In
recent years many of us had children graduating from high school and may have
attended the various award ceremonies related to those students.
As most of us can recall, the number of awards was staggering and the it
seem that the same students that excelled in sports, academics or civic
contributions walked away with the majority of the honors, especially those that
had any meaningful monetary value. The
awards in general were tokens recognizing the accomplishment, often a pin,
plaque or cash awards under $100.00.
Of
all the recipients, conspicuously absent was the graduate that demonstrated
strength in human spirit, one that overcame a set of circumstances or handicap,
by sheer will or tenacity to graduate. Many of our classmates had daily
challenges that were unnoticed by those of us blessed with good health,
financial security and a normal home environment.
Those close to Tom decide to start such an award several years ago. We name it after Tom because he overcame many of life’s
challenges including an alcoholic father, mental ill mother, raised by his
single aunt in a small apartment and dyslexia.
Annually the school’s administrators, faculty members and counselors nominate graduates that have overcome some major adversity. The school’s awards committee selects the recipient with input from the donors
Additional contributions are always welcome, all monies are set aside for the graduates, there is no administrative expenses.