Skip to content
main content starts here

FMCC, HFM BOCES honor nearly 60 graduating seniors of distinction

June 4, 2018 | Filed in Archive

Fulton Montgomery Community College and Hamilton-Fulton-Montgomery BOCES jointly hosted the third annual Student Recognition Dinner Monday, June 4 to honor nearly 60 outstanding seniors from high schools in the region.

Honorees were selected to attend the awards dinner to recognize their academic and personal achievements during high school. Districts nominating students for recognition were Amsterdam, Broadalbin-Perth, Canajoharie, Fonda-Fultonville, Fort Plain, Gloversville, HFM PTECH, Johnstown, Mayfield, Northville, Oppenheim-Ephratah-St. Johnsville and Wells.

Having been continually impressed by the academic and extracurricular excellence seen in the region’s students, FMCC and HFM BOCES work together to host the annual event to recognize graduating seniors of distinction. Along with top students from high schools in the region and the HFM BOCES Career & Technical Center, school districts also select students they feel should be recognized.

During the event, each student was individually recognized and awarded a certificate before an audience of school representatives, family members and other guests.

The 2018 honorees were:

Greater Amsterdam School District

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

Amsterdam seniors honored were Paige Bertuch, Kelsey Bogdan, Kaylee Cappuccio, Michael Machold and Molly Monge.

Paige Bertuch

Paige Bertuch ranks seventh in her class and is an HFM Career and Technical Center New Visions Health Careers student. This year, she was the president of several organizations, including National Honor Society, Student Government, Club Interact, the Marching Rams Leadership Council and was chairwoman of the Battle of the Bands Committee. She’s been a varsity swimmer since the seventh grade, the swim team captain since 10th grade, and she’s swam with the Amsterdam Sea Rams for 10 years. This year, she was also the varsity lacrosse captain. She performed in the marching, symphonic, jazz, and Drama Club pit bands, and she participated in Mock Trial, Key Club, NCBI, Peer Mediation, and Assemblyman Santabarbara’s Student Cabinet. She’s also volunteered for the Montgomery County SPCA for 13 years. She will attend UMass Amherst.

Kelsey Bogdan

Kelsey Bogdan is the Class of 2018 president and an HFM Career and Technical Center New Visions Health Careers student. She’s held officer positions in several organizations such as Club Interact, Operation Smile and the National Honor Society. She’s also captain of the varsity soccer team, plays lacrosse and has been active in Science Honor Society, the symphonic and marching bands, the Wind Ensemble, Key Club, Peer Mediation, NCBI, Assemblyman Santabarbara’s Student Cabinet, Unified Sports, Student Health Advisory Committee and other activities. She will attend SUNY Oneonta in the fall.

Kaylee Cappuccio

Kaylee Cappuccio is the 2018 Amsterdam salutatorian. She has been involved in a wide array of community and extracurricular activities, including Club Interact, Multicultural Club, Peaceful Schools, Peer Mediation and Girl Scouts, where she earned a Gold Award developing a children’s reading, writing and therapy dog program at the Amsterdam Library. She was a majorette and a member of the Marching Rams Leadership Council. She’s also a dancer and musician and has played with the Mohawk Valley Chamber Ensemble and the AHS Wind Ensemble. She’s president of the Science Honor Society and a member of National Honor Society and National Music Honor Society. She’s also played organized softball since she was 6. Kaylee will attend Binghamton University.

Michael Machold

In addition to a variety of extracurricular activities, Michael Machold has also been a member of the Boy Scouts since the age of 6 and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. In high school, he was also a member of the boys varsity tennis team and played in the marching, jazz and concert bands. He was also active in the Drama Club and was club treasurer, stage manager/director for a musical and a member of the lighting/tech crew. He participated in Mock Trial all four years in high school and is a member of the National Honor Society and the Science Honor Society, for which he was treasurer. He’ll attend the Rochester Institute of Technology.

Molly Monge

Molly Monge is the 2018 Amsterdam valedictorian and this year participated in the HFM Career and Technical Center’s New Visions Health Careers program. Molly has been the No. 1 singles tennis player at AHS for three years, earning multiple Foothills Council honors. Molly has been involved with the Science Honor Society, NCBI, Student Health Advisory Committee, Assemblyman Santabarbara’s Student Cabinet, Club Interact, and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. She also created a Student Focus Group and represented the student body at school board meetings. A singer and musician, Molly participated in the Marching Rams, the Mohawk Valley Chorus Youth Chorale, the Mohawk Valley Chamber Wind Ensemble, and NYSSMA. She’ll attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in the fall. Her experience being diagnosed with the rare hereditary angioedema has resulted in a desire to pursue a career as a research physician.

Broadalbin-Perth Central School District

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

Broadalbin-Perth seniors honored were Jessie Brooks, Katrina Costanzo, Matthew Hinderliter, Gabrielle Martin and William Montgomery.

