A deep sense of school pride was on display at Sanford H. Calhoun High School’s third annual Blue and Gray Awards dinner on May 21. The ceremony recognized 15 students – unsung heroes of the school – who display a strong sense of character, leadership and exemplify the spirit of Calhoun, even through great adversity.

Students were selected from a pool of 40 nominees for this prestigious honor, bestowed to seniors by the Blue and Gray Committee. Selected students then chose a teacher who had a profound impact on them during their high school career to also honor. During the ceremony, teachers and students spoke about one another, remarking on personal qualities that have left a lifelong impact on both parties.

Blue and Gray recipients included seniors Erum Ahmed, Thomas Buckley, Geena Cantalupo, Marie Chin, Kelsey Cotton, Michael DiCocco, Jessica Foley, Jack Kerner, Raiyan Noor Ali Khan, Christopher Losak, Christopher Melito, Caitlin O’Hara, William Rosenblum, Rebecca Spina and Michael Tommer. Teacher recipients included Joseph Bianca, Jason Boland, Keri Cinelli, Joseph Corea, Carol Cupo, Heather Glick, Alexandra Kafaliakos, Sharissa Khan, Matthew Krammer, Kim Lascarides, Lauren Miele, Irene Ritaccio, Julie Rosslee and Doug Smestad.

“As a group, they have a heart of kindness, compassion and character that distinguishes them from their peers and each can be looked to by adults and students alike as role models,” said Assistant Principal Nicole Hollings. “This is also a special night because it provides these students with an opportunity to honor a staff member. They are passionate in their practices, and they have created learning opportunities that engage their students, push them to go the extra mile and support them when they need it.”