Uniondale student wins leadership award
As the start of a new school year creeps closer, Wilem Hernandez, 11, of Uniondale prepares to continue his BOCES education after winning the Dr. Robert R. Dillon Exemplary Citizenship and Leadership Award.
He received a $100 scholarship and a commemorative certificate for his achievement.
Hernandez was a student at the Nassau BOCES Jerusalem Avenue Elementary School in North Bellmore, and was recognized at the June 20 graduation ceremony. He will be attending Robert Williams School in Jericho in the fall.
The award recognizes students who have shown “exceptional and impactful leadership skills” and who have “fostered positive and productive relationships both inside and outside of school,” according to BOCES officials.
Dr. Robert R. Dillon was the former Nassau BOCES District Superintendent. Upon his death last summer, his family made donations to the Nassau BOCES Educational Foundation in his memory up to $13,000, according BOCES officials said in a news release. A portion of the donation is dedicated to student awards, including the one Hernandez received.
“These awards recognize and honor Dr. Dillon’s commitment to ensuring that all students be provided with equal opportunities and serve as a reminder of his passion for education,” Anthony Fierro, chairperson of the Nassau BOCES Educational Foundation and chief administrator of the Nassau BOCES Department of Facilities Services and Capital Projects, said in the release.
Three students won the Exemplary Citizenship and Leadership Award. The other two students are Karina Licitra from Long Beach and Luisaury Collado Recio from Freeport.
Other awards include the Dr. Robert R. Dillon Core Values Champion Award, with 12 winners, and the Dr. Robert R. Dillon Outstanding Teamwork Award, with one winner.
The Nassau BOCES Educational Foundation is a non-profit organization that aims to “acquire and distribute funds to enhance educational opportunities for all students who attend or take part in Nassau BOCES schools, services, or programs,” according to the news release.
