Tolland Trio Scores Big With Academic Wins And $92K Scholarship

A powerhouse trio from Tolland High School is making waves far beyond the classroom. Per WFSB Eyewitness News, seniors Ahshvi Shah, Wilsey Zahner and Cecilia Ruiz-Giro recently took home top honors at Quinnipiac University’s Junior Achievement Tournament of Champions, earning a $92,000 scholarship. The win precedes another major milestone: representing Tolland at the national DECA competition in Orlando, Florida, where the students, alongside the rest of their team, competed against top business minds from across the country.

Under the guidance of business teacher and DECA advisor Lynne Bridge, the team has excelled in entrepreneurship and presentation challenges that showcase real-world skills. Their success at Quinnipiac wasn’t just a win for the students — it was a moment of recognition for academic excellence in the spotlight.

For Ahshvi, Wilsey and Cecilia, the accolades are just part of a bigger mission: inspiring other students to take chances and lead with creativity. “Just get out there and do stuff,” said Cecilia. “There’s no harm in trying.”

With their leadership, energy and drive, this trio from Tolland is showing younger students that success can come from the classroom — and take you all the way to Disney and beyond.

The future is certainly looking bright in Tolland! If you know another Star Student making an impact, nominate them today to be featured on Patch!

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