Jessie Brooks

Jessie Brooks was involved in several extracurricular activities while attending B-P. A student leader, she served as class president freshman through senior year, and she was a National Honor Society member her junior and senior years. She was also a member of Pep Band, Choir, Green Club, Bosom Buddies, the yearbook, Student Cabinet and Downhill Ski Club. She ran cross-country for three years and also participated in volleyball, track, and bowling. Her awards include the Soroptimist International Good Citizen Award, the United States Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Award, the George Eastman Young Leadership Award, the Air Force Recruiting Service Math and Science Award, the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award, the SAANYS Region 6 Scholarship, and the Elks Most Valuable Student National Semi-Finalist Award. Jessie will attend Cornell University in the fall. She is interested in teaching and plans to study English.

Katrina Costanzo

Katrina Costanzo was a member of National Honor Society her junior and senior years. Katrina also participated in the Green Club, Tree Club, and Student Life Committee. The University of Rochester awarded her the Bausch and Lomb Scholarship, and she also received the Pace University Honors Program Scholarship. Outside of school, Katrina volunteers with young children to introduce them to STEM. She volunteered at the 2018 Climate Summit at Hudson Valley Community College’s TEC-SMART facility, and she does charity work as a member of Knights of Columbus. Katrina plans to attend HVCC, where she wants to study mechatronics. She aspires to become an engineer for a nanotechnology company.

Matthew Hinderliter

Matthew Hinderliter played football and baseball all four years at B-P and captained both varsity teams as a senior. In 2017, he won the Patriot Award for football. As a junior, he was named first-team designated hitter and honorable mention pitcher in the Foothills Council. The Amsterdam Recorder also selected him as an honorable mention pitcher that year. In addition, Matthew was a member of National Honor Society his junior and senior years and served as Student Council treasurer as a junior. Matthew has also been a member of Math League, Masterminds and the Prom Committee, and he was named the 2017 Homecoming king. His awards include the University of Rochester Frederick Douglas and Susan B. Anthony Award, the National Army Reserve Scholar Athlete Award, and Stevenson University awarded him their Presidential Scholarship, Founders Scholarship, and Leadership Scholarship. Matthew will attend Stevenson to study business administration with a pre-law concentration. He will also play baseball at Stevenson next spring.

Gabrielle Martin

Gabrielle Martin is intelligent, athletic and hard working. She has challenged herself through Advanced Placement and dual enrollment courses throughout high school. As a member of the softball team, Gabby hit the first home run on the new B-P softball field! She also participated in cross country, track and ski club. This year, she attended the New Visions Health Careers program at the HFM Career and Technical Center and found her niche. She will attend Fulton Montgomery Community College in the fall to study nursing.

William Montgomery

William Montgomery has excelled in the HFM Career and Technical Center’s Criminal Justice program. He has a 99 GPA in the class and is excited to learn. This enthusiasm for learning can be seen in other areas as well. He chose to take challenging courses such as computer programming and Java. William is a role model in school. He is always the first to step up and help when someone needs it. He will be attending Hudson Valley Community College in the fall.

Canajoharie Central School District

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

Canajoharie seniors honored were Madeline Elliott, Samantha Field, Dyllan Hazzard (not pictured), Naomi Moshier and Maverick Weldner (not pictured).

Madeline Elliott

Madeline Elliott is the valedictorian for the Class of 2018. Her strong academic preparation resulted in her recognition this fall as a National Merit Scholarship Commended Student, placing her among the top scorers of the 2016 test administration. In addition to her outstanding academic achievement, Madeline also has a strong focus on civic action as a result of her experience at the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Conference, which she was selected to attend sophomore year. Madeline founded the Canjo Cares Club out of the desire to have ongoing community service projects in which students could participate. Madeline is a three-sport athlete and a member of the school’s regional and state-winning Odyssey of the Mind team. She also fulfills a number of leadership roles in the school community such as class secretary and president, team captain for soccer and cross country skiing and Student Council class representative. Madeline’s record of honors, awards and achievements are lengthy, and each one has been well deserved. She will attend Cornell University in the fall.

Samantha Field

Samantha Field is the salutatorian of the Class of 2018. Sam glides through each of her extremely busy days with ease, from the classroom, to the athletic field, to the stage and then to karate. Each endeavor is given the time, attention to detail and energy it deserves regardless of the demands of Samantha’s day. That is who Samantha is, someone who doesn’t stop until she achieves her goals – whether that is as part of Student Council or part of the cross country team. Samantha’s career goal is motivated by a curiosity about how the world works, the desire to decrease pollution and increase sustainability based on her first-hand experiences gained from her travels around the world. Samantha’s perseverance is evident in her work over nine years to achieve the rank of black belt in the American Zen Do-Kai Karate System. She will attend the University of Vermont in the fall.

