Student achievements take center stage at GHS Moving Up Day

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Central High School held its 2026 Moving Up Day Program on Friday, June 12 in the GHS Auditorium.

GHS Music Instructors Olivia Dearbeck, Janeen Streeter, and Brett Worden performed the march processional, “Trumpet Voluntary,” as the GHS Class of 2026 found their seats in the auditorium. They were joined by the students in the Class of 2027, 2028, and 2029. The crowd in attendance then stood for the salute to the American Flag, led by 2026-27 Student Senate President Laina Kurdziel, followed by GHS Chamber Singers performing the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” All music during the ceremony was under the direction of the GHS Music Instructors.

GHS Principal Nicole Donaldson gave the welcoming address: “Families, faculty, staff, and guests, welcome to the 2026 Moving Up Day ceremony at Gouverneur High School. Today is a chance to celebrate the accomplishments of our students and recognize the hard work that has brought them to this point. For our seniors, this ceremony marks the end of an important chapter. For our underclassmen, it represents another step forward in your high school journey. No matter what grade you're in, each of you has grown this year in the classroom, through activities, on the field, on the stage, and through the challenges you've faced along the way.

“One thing that makes Gouverneur special is the strong sense of community we share. We support one another, celebrate each other's successes, and work together when times are tough. That spirit can be seen every day in our students, staff, and families. Our students continue to make a positive impact on our school through their leadership, involvement, and willingness to help others.

“Whether you're leading a club, competing in athletics, performing in the arts, volunteering in the community, or simply setting a positive example for others, your contributions help make our school a better place. As we celebrate today's achievements, I encourage you to take pride in how far you've come while continuing to look ahead to what comes next. Keep working hard, stay involved, and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.

“Congratulations to all of our students on a successful year. Thank you to our families, faculty, and staff for the support and encouragement you provide each day.”

Gouverneur Central High School Class of 2026 President Gabrielle Free introduced the National Honor Society Inductees (Rose Cox, Caleigh Flynn, Kylie Gallagher, Gracen Hance, Kaidyn Johns, Guiliana Shepherd, Lorelei Slate, Addison Tarkowski, Hannah White, Serenity Whitmarsh), and the Tri-M Music Honor Society (Avian Burt, Dallas Doxtater, Kylie Gallagher, Anna Holcomb, Olivia McDougall, Cruz Pawananon, Lily Scott, Hailey Trimm, Hannah White), and the National Technical Honor Society Inductees (Mattie Beck, Nick Canell, Rodney Cardinell, Charlie Constance, Trey D’Agostino, Raeanne Durham, Liam Gallagher, Ayden Huff, Matty Isereau, Peyton Jacques, Tanner Kirby, Harlie Larsen, Lily Macaulay, Parker Matice, Paul Minckler, Lauren Ordway, Treyton Plantz, Tanner Shattuck, Lilah Siebels, Isabella Simmons, Hannah Sochia, Brian Stowell, Serenity Whitmarsh, and Macy Wilson)

The awarding of prizes was conducted by GHS Principal Nicole Donaldson.

Terry Streeter of Gouverneur presented the Shannon James Streeter Memorial Award to Logan Hill and Jackson Ritchie. This $200 award recognizes two students who have demonstrated an active role in the school and community and is given in honor of Shannon James Streeter.

Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce President Brooke Plowman presented the Chamber of Commerce Award to Karsen Goodale. The $250 award is given to a senior with an interest in business and is enrolled in an institution of higher learning. This student should have such attributes as genuine interest in the business field, ambition to succeed in business, leadership, initiative and a pleasing personality.

The Gregory Cox Memorial Scholarship Award ($300) was presented to Tristen McRobbie in loving memory of Greg through the contributions of his family. Greg was an Onondaga Central High School graduate who was an avid athlete. He relocated to Gouverneur with his family where his children, nieces and nephews are students at Gouverneur Central. He was an outgoing, humorous and dedicated family man. He loved agriculture and working with his family on their dairy farm. Greg was described by a family member as the man you meet as a stranger but left as a friend. This scholarship is awarded to two Gouverneur High School students who embody Greg’s view on life, compassion for others and the hardworking way Greg lived.

