Congressman Richard Neal visited Westfield High School on Thursday to honor Zachary Medeiros, with his parents Adrienne and Matthew Medeiros, for Zach’s acceptance into the U.S. Naval Academy.
WESTFIELD – U.S. Representative Richard Neal (D-MA) visited Westfield High School on Thursday to honor senior Zachary Medeiros for his acceptance one week ago into the U.S. Naval Academy. Medeiros had received a nomination from Neal and assistance from his office. Medeiros also learned on Wednesday that he is receiving a nomination from U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).
“Obviously, it’s a huge accomplishment and I’m incredibly proud, but I don’t want to shove it down people’s throats. It’s important to stay humble when you meet success,” Medeiros said.
“This is the best part of being a Congressman,” Neal said, as he greeted Medeiros and his parents Adrienne and Matthew Medeiros in the school library. Also present were Mayor Brian P. Sullivan, Medeiros’ guidance counselors Patty Healy and Meg Skopa; his history teacher Michael Ingraham, Athletic Director Eileen Flaherty, Principal Charles Jendrysik, and Vice Principals Chrystal Murphy and Kevin Zdroykowski.
“The amount of people who are here is a testament to how many people have helped me,” Medeiros said, especially crediting his parents. He added that Westfield Public Schools have been “nothing but supportive.”
“It’s very warranted and very deserved for Zach to have this. The humility that he does it with really stands out,” Jendrysik said.
Zachary and his proud parents, Adrienne and Matthew Medeiros.
Matthew Medeiros said that from kindergarten through high school, the school system has been “amazing. It doesn’t get the credit it deserves,” he added.
“I can’t thank the staff enough for every step of the way,” Adrienne Medeiros said.
Matthew Medeiros said that Zach started the process of applying to the Academy two years ago, including attending a summer program at West Point. Medeiros said Zach didn’t get into the Naval Academy summer program, adding not to judge your chances if you don’t get into the summer program.
Adrienne Medeiros said Zach has a goal to become a rescue helicopter pilot, but a degree is required before a student is eligible for training. She said Zach’s brother, Connor, 15, is in the Aviation Maintenance Program in Westfield Technical Academy, and also wants to be a pilot in the Air Force. They also have a 7-year-old daughter, Kayleigh, who attends Munger Hill.
Neal gave credit to his assistant Jeanne Ahearn, who offered a lot of help and support to the family. “None of us would have gotten where we are without Jeanne Ahearn from my office,” Neal said.
WHS Guidance Counselor Patty Healy, who was credited for her help in his application, poses with Zach.
“I met Zach three years ago, when I first started. You were one of the first who came up to me and stated your goals. It’s tough to get here. He did a fabulous job,” said Healy, who was also credited by the family for her help.
Before making it official, Neal commented how much he enjoys meeting the students who ask for recommendations. “What a great future we have with these kids,” Neal said.
Following the ceremony, Neal taught a civics class in the auditorium to Advanced Placement government students. He also took questions from the students. “When you reach your potential, your potential expands,” Neal said before ending the class.
Junior Faith Blondin called the class motivational. “It was inspirational,” she said.
“He (Neal) presented very well. He made a good connection with our students. You don’t let chances like this go by,” said Ingraham, who heads the History Department at WHS.
