Principal Presents Awards
to Top Seniors
Richie Gray and Alexandra Kiley are dynamic teenagers filled with creativity, energy and enthusiasm. Just ask their fellow members in Huntington High School's Class of 2011.
The talented duo was recognized at this spring's senior academic awards night by Principal Carmela Leonardi for their efforts in making the high school a better place for students and staff.
Mr. Gray, who is headed to Fashion Institute of Technology, earned the Principal's Award. Ms. Kiley was the recipient of the Principal's Leadership Award. She will attend Harvard College in the fall,
"Winning the Principal's Award was surreal," Mr. Gray said. "I feel as if all my hard work really paid off. I'm so thrilled that Dr. Leonardi presented me with this honor. I'm also so proud of the rest of my class and all the awards they received!"
Mr. Gray spent the past four years immersed in extracurricular activities, including extensive experiences with the student government and the high school drama club. He held a number of student government executive offices, including serving as GO vice-president during his senior year.
"Richie is a lively and engaging young man," Dr. Leonardi said. "He took an interest in all aspects of leadership and was involved with the shared decision making committee. He has a very positive attitude and values friendships. His interest and involvement in fashion made him popular with both the teachers and students who were active in that program. It has been a pleasure to work with him and to see him mature over the last four years."
Ms. Kiley has been equally involved in school activities, including being the lead actress in last fall's high school drama club production and serving as GO president this last year.
"Ally is an all-around wonderful student and leader, Dr. Leonardi said. "Her involvement with student government and other school wide activities make her the most known and respected student in our school. She is smart, hard working, and very giving. It has been an honor to know her and work with her."
"The Principal's Leadership Award was incredible to win," Ms. Kiley said. "Dr. Leonardi is definitely someone I look up to and it was so nice to receive an award from her. Coming into the main office every day I saw firsthand how much work she puts into bettering the school. That's not an easy job. As someone who's always tried to better the school in the same ways through student government and clubs, it was great to be recognized."
Dr. Leonardi presents awards each spring to students who have not only excelled academically but who also have contributed to the school community and to other students.