Shannon McSain, a senior in Broome-Tioga BOCES’ Evertech High School, is this year’s recipient of the Student Community Service Award, a scholarship program sponsored by state Senator Thomas W. Libous, Broome-Tioga BOCES, and WBNG-TV.
McSain received the award at a reception on April 30 along with award-winning colleagues from school districts throughout Sen. Libous’ 52nd Senate District. Each recipient receives a $1,000 scholarship to be used for tuition costs at a college located in New York state.
The program is designed to recognize and reward students who give back to their community through volunteerism. McSain was selected for her selfless participation in numerous events, including work at her church, participation in the UHS junior volunteer program, and local fundraising events such as Relay for Life.
“As a volunteer, I’ve been able to meet incredible people and experience the joy of giving back to my community,” McSain says. “I’ve learned that everyone has a story. Everyone has different battles and victories, different circumstance and support, and people or causes they feel passionate about. Unless you take time to listen to them and find out their story, you might not ever know what’s really important. Sometimes simply by listening and being there, you are the greatest give of all.”
McSain plans to attend SUNY Broome Community College in the fall.
Pictured (l-r): BOCES District Superintendent Allen Buyck, WBNG-TV News Director Candace Chapman, Shannon McSain, Emmanuel Priest, director of public affairs for state Sen. Thomas W. Libous.