Dyllan Hazzard

Dyllan Hazzard was selected by the Canajoharie High School faculty as the most improved student in the senior class. In addition to his studies at Canajoharie, Dyllan was a student in the HFM Career and Technical Center’s Environmental Conservation program where he concentrated on the heavy equipment pathway. He earned his certification in this program. At Canajoharie, Dyllan has also improved his academic focus during his four years.

Naomi Moshier

Naomi Moshier will receive an Advanced Regents Diploma from Canajoharie in addition to her recognition as a top student at the HFM Career and Technical Center, where she studied criminal justice. Through the BOCES program, Naomi excelled in her internship with local law enforcement. During her high school career, she participated in SADD, Science Club, and the yearbook. Naomi also participated in cheerleading beginning in 2012. She was a leader on the team and served as captain.

Maverick Weldner

In addition to his studies at Canajoharie, Maverick Weldner is a student in the Digital Multimedia and Communications program at the HFM Career and Technical Center, where he has excelled, and earned his TechYes certification. He is experienced in Photoshop, LightRoom, Premiere Pro, and InDesign, among other programs. He used these skills to work on the HFM yearbook. He was a photographer and editor, as well as designing the cover. His additional hobbies include gaming, biking, and reading. Mav will continue his education at Herkimer County Community College.

Fonda-Fultonville Central School District

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

Fonda-Fultonville seniors honored were Allison Codi, Tyler Kearns, Matthew Klotz, Nicholas Oertel and Alyson Shirley.

Allison Codi

Allison Codi, the daughter of Michael and Amy Codi, is the No. 1 ranked student in the Fonda-Fultonville Class of 2018. She has been involved in numerous clubs, volunteer work, and athletics all while balancing employment. Allison has been a Building Leadership Team student representative, as well as the Class of 2018 president and the Student Government secretary. She is involved in Odyssey of the Mind, Skype Club, Key Club, National Honor Society and is a volleyball team captain. She has been a student mentor, a volunteer for the Swing for Anna King Golf Tournament and Lifeworks BVI Community Service Trip. She was a semi-finalist in Coca-Cola Scholars, earned AP & PLTW achievement recognition in engineering and earned the Air Force Math and Science Award, RIT Computing Medal, and the Clarkson School Award. Allison has participated in WPI Frontiers Summer Enrichment, RPI Product Innovation program, University of Rochester Pre-College and People to People: Australian Adventure. Allison will attend Lehigh University.

Tyler Kearns

Tyler Kearns, the son of Christine and Joseph Kearns, is ranked fourth in the class and is attending the HFM Career and Technical Center’s New Visions Health Careers program. He is a member of Key Club, Student Government, Skype Club, Drama Club, National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society. He has participated in indoor/outdoor track and golf. He has received awards for Distinguished Key Club Lieutenant, Outstanding Senior Key Club Member, Distinguished Key Club Member, University of Rochester Young Leaders Award, RIT Innovation and Creativity Award, and the Global II Regents Award. Tyler will attend St. Lawrence University in the fall.

Matthew Klotz

Matthew Klotz is the son of Michael and Judith Klotz and is ranked fifth in his class. Matthew is attending the HFM Career and Technical Center’s New Visions Health Careers program. He has participated in indoor/outdoor track, Key Club, Wind Ensemble, Skype Club, Student Mentoring, All County and Select chorus. He is taking AP Biology, New Visions Calculus and College in the High School U.S. History. Matthew will attend University at Buffalo.

Nicholas Oertel

Nicholas Oertel, the son of Hans and Deborah Oertel, is ranked second in the Class of 2018. He is a member of the Superintendent’s Student Cabinet, Key Club, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Skype Club and National Honor Society. He also participated in football, basketball and track and field. Nicholas is active in the community with St. Cecilia and Sacred Heart churches and Gloversville Community Winds. He was on the Principal’s List for four straight years while taking several AP, Honors and College in the High School classes. He received the University of Rochester Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award, Clarkson University Achievement Award, Rensselaer Medal, News Channel 13 Basketball Scholar-Athlete 2018 and the John J. Furman Football-Academics Award for 2017. Nicholas will attend RPI in the fall.

Alyson Shirley

Alyson Shirley, the daughter of Scott and Bobette Shirley, is ranked third in her class. She has taken many advanced classes, including College in the High School U.S. History, Pre-Calculus, Statistics, English I and II, Participation in Government, Spanish and Calculus, along with Honors Biology and Global II. Alyson is the Class of 2018 vice president and is as a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club, Student Government, Skype Club and Yellow Roses. She participated in cross country, indoor/outdoor track, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Band. She volunteers with the Glove Community Winds and for the Cubby Faville Memorial Golf Tournament and with activities at Pineview Commons while working a part-time job. Alyson plans to attend Bentley University in the fall.