Leesa Isereau of Gouverneur presented the Isaiah L. “Ike” Serviss Memorial Scholarship to Ryan Mashaw. Ike was a graduate of Gouverneur High School Class of 1962. Immediately after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy and became a Seabee. He served overseas in Vietnam and was a Purple Heart recipient. After his time in the Navy, Ike returned to Gouverneur and spent many years working for CIVES Steel in the maintenance department, became Plant Manager at Viking CIVES in Harrisville and ultimately became Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds at Gouverneur Central school, retiring in 2010. Throughout his time, he was involved in various organizations in the community. Ike was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. He was a hard worker who was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Ike was a dedicated family man and friend. This $500 scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who demonstrates Ike’s characteristics.

Charles Newvine of Gouverneur presented the Newvine Auto Parts Scholarship to Gabrielle Free. The Newvine Auto Parts Scholarship was established by the Newvine family to honor the professional life of the namesake, Rick Newvine. Newvine’s NAPA Auto Parts, originally owned and operated by Rick and Sue Newvine, has been a stalwart of the community, providing donations for a wide variety of community events, and is still operating today under the leadership of Rick and Sue’s son, Charles Newvine. This $500 scholarship will be awarded annually to a high school graduate demonstrating personal and professional commitment to community service and is in good academic standing.

The following general awards were presented by GHS Assistant Principal Margeaux Davis. The award recipients crossed the GHS Auditorium stage and were congratulated by GHS Principal Nicole Donaldson and Gouverneur CSD Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly.

The American Citizenship Awards were presented to Electa Fitzgerald and Sarina Johnson. Pins were presented in recognition of students for making a positive contribution to the school or community. Criteria includes positive attitude, appreciation of civic responsibility, strength of character and citizenship.

The Community-Based Work Program Award (Outstanding Work Performance) was presented to Mackenzie Flynn. This certificate was presented to a student who participated in Gouverneur Central’s Community-based Work Program.

The Pi Mu Epsilon Award was presented to Alexis Jade Melocotones. Each spring the National Honorary Mathematics Society holds an interscholastic contest at St. Lawrence University. A certificate is given to the highest placing student from each school.

NYS Comptroller Achievement Award was presented to Sarina Johnson. This award recognizes a senior who has excelled academically and shown potential for leadership through involvement in activities that have improved the school or community.

The NYS Civic Ambassador Award was presented to Natalie Carrese. This certificate award is given to one student from each school who has demonstrated a passion and knowledge for civics and government.

The Pi Digit Memorization Award was presented to GHS Student Skyler Thomas. The winner of the Pi Digit Memorization contest is the student who memorizes and recites the most digits of Pi on GHS’s Pi Day. This year’s winner memorized 262 digits.

Triple “C” Awards were presented to Daxton Bolton and Sarah Scott. The New York State Office of the Attorney General presents a certificate in recognition of two seniors who have demonstrated outstanding character, courage and commitment to their school and community.

The Pepsi-Cola Fine Arts Award was presented to Kylen Bowman. This award is given by the Pepsi-Cola Ogdensburg Bottlers, Inc., to a graduating senior who has excelled in drama, public speaking, vocal music, instrumental music or art appreciation.

The Robert R. Canell Memorial Award ($50) was presented to Evan Bishop and Raegan Devlin by the family of Robert R. Canell in memory of his love for and dedication to high school sports. The award is presented to the male and the female senior athlete who best portray the spirit of sportsmanship, dedication and effort in his/her participation and support of Wildcat athletic competition.

Sara Jean Sigourney Memorial Award was presented to Niklas Tharaldsen. The Trinity Episcopal Church presents a monetary award to a deserving senior in memory of Sara Jean Sigourney.

The Jasmine Pankey Memorial Award was presented to Jaylynn Dalton. This award is given in memory of Jasmine Pankey, and sponsored by the 2018 Senior Parent Group.

