Peer Leadership Banquet

"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more,

you are a leader.” President John Quincy Adams

The evening began with a welcome from Madison Werner (Neshannock) and Joy Husdpath (Ellwood City), both juniors studying in the Health Assistant program who reminded the audience that being a part of Peer Leadership has helped the community but in return has helped each member “grow and flourish.”

M.C.’s Lane Madras and Elia McKnight shared that tonight was a time to reflect on achievements, honor the members, and express gratitude to those who have supported Peer Leadership along the way.

  • Senior members include Tia Bowser, Clarysa Grimes, Lane Madras, Tristan Queener, Brady Zook, Destiny Fishel, Angel Keller, Elia McKnight, and Katherine Tillia.

  • Junior members include Lorena Boice, Kirk Derrow, Joy Hudspath, Dan Mayer-Tedrow, Jonah Poupore, Sami Shultz, Madison Werner, Lexi Clingensmith, Carter Horkovy, Aaliyah Kinney, Andrew Mort, Bryce Rhodes, Jolenna Street, and Hannah Davis.

  • Sophomore members include Zac Christy, Abram Deep, Shane Grannis, Mackenzie Mohr, Gabbi Schiek, Ky’la Vignovich, Lynnden Cummins, Hope Franklin, Jhenavesza Miller, Brianna Piatt, and Coulter Street.

As Lane shared, “This banquet is a testament to the power of collaboration and humanitarianism.”

Finally, before introducing Mrs. Caiazza, they graciously thanked Ms. Price and the Restaurant Trades program students for their wonderful meal. What followed was an evening of delicious food, recognition, and thoughts to ponder.

Principal Diana Caiazza reminded the audience about this saying her grandfather used to share: “Good. Better. Best — Never let it rest ‘til the good is better and the better best.”

Tia Bowser, Lexy Clingensmith, and Jhenavesza Miller reflected on their experience with the Food Pantry — Most of all how good it made them feel knowing they are truly helping families who could use a little extra help. Each week, Mrs. Pasterik calls for volunteers who pack 50-70 bags filled with non-perishable items. Peer Leadership students have learned to conduct this task without heavy-handed guidance from their advisors and do so without complaint.

Director Leonard Rich praised the students for their hard work and willingness to help and the families for having raised such incredible young leaders.

The evening’s keynote speaker was Nadine Kirkwood from the Lawrence County Drug and Alcohol Commission. Mrs. Kirkwood has been an integral support system for Peer Leadership, but instead of her typical topics, she shared the following highlights on “Leadership”:

  • Leadership is a skill that needs to be developed. It is a skill of seeing those around us rise.

  • Leaders:

    • , privileged to be in a position to serve, must have perseverance, passion, and determination.

    • must be both accessible and approachable.

    • listen and effectively communicate.

    • create spaces for others to use their talents.

    • Believe in people, trust, and demonstrate patience.

    • act responsibly and take responsibility.

    • use their resources.

    • look after others,

    • are creative and foster creativity,

    • network to develop and maintain partnerships.

    • are not in charge but take care of those in their charge.

  • Leadership builds character, but leaders must remember to practice self-care.

The evening concluded with awards which included certificates of appreciation to Mr. John Hiler and Mr. George Dudich who have helped with the pantry from May 2022. They pick up monthly orders of food — two pallet’s worth, and never once did they ever complain.

The following awards were given to the members (see the photos at the end):

  • HELPING HAND: These were students who were consistently asking to help and go above and beyond to do more. They participated in most events and took the lead to speak for the organization.

  • AWESOME ATTITUDE: These students were willing to smile as they helped with little complaint. They made the team stronger by being positive.

  • ABOVE AND BEYOND: These students take the lead to get the pantry up and running, they organized and reorganized when the pantry was moved, and they took the lead so the advisors only needed to “be present.”

  • DIFFERENCE MAKERS: These students stood apart with the different characteristics and qualities they brought to each campaign. They were willing to share their unique qualities which led to the success of any project they tackled.

  • ASPIRING LEADERS: These students possessed the ability to communicate and to influence and lead their peers.

A final award was given to the INSPIRING LEADER: This person, embodies all of the qualities of each award. She has an awesome attitude and is a difference-maker. She goes above and beyond to lend a helping hand, not only to Peer Leadership, but also to SkillsUSA, her shop, and her community. This is who all Peer Leadership should aspire to emulate. This year’s recipient of the “Inspiring Leader” award goes to Elia McKnight.

Congratulations to Mrs. Pasterik and Mr. Ovial for the wonderful Peer Leadership banquet last night.  

  • Congratulations to all Peer Leaders who were recognized for their outstanding contributions to serving your community. 

  • A special thank you goes out to Restaurant Trades for the excellent food, 

  • to Mrs. Nadine Kirkwood for being the Keynote speaker, 

  • To Mrs. Caiazza and Mr. Rich for their words of encouragement,

  • To Mr. Hiler & Mr. Dudich for all you do to make the Food Pantry a success,

  • and to the custodial staff for set up and tear down of the room for an elegant event.  

  • Peer Leaders – we also appreciate you for all of your hard work to make our world a better place.

Carolyn McVicker