Rotary Student of the month

"Student of the Month" is a Rotary Club of Penticton-Okanagan initiative. The award aims to recognize outstanding students for unique achievement in scholastics, extracurricular activities, community involvement, leadership and service to others. The Rotary Club of Penticton-Okanagan is partnering with Penticton Secondary School and Princess Margaret Secondary School, aided by a generous financial contribution from Gateway Casinos as part of their proactive involvement in wide-ranging community service projects.

Kaiya Forbes is Rotary's Student of the Month for April 2025

The Rotary Club of Penticton Sunrise is pleased to name Kaiya Forbes, an all-round, goal-oriented, industrious and altruistic Grade 12 student at Princess Margaret Secondary School, as Rotary Student of the Month for April. In selecting Forbes for SOM honors, club members commended her outstanding achievements in academics and athletics accompanied by consummate leadership in numerous community fundraising and school spirit-enhancing activities.

Forbes, who was born in Fort St. John and moved to Keremeos before her first birthday and then to Penticton at age five, is the older of two children in a family active in competitive sports. Undoubtedly, she has received sound parental guidance in acquiring core life values promoting personal growth, vocational development and exemplary citizenship.

Forbes, who is firmly committed to pursuing academic excellence, has thoroughly enjoyed her studies at Maggie, especially the science subjects, both biological (life sciences) and physical (chemistry, physics), in which she has achieved a grade average of 94%.

Curiosity-motivated, Forbes likes to understand how things work. She became so fascinated by genetics in the biology unit during the first semester of Grade 10 that she switched her courses in the second semester to take biology 11, studying lower organisms, such as worms and crickets, and then dissecting them. Lastly, she completed anatomy and physiology 12, featuring human body parts and their functions and dissection of a sheep heart and brain, in her grade 11 year.

Math teacher Chris Becker remarked, “Endowed with a pleasant demeanor and upbeat personality, Kaiya is one of my favourite students. Incredibly hard working, she battles through difficult concepts on her own while asking for help as needed. She unfailingly does more than is expected for preparation and does so promptly while consistently completing assignments properly and on-time. In short, she quietly does what is needed to excel at her studies.”

Chemistry teacher Shawn Lum added, “Kaiya is a fantastic student who works tirelessly and always puts in her best effort. She is dedicated to her studies and has a great attitude that positively impacts everyone around her.”

Sports has always been a major part of Forbes’ life starting at age 4 when her dad felt she was able to walk well enough to begin learning to skate. She started playing hockey and softball the following year and quickly became very competitive in both sports, playing on the Penticton U15 rep hockey team in Grade 8 and the Summerland U17 rep hockey team in Grade 9.

Likewise, in Grades 5 and 6, Forbes played softball in the local house league during the school year and on the Kelowna All-Stars rep team in the summer. In Grade 7, she played full time on the Kelowna Heat rep team. After many hours of rigorous training, she made a quantum jump in Grade 8 when she played on the Fraser Valley Fusion “A” team in Langley, living close by with her grandparents in the summer. She then returned to the Kelowna Heat in Grades 9 and 10.

She appreciates competitive team sports for “teaching the importance of commitment, self-discipline, perseverance and teamwork to attain a common goal while instilling self-confidence, independence and creativity when pursuing academic and other demanding endeavors.”

Since stepping away from competitive sports upon entering Grade 11 to focus on her academics, she has drawn upon her vast playing experience to coach several area softball teams, thus giving back to a sport she loves. These positions entail serving as an assistant coach of the Thompson Okanagan Softball team that competed in the 2024 BC Summer Games and now helping to coach the South Okanagan Sun Softball Academy U15 team in Kelowna.

Coach and dad PJ Forbes remarked, “As one of Kaiya’s longtime coaches, I have had the privilege of observing her develop her passion for sports and then use her knowledge and experience to support and uplift other youth in their sporting journey. From a young age Kaiya always displayed a fierce competitive drive in both ice hockey and softball, including as a softball pitcher in the 2022 BC Summer Games and then helping coach the 2024 BC Summer Games softball team for Zone 2 and now continuing as a volunteer coach for the South Okanagan Sun U15B softball team.”

Forbes’ versatility extends beyond her exploits in scholastics and sports to heading high-profile school initiatives in support of laudable charitable causes and student-bonding exercises. Although she had taken part, in a supportive role, in many of these initiatives in the past, Forbes was persuaded by a friend, Ushman Gill, to join the leadership program this year and, much to her credit, she quickly became a mainstay of Maggie’s vibrant leadership team.