The Brennan Stevens 2017 Senior Parent Group Award (two $100 awards) was presented to Zachery Bush and Hanna Webster. This award is given in memory of Brennan Stevens, a member of the class of 2017. Brennan was tragically taken away in the fall of 2016, but he will be remembered as a team player who wanted the world to laugh with him. The award is given to a graduating male and female student-athlete who demonstrate the pride that Brennan displayed as a Wildcat.

The Gouverneur Senior Citizens Award was presented to Zachery Bush, Carter Lumley, and Gavin Warren. The $100 award is given to seniors who plan to attend college.

Gouverneur Shakespeare Club English Prize was presented to Taylor Farr. This prize is given for general competence in English, as evidenced by standardized tests and classroom performance.

The Patricia Coates McIntyre Memorial Award was presented to Gabrielle Free. The $200 award is given in memory of Mrs. Patsy McIntyre and is sponsored by the Gouverneur Education Association and the Non-Instructional Employees Union. Mrs. McIntyre was a graduate of Gouverneur Central School and was employed by the school district for 40 years. The award is given to a graduating senior who exemplifies Mrs. McIntyre’s dedication, commitment to excellence, perseverance in the face of adversity and school spirit.

The Todd Breckenridge Memorial Scholarship ($200) was presented to James D. Minckler. It is given in memory of Todd "T.J." Breckenridge, a 1993 graduate of Gouverneur High School. After graduating from high school, Todd served our country by enlisting in the U.S. Navy, earning numerous commendations from many campaigns abroad. After serving his country, Todd continued to serve his communities in which he lived. Todd enjoyed fishing, hunting, football and community service. This award is given to a senior who values those things that were special to Todd, his family, our country and the outdoors.

The St. James School Alumni Service Award ($200) was presented to Zackery Schiszler. It is given to a graduating senior who displays service to community, school and family. The student exhibits traits that align with the mission of St. James and are committed to spiritual, academic, social and physical growth, utilizing the gifts bestowed upon them.

The Wilson Bickford Memorial Award was presented to Madison Lashua. This award of $250 honors the memory of Wilson Bickford, a proud 1977 graduate of Gouverneur Central School. Wilson was a gifted artist and musician who shared his love of music by singing and playing guitar in numerous bands throughout his life. In his honor, this award is presented to a GHS graduating senior who is pursuing a future in the arts and demonstrates the same passion, dedication and determination that Wilson exemplified.

The Jreck Sub Winning Attitude Award Program Recipient is Jaylynn Dalton. This $500 award recognizes graduating seniors who may not meet the criteria for academic or athletic scholarships but exemplify a positive attitude, strong work ethic and willingness to overcome challenges.

The American Red Cross High School Scholarship was presented to Gabrielle Free ($250), Myah Siebels ($250), and Ashlyn Besaw ($500). The National Honor Society Chapter hosted two successful blood drives this school year Each unit can save up to three lives. The American Red Cross offers this award in recognition of our school and community's accomplishment.

The John Watkins/Sandra Golden Watkins Memorial Scholarship ($300) was presented to Daxton Bolton (Technology) and Zachery Bush (Math). The scholarships are given in loving memory of John and Sandra Watkins, teachers at Gouverneur Central School, who were tragically taken from us in the fall of 1987. The scholarship recipients have been selected by the Technology and Mathematics department members, based on achievement in each of the academic areas.

Gouverneur Lions Club’s Roy D. Gibbs Prize was presented to Hailey Trimm. A $500 prize is awarded to the senior who has excelled in his/her agriculture program. Cooperative spirit and a willingness to work hard are qualities considered during their high school years.

Northern And Countryside Credit Union Employees Memorial Scholarship Award Recipients were Taylor Farr and Myah Siebels. This $500 scholarship was created in memory of past credit union employees. The funds are intended to assist with a variety of education costs – whether it be tuition, travel expenses, technology or educational materials needed to help each student thrive as they take the next step in their academic journey.

The Gouverneur Education Association Scholarship ($500) was presented to Raegan Devlin and Zackery Schiszler. The Gouverneur Education Association sponsors scholarships for graduating seniors who are children of GEA members, demonstrate positive citizenship and character and who show a commitment to public service and strong leadership through a variety of extracurricular activities.

