Elwood-John H. Glenn High School junior Camila Avila was recently named a Grand Prize winner of the 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month essay contest, earning a $3,000 award. Sponsored by Optimum and Univision Foundation in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, the contest recognizes and celebrates the diverse histories, cultures and contributions of generations of Hispanic Americans in communities across the country. This year’s topic was connecting to Hispanic culture, and Avila wrote about her grandmother’s journey to get to the United States, and recognizing that journey as a part of her own personal journey.

Optimum representatives visited the school for a presentation ceremony, attended by Avila’s family and district and school administrators. Optimum additionally presented the John Glenn World Language Department with a $500 gift card to DonorsChoose, a nonprofit organization that allows teachers to submit requests for needed materials or supplies. Also on hand was New York State Assemblyman Steve Stern, who presented Avila with a legislative proclamation.

“Good things happen in this room, and great things happen in this building and throughout this great school district,” Stern said. “We know it’s because of the outstanding men and women who are so dedicated to our young people, but it always starts at home. It always starts with family, with values within the four walls that you grow up in. We are thrilled that Camila has been able to share that with us, her school district, her fellow students and with our entire community. Her message is inspirational, and she certainly serves as an example for all of us to follow. On behalf of the 20 million residents of the great state of New York and the New York State Assembly, it is my personal privilege to present this legislative proclamation. Camila, you bring such great pride to your family, your community, this great school district and to our entire state. We wish you congratulations and every success in the future.”

Date Added: 1/14/2025