Notably, last fall, Forbes and Gill teamed up to organize the traditional 10,000 Tonight food drive for the Salvation Army food bank. The city-wide, door-to-door campaign, conducted jointly with Pen Hi, was a major undertaking requiring four weeks of detailed planning to ensure that the event, involving 600 Maggie students, ran smoothly. The drive was a huge success, setting a post-COVID record that far exceeded its goal by collecting 17,602 food items to reduce local food insecurity.

Forbes has also played a leading role in several other events, including Cancer Awareness Week with proceeds from the sale of candy bags and purple ribbon pins donated to the local Oncology Clinic. Later this month, she will be leading the Earth Week event that promotes green practices among the student body and the blood donation drive for the Canadian Blood Services next month. Finally, she has also helped out in various other school activities, including the Terry Fox Run and the Remembrance Day ceremony.

Leadership teacher Archie McKinnon stated, “Polite, caring and reliable, Kaiya is an outstanding person who greatly enriches our school and community culture. Aside from her academic and athletic prowess, she has excelled in leadership, notably spearheading this year’s highly successful 10,000 Tonight food drive—our biggest fundraising event since 2018. Her amazing organizational skills, worker bee mindset and unwavering dedication were evident to all as she helped collect donations in the pouring rain to the very end. A promising future awaits this gem of a young lady.”

Given her many commitments, including part-time work at Winners and HomeSense store, Forbes understandably identifies time management as her greatest challenge but has learned to prioritize and stay well-organized to maintain optimal balance.'

To unwind and recharge, she enjoys kickboxing, recreational slo- pitch and going for walks after dinner with her mom.

Upon graduation, Forbes plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science majoring in Biology at the University of Fraser Valley, with the long-term goal of entering medical school and eventually specializing in neurosurgery. Irrespective of her career path, this gifted young lady exhibits in spades many of the quality traits of highly successful people — studious, laser-focused, tenacious, and resilient. These traits, along with an engaging and caring personality, portend a bright future.

“Student of the Month” is a Rotary Club of Penticton Sunrise project recognizing outstanding students for unique achievement in scholastics, extracurricular activities, community involvement, leadership, and service to others. The Club is pleased to recognize Penticton Secondary School and Princess Margaret Secondary School as project partners and Cascades Casino Penticton for generous financial aid.

January 2025 - Shaurya Yadav

Shaurya Yadav is the Rotary’s Student of the Month for January 2025.

The Rotary Club of Penticton Sunrise is delighted to ring in the New Year by honouring Shaurya Yadav -- an academically gifted, industrious, charismatic and altruistic grade 12 student at Princess Margaret Secondary School -- as Rotary Student of the Month for January.

In heartily endorsing Yadav’s selection, Club members praised his stellar scholastic record and inspiring leadership, both in the classroom where his contagious motivation for learning shines, and outside the classroom, where he has helped organize numerous fundraising drives and student-bonding activities while fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.

Yadav, who was born in India, immigrated to Penticton at age seven as the older of two children in a close-knit intergenerational family steeped in resiliency, grit and perseverance. Continuing this laudable legacy, he views “hardships or difficulties as obstacles to be overcome or worthy challenges to accept in one’s personal growth. The journey is where the true learning and improvement happen, while the destination only serves to motivate one to keep pushing on.”

A brilliant student. Yadav is endowed with a razor-sharp intellect primed by an insatiable curiosity. He achieved an average mark of 97.2% in his Grade 9-11 years and currently boasts a 98.5% average. These eye-popping grades have garnered him numerous academic awards,

including Top Academic Student in Grades 9 and 11 as well as specific subject honours in biology, English, math, chemistry, and physics in multiple years.

English teacher Erica Fitton remarked, “Shaurya is a truly outstanding young man who displays an unwavering dedication to academic excellence, service to the school community and personal growth. A sheer delight to have in class, he feeds upon his radiant intellectual curiosity to examine complex topics, explore novel ideas and challenge his thinking, all while caringly promoting an inclusive and respectful learning environment where his classmates’ voices are valued and heard.”

Yadav believes that “in today’s world, knowledge is truly powerful and strives to use the lessons learned in school to become the best version of himself.” He lists anatomy and physiology and physics as his two favourite subjects—the former for providing insight into the innermost workings of the human body, and the latter for offering a lens into the complexities of our universe.

Anatomy and physiology teacher Tim Haberstock noted, “Shaurya is an exemplary student driven by a passion for knowledge. He loves questioning the whys and hows of the subject matter and gets genuinely excited when he makes new academic connections. Admired by his classmates for his collaborative spirit, he supports their learning rather than competing for the top grades. Outside of class, he does not seek the limelight of being the person in charge but eagerly contributes positive energy to bring out the best in everyone.”

