On May 3, Our Savior Parish and USC Caruso Catholic Center hosted the 2018 Trojan Saint Award dinner in the Center’s courtyard. Administrative Pastor Father Richard Sunwoo, along with the Center’s Advisory Board, honored philanthropist Michele Dedeaux Engemann, USC Trustee, with the award.
“She shines through her deep love of USC,” said USC President C.L. Max Nikias. “She shines through her enduring commitment to students. And she shines through the bright light of her generosity.”
As part of a three-generation Catholic Trojan Family, Michele was born to legendary Trojan baseball coach Rod Dedeaux, who first established the Newman Club on USC’s campus. After earning her bachelor’s degree in drama from USC in 1968, she went on to perform at the Nine O’Clock Players Theatre for Children.
Michele was one of the visionary USC Caruso Catholic Center founding families, and, along with her brothers, Terry and Justin, and her late sister, Denise, she helped bring the 10-year dream of a premiere Catholic Center to reality at USC.
In 2010, following a trip to Rome to hand select the artistry found in the church today, Michele volunteered to house the cornerstone until 2012 when Our Savior Church was dedicated. Many are inspired by the family’s beatitude window, gifted by the Dedeaux and Engemann families.
