Lyme-Old Lyme High School Students Honored As Leaders

On Friday, Lyme-Old Lyme Seniors will don caps and gowns for the annual commencement ceremony. Many of them have achieved a variety of honors but earlier this month, the Lyme-Old Lyme Board of Education recognized two in particular.   

Machlan Sawden and Meredith Britton were both honored with Connecticut Association of Boards of Education Leadership Awards. Their many accomplishments were detailed during an award presentation at the Lyme-Old Lyme Board of Education meeting. Here's why they were chosen. 

Machlan Sawden

Sawden is described as a remarkable student and athlete, and as a student, he constantly challenges himself with the most rigorous academic schedule possible and has achieved high honors throughout his tenure at Lyme Old Lyme High School. 

"He is a CAPT Scholar and a member of the National Honor Society as well a valued member of several extracurricular clubs such as the Chemistry Club, The French Club and the Future Business Leaders of America. Serving as Captain of the Lacrosse Team Machlan is a wonderful role model and respected leader. He has been an integral part of WLYM, our school television program since his freshman year, not only on camera but behind the scenes.  In fact, as the high school renovation nears its close, Machlan has been instrumental in getting the new studio set up and ready for its return to air.  

"While Machlan consistently displays academic and extracurricular commitment he has another full time passion, hockey.   Machlan has been recognized as the best of the best  by his coach for the Metropolitan Junior Hockey League, an elite team of promising young hockey players, many of which will play hockey for the most competitive college teams.  Machlan is a natural talent, a league all-star and Captain of this highly competitive team.  He is recognized not just for his talents, leadership and work ethic but for his honesty, integrity and tenacity.  

"Machlan‘s quiet confidence and patience lend themselves to his success in every arena.  He is approachable and supportive of others as he works with the youngsters at the Learn to Play Hockey Clinic, helping kids learn to skate and play hockey.  

"With his many commitments and responsibilities Machlan also finds time to do his part for those in need whether it’s helping to facilitate a fundraiser for Caroline’s Miracle Foundation or raising money on his own to contribute to a family in need during the holidays.  

"Machlan is committed to excellence on every level.  His strong character, undying commitment and concern for others make him a deserving recipient of this year’s Connecticut Association of Boards of Education Leadership Award."

Meredith Britton

Britton is described as a dynamic young woman who "shines in every aspect of her life." Academically, she's challenged herself with Advanced Placement, Honors and Virtual High School courses and tackled them in combinations that, the school notes, would reduce a lesser student "to tears." 

"She has been recognized for her academic achievement through her induction into the National Honor Society and as a CAPT Scholar Award recipient. Her academic motivation and prowess made her an easy choice for the honor of CAPT Scholar Award Ceremony Student Speaker. 

"Athletically, she is a member of the Varsity Lacrosse and Soccer teams.  Here she demonstrates her sportsmanship, tenacity and bravery as she participates as goalie for both sports.  Her athleticism was recognized last year when she was named to the 2012 All Shoreline Team. 

"Within her extracurricular activities she has chosen clubs and activities which allow her to make a difference in her corner of the world. She serves as a mentor to younger students as the Middle School Science Olympiad Coach and is a Big Sister in the Big Brothers-Big Sister’s Program. 

"Meredith’s maturity and poise aid in her pursuit to educate and raise the awareness of her peers about societal concerns through her work with the Community Action for Substance Free Youth, Lymes’ Youth Service Bureau’s Youth Advisory Council and the Southeastern Regional Youth Leadership Coalition. She is also an important member of LOLHS’s Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band.

"Given the depth of her extracurricular activities, it is not surprising that she pursues leadership opportunities. Currently, she is the Student Representative to the Region 18 Board of Education and the Lymes’ Youth Service Bureau’s Board of Directors. 

"Meredith approaches every day and event with unparalleled energy, motivation and optimism.  This attitude enables her to successfully juggle all of her academic and extracurricular responsibilities.  We are honored and proud to have Meredith Britton present Lyme-Old Lyme High School for the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education Student Leadership Award."