Waverly students honored as ‘Mark Twain Scholars’

Waverly High School announced last month the recognition of six Waverly students as Mark Twain Scholars. 

Students, parents, and members of the administration attended the annual Mark Twain Scholars Banquet and ceremony in the students’ honor at Elmira College in Elmira. Students from Elmira, Horseheads, Thomas Edison, Spencer-Van Etten, Twin Tiers Christian Academy, and Notre Dame High School were honored as well.

To be honored as a Mark Twain Scholar, you must be in the top five percent of your graduating class. The Waverly High School students honored are Valedictorian Faith Svaboda, Salutatorian Stephanie Hyland, Kiara Babcock, Lillian Keefer, Dylan Ward, and Hailey Onofre.

The evening included remarks from 2006 Horseheads Graduate and current PhD Student Brandon Frisbie, also Mr. Panosian’s grandson, who admonished students to have a strong work/life balance, but to also follow your passions, quoting famous author Mark Twain by saying, “The two most important days in a person’s life are the day you were born and the day you find out why.”

The first Mark Twain Scholastic Achievement Banquet was held in 1984. The program was an idea first envisioned by businessman Manny Panosian, who wished to give public recognition for young achievers. Panosian believed the program should be called “Mark Twain Scholars” to honor the area’s heritage.

In a press release, school officials stated, “The honorees represent our community’s brightest stars. Their distinction as the top five percent of their graduating classes is a true achievement. Through their hard work, dedication, and success, they honor not only Mr. Panosian’s vision, but also their entire community.”