The NYS Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association Scholarship was presented to Hanna Webster. This annual NYSCOPBA Statewide Scholarship Program provides $600 scholarships to high school students who are dependents of NYSCOPBA members.

The Scozzafava-Dier Endowed Scholarship was presented to Hanna Webster. The Scozzafava-Dier Scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior with the highest GPA who will be attending SUNY Canton in the fall.

The Burt O. Kinney & Harold D. Kinney Awards were presented to Ashlyn Besaw and Kacey Collette. These two $1,000 awards are given by Kinney Drugs, Inc., in memory of their founder, Burt O. Kinney, and his son, Harold D. Kinney, to seniors continuing his/her education in a healthcare field. These awards are based on academic achievement, leadership and service to the community.

The John L. Halford Memorial Scholarship was presented to Electa Fitzgerald and Gabrielle Nagy. This scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating senior of Gouverneur Central School who will pursue a 4-year college degree at SUNY Canton. Recipients of this award are selected based on financial need, academic achievement and involvement in extracurricular activities.

The Alfred State College Pioneer Leaders Award was presented to Caleigh Flynn and Brian Stowell. This award is given to two juniors who are top academic performers who have the passion and integrity to become successful leaders. Characteristics should include: passion, determination, capability and readiness to hit the ground running. This award allows for $1,000 per year for a 2-year Associates Degree and $3,500 per year for a 4-year Bachelor’s Degree.

The University of Rochester Xerox Award was presented to Jackson Breckenridge. This award is given to a junior with a strong interest in innovation and/or information technology and a high level of achievement in this area. All nominees will have their application fee waived and will be eligible to be considered for merit scholarships worth at least $5,000 per year.

The University of Rochester Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award was presented to Wyatt Slate. This award is given to a junior with high achievement and rigor in science and math classes as well as positive contributions to their school and within the larger community. All nominees will have their application fee waived and will be eligible to be considered for merit scholarships worth at least $5,000 per year.

The University Of Rochester George Eastman Young Leaders Award was presented to Audrey Ormasen. This award is given to a junior who has demonstrated strong leadership at school and in the community, has taken challenging courses and earned high grades as well as extensive involvement in extracurricular activities. All nominees will have their application fee waived and will be eligible to be considered for merit scholarships worth at least $5,000 per year.

The Niagara University Purple Eagle Leadership Award was presented to John-Michael Leader. The Purple Eagle Leadership Award honors high school juniors who exemplify the spirit of St. Vincent de Paul through their demonstrated commitment to service, leadership, and academic achievement. This award highlights outstanding juniors who reflect Niagara University’s mission and values and who will continue to grow into thoughtful, ethical leaders of tomorrow. This student will be awarded $25,000 and a book award renewable up to 4 years.

The Le Moyne College Heights Award (four-year scholarship of up to $68,000) was presented to Laina Kurdziel. The award recognizes high school juniors who are "Reaching for the Heights" in the classroom and in service to their school and community.

The Student Sage Award was presented to Karlee Ashley, Alexis Biribauer, Payton Forsythe, Payton Kirby, and Arianna Wood. The award recognizes outstanding juniors who embody Russell Sage College's motto: Be. Know. Do. At Sage, our mission empowers students to be their authentic self, grow as individuals, and improve the world around them. This award provides a scholarship of up to $72,000 for four years of study at Sage College of Albany or Russell Sage College.

University Of Rochester Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award was presented to Rose Cox. This award is given annually to a junior who has demonstrated strong grades and rigorous courses taken in the humanities and social sciences. All nominees will have their application fee waived and will be eligible to be considered for merit scholarships worth at least $5,000 per year.

The Elmira College Key Award (up to $88,000 for four years of study at Elmira College) was presented to Lauren Ordway and Lilah Siebels. This award is given to juniors with a minimum academic grade point average of 3.0, who demonstrate outstanding school and community leadership and have an interest in an academic program offered by Elmira College.

The Keuka College George H. Ball Community Achievement Award (up to $88,000 for four years of study at Keuka College) was presented to Charlie Constance, Logan DeVito, and Gracen Hance. Keuka College awards up to five exceptional juniors who are making waves both academically and in their community.