Fort Plain Central School District

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

Fort Plain seniors honored were Nickolas Barringer, Eliza Cechnicki, Brian Christman II, Jason Huang and Cameron Suits.

Nickolas Barringer

Nickolas Barringer is a culinary arts student at the HFM Career and Technical Center and is one of Fort Plain’s highest performing CTC students. Outside of school, Nick puts in long hours in the kitchen of Sam’s Seafood Steakhouse. Nick’s culinary instructor, Mr. Kevin Collins, says that he is a valuable member of the class and serves as a role model for his peers. He has a passion for the service industry and has taken lead roles in various luncheons, modeling what employers are looking for in a young adult. Nick has learned to manage his time, work in group situations where teamwork is key, and adhere to strict deadlines. Moreover, he recognizes the importance of a strong work ethic, persistence, and integrity. Nick is looking forward to making a career in the culinary industry.

Eliza Cechnicki

Eliza Cechnicki is ranked second in her class at Fort Plain and manages a full schedule of sports, extra-curricular activities, dance lessons, and a part-time job, all while pursuing the most demanding academic courses. Eliza is also a leader; she served as captain of both her cross-country and track and field teams, and she is involved with chorus, band, All-County Chorus, Drama Club, Library Club, National Honor Society, SADD, and OK2XL (Gifted and Talented program). She will attend SUNY Oneonta to study education.

Brian Christman II

In addition to his studies at Fort Plain, Brian Christman II is a student in the HFM Career and Technical Center’s Environmental Conservation program, where he’s concentrated on the heavy equipment pathway. Brian’s instructor at HFM, Mr. Craig Newkirk, indicated that Brian has accepted a role as a leader in the class throughout his entire senior year, and he has been a tremendous asset to the program – assisting with matters such as record-keeping for the class club funds and providing extra help to his peers who have less experience in certain areas of the curriculum. Through HFM, he recently completed an internship at Feldmeier Equipment, Inc., a manufacturing facility in Little Falls. They were so impressed with Brian, they have offered him a full-time salaried position as a welder.

Jason Huang

Jason Huang is quiet, yet driven; intelligent and confident, yet humble. Jason first enrolled at Fort Plain Central School as a shy first-grade student who was learning to speak English. He worked hard, excelled in his studies, and is now graduating first in his class. According to one teacher, in his classes, instead of saying “Google it” when needing information, classmates say, “Go ask Jason!” Jason seeks knowledge and yearns for education. He is a well-rounded young man who strives to have a positive impact on the school environment. He is involved in bowling, cross-country, soccer, track and field, Library Club, SADD, and the Environmental Science Team. Jason will attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in the fall to study engineering.

Cameron Suits

Cameron Suits is one of Fort Plain’s most improved students. Cameron has been a member of the school’s Unified Basketball team since its inception, and has shown an impressive amount of respect and kindness toward his peers both on and off the court. He currently serves as a volunteer teaching assistant in a special education life skills class during his study halls. The teacher under whom he works is continuously impressed with Cameron’s patience and the compassion he shows for the students he works with. He treats peers and adults with respect and dignity while still maintaining the curiosity, humor, and spunk of a high school senior. He is a quiet leader and possesses the qualities of an intelligent, successful individual.

Gloversville Enlarged School District

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

Gloversville seniors honored were Elizabeth Ashe, Kristina Fosmire, Alyssa Henley, Amber Rafferty and Gabrielle Strait.

Elizabeth Ashe

Elizabeth Ashe is graduating third in the Class of 2018. She is the daughter of Jeff and Stacy Ashe. In her junior year, Elizabeth was presented the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Innovation and Creativity Award for her involvement as a leader in the community and her commitment to a rigorous academic course load. Elizabeth has been a dedicated member of the varsity tennis team, National Honor Society, and the National Technical Honor Society. As a junior, Elizabeth developed a strong interest in the medical field and enrolled in the New Visions Health Careers program at the HFM Career and Technical Center for her senior year. Through New Visions, she spent time at Nathan Littauer Hospital, where she discovered her future career path. Elizabeth will attend Utica College and is the recipient of the college’s Presidential Scholarship. She plans to major in nursing and become a nurse anesthetist.

Kristina Fosmire

Kristina Fosmire is the salutatorian of the Class of 2018. She is the daughter of Sara and Frank Fosmire. Throughout her high school career, Kristina has consistently made her academics a priority. In addition to her scholastic achievements, Kristina has proven to be a leader amongst her peers and continuously seeks opportunities to make meaningful connections with those around her while making a positive impact on her school and community. She has served as the Key Club president, a Student Board Member, the yearbook editor, a member of the National Honor Society Executive Committee, a member of the Student Liaison Committee, a Peer Mentor, and a member of the Fulton County Pie Girls Group. As a junior, Kristina was awarded the RIT Computing Medal to recognize her commitment and achievement in the Project Lead the Way engineering program. She plans to major in architecture and combine her two true passions: art and engineering. Kristina will attend Syracuse University in the fall, where she received the university’s Distinguished Portfolio Award.

