Royals Recognition Awards given to hard-working students

Written By Paula Brown

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Centre Dufferin District High School (CDDHS) acknowledged the achievements and contributions of several students with their annual Royals Recognition Awards. 

Recipients of the awards were presented with certificates during a final assembly held at the local high school on Monday (June 12). 

“It's always important to let students get an opportunity to be recognized, especially for things like behaviour or community; it sets the standard for students to become and strive to be,” said Damon Ealey, principal of CDDHS. “It's a great selection [of students], and that's what made it so hard this year. There were a whole bunch of students that weren't selected, but hopefully, over the years, we'll also have an opportunity to select them as well.” 

Three CDDHS students – Nicholas Legge, Myrissa Lowden, and Jaida Cohen – were awarded the Tom Egan Community Service Award and the Stronger Together Award. The Town of Shelburne sponsors both awards. 

The Tom Egan Community Service Award, donated by the Egan Family, is awarded in memory of long-time resident and late Shelburne councillors Tom Egan, who served with Shelburne Council for 19 years and was a devoted member of the Kinsmen Club. Egan passed away in 2017 at the age of 64. 

Tom Egan, Community Service Award, is presented to a student who has made valuable contributions to the school and broader community. Myrissa Lowden and Jaida Cohen were jointly awarded the 2023 Tom Egan Community Service Award. 

Cohen was recognized for her contributions through art, which include volunteering for Streams Community Hub, donating her art as part of a school art showcase, organizing paint nights, leading a board-wide workshop for the Black Brilliance Conference and producing two solo art exhibits. 

“I feel great about getting this award. I really didn't think I would get any awards so it was great,” said Cohen. 

Lowden was acknowledged for her involvement with school initiatives, many of which have played a role behind-the-scenes, including the Black Brilliance Conference, Culture Day, and African Heritage Month. 

“I'm honoured to receive this award. Honestly, it caught me by surprise, but I feel very proud that I'm being noticed in my community,” said Lowden. 

The Stronger Together Award, donated by former Shelburne Deputy Mayor Steve Anderson, is given to a student who works to build and establish connections between student groups, individuals, and the community, as well as promote collaborative events, diversity, and education. 

Nicholas Legge, a grade 11 student, was presented with the Stronger Together Award. 

“It feels incredible. There are some really amazing people in this community who have encouraged me to try to step up and go beyond what people expect me to do, and to try and make the community as enjoyable to be in, as I can,” said Legge. 

The Royals Recognition Awards were created to celebrate students that make a difference in the school community, inside and outside the classroom. Students are considered from criteria that include inspiring and encouraging others, promoting a respectful atmosphere, overcoming an obstacle or struggle, and contributing positively to the community. 

Three students from each grade are chosen to receive the awards based on nominations from teachers. 

Recipients of the 2023 Royal Recognition Awards were Kaylah Blumetti, Liyah Enriquez, and Hannah Park for Grade 9; Muskaan Bhardwaj, Kayleigh French, and Quinn Millsap for Grade 10; Isaac Adetona, Jediah Harriott, and Ian Kee for Grade 11; and Ella Cruikshank, Ella Day and Steven Thompson for Grade 12.