ORANJESTAD, Aruba – La Salle College Graduate Receives Juf. Baly Award 2026 after Shaniyda Jean Louis was recognized as the school’s top graduate during the graduation ceremony for the 2025–2026 academic year.
The award was presented during La Salle College’s diploma ceremony, where 66 graduates received their diplomas at the Hilton Ballroom. The event was attended by school administrators, teachers, family members, and friends celebrating the students’ academic achievements.
The Juf. Baly Award honors the legacy of Juffrouw Anuesca Natalie Baly, who served as Director of Stichting Katholiek Onderwijs Aruba (SKOA) from 2018 to 2026. Before leading SKOA, Baly worked as a teacher and school leader at Colegio Arubano, where she became known for her dedication to education, student development, and strong leadership.
Following her recent passing, a special committee was established to continue awarding the annual distinction in her memory. The committee includes Ron van den Brink, widower of Juffrouw Baly, and Jessica Irausquin, Acting Director of SKOA. The award consists of a trophy and a cash prize presented each year to recognize exceptional academic excellence while preserving Baly’s legacy within Catholic education in Aruba.
During the ceremony, Shaniyda Jean Louis received the trophy and monetary award in the presence of her family, the award committee, and school leadership. Also attending were La Salle College Director Rudiaenne Engelhart and Acting Director Kynnia Sprok.
The committee congratulated the graduates, the teachers, and the leadership of La Salle College while extending special congratulations to Shaniyda Jean Louis. Looking ahead, the committee expressed its intention to continue recognizing the top graduates from all five SKOA MAVO schools each academic year, ensuring that Juffrouw Anuesca Baly’s contribution to education in Aruba continues to inspire future generations.