Alyssa Henley

Alyssa Henley is the valedictorian of the Class of 2018. She is the daughter of John and Stacy Henley. Alyssa is president of National Honor Society. She is an athlete in swimming and diving and tennis, and is a New York State Public High School Athletic Association Scholar Athlete. She holds both diving records for GHS. Alyssa participates in Key Club, Masterminds, and Fulton County Pie Girls. She was the recipient of the Engineering and Computer Science Leadership Scholarship from Syracuse University, the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Medal, and the Brown University Book Award. She will attend Syracuse University in the fall to study aerospace engineering.

Amber Rafferty

Amber Rafferty, daughter of Carlena and Gary Rafferty, is the second highest academic performer in her class who attends the HFM Career and Technical Center. She also ranks in the top 20 percent of her graduating class. During her two-year experience in the HFM Criminal Justice program, she solidified her career choice to become a police officer. Amber will attend Fulton Montgomery Community College to major in sociology, after which she plans to go to the Police Academy.

Gabrielle Straight

Gabrielle Straight is the top academic performer in her class who attends the HFM Career and Technical Center, where she is studying criminal justice. She is the daughter of Jennifer and Greg Strait. She ranks in the top 20 of her graduating class and takes great pride as a four-year member of the Competitive Cheerleading Team at Gloversville High School. Gabrielle’s goal is to help troubled people in the local communities by possibly becoming a police officer or probation officer.

HFM PTECH

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

HFM PTECH graduates honored were Theresa Clark, Hunter Fifield, Joshua Licciardo, Katherine Sampere and Jasmine Tate.

Theresa Clark

Theresa Clark has earned both her high school diploma and associate degree in health studies from Fulton Montgomery Community College in four years. At PTECH, Theresa was a member of the Judicial Council, Student Government Association and the Yearbook Committee. She also founded an afterschool club that highlighted the arts. Theresa has been on the PTECH Principal’s List and FMCC’s Dean’s List every semester, and she is a member of the college’s academic fraternity, Phi Theta Kappa. Theresa is a certified nurses aid and works for Nurse Connections. She plans to major in biology at the Rochester Institute of Technology, where she has earned three academic scholarships. She wants to continue onto medical school to become a pathologist. Theresa is the daughter of Maurice and Terry Clark of Gloversville.

Hunter Fifield

Hunter Fifield this year is receiving his high school diploma and associate degree in health studies from Fulton Montgomery Community College. Hunter has consistently been on the Principal’s List at PTECH and the Dean’s List at FMCC. He is a member of FMCC’s academic fraternity, Phi Theta Kappa, for which he has served as secretary. Hunter says his many hospital stays as a child because of severe asthma inspired him to want to help others the way so many doctors helped him. Hunter will attend Hartwick College as a biology major with plans to eventually become a surgeon. Hunter received two academic scholarships from Hartwick — the College Founders Award and the Oyaron Scholarship. Hunter is the son of Kimberly Zuppardi of Amsterdam and Brian Fifield and Tina Miller of Queensbury.

Joshua Licciardo

Joshua Licciardo has earned his high school diploma and associate degree in accounting from Fulton Montgomery Community College in four years. Joshua has worked as a tutor for business courses at FMCC and was named business student of the year by the Capital Region Business and Marketing Educators’ Association. He also has earned multiple certifications from the American Institute of Public Bookkeepers. Joshua is a member of the college’s academic fraternity, Phi Theta Kappa, and he has been on the PTECH Honor Roll and the FMCC Dean’s List. During his time at PTECH, he was a trustee for the Student Government Association and a member of the Underwater Robotics Club. He also ran cross country for Johnstown High School. Joshua plans to enter the workforce and eventually earn his master’s degree in business administration.

Katherine Sampere

Katherine Sampere this year is receiving her high school diploma and her associate degree in health studies from Fulton Montgomery Community College. Katherine plans to attend SUNY Cobleskill in the fall to work toward becoming at veterinary technician. She has been working as an intern at the Johnstown Animal Clinic. Katherine has participated in the Underwater Robotics Club at PTECH and played soccer for OESJ. She was the recipient of PTECH’s annual Bridge Award, given to a junior who brings the morals and values from PTECH to FMCC, including helping peers and overcoming obstacles. Katherine is the daughter of Roberta and Michael Sampere of Oppenheim.

Jasmine Tate

Jasmine Tate has earned her high school diploma and her associate degree in health studies from Fulton Montgomery Community College in four years. She has been a member of PTECH’s Underwater Robotics Club and has been on the Dean’s List at FMCC. She was the recipient of PTECH’s annual Jordan Rave Award because of her ability to maintain good grades while overcoming challenges. Jasmine intends to study cognitive psychology at SUNY Buffalo with plans to get her master’s degree and help the mentally ill. She is the daughter of Solomon and Jessica Tate of Gloversville.