The Clarkson Leadership and Achievement Awards: The Leadership Award (a scholarship of $100,000 over four years at Clarkson University) was presented to Audrey Ormasen. The Achievement Award (a scholarship of $80,000 for four years of study at Clarkson University) was presented to Wyatt Slate. The Clarkson University Leadership and Achievement Awards recognize two juniors who demonstrate strong leadership, positively impact their school and community, and rank in the top 15% of their class.

RIT Humanities and Social Sciences Award was presented to Kylie Gallagher. This award recognizes a high school junior who has distinguished themselves academically, are active and involved members of their school and community and demonstrates interest and ability in humanities and social sciences. Evidence may include superior grades in humanities and social science related classes such as economics, psychology, history, foreign language and global education. This award is for up to $116,000 for four years of study at Rochester Institute of Technology.

RIT Science and Math Award was presented to Wyatt Slate. The RIT Science and Math Award recognizes high school juniors who have distinguished themselves academically, are active and involved members of their school and community, and demonstrate interest and ability in science and math. Evidence may include superior grades in science and/or math-related classes. This award is for up to $116,000 for four years of study at Rochester Institute of Technology.

RIT Engineering And Technology Award was presented to Audrey Ormasen. The Engineering and Technology award recognizes high school juniors who have distinguished themselves academically, are active and involved members of their school and community, and demonstrate high achievement, ability and interest in engineering, robotics, computing, science and/or math. This award is for up to $116,000 for four years of study at Rochester Institute of Technology.

Alfred University Scholar Award was presented to Rose Cox. This award recognizes a junior who is taking college preparatory classes and achieved an overall 3.0 GPA or higher and is recognized as a student “Outside of Ordinary” among their peers. This award is for up to $120,000 for four years of study at Alfred University.

The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) Award (up to $120,000 for four years of study) was presented to Laina Kurdziel. For more than 100 years, Rensselaer, in conjunction with high schools around the world, has awarded the Rensselaer Medal to promising secondary school students who have distinguished themselves in mathematics and science. Recipients must be a high school junior, ranked in the top 10% of their class, excel in advanced math and science courses, demonstrate a strong overall academic performance, completed chemistry, biology, lab-based physics, and at least 4 years of math including precalculus and demonstrate potential for success in a challenging academic setting.

The Augsbury/North Country Scholarship was presented to Cole Blair and Serenity Whitmarsh. The Augsbury/North Country Scholarship (ANCS) was established in 1974 and serves to recognize academic and extracurricular leadership among designated North Country and Canadian high school students. If nominated by your high school and are selected as an ANCS Scholar, students will receive a scholarship of $35,000 for each of the four years at St. Lawrence University ($140,000 total). In order to maintain this merit award, students must maintain a 3.0 minimum GPA.

True North Country Scholarship was presented to Abrianna Casey and Isabella Simmons. The True North Scholars Program recognizes up to two members of the Junior class who have demonstrated strong character and meaningful engagement in their school community, work, or family life as these are traits that make up the St. Lawrence University. The True North Scholars were nominated because of their academic dedication, positive contributions both in and out of the classroom, and because we believe these students would thrive at St. Lawrence University.

GHS Class of 2026 President Gabrielle Free offered her remarks. The Senior Slideshow featured pictures of the GHS Class of 2026 throughout their years in the Gouverneur Central School District and beyond. GHS Class of 2026 President Gabrielle Free then presented the key to GHS to Class of 2027 President Abriana Casey. Also introduced was Laina Kurdziel, the 2026-27 Student Senate President by Ashlyn Besaw, the 2025-26 Student Senate President.

Student Senate President Laina Kurdziel conducted the Moving Up Day Ceremony. At the conclusion, the GHS Class of 2026 made its way to the GHS auditorium stage, and celebrated their graduation by deploying confetti cannons, an annual tradition. The GHS Chamber Singers then performed the Alma Mater. Gratitude was extended to all those who made the Annual Moving Up Day Ceremony a success.

The GHS Class of 2026’s graduation will be held on Friday, June 26, 7 p.m., at the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair grandstands (weather permitting). For more information about the Gouverneur CSD, visit www.gcsk12.org.