LIAM C. JACKSON
SOUTHWICK – Southwick-Tolland Regional High School is proud to announce the three finalists for the school’s prestigious Emerald Shield Award. The three finalists were chosen by their peers from a field of nine students nominated by the faculty. This award is given annually to the member of the graduating class who has made the greatest contribution to Southwick-Tolland Regional High School, in the opinion of the faculty and senior class. The nine nominated students are Michael Giancola, Liam Jackson, Lillian Kelmelis, Joshua Noel, Anna Pickard, Alexia Sebastiao, Brian Sheil, Brandon Smith and Jowal-Lisa Walden. After the senior vote, the following finalists were chosen:
ANNA R. PICKARD
Liam Jackson has an admirable academic record at STRHS as well as an impressive list of extracurricular accomplishments. A confident student, he has undertaken several Advanced Placement classes including AP Calculus, AP Chemistry and AP Biology. As President this year of the National Honor Society, he has gained the respect of his peers. His leadership of meetings is thorough and well prepared. He has overseen the toy drive and other projects. His commitment to service also includes barn building for 4-H, help with Hurricane Sandy relief and care packages for troops. As a musician Liam has also excelled. This year he played guitar again in the pit band for the musical Grease, and he is a 4-year member of both the concert band, where he plays the trombone, and jazz band. He is a leader in these ensembles, exemplifying effort and skill. He also has participated on track and soccer over the years, demonstrating his well-rounded approach to extra-curricular activities, and being a strong team member who adds to the overall success of the team. Liam plans to attend the Commonwealth Honors College at University of Massachusetts in Amherst. Anna Pickard is a student who challenges herself to achieve in all her endeavors. Anna has taken a rigorous program of studies while also participating fully in a range of activities. She received the Smith College Book Award as a junior, a testament to her academic promise. As a three- year member of the girls’ volleyball team she has also shown dedication and leadership. National Honor Society profits from her active membership. She has helped with projects like the toy drive, and serves as the club’s treasurer. Anna has served her class as treasurer all four years, demonstrating her commitment to making her class and the school a better place, through organizing events such as prom and making sure that dues are paid up for senior activities. As president this year of the Rotary Interact club she has organized fund drives for breast cancer and is also heading up the annual talent show. Her positive contributions to S.T.R.H.S. also include her 3 years as a member of the School Council, advising the Principal and approving the School Improvement Plan.
JOWAL-LISA WALDEN
Anna plans to attend Western New England University in Springfield. Jowal-Lisa is a multi-faceted and talented young woman. A member of the National Honor Society, she has maintained a high GPA and has taken a program of accelerated academic classes. She has challenged herself academically outside of S.T.R.H.S. by taking Mandarin Chinese at STCC this year. She is active in NHS events, such as the Toy Drive and peer tutoring, and is committed to the NHS pillars of scholarship, service, leadership and character. More remarkably, as a Senior Cosmetology student she was chosen as “The Outstanding Vocational Student of the Year” at The Lower Pioneer Valley Career and Technical Education Center for 2014. She has won both Gold and Bronze medals in the SkillsUSA Regional and State competition. She is also an integral member of the Health Careers Club. Outside of school she volunteers at her church and assists in technical aspects of her worship service. She volunteers at the Food Pantry as well. Jowal-Lisa plans to attend the University of Massachusetts in Boston. The recipient will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on June 5.
