It wouldn’t be May without the annual Girls’ Recognition Reception (GRR) and Scholarship Awards event. This was the 22nd year for the highly anticipated awards event that recognizes the outstanding achievements of 50 seventh grade girls in science and math subjects from four local school districts.
Held on May 7th at Charles Boehm Middle School, this year’s GRR gathered a full house of excited students, teachers, parents, family members and AAUW Makefield Area branch members to honor the special accomplishments of middle school girls from 10 different schools throughout Bucks County, as well as the award of scholarships to deserving high school students. The girls received certificates of accomplishment presented by the office of Pennsylvania State Senator Chuck McIlhinney’s office, along with a gift of a goodie bag from the AAUW Makefield Area branch.
AAUW Makefield Board member Kathy Quinn and Charles Boehm Principal Teri Ricci kicked off this year’s event with opening remarks, followed by a keynote speech from Dr. Christina King, Research Scientist at Star Roses and Plants. Dr. King took us through her interesting journey on the path to becoming a research scientist in plant sciences, explaining to the assembled girls and audience the fascinating science behind developing a simple rose plant we buy at the garden store.
Longtime branch member Francine Block once again shared her wealth of knowledge and extensive expertise on what colleges are really looking for in a prospective student. A former honoree, Ms. Mackenzie Lawson, who is currently a junior at Neshaminy High School, reminisced about getting her AAUW GRR award in 2015 and her journey since then.
Desserts, fruit and beverages topped off a remarkably successful evening made possible by the time, efforts, commitment and cooperation of our very generous branch members. A heartfelt thank you to all involved in this year’s event. We also look forward to your inputs on how to make next year’s awards ceremony the best ever.
Patti Reali-Santoro