Five Stoughton High Class of 2013 Graduates Named Golden Knights

Continuing a tradition now in its 19th year, the Stoughton High School faculty presented Golden Knight Awards last Tuesday evening to five members of this year’s graduating class, who have "demonstrated outstanding qualities of character, leadership, and service to the school community."

Courtney Lowell, Debora Lumene, Rachel Mackness, Mark Moore and Diep Tran were this year’s recipients. They were honored on the stage of the SHS auditorium during the Class Night celebration on June 4.

"The teachers and administrators serving on this year’s Golden Knight Committee had a difficult time choosing five finalists from a list of truly outstanding nominees," Stoughton High principal Julie Miller said during her remarks at Class Night. "But we know you will agree that the Class of 2013’s Golden Knights embody some of the best qualities and represent some of the finest traditions at Stoughton High School."

All five honorees were lauded by multiple members of the faculty for their determination, maturity, high character and ability to overcome adversity, while serving as a role model for all students.

"Each year members of the staff are asked to nominate seniors who deserve recognition for their service and commitment, as well as for their exemplary personal qualities," Miller explained.

The Golden Knight Awards have been underwritten by the Stoughton Cooperative Bank since 1997. Members of the Stoughton High faculty nominate students for this honor. Patricia Foley of the Math Department is the staff chairperson for the Golden Knight Award.

This year, each Golden Knight recipient also received a $1,000 Prone Family Foundation Scholarship.

Read the complete set of remarks (as presented at Class Night) about each recipient below:

Courtney Lowell

“Independent, determined, and resilient” is how Mrs. Jennifer Luck, of the Guidance Department describes the first Golden Knight recipient.  In her glowing nomination, Mrs. Luck continues, “I am continually impressed by her ability to remain optimistic in the face of adversity and her ability to persevere over the challenges that life throws her way.  She is a compassionate and trustworthy young woman whose own experiences allow her to be a great support and resource for others.”

​“She is soft-spoken, but when she talks, her classmates listen.” writes Ms. Alexandra Loud, of the English Department.  “They know she will say something thoughtful that challenges the rest of us to rethink our stance.”

​Mr. Griffin Coombs, of the Fine Arts Department adds “She is a charming, confident, able-minded young woman who has branched out to involve herself deeply in several facets of our program.  Since her days as a quiet, passive participant, she has truly transformed into a crucial contributor and respected leader, both in and out of the classroom.”  

Debora Lumene

Ms. Marilyn Berman, of the Social Studies Department describes the second Golden Knight Award recipient: “She displayed a strong commitment to education and excellence which distinguished her from many other students.  I admire her tenacity, compassion for others and her strength.”

“She is an inspiration”, writes Mr. Joseph Donovan of the Mathematics Department.  “She has overcome obstacles larger than almost any I know and continues to smile every day.  This Golden Knight Award recipient “knows that a good attitude and strength of character overcome almost all obstacles.”

Mrs. Jennifer Luck, of the Guidance Department also nominated this student.  “Diligent, generous, and optimistic, she is able to overcome obstacles in her life by approaching different situations with a positive attitude and great work ethic.”

Mrs. Susan Rockwood, of the English Department adds, “Her outstanding character, her compassion, and her willingness to help her peers impress me each and every school day.  I am so very proud of her and of all that she has accomplished with her own sense of commitment and passion.  She has overcome much and asked for very little in return; she continues to exude kindness and compassion to all who have had the good fortune to know and to love her.”

Rachel Mackness

The third Golden Knight Award recipient “comes to school each day with positivity, joy, and excitement.  She radiates school spirit” writes Ms. Lauren Fidler, of the English Department. “Her enthusiasm is contagious”

In her nomination, Mrs. Jillian Goldberg, also of English Department, describes this Golden Knight Award recipient as a student who is “willing to try anything and always encourages others to do the same.  I am confident that she will spread this positivity and sunshine to everyone she meets – both in the high school and in her life beyond.”

Mrs. Jill MacKay, of the English Department also nominated this student.  She writes “Her overall enthusiasm for life is both inspiring and humbling, as she is indiscriminant in showering love and kindness for others.  She is the perfect example of the kind of person we all strive to become.”

Mrs. Allyson Strachan, of the Special Education Department, adds “She is energetic, compassionate and a genuinely kind person.  Her school spirit cannot be topped.  She attends a variety of school activities like dances and sporting events, cheering on her classmates at every opportunity.  Rachel is an exceptional candidate, one that contributed greatly to what I can only describe as the spirit of Stoughton High School.”

Mark Moore

In a glowing recommendation, Mrs. Kathy Bulger, of the Science Department, nominated the fourth Golden Knight Award recipient.  “He is one of the most pleasant young men I have had the honor of teaching and advising during my teaching career.  He is passionate about being able to understand the subject matter or task and really wants to excel,” writes Mrs. Bulger.  “Not only has he made achievements in the classroom, he excelled in the community and extra curricular activities.”

Ms. Patricia Sweeney, of the Special Education Department describes this Golden Knight Award recipient as “a great peer role model, always friendly and happy.  He is a pleasure to be around.”

“Throughout his high school career, he has challenged himself to exceed even his own expectations…and he did.” writes Mrs. Jill McKay of the English Department.  “His determination, perseverance, and accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary.”

Mrs. Allyson Strachan, also of the Special Education Department adds “His dedication to school goes beyond academics.  To say that he brings enthusiasm to his classes and school activities is an understatement.  He always has a kind word or compliment for his teachers and peers.  When he enters a room, he is brimming with excitement.  This Golden Knight Award recipient is eager to set a positive example for others by demonstrating sportsmanship and acceptance of everyone.  Mark has gotten so much out of his education at Stoughton High School, and I believe he will continue to contribute to the community as a result.”  

Diep Tran

Mr. Mark Craig, of the Fine Arts Department describes the final Golden Knight Award recipient as “a confident, informed, and opinionated (in the best possible meaning of the word) leader of her peers.”  

Ms. Alyssa Dancey, also of the Fine Arts Department adds “As a soft-spoken member of the community, her deeds go unnoticed by many, but it is the few that do take notice that will agree she has grown into an admirable high school student.  She is always willing to lend a hand and has worked tirelessly to improve the council, school and community.”  

“She is an avid photographer and her innate creativity shapes the way in which she views her world.” writes Ms. Lauren Fidler of the English Department.   “What set her apart in class was always the creative edge she brought to any assignment.  Extra curricular-wise, she volunteers for EVERYTHING.  She is generous in time and thought.  This Golden Knight Award recipient doesn’t expect accolades or awards for her efforts; Diep does these things because it is part of who she is.”