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Schools

More Than 90 Awards Given to Watchung Hills Seniors

The N.J. Statesman of the Year Award also presented to Derek Weisman and Kaitlin Anderson.

By many measures, Robert Tucker is a model student—great academics, great attitude and focused on achievement, but it was his civic duty that helped him achieve five scholarship awards at Senior Awards Night at on Tuesday night.

Tucker conducted many volunteer hours to the Watchung Fire Department and recently became a state certified firefighter.

"The reason I joined the fire department was not for any kind of award recognition," Tucker, who is also an Eagle Scout, said. "I genuinely have a love for helping people and for fighting fires. It's something I want to continue for the rest of my life."

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Tucker's five awards were among more than 90 scholarships awarded to Warriors students on the night. According to the school's guidance department director, Catherine Angelastro, the night represented $60,000 in scholarship awards.

"This year the number of scholarships actually increased, which is surprising because of the economy," Angelastro said. "It was several thousand more this year."

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For many students and families, scholarships have become a necessary component of post-secondary education decisions. Attending college isn't free and each year the rite of passage becomes a more competitive proposition both academically and financially for all students and their families.

Scholarships also serve to recognize the potential that exists in a variety of conventional and unconventional people—and for those willing to achieve—the resources are available to help turn potential into success.     

Tuesday's ceremony is an indication of the sheer number of scholarship awards available—and that there are many ways for students to capture money for their college studies.

"We are in the debt of all the local organizations whose concern for our students is demonstrated in so many ways, specifically in scholarships tonight," DiGanci said.

Senior Awards Night was structured to present scholarship awards in three different categories—community, academic and memorial awards. Awards ranged from various PTO scholarship awards to theater awards, to the Bob Beckert Memorial Scholarship.

One particularly notable award, however, which was not included the program guide, was the New Jersey Statesman of the Year Award, an award that is given to a student who demonstrates aptitude in selflessness and dedication to helping others in their community. The award was introduced by 21st legislative district Assemblyman Jon Bramnick in 2011.

Derek Weisman, who was not aware of his selection ahead of Senior Awards Night was one of two recipients of the award. The other was Kaitlin Anderson.

"I am very happy that I got it," Weisman said. "I love doing stuff for the school and the community. I hate sitting at home and doing noting and I like being out helping people."

This article was edited to correct an error identifying Robert Tucker.

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