Greater Johnstown School District

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

Johnstown seniors honored were William Dickson, Riley Hall, Jillian Martelle, Kayla Wesley and Lauryn Wilson.

William Dickson

William Dickson is the son of Russell and Hana Dickson. In addition to his studies at Johnstown, William is a student at the HFM Career and Technical Center’s Engineering Technology program. During his high school career, Will was a cross country runner and skier and earned “Most Improved” awards for both sports. He has received the SUNY Polytechnic Progressive Achievement Scholarship Award and the Creative Writing Ticonderoga Award. Will was also a four-year band student and is a member of the All-County Jazz Band Select Ensemble. He will attend SUNY Polytechnic Institute to study electrical engineering technology in the fall.

Riley Hall

Riley Hall is the son of Kari Starr and Michael Hall. In addition to his classes at JHS, Riley studied criminal justice at the HFM Career and Technical Center. Riley has been involved in Student Council, Key Club, International Club, Student Advisory Committee, the Class of 2018, and has volunteered for the Cubby Faville Memorial Fund. He will attend Siena College to study education.

Jillian Martelle

Jillian Martelle is the daughter of Jennifer Martelle-Mahon and William Martelle. At JHS, she is a member of Student Council and the Backpack Program. She is also the public relations officer of both National Honor Society and Key Club and is the current president of the school newspaper. She participated in soccer for most of her high school career and participated in choir and received the Most Dedicated Award. She has played violin since she was 7 years old and participated in NYSSMA for two years. Jillian’s volunteer work includes helping with the NOAH Community Meal Program, volunteering for various triathlons, assisting at the fall festival and helping with Key Club highway cleanups. Jillian would like to thank her family for their constant support and encouragement. She will attend SUNY Oneonta to study biology with a pre-veterinary concentration.

Kayla Wesley

Kayla Wesley, the daughter of Greg and Stacy Wesley, is the Johnstown High School Class of 2018 valedictorian. She is a member of the William A. Wright Chapter of the National Honor Society and the International Club, and she played trumpet for marching band since her sophomore year. Kayla played for the JHS field hockey team throughout high school, and served as a captain her senior year. In field hockey, she won the Coach’s Award and made Foothills All-Star Second Team. Kayla has won several academic awards throughout high school, including the Spanish 3 Award, the Global and English 10 Honors awards, Advanced Composition Award, Student of the Quarter for Physics and Health and the Rensselaer Medical Award. Kayla will attend Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in the fall with plans to pursue her doctorate in pharmaceutical sciences.

Lauryn Wilson

Lauryn Wilson, the daughter of Christopher Wilson, Candy Wilson and Colleen Snell, is the Johnstown High School Class of 2018 salutatorian. Lauryn was the secretary and is now the vice president of Student Council. She is an active member in International Club and also participated in Key Club, Yearbook Club, Jazz Band, Marching Band and sang a capella. She played the oboe in band, where she received the Woodwind Performance trophy, and participated in choir, where she received the Most Improved trophy. She was the captain of the nordic ski team and received the Most Improved Award in that sport. She also participated in soccer and cross country. In track, Lauryn received the Most Improved and the Coach’s awards. Lauryn has performed community service at Sacandaga Bible Conference, the Humane Society and the Wells House. Lauryn will attend the University of Rochester in the fall to major in psychology.

Mayfield Central School District

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

Mayfield seniors honored were Rebecca Battisti, Katelyn Frisch, Katelyn Harrington, Anna King and Camryn Meca.

Rebecca Battisti

In addition to her studies at Mayfield, Rebecca Battisti is enrolled in the HFM Career and Technical Center’s rigorous Equine Science program. She has developed into an outstanding student and was the Mayfield Student of the Month in January. During high school, she played varsity soccer and enjoyed volunteering her time for worthwhile causes, including breast cancer awareness and the Brennan Humane Society. This spring, Rebecca completed her CTE internship at Northampton Animal Hospital in Northville, and she now has a job offer there.

Katelyn Frisch

The Mayfield 2018 valedictorian, Katelyn Frisch is an artist and student leader and was the Mayfield Board of Education student representative this year. Katelyn has been a yearbook editor the past two years and has brightened up the school as a Mural Club member. Katelyn volunteers her time to Key Club and the National Honor Society, and most recently she assisted with the Rise Against Hunger 10,000 Meals event, where she and others packaged meals for people in developing countries. Katelyn also spends time assisting with Vacation Bible School and other church initiatives. In May, Katelyn was recognized as an exceptional student by the Capital Area School Development Association. She also won the Community Artist Award at the Fulton and Montgomery Counties Art Show and was recognized at the Saratoga Art Show. Katelyn will attend Siena College to study math, art, or computer science.

