RSS 2.0 FeedJuly 1, 2010, Bellmore Life
Bellmore Chamber awards
Bellmore Chamber of Commerce awards their annual scholarships to graduating high school seniors.
by Joni Caputo
On Wednesday, June 16, The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores presented scholarships to three outstanding graduating seniors from the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District at its general membership meeting. Each scholarship recipient has achieved scholastically to the best of his or her ability, exhibited good character, is involved in school and community activities and has chosen to pursue a career in business.
The three recipients are as follows:
Molly Conway of Calhoun High School is a remarkable young woman who is a high powered, inquisitive student. Her success is a direct result of her hard work, a great study ethic and remaining very focused while enrolled in all Honors and Advanced Placement courses. Her academic success has led to her induction into the National Honor Society, of Math Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society. What makes her stand out is her leadership and sincerity. She is a great athlete and was selected as Student Athlete of the Month. Participating in cross country and winter and spring track, Molly is always a scoring runner in her events. She dedicates her summers to Camp Anchor, where she spends six weeks, full time, volunteering as a camp counselor with disabled students and adults. She gives much of herself in terms of community service, and has participated in the Camp Adventure Walkathon, St. Baldricks and the Long Island Marathon. Molly is a respectful, caring, considerate and genuine young woman and her teachers have no doubts that she will achieve success during her college years.
Matthew Smith of Kennedy High School is determined, respectful and courteous. He displays a sense of initiative toward his endeavors and is always looking for ways in which he can improve. Matthew made appropriate use of every resource and opportunity that was available and never hesitated to ask for help when necessary. He has learned different strategies that he utilizes to help him succeed. His efforts are well recognized, and he is described by his teachers as “A pleasure to have in class.” Matthew has also been awarded “Student of the Quarter” this year for his outstanding achievement in the Carpentry program at Barry Tech. His strong work ethic transcends outside of the classroom. As a ninth-grader, he started his own business mowing lawns. Four years later, he became the owner of his own landscaping business. As the business grew, he added additional workers and equipment. Within the community, Matthew also serves as a volunteer in the Bellmore Fire Department, dedicating time every Sunday to assist with the maintenance of equipment and participate in drills. Matthew will be continuing his studies in business at Nassau Community College this fall.
Denise Gajda of Mepham High School is a remarkable young woman with a strong sense of determination and motivation. She continually strives to produce her best work as she puts forth genuine effort into all she pursues. She contributes well-thought and insightful comments and questions to class discussions as she seeks understanding and enjoys the learning process. Denise is also comfortable advocating for herself and asking for assistance when needed. As she has matured and grown as a student, Denise has taken on an increased level of rigor by enrolling in a college level accounting course her junior year. As a senior, she has continued to challenge herself by enrolling in college pre-calculus and Senior Experience. Through the Senior Experience program, she had the opportunity to obtain an internship in the area she wishes to pursue. She is an active member of the school and local community. She has been involved with organizations such as S.A.D.D. [Students Against Destrucive Decision-making] and the Key Club, and has also devoted a great deal of time to volunteering at her church, acting as a hall monitor during religious education classes. Denise is a responsible and dedicated employee who both babysits and works at a local accountant’s office after school, which just so happens to be the accounting office of Sandy Johnson our Past President of the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores.
