Five Kenmore West High School students - four of them seniors and the fifth a junior - were recognized Tuesday for their performances in the classroom and also their contributions to extracurricular activities and community service.
State Senator Chris Jacobs appeared inside the school's library to present the five students with the New York State Senate Youth Leadership Recognition Award. Honorees are nominated by faculty.
Receiving awards Tuesday were: Kristen Benner, a junior whose recognition includes afterschool work in arts; Lucas Foglia-Leffler, a senior also recognized for his activities in the arts; Lauren Gradzewicz, a senior recognized for academics; Ayat Ramadan, a senior recognized for her community service; Judith-Jennifer Siwiec, a senior also recognized for community service.
"When these students enter the freshman homerooms and meet their teachers for the first time, no one knows if the next great scientist, poet, hall-of-famer or high-tech entrepreneur might be a member of this class."
Having five students receive the honor, Jacobs added, is a tribute to their teachers, administrators, classmates and most especially their families.
"The love, support and encouragement that you have given our award winners has had a tremendous impact on their achievements, today and in the future," Jacobs said. "Your impact cannot be understated and should not go unnoticed."
