Madelline Monahan and Tam-Ann Thai were named recipients of the National Junior Honor Society Outstanding Achievement Award. Both Madelline and Tam-Ann, rising ninth-graders who attended Crispell Middle School, will receive $500 scholarships. Just five hundred recipients are named nationwide.
“It has been such a pleasure working with these two young women and writing their recommendations,” said Stephen Charchan, who, along with Shannon Meland, are the advisors for the Crispell National Junior Honor Society.
Madelline said this means so much to her and lifted her confidence.
“This is really important to me because a lot of other students also do a lot in school and for the community,” Madelline said. “This really grew my confidence.”
Tam-Ann saw it as validating.
“I’m glad the stuff I do for my community and school is recognized,” Tam-Ann said. “I feel good about myself.”
Both young women should feel good about the honor and for all they’ve done to receive it. Both are very active in school and their community.
Madelline is active in drama and yearbook. She co-founded a fundraiser for Pets Alive, where she volunteers, as well as volunteering for her church and her brother’s football team. Looking forward to Pine Bush High School, she will continue in drama and possibly get involved in a school sport.
Tam-Ann is president of the Interact Club, came up with the basketball for breast cancer fundraiser and participated in the collection of toiletries for the homeless fundraiser. She plans to continue her work with the Interact Club at Pine Bush High School.
High praise for Madelline and Tam-Ann
“Madelline is a thoughtful and dedicated student who gives her best effort every single day,” said Katie Green, an English teacher at Crispell. “She thinks critically about our world and her own perceptions while challenging her peers to do the same. Her work ethic and talents will take her far in the high school and in whatever she pursues!”
John Boyle, Crispell’s longtime principal who retired this year, said Tam-Ann
“The National Junior Honor Society’s Outstanding Achievement Award recognizes middle-level students for their commitment to the five pillars of NJHS: scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship,” said Mr. Boyle. “Tam-Ann Thai exemplifies all five pillars of the prestigious organization. We are so proud of her and all of her accomplishments.”
The process
Thousands of applications were received and judged on the five pillars of the NJHS. Once past the application process, the students had to get to work.
Madelline and Tam-Ann had to list their qualifications for service, citizenship and leadership. They were required to each get a letter of recommendation attesting to their character and submit their grades to cover the scholarship portion. In addition, they each wrote a required essay.
“It was a good learning experience for them,” said Ms. Meland. “This is what they will have to do in high school when applying for scholarships. We are very proud of both Madelline and Tam-Ann.”