This year’s essay prompt asked what Anne Frank quote,, "Human greatness does not lie in wealth or power, but in character and goodness," means to you. Four essays were selected to receive $1,000.00. Congratulations to:
Nick Scanlan
Andrew DelGuidice
Jackson Sordillo
Thank you to Nick Scanlan for allowing us to share his essay at the awards night:
People from all walks of life are born with a basic goodness, and it is in their upbringing, and environment that begins to shape their character. From there an individual's goodness is tested through all of their faults and shortcomings, the way one is able to approach and surpass these issues is what builds one's character. In terms of Human greatness, wealth and power means nothing. Human greatness is solely dependent on an individual's character and overall goodness. The power of a good person is beyond anything wealth or power could ever provide. Their presence comforts you, they pass on vibes that can help with everyday struggles, they make you feel happy. Whether it is just a smile, or sharing a conversation their actions shift mood, and can change the atmosphere of a room. There is only one quote that comes to mind when thinking of what great people do. It is a quote from the movie Coach Carter; it says, “We are all meant to shine as children do. It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same..". As these great people shine they unknowingly liberate others to pass that on. How fitting is it that this scholarship is in memory of someone who exemplified the utmost definition of human greatness. In all of my experiences with Emma, I only can recall of moments where little things like a smile, a laugh, or just a conversation with Emma shifted my whole mood. With every experience that I had with Emma she always unknowingly let her light shine and encouraged me to do the same. Everyday, I try to keep a positive mindset and try to emulate even the slightest bit of what Emma provided for me.
We also presented EM20 scholarships to:
Lilly Whelan
Marcus Kurciviez
Haley Walsh Pederson
Olivia Whitman
Leah Dunn
Michael Delguidice
Katie Punchard
Lenora Giannada
Paul MacDonald
Kyle Miller
Ciara Redfearn
Jessica Good
The Boosters held their sports awards and the following awards were selected by the coaches
The Unsung Hero for Girls Soccer
Lillian Whelan
Female Athlete of the Year
Lauren Anastos