moral and religious questions of the Civil War era. His appreciation for history is especially fitting at St. James at Sag Bridge, a historic Catholic parish dating to 1833.
Father Koys is also an artist. He created a custom G.K. Chesterton-themed triptych titled "Orthodoxy: Chapter 1," a three-paneled painting inspired by the writings of the celebrated Catholic author and apologist.
Father Koys donated the work to Chesterton Academy of The Holy Family, where it was featured in a benefit art auction supporting Catholic education. He has also acted in parish plays and created artwork displayed at St. James.
"Father Tom has been one of Everest Academy's greatest champions since the day our doors opened. Whether attending school events, encouraging his parishioners to support our fundraisers, contributing to tuition assistance, serving our Board or simply assuring us of his prayers, Father Tom has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to our students and our mission. His life is a beautiful example of what Semper Altius — Always Higher — truly means."
— Candy Hamilton, Principal of Everest Academy and St. James parishioner
Everest Academy is honored to recognize Father Koys not only for what he has done for the school, but for the example he has provided throughout his priesthood: a life centered on Christ and dedicated to serving His Church, educating others in the faith and generously sharing his God-given gifts.
The Everest Academy community invites families, alumni, parishioners, friends and members of the greater Lemont community to join in honoring Father Koys at the 2026 "Unmasking the Grace of Giving" Gala on Saturday, November 14 at DiNolfo's Banquets in Homer Glen, Illinois.
The Everest Academy Semper Altius Award is presented annually to an individual whose life provides an inspiring example of Catholic faith, service and dedication to Catholic education. Semper Altius — "Always Higher" — represents the call to continually strive toward greater holiness, excellence and service to others.
Everest Academy is a private Catholic school serving students in preschool through eighth grade in Lemont, Illinois. Through academic excellence and authentic Catholic formation, Everest seeks to educate the whole person and help each student grow intellectually, spiritually, socially and personally.
Sue Zabilka
Director of Admissions, Everest Academy
Lemont, Illinois
szabilka@everestlemont.com
630-817-1507
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