Honor Student Leadership Award Winner

Senate Resolution No. 974 BY: Senator BRESLIN HONORING Richard Sweeney upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the 2017 Student Leadership Award by The Capital Zone chapter of the New York State Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYS AHPERD) WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor the young adults of today and leaders of tomorrow whose character and achievements best exemplify the ideals and values cherished by this great State and Nation; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Richard Sweeney upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the

2017 Student Leadership Award by The Capital Zone chapter of the New York State Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYS AHPERD) on Sunday, February 12, 2017; and WHEREAS, The auspicious Student Leadership Award is given to one young man and woman from each district's current year's graduating class who meets the criteria for achievement in high level of physical performance, scholastic achievement, exceptional leadership qualities or outstanding service to the school or community; and WHEREAS, A student at Bethlehem High School, Richard Sweeney is the co-President of The Stock Market Club and a member of the BCHS Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Pep Band, Jazz Band and the Marching Band where he plays the tuba; and WHEREAS, Richard Sweeney has been swimming competitively since the second grade with the Delmar Dolfins; currently, he is the co-Captain of the Bethlehem swim team; as a junior, he competed in New York State competitions as a member of the 200 medley relay team; and WHEREAS, With a strong commitment to his community, Richard Sweeney has volunteered as a math tutor at his school, as a counselor with Christian Camps of America and an instructor with STRIDE Sailing Adaptive Sports; he is also a member of the Bethlehem Town Youth Court and the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Youth Group; and WHEREAS, In addition to the Student Leadership Award, Richard Sweeney has received the Gold Medal in the AASTP National Spanish Exam Level 4, the Harvard Book Award, the Spirit of the Eagle Award for Varsity Swimming and is a National Merit Scholar Semifinalist; and WHEREAS, Throughout his high school career, Richard Sweeney has displayed exceptional academic achievement, a strong sense of community responsibility, and a commitment to excellence which is unparalleled; and WHEREAS, Richard Sweeney, in achieving this academic honor, may take just pride in the inspiration and contribution to the spirit of excellence he brings to his family, friends, community and school; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Richard Sweeney upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the 2017 Student Leadership Award by The Capital Zone chapter of the New York State Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYS AHPERD), and to extend best wishes for a future of purposeful success and well-being; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Richard Sweeney.