At the 2022 Scholar Recognition Program, 38 schools celebrated the achievements of their chosen scholar and the mentors who inspired their success. Keynote speaker Honorable Joe Angelino inspired graduates with his message of encouragement to venture into their careers and opportunities and to return to our community to build their families and enjoy their friends. The event gathers schools from the DCMO BOCES and the ONC BOCES region.
The event is traditionally held at a single location. However, this year, sponsors contributed funds to allow schools to celebrate at their facilities to ease the lingering social distancing stress from the COVID pandemic. Counselors and school staff involved in the development of this event were recognized for their support of this program. Administrators proudly joined the virtual ceremony and presented the awards to the honored guest in the company of family and friends.
Over 20 sponsors fund this event, an initiative that started 19 years ago in an effort to encourage students to seek local opportunities. The main event sponsor, NBT Insurance Agency was represented by Tim Parsons who shared the history of the program and how the initiative has remained a strong effort for businesses to support a strong connection with schools and together seek opportunities to retain our graduates with rewarding career opportunities in our region. Assemblyman Angelino shared his career history demonstrating the power of mentors and local community engagement. In his message of support, Parsons spoke of NBT's commitment to supporting the future of our scholars and the communities they serve and invited other business leaders to support this worthwhile effort.