All-State student-historians Heileen Torres, Jessica Bree and Emely Herrera Rivas
All-State student-historians Heileen Torres, Jessica Bree and Emely Herrera Rivas 

Research Partners Win All-State History Honors

April 18, 2024

The Huntington High School sophomore research trio consisting of Jessica Bree, Emely Herrera Rivas and Heileen Torres claimed third place in the group website category at State History Day finals at SUNY Oneonta on Sunday afternoon.

The energetic scholars are All-State for their project titled “The Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906: The Reinvention & Enhancement of the Food Industry.”

This year’s National History Day theme is “Turning Points in History.” The theme must be incorporated into all aspects of every project. Huntington High School social studies teacher Lauren Desiderio coordinates the district’s National History Day initiative.

The teenagers spent a considerable amount of time performing and then sorting through extensive research on their topic before creating a website, developing and editing the written content and choosing an assortment of photos and multi-media resources to enhance their project.

“I feel very grateful to have the opportunity to participate in National History Day,” Ms. Herrera Rivas said. “Leading up to the competition day, we put a lot of time and effort into our project. We faced hardships, but were able to overcome them with our determination. I feel proud and accomplished of our achievement. I also feel thankful for Mrs. Desiderio and others who have supported us throughout this journey.”

All three research partners are studying with Mrs. Desiderio this year. The project experience was a grueling one, to be sure. But in the end, it was a satisfying one, too.

“I have had a positive experience with National History Day,” Ms. Torres said. “It was and accomplishment to place third in the state competition. I was very proud of myself and my team members who showed perseverance and dedication. Throughout these past months, I have seen how long we have come since last year. We learned valuable new skills through this competition. I’m grateful to be given this opportunity and I give thanks to Mrs. Desiderio for being a strong supporter of us.”