JACKSON, Wyo. — The Jackson Hole Rotary Lunch Club presented its “Students of the Season” awards on Tuesday, Jan. 31 at The Wort Hotel.
These awards recognize outstanding high school students from Jackson Hole High School (JHHS) Summit Innovations High School (SIHS), Jackson Hole Classical Academy (JHCA), JH Community School (JHCS) and Mountain Academy. Ian McRae from JHCA kicked off the recognitions by introducing the crowd to Bill Robinson. McRae remarked how Bill is a consistent contributor to the classroom and an accomplished chess player.
Robinson, a freshman at the Classical Academy shared his belief in high character and his passion for swimming. He is working towards becoming an Eagle Scout and enjoys backpacking trips. Robinson told Rotarians a personal story that made him realize it is important to face our fears and lean on others in troubling times.
David Porter from Mountain Academy honored Student of the Season, sophomore Neeve Keating.
“Keating is a driven and enthusiastic art student with a passion for working with younger students,” said Porter
Neeve has lived in over eight countries due to her mother’s job as a teacher, shared that reaching out through activities is important to becoming a part of a community. She also shared her belief in the power of giving and service and looking for ways to be resilient.
Dr. Scott Crisp, Principal of JHHS introduced Acacia Laprade, a senior who is a fantastic student in STEM classes, volunteers with Teton County Search and Rescue and is a peer tutor. Laprade shared how as a self-proclaimed “quiet person,” she has striven to raise her hand and have her voice heard in the classroom. She hopes to grow her love of engineering by majoring in something like bioengineering once she graduates.
Aidan Klemmer from SIHS was honored as the Student of the Season by Pier Trudelle, who highlighted Klemmer as a “self-reflective leader” who produces “outstanding work and music.” Klemmer said that he found himself with self-doubt, and Summit provided an opportunity for a fresh start. Surrounding himself with people who care, he recognized his ability to achieve his goals in life and music. An accomplished musician, his music may be found on various streaming platforms like Apple Music and Spotify.
Gordon Hight, Dean of Students at JHCS, then introduced the crowd to Beatrix Goldstein, a junior who is a successful scuba diver and serves as an ambassador of the school at community functions. Goldstein highlighted the need to “remain yourself and strive to be unique” in life. Her passions outside of school are scuba diving, violin, tennis and pottery
“We are very proud of the students who shared their stories, and more importantly their vulnerability with us at Rotary,” said JH Rotary Lunch Club President Jessica Jaubert. “Our community has exceptional students whose life journey and lessons serve as a valuable reminder of perseverance, service, achievement and self-growth. We are honored they would share their time and wisdom with us.”
