Local Students Nominated for National Scholarship Program

Michael Kowal and Matthew Hamilton, Salesianum School seniors and members of the De Sales Chapter of the National Honor Society at Salesianum, have been nominated to compete for the National Honor Society scholarship sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

Fr. John Fisher, O.S.F.S., principal of Salesianum, announced the nomination, which places Kowal and Hamilton in the national competition. Two hundred national NHS winners will be chosen this spring to receive $1,000 college scholarships.

High school National Honor Society chapters from across the country were eligible to nominate two seniors to compete. Nominees were selected based on their leadership skills, participation in service organizations and clubs; achievements in the arts and sciences; employment experience; and academic record. They were also required to write an essay.

"Students nominated for the NHS scholarship are role models for their peers, not only for their academic achievements, but also for their outstanding accomplishments in the areas of service, leadership, and character," said Rocco Marano, director, NHS.

In recognizing leadership in co-curricular activities as well as academic performance, the NHS scholarship recognizes the importance of well-rounded education. Co-curricular activities are an essential part of the school curriculum.

While at Salesianum, Kowal has been the 2004 Track State Champion in the 800 meters event, as well as the 2004 Division 1 Cross Country Individual State Champion. This fall, he plans to attend Princeton University to study engineering.

Hamilton is President of Campus Ministry and is a captain of the varsity Swimming team. He has been accepted at Boston College, the University of Notre Dame, and Georgetown University.

The National Honor Society (NHS) and the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) are the nation's premier organizations regarding outstanding middle level and high school students who demonstrate excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. NHS™ and NJHS™ are proudly sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). The NASSP - the preeminent organization and national voice for middle level and high school leaders - also sponsors the National Association of Student Councils (NASC), which promotes and provides leadership development opportunities to prepare and empower students to serve their schools and communities.