Congratulations to the 58 O'Neill and Herrick 8th graders for earning the prestigious Select 58 Recognition Award for 2024! Each year the Education Foundation of Downers Grove School District 58 hosts the Select 58 awards to recognize 8th graders who display exemplary citizenship and service to their school and community and beyond.
The ceremony was held at Herrick Middle School on April 29.
“The students showed outstanding service and character and serve as an inspiration to us as future students and for us all,” said Jules Nastal, 5th grader who spoke at the ceremony. The students were judged in a blind process by a committee of Foundation members and members of the community. “Keep making a positive impact and blazing a trail of kindness wherever you go,” Superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell told the students. “We are proud of each and every one of you!”
Principals Dr. David Norman (Herrick) and Lauryn Humphris (O'Neill) echoed those sentiments. “You have learned invaluable lessons about the power of empathy, the importance of community and the joy that comes from giving back,” Humphris told the gathering. In closing remarks, Dr. Norman challenged the students to get involved in high school. “As you sit here tonight, remember that your journey is just beginning. Carry forward the spirit of volunteerism and the principles of character that have brought you to this moment.”
As special guest speaker, former Select 58 honoree and O’Neill graduate Grace Stapleton, also urged students to get involved during high school. Following the speeches, the eighth graders were awarded a certificate of recognition and a gift card.
Here is a video highlighting the Select 58 honorees that was shown during the event.
Here are photos from the ceremony.