Self-Reliance Award Winners, pictured from left, Sandra Granda, Caleb Rivich, Danielle Connealy, Dakota North, Scott Flannery, Mystica Martin, Cameron Sumwalt. Mariah Armey not pictured.
Being a student can be challenging, and some students struggle more than others. But those students who are willing to dig in, buckle down and get through their struggles are rewarded handsomely.
That’s what the Warsaw Rotary Club was celebrating at its Self-Reliance Awards on Friday, May 2. Eight Warsaw Community High School students were recognized for their self-reliance, hard work and commitment to excellence.
Each of the eight finalists received a $1,000 award, a glass trophy and several other gifts. The following students were recognized:
Cameron Sumwalt – Sumwalt has overcome tremendous adversity due to a brain injury sustained playing football. In spite of that, he has achieved the honor of Eagle Scout and has plans to attend college.
Mystica Martin – Martin has endured moving to many different school systems in her life. Despite that, and working two jobs while finishing up at WCHS, she will graduate on time with honors. She’ll be heading off to college and studying to be a veterinarian.
Mariah Armey – Armey has dealt with struggles in her personal life, and she’s currently holding two jobs, one at the YMCA and another as a dental assistant. However, she still finds the time to perform with the high school choir, which was performing in New York at the time of the awards banquet.
Dakota Miller – Miller moved 20 times in the last 18 years, but he developed into a thoughtful and understanding young man. He enjoys reading and playing video games and some outdoor activites. He is a member of the National Honors Society and a math tutor. He plans to go to college and study science,
Sandra Granda – Granda moved to United States from Mexico at a very young age and had to struggle to overcome the language barrier. That hasn’t stopped her from becoming an amazing soccer player and participating in the CPA Society and Young Business Professionals of America. She plans to attend college and study accounting.
Scott Flannery – Flannery was raised by his grandmother, and found his calling working at the Blue Apron restaurant at WCHS. He helped found the school’s Ultimate Frisbee Club, and cooks at the Rozzella Golf Course. He plans to attend culinary school, then work in a restaurant and find ways to feed the hungry with any leftover food.
Danielle Connealy – Connealy keeps herself rather busy. She’s been a recipient of Penguin Point’s Employee of the Month award and a member of the Young Business Professionals of America, all while maintaining an exceptional GPA. She’ll be attending IPFW in the fall where she hopes to obtain a masters degree in information technology.
Caleb Rivich - Rivich, who was raised by his grandmother, is an Eagle Scout, he’s been a Salvation Army bell ringer and he attends seminary classes every Wednesday. After high school, he plans to embark on a 2-year mission. Upon his return, he plans to attend college.
The Self-Reliance Award started in 1971 in Van Wert, Ohio by Roger K. Thompson. The award was brought to Warsaw by INGUARD, then known as Beauchamp McSpadden, and the Warsaw Rotary Club in 2007.
The Rotary Club handles the selection process, visiting high schools, reviewing applications, interviewing applicants and organizing the award presentation. This is award selection committee members were: Robyn Palmer, chair, Josh Gordon, Jan Orban, Phil Peugh and Scott Strouder.