Katelyn Harrington

Katelyn Harrington is the 2018 Mayfield salutatorian. She has volunteered at numerous events, including this year’s Jump Rope for Heart, which raised over $23,000 to support healthy lives free of heart disease and stroke. Katelyn is Key Club vice president, National Honor Society secretary and is a member of the concert and marching bands, and choir. She was the captain of both the volleyball and cheerleading teams this year and has performed in drama performances since seventh grade. She also works as a hostess at Lanzi’s on the Lake. This fall, Katelyn will attend The College of Saint Rose to major in childhood or special education.

Anna King

Anna King has taken a demanding academic course load and has an extensive resume of extracurricular activities. She has served as an advocate and speaker for American Heart Association and Donate Life America. She has given numerous lectures about her heart condition and her ability to remain positive. Her most recent speech was at the “Life Is Good, Positive Thinking Day” in Boston to a crowd of over 100 people. She has acted in and helped direct at the Colonial Little Theater, and she has been an actress and student director for the school Drama Club. She is president of both the Class of 2018 and Key Club, and she is the National Honor Society public relations officer and varsity volleyball team manager. This year, Anna received the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution “Good Citizens Award.” Anna will attend Lasell College to study graphic design.

Camryn Meca

Camryn Meca participates in athletics and volunteers her time to various National Honor Society events. She played soccer and basketball throughout high school and returned to the softball field this spring. She was the basketball team captain this year, and she is on the short list of Section II athletes to make seven three-point shots in a game. In 2017, Camryn was named the WNYT Fidelis Care Athlete of the Week. She accomplished all this while battling narcolepsy, with cataplexy, which often leaves her exhausted and causes difficulty focusing. This winter, Camryn raised funds for Rare Disease Day to help raise awareness and conduct research for uncommon ailments. Camryn has also worked as a hostess at Lakeside Tavern for the past four years. Camryn will study elementary education through the 2+2 program at Fulton Montgomery Community College and The College of Saint Rose.

Northville Central School District

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

Northville seniors honored were Christopher Finley, Morgan Fordyce (not pictured), Karlie Renee Foster, Eric Knowlton-Page (not pictured) and Haley Monacchio

Christopher Finley

Christopher Finley, the son of Tanya and Phillip Finley, is a Northville Class of 2018 honor graduate. He attended the HFM Career and Technical Center’s Digital Multimedia and Communications program during his junior and senior years. For the past two years, Chris has worked at Shelby’s Four Corners Diner, working after school, weekends, and summers. This year, Chris designed covers for a NYS Department of Labor publication and the Northville yearbook. Chris kept a full high school schedule while taking many college courses, such as English, American Political Systems, Precalculus and Calculus while participating in the Spectrum Club. He plans to attend SUNY Purchase for graphic design this fall.

Morgan Fordyce

Morgan Fordyce, daughter of Annette and Barry Fordyce, is the Northville 2018 salutatorian. Morgan balances academics and employment and participates in extracurricular activities, including National Honor Society, International Club, Interact Club, and Green Club. She began senior year as an International Exchange Student in Spain and this year was an early-admit student at Fulton Montgomery Community College. Morgan plans to attend SUNY Plattsburgh in the fall to double major in Spanish and expeditionary studies.

Karlie Foster

Karlie Foster, the daughter of Mikala Foster and granddaughter of Calvin and Deborah Foster, is a 2018 Northville honor graduate. Karlie maintained a full high school schedule taking college courses, including English and American Political System, while attending the HFM Career and Technical Center’s Criminal Justice program. Karlie played varsity soccer since ninth grade, serving as captain her junior and senior years. She also played basketball and softball. Karlie has been the Class of 2018 president since seventh grade and is her class treasurer at the Career and Tech Center. Karlie was the Rotary Interact Club president and a RYLA representative and was part of the International Club, Green Club, Girls Athletic Association, and National Honor Society all while working part-time. Karlie intends to enlist in the military and eventually pursue a career in criminal justice.

Eric Knowlton-Page

While attending Northville, Eric Knowlton-Page has made the most of every opportunity. He participated in the 2017 American Legion Boys State program, which he believes was an invaluable experience that prepared him for his goal of enlisting in the Air Force to be an aviation mechanic. Eric has been a Northville volunteer firefighter and an integral part of the Northville CNC Machining Program. Eric also assisted other students working on the school’s laser and vinyl cutters, 3-D printers, and the two CNC machines. This year, Eric was selected to meet state Sen. James Tedisco to present him with a personalized nameplate designed and drafted by the class. Eric also had the honor of raising the flag during the Veterans Day ceremony to honor the local residents who served to protect our rights and freedom.