Inquisitive by nature, Yadav is an avid reader. He is currently exploring self-improvement books on psychology to understand human behaviour. He also enjoys learning languages, especially Latin, as it provides “a lens to rediscover the past and appreciate those who lived millennia ago.”

Social studies teacher Jeff Fitton observed, “Clearly, Shaurya Yadav is exceptionally gifted. Calm, nonjudgemental and innately curious, he asks probing and thoughtful questions in class that inspire other students to engage deeply with course material and clarify their concepts. Resilient, humble and industrious, he understands that you get out of life what you put in. His passion for learning and community service surely portends a bright and rewarding future.”

In retrospect, Yadav is rightfully proud of the transformative moment in Grade 11 when he mustered the courage to break out of his comfort zone and seek new experiences in the Leadership Club. Leveraging his warm personality and signature smile, he quickly became a key player on Maggie’s vibrant leadership team.

Last spring Yadav helped organize Earth Week, raising awareness of global climate change. Activities to mark this high-profile event included turning off classroom lights to reduce the carbon footprint, hosting a smoothie drinking contest to highlight eco-friendly food and displaying students’ house plants to celebrate biodiversity. Recently, he led the food donation

drive for Maggie’s Christmas turkey buffet. Highly successful, the annual festive lunch raised sufficient proceeds to provide 29 food hampers for less fortunate classmates and their families.

Yadav has also eagerly joined in the annual 10,000 Tonight food drive for the Salvation Army, school BBQs, Winter and Spring Formals and orientation tours for incoming Grade 8 and 9 students. Outside school, he has organized game (shuttle board and bingo) nights for seniors at nearby Trinity Care Centre and participated in a Halloween Block Party where Maggie students host booths for community members to play games and win prizes.

In recognition of this impressive body of work, both in and out of class, Yadav received the Top Citizenship Award in Grades 9 and 11 and was named Top All-Around Student in grade 11.

PE/leadership teacher Madi Wilms stated, “Endowed with exemplary leadership qualities, Shaurya has proactively participated in numerous school events, thus creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. What truly sets him apart, however, is his infectious positivity and genuine interest in others. His perpetual smile and ability to make everyone feel included, regardless of their position, is a rare and valuable trait. His active listening skills and genuine curiosity reflect a maturity well beyond his years.”

For relaxation, Yadav enjoys playing chess, walking along nature trails and watching movies with friends. On weekends, he works as a checkout clerk at Save On Foods store to gain workplace experience.

Upon graduation, Yadav plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the physical or biological sciences. With his sharp intellect, grit, beaver-like work ethic and altruism, this mature young man with a zest for life is poised to carve out a productive and rewarding career while enriching the social fabric of his community.

••• Student of the Month is a Rotary Club of Penticton Sunrise project recognizing outstanding students for unique achievement in scholastics, extracurricular activities, community involvement, leadership, and service to others. The Club is pleased to recognize Penticton Secondary School and Princess Margaret Secondary School as project partners and Cascades Casino Penticton for generous financial aid.

October 2024 - Taylor Gordon

Rotary names Taylor Gordon October's Student of the Month

Princess Margaret’s tech whiz kid Taylor Gordon has been named Rotary Student of the Month for October 2024

The Rotary Club of Penticton Sunrise is delighted to kick-off its Student of the Month program for academic year 2024-25 with the selection of Taylor Gordon -- a charismatic, technically gifted, tirelessly energetic and deeply altruistic Grade 12 student at Princess Margaret Secondary School -- as SOM awardee for October.

In bestowing Rotary SOM honours on Gordon, the Penticton Sunrise Club roundly applauded his inspiring leadership in charitable causes and student-bonding activities, pivotal role in the success of the Penticton Robotics team, and above all, indispensable expert oversight in setting up and operating the audio-visual equipment critical to the smooth running of virtually all school events.

Gordon’s drive to perform to the best of his ability regardless of the challenge is baked in his DNA. A glimpse into this trait was first seen in Grade 3 when he became involved in competitive rope jumping in the local Black Widow Rope Spinners. Practicing seven hours weekly, his dedication and hard work culminated in Grade 8 with him winning gold at both the 2019 B.C. provincial and national championships.

