Governor’s Scholar Recognized At Annual Luncheon

Claire Zukowski of Newtown High School was among 30 of Connecticut’s top students who were honored at the Ninth Annual Governor’s Scholars Luncheon at The Aqua Turf Club on May 25, the culminating event in the Governor’s Scholars program this year. Cosponsored by the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) and Big Y World Class Markets, the purpose of the program is to recognize academically talented high school students in schools throughout the state and present 30 students for special recognition to the Governor of Connecticut.

All principals of CAS member high schools are given annually the opportunity to nominate one junior who ranks in the top two percent of his/her class. An essay on an assigned topic has to be completed. Members of the Governor’s Scholar Committee, professional educators from throughout Connecticut, judge the completed applications and assign a composite score to each based on class rank, PSAT or SAT scores, GPA and the student essay.

Attorney General Richard Blumenthal was the keynote speaker at the luncheon. He emphasized the importance of the Governor’s Scholars to value their opportunity for freedom of expression and to appreciate their high schools that emphasize learning for the complete person.

Each scholar received a plaque from Associate Commissioner George Coleman designating them as a Connecticut 2005 Governor’s Scholar, a letter from Governor Rell, and a check from Big Y for $300.

Claire Zukowski was unable to attend the awards luncheon because she is currently studying in Japan. Her father Charles accepted the award for her.