Sen. Fred Ashkar Continues Student Recognition Program

Senator Fred Akshar continued the second year of his district-wide “Akshar's All-Stars” student recognition program on Tuesday by recognizing students at one Broome County school and three Chenango County schools.

Each month, Senator Akshar recognizes local students selected by their school districts in the 52nd Senate District who have shown great leadership, compassion, school spirit or improvement amongst their peers.

Last school year, Akshar recognized 30 students across school districts in Broome, Tioga, Chenango and Delaware counties. This year, Akshar's recognized students at Susquehanna Valley, Chenango Valley, Chenango Forks, Whitney Point, Tioga Central, Waverly, Spencer Van-Etten and Candor.

For each student recognized as an “Akshar All-Star”, Senator Akshar presents them with a t-shirt, framed certificate and a challenge coin.

At Harpursville High School, Akshar recognized senior Colin LaDue for his leadership, dedication and many contributions to his school and community. A student athlete and active member of the National Honor Society, Colin regularly volunteers for church and community events and also finds time to mentor young students at W.A. Olmstead Elementary School as part of their after-school program.

At his alma mater, Afton High School, Akshar recognized sophomore Logan Ives for her selfless devotion to charity and giving back to others in need. Recently, Logan independently organized a donation drive for Golisano Children's Hospital in Rochester. She worked hard collecting donations of toys, books and other items for children spending time at the hospital. A student athlete and consistent Honor Roll student, Logan has been described by her peers and teachers as a quiet leader who always takes initiative to go above and beyond, both inside and outside the classroom.

At Bainbridge-Guilford High School, Akshar recognized senior Tannar Cliffe for his kindness and dependability both in and out of school. Tannar is the school district's “go-to” person to make sure new students at Bainbridge-Guilford receive a warm welcome to their new school. An active volunteer with the local Lions Club and member of the Audubon Society, Tannar's good work extends beyond the classroom and reaches throughout his community.

At DCMO BOCES in Norwich, Akshar recognized senior Destin Foley for his infectious energy and his dedication to both his academic studies and to helping others in the classroom. A skilled computer technologist, Destin has numerous IT certifications and recognitions in addition to playing in his home school's football program at Greene High School.

Senator Fred Akshar said, "This is an amazing opportunity for us to meet and recognize outstanding young people doing wonderful things in their community and schools throughout the 52nd Senate District. Whether they're in 2nd grade or a senior in high school, we want to bring attention to those students who are making a difference in their own lives and in the lives of those around them. They inspire us all by showing us the good that exists in our communities.”