Along the way, he learned the importance of being able to blank everything else out -- judges, coaches and spectators -- and focus on the task at hand.
Gordon is a valued member of Maggie’s dynamic leadership program. As the lead planner for the Terry Fox Run for cancer research for the past two years, he has displayed exceptional organizational skills and a firm commitment to community service. He also oversaw the Senior Winter Formal last year and the Junior Dance two years ago, not to mention volunteering each year for the Ha Ha Ha KidzFest and 10,000 Tonight food drive for the Salvation Army food bank.

Phys. ed/leadership teacher Maddi Wilms said, “Taylor has freely given his time, energy and expertise to our school community, helping to ensure the smooth running of virtually all our events. His dedication often sees him at school before most teachers arrive and staying well after they leave, a testament to his strong work ethic and burning passion for helping others.

What truly sets him apart is his charismatic ability to forge meaningful relations with peers and adults alike, thus engaging and inspiring those around him to create a positive and inclusive atmosphere.”

Gordon lists his involvement in the Penticton Robotics team, comprising 10-15 Maggie and Pen-Hi students, as one of his favourite school activities. Each year team members toil painstakingly after school to build an industrial-sized robot that is programmed to meet a preassigned challenge as a provision for entry in the Pacific Regional First Robotics competition.

Upon joining the team in Grade 10, Gordon quickly grasped the basics of robot physical design and assembly and the intricate workings of the electronic and pneumatic systems in the CAN buz messaging network. His steep learning curve catapulted him into the key role of lead builder last year, enabling him to apply his well-honed skill set and experience “to supervise, paying attention to detail at every step, the construction of a fully operational and attractive bot”.

Given a strong field of 44 teams, including some from the U.S. and Asia, the small Penticton team performed well at the first robotics competition held in Victoria last April, capturing a creativity award for their recycled hockey stick scissor lift. This year, given his heavy academic course load, Gordon will be taking a more guiding role, along with troubleshooting the inevitable glitches.

He will also be key to any welding required, using the TIG welder generously donated by the late Doug and Diane Corbishley through the Community Foundation.

Science teacher and robotics team advisor Josh Walker said, “Taylor is highly self-motivated, eager to learn, dependable and driven to succeed.

Refreshingly modest, he does not seek the spotlight for his remarkable body of work; rather he does it because he enjoys it. His impressive knowledge base, technical competence and communicative skills as last year’s lead builder contributed greatly to enabling the robotics team to achieve its goals.”

While Gordon’s feats in robotics and leadership are indeed impressive, it is his indispensable position as Maggie’s go-to super tech for support in the audio-visual field that stands out. As a key member of Maggie’s tech crew, he plays a crucial part in overseeing all technical aspects of school assemblies, drama productions, band performances and dance formals. In well-deserved recognition of his huge contributions to the betterment of Maggie, Gordon has captured the Top Service award in Grades 9, 10 and 11.

Music teacher and tech team advisor Stan Sabourin said: “Taylor is heavily involved in both directing school events and training younger members. Self-motivated to learn the latest advances in audio-visual technology, he brings a solid knowledge base and enthusiasm for problem solving to facilitate the smooth running of our many events. His passion, selfless dedication and generosity of time, energy and expertise cannot be overstated.”

Gordon joined Maggie’s Horseshoe Theatre in Grade 9 and rapidly became hooked on learning about live performance technology. With his quick and determined mind, he has greatly expanded his technical knowledge while working on the Theatre’s productions of Grease, Little Shop of Horrors and Bye Bye Birdie musicals over the last three years.

Out of school, he has worked at Skaha Sound, a local music production company, as a valued crew member at such popular musical festivals as Peach Festival and Pentastic Hot Jazz Festival.

Drama teacher Lori Grant said: “Taylor thoroughly enjoys creating the technical surprises that occur in a theatrical performance. Watching the show unfold, moving through each cue, Taylor takes pride on doing a job well done, from curtain up to curtain down. Even keeled and com-posed, he has a real knack to calm his crew mates under stressful moments during a stage production. We cannot thank him enough for his many hours of selfless service to our school.”

English teacher Erica Fitton said, “Taylor has a strong commitment to academics. He works hard in all his classes, always hands in his assignments on time and has an unparalleled eagerness to learn new skills so that he can help others. For example, with very little background in videography, in Grade 10, Taylor did an exemplary job filming and editing the class little buddy music video in my English First Peoples class.

Aptly, Gordon’s biggest challenge is time management, requiring him to deftly balance his heavy academic load, hectic schedule of extramural activities and work at Skaha Sound, Penticton Golf and Country Club (groundskeeper) and Apex Mountain Ski Resort (keen chair liftee).