Haley Monacchio

Haley Monacchio, the daughter of the late Cynthia and Robert Monacchio Jr., and granddaughter of Linda and Robert Monacchio Sr., is the 2018 Northville valedictorian. Haley concentrated on a rigorous course load, including College Biology, Spanish IV, Calculus, Research Seminar, and others. Her extracurricular activities include cheerleading, National Honor Society, Art Club, and Interact Club. Haley is president of both the Student Council and International Club, and was the cheerleading team’s co-captain for two years. She also participated in band, marching band, chorus, Odyssey of the Mind, HOBY NYE, NYSSMA, All-County Senior Band and choir, and worked seasonally for the Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute. She will attend Roberts Wesleyan College in the fall for biochemistry.

Oppenheim-Ephratah-St. Johnsville Central School District

College and school administrators stand in a row posing for a photo.

OESJ seniors honored were Dakota Corapi (not pictured), Dustin Dolder, Laura Littrell, Madison Richardson and Matthew Spain.

Dakota Corapi

Dakota Corapi, the son of Vicki and Jason Corapi, is the salutatorian of the Oppenheim- Ephratah-St. Johnsville Class of 2018. He’s also a student in the New Visions Health Careers program at the HFM Career and Technical. While at OESJ, Dakota participated in FFA and baseball. He is a member of the National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society. He volunteers his time outside of school participating in the “Youth Serving Veterans Cleanup Day” and donating blood. His interests lie in the medical field. Dakota says as a youngster, he was always getting hurt and spending time at the hospital, which led to his fascination with the medical field and the realization that he wanted to be a physician. He feels that his first step toward his goal was participating in the rigorous New Visions program this year at BOCES.

Dustin Dolder

Dustin Dolder is the son of Jody Dolder of St. Johnsville. In addition to his studies at OESJ, Dustin has been a student at the HFM Career and Technical Center, where he studied criminal justice for the past two years. Dustin is certified in Narcan administration, operating an X-ray machine, and he is working on his first-aid certification. He has participated in soccer and basketball over the past four years while at OESJ. His immediate plans are to join the workforce after graduation, save money and then continue his education at Fulton Montgomery Community College in criminal justice.

Laura Littrell

Laura Littrell, the daughter of Matt Littrell and Judy Littrell, is ranked third in the Oppenheim-Ephratah-St. Johnsville Class of 2018. Laura has taken a variety of advanced classes throughout her high school career. She was a member of the marching, concert, and jazz bands; small ensemble, National Honor Society; FFA, and has been class secretary since her freshman year. In FFA, she served as reporter for one year and president for two years. Outside of school, Laura is involved with many activities, including 4-H, New York Junior Holstein Association, New York Junior Dairy Leaders, and serves as the Montgomery County Dairy Princess. She is currently a New York Junior Holstein Association State Distinguished Junior Member. In the fall, Laura will attend SUNY Cobleskill, majoring in agricultural science, with hopes of transferring to Cornell after two years to complete her bachelor’s degree. She hopes to work in the dairy cattle genetics field in the future.

Madison Richardson

Madison Richardson, the daughter of Timothy and Amanda Richardson, is the valedictorian of the Oppenheim-Ephratah-St. Johnsville Class of 2018. She also serves as class treasurer. She has always shown an interest in math and was the first student to get a 5 on the AP Calculus AB exam at OESJ. Madison participated in soccer, cross-country, basketball, and track and field, along with being a part of the National Honor Society, band, select school music groups, and was drum major for the marching band for three years. In the fall, she will attend the University at Buffalo to study chemical engineering.

Matthew Spain

Matthew Spain is the son of Helene-Joy Northrup of St. Johnsville. In addition to his studies at OESJ, Matt has been enrolled in the Computer Information Technology and Networking program at the HFM Career and Technical Center for the past two years. His future goals include travel and possibly moving to Japan. His personal interests include skiing, hiking and video games. Matt plans to attend Fulton Montgomery Community College to study information technology and hopes to work in that field after finishing school.

Wells Central School District

Ryan Bolebruch

Ryan Bolebruch is the salutatorian of the Wells Central School Class of 2018. Ryan is a member of the National Honor Society and also participated in band, chorus, drama club, SADD, varsity soccer, basketball and baseball. Ryan plans on attending SUNY Plattsburgh in the fall and will study criminal justice and psychology. Ryan is the son of Susan and James Chittenden and Scott Bolebruch.

Alyssa Lewis

Alyssa Lewis is the valedictorian of the Wells Central School Class of 2018. Alyssa has been volunteering at both her church and the Wells Fish and Game Club for many years. She has demonstrated her love of family by caring and being responsible for her ailing grandparents for several years. Alyssa is a member of the National Honor Society and the Business and Marketing Honor Society of New York State. She also assisted with the school drama production at Wells by helping with set design. Alyssa plans to attend SUNY Plattsburgh in the fall. Alyssa is the daughter of James Lewis of Wells and Jennifer Blais of Ballston Spa.

Top