Northampton County students honored as DAR Good Citizens

EASTON, Pa. – The George Taylor Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR or DAR) honored outstanding high school seniors on April 5 at the Easton Area Public Library’s Palmer Branch for their participation in the DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest.

The program celebrates students who demonstrate dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities.

The theme this year was “Our American Heritage: A Responsibility for Preserving It.”

Students are chosen by their schools and then invited to participate in the scholarship portion of the program which consists of writing a personal statement and an essay. Scholarships are awarded to essay winners at the chapter, state, division, and national levels.

After welcoming everyone, Chapter Regent Donna Schrantz shared brief histories of the DAR and the George Taylor Chapter. She highlighted their commitment to Historic Preservation, Education, and Patriotism, ongoing support for veterans, and the chapter’s involvement in community events.

Two of the six Good Citizens selected by their schools attended the ceremony and read their inspiring essays.

Both students focused on the theme of service as a key element of community building and American identity.

Benjamin Vituszynksi of Nazareth Area High School focused on service as a way to unite Americans despite differences. He believes that helping neighbors and putting community needs first can bridge political and social divides.

He also highlighted how past practices of neighborly service brought people together and suggests that returning to this mindset could heal current societal tensions.

“If America wants to continue to be held at such a high standard by other countries and even its own people, then service and a camaraderie it brings must return. Thus, service is the glue that holds together the idea that we are all Americans first and all part of the greatest nation in the world. We cannot have that identity if we are constantly fighting with one another."

"We need to serve to help others, serve to get past each other's differences, and serve to keep America a symbol of unity and strength. With so many things to disagree about service is what brings us back together.”

Wilson Area High School’s Avery Errico discussed service through her personal experiences, such as volunteering at an animal shelter and serving as the president of her school’s Buddies Club to promote inclusion of students with disabilities.

She explained that acts of service not only benefit the community, but also transform the individual, helping them feel more connected and developing a stronger sense of self and community identity.

“Being an American means fighting against adversity, creating a welcoming environment, performing acts of service for your country, and uniting as a whole."

"Americans are meant to foster each other and act as selfless. The country is meant to rise together in unity, and this is started by having each community grow together. Every little act of service builds up our community to fulfill our American identity.”

The contest’s lead judge, Wendy Badman, Director of Veteran and Military Services at DeSales University, praised the students for their insight and commitment, saying the focus of the essays could not be more timely because we need that now.

“Service is more than volunteer hours or a title,” said Badman. “It’s the quiet courage of showing up. It’s the humility to put others before ourselves, and the belief that even small acts can spark a change.”

“Whether you're organizing a local Food Drive, mentoring younger students or members of your community, helping a neighbor in need, or one day wearing the uniform of our nation, these acts of service bind us together. They create community. We are not just individuals. We are citizens. We are part of something bigger.”

Benjamin and Avery were presented with DAR certificates, official Good Citizen pins, and commemorative George Taylor Chapter challenge coins.

The event was more than just an awards ceremony – it was a reminder of how the values of service, community, and history continue to guide the next generation of leaders.

In addition to the Good Citizens Award and Scholarship program, the George Taylor Chapter participates in local events such as Easton’s Heritage Day, held in July; Constitution Week, September 17 through 23; and Wreaths Across America in December.

You can stay in touch with them via Facebook, Instagram, or check out their website.

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