Gordon absolutely loves being in the outdoors. For leisure, he enjoys walking, mountain biking, hiking and especially, skiing, proudly following in his dad’s footsteps as a very accomplished skier.

Upon graduation, Taylor Gordon plans to pursue undergraduate studies leading to a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at the BC Institute of Technology.

Irrespective of his career path, this personable young man displays many of the core quality traits -- curiosity, grit, drive and altruism -- foretelling a rich and rewarding career while inspiring those he meets along the way.

June 2024 - Mya Burghardt

Penticton Herald - Rotary Student of the Month June 2024

The Rotary Club of Penticton Sunrise is pleased to select Mya Burghardt – an all-round, immensely gifted, fiercely determined, and deeply caring grade 12 student athlete at Princess Margaret Secondary School – as Rotary Student of the Month for June.

Burghardt’s SOM selection is a no brainer as her outstanding achievements in numerous activities during her time at Maggie provide a textbook example of how focus, dedication and drive in the dogged pursuit of excellence can yield mind-bending results. She has refined this formula for success to perfection, garnering some 17 academic, athletic, leadership and inspirational awards culminating in Top Academic Student in grade 9 and Top All-round Student in grades 10 and 11.

Born and raised in Penticton, Burghardt is the third of four children in a tightly knit family in which being physically active and outside exploring nature are central to maintaining a healthy, well-balanced lifestyle. Empathetic, engaging and mature beyond her years, she has been well-coached at home in core life skills promoting self-fulfillment, career success and social obligation.

Firstly, Burghardt is a brilliant student. Hardwired with an inquisitive, razor-sharp intellect primed by an insatiable quest for knowledge, she has always excelled scholastically. Since grade 10, she has recorded a stellar average grade of 97.3% while carrying a full slate of demanding STEM (science, technology, engineering and math)-foundational subjects. In fact, she averaged an eye-popping 98% in eight STEM (math and science) courses, achieving the top mark in six of them.

While enjoying the variety of courses she has taken at Maggie, Burghardt has a burning passion for math and the sciences as she finds “their subject material makes sense, often provides a clear answer, and offers insight into all matter of things, both physical and living, in our universe.”

Science teacher Cory Hogg said, “I have had the pleasure of being Mya’s physics 11 and 12 teacher for the past two years. Curiosity-driven, self-motivated and detail-focused, she engages in class with purpose and passion. She always lights up the room with her beaming smile, kind and thoughtful acts, and warm exchanges among peers and teachers alike. Sincere, courteous and respectful, Mya is a gem of a young lady with a very bright future ahead of her.”

Math teacher Chris Becker said, “Mya is truly an exceptional student. In her three math courses, she was advanced a year, so although younger than her classmates, she was a role model for them. She always asked questions and sought clarification to ensure she fully understood. Taking Pre-calculus 12 and Calculus 12 as a grade 11 student and receiving the top mark in both is rare.”

A versatile athlete, Burghardt has played on the PMSS girls soccer and field hockey teams and with Pinnacles FC, a local soccer club, since grade 10. She also played on Maggie’s inaugural ultimate frisbee coed team this past year. As a midfielder in soccer and a centre forward in field hockey, she has been a key member of both teams, having garnered Top Female Athlete, Jr. Girls Soccer MVP and Jr. Field Hockey Impact in grade 10 and Sr. Field Hockey Impact in grade 11.

Burghardt “relishes the positive social interactions and lasting friendships forged through team sports, as well as their intrinsic value in teaching the importance of commitment, self-sacrifice, teamwork and perseverance towards reaching a common goal in any group undertaking.”

Physical Ed teacher Madison Wilms said, “Mya is a truly amazing student whose stellar record during her time with us has left a lasting impact on our school and the greater community. Having taught, coached and observed Mya as a peer tutor, I have seen firsthand how she is very clever, kind, personable and hardworking, always leading by example and inspiring her peers to do their best. Her positive attitude and selfless zeal to help others make her an admired role model.”

These feats as a student athlete, impressive as they are, constitute only two facets of Burghardt’s solid track record at Maggie. It is two others, namely, stellar leadership and selfless service to others, that set her apart and define her unique set of special talents and guiding core principles.

Recipient of the coveted Robyn Muir Inspirational Award in grade 10, Burghardt is driven by “a burning passion to create an encouraging and inclusive learning environment where others have an opportunity to succeed and excel like me.” She takes great pride in her well-honed teaching skills, taking different angles for different students as no two process information the same.

Burghardt has eagerly joined in various extramural activities. These include events for fostering a positive school culture, such as Kindness Week, Grade 8 Orientