National Ambassador, Nick Sawicki

Centennial Magazine Nick Sawicki:

Fall Issue 2021

“Father Baker is a beacon of hope, inspiring me every day,” says Nicholas Sawicki, a native of Lackawanna, N.Y, who now lives in New York City and serves as special assistant to the president and editor-in-chief of America Media, publisher of the popular America magazine.

Nick’s connection to OLV dates all the way back to the building of the Basilica. His great-grandfather helped build the pews and his grandparents were married in the Basilica. While attending OLV Elementary School, Nick was an altar server and later became a lector and Eucharistic Minister for parish liturgies. During his college days, he assisted in the OLV Archives, solidifying his life-long passion for Father Baker, his mission and institutions.

And what’s so special about this place? “It’s not only the grandeur of the Basilica,” says Nick, “but also Father Baker’s amazing vision to build a community in which the value of life and faith were central points around which all else evolved. His example continually motivates others to live the Gospel and to do good by responding to the needs of society. That’s the beauty of OLV.”

Nick was recently in town to celebrate with the hundreds of friends and benefactors to pay tribute to the 100^th anniversary of the laying of the Basilica’s cornerstone. He is a member of the Centennial Celebration planning committee and will be taking a lead role in planning events over the next five years. We are thrilled to have him on board!

“I invite everyone to visit the Basilica, for, like me, they will be overwhelmed with the joy, hope, and faith that is present here.”