Schools

Student standouts in Malverne, West Hempstead

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State Assemblywoman Judy Griffin hosted her inaugural Student Standout Awards ceremony on June 2. Griffin recognized 13 high school students who have stood out in their school and communities.
“Today recognizes those incredible students who standout in their schools and communities,” Griffin said, in a news release. “These students serve as role models and are an inspiration for their peers. I am so proud to give these students the NYS Assembly Student Standout Award and I look forward to seeing where it takes them.”
Malverne High School senior Molly Fisherman was recognized for her commitment to self-growth and her diligence to make positive change within her community. She will graduate within the top 10 percent of her class with an advanced designation regents diploma with honors and mastery in science, while taking all honors and Advanced Placement courses.
Fisherman has also managed to balance a challenging workload with extracurricular and volunteer activities, along with leadership initiatives. In performing arts, she is a member of the Malverne Select Choir and has participated in New York State School Music Association NYSSMA every year since sixth grade. Last year, she won the Most Outstanding Music Theory student award. In addition, she has won Most Outstanding Art/Photo Club student award. Fisherman has been an active member of the Gay Straight Alliance Club is currently the Secretary of the club and the facilitator for our Annual Day of Silence. Other clubs she belongs to are Creative Writing Club, Gaming Club and Student Response Club, a club designed to help students use social media platforms appropriately and advocate for positive change and safety measures. She also volunteers her time to the Malverne School District for events such as Annual Relay for Life Event, Spirit Week and Sports Night; and to her church where she is a member of the Youth Group. Fisherman will attend Adelphi University this fall.
West Hempstead High School student-athlete Aruna Mathura was honored for her leadership qualities both on and off the field. She has maintained a B+ average in a rigorous curriculum comprised of honors, A.P. and college credit courses. She has garnered many awards including an all-conference badminton honor and a county scholar athlete award. Mathura has worked part time during high school while she volunteered at a food pantry. Mathura also enjoys math and science and has considered a career in a helping profession.

Valley Stream North High School student Amelia Cossentino, of Malverne, was recognized for being a role model in her school district. As an integral member of the Drama Club, Cossentino was elected treasurer by her fellow members. Cossentino is also a talented musician, who spends her weekends at the Manhattan School of Music Pre-College and takes part in the Long Island Youth Orchestra, where she is the principal tubist. She spends her summers attending the New York State Summer School of the Arts. Cossentino was also selected All-Eastern and All-State Principal Tuba player. Cossentino is known by many for her wit, friendliness and for being responsible. Gillen said that her diverse contributions — both inside and outside of school — to a wide array of clubs and organizations, highlight her talents as well as her strong commitment to her school and community.

Compiled by Nakeem Grant