CHS honors students Nick Bautista and Hania Amin for academic achievements

In a vibrant gathering at the Centennial School District 28J meeting, the spotlight shone brightly on two exceptional students, Nick Quesada Bautista and Hania Amin, whose academic achievements and aspirations captivated the audience. The evening began with a light-hearted moment as Nick, a senior at Centennial High School (CHS), was humorously noted for mistakenly arriving at the school early that morning, showcasing his eagerness and dedication.

Nick has been awarded the Renaissance Scholarship, which offers $5,000 annually for four years, totaling $20,000 to support first-generation college students. With an impressive GPA of 3.891 and a commitment to mechanical engineering, he is eyeing Oregon State University as his next academic home. Additionally, Nick is a finalist for the prestigious Ford Family Scholarship, which could cover up to $40,000 per year, potentially providing him with a full ride to college.

The meeting also highlighted Hania Amin, another standout senior at CHS, who received Oregon State University's presidential scholarship, valued at $10,000 per year. Hania, who aspires to become a dermatologist, has distinguished herself through various programs, including a medical program at Cal and participation in enrichment initiatives at Syracuse University and Cal Berkeley. With a stellar GPA of 4.0, she is considering several esteemed institutions, including Carlton and Hamilton.

The evening continued with recognition of the school's thriving performing arts program, which has shown resilience and excellence despite challenges posed by the pandemic. A remarkable 26 out of 31 teams from the regional acting competition qualified for nationals, a testament to the students' hard work and talent. Notable performances included regional finalists Tara Johnson and Audrey, who both achieved near-perfect scores yet faced fierce competition.

As the meeting wrapped up, the band program's growth was acknowledged, with four seniors honored for their dedication over the years. The community's support for these students was palpable, with heartfelt applause echoing throughout the room.

This celebration of student achievements not only highlighted individual successes but also underscored the collective effort of educators and families in nurturing the next generation. As the school year progresses, the anticipation for future accomplishments remains high, leaving the audience inspired and eager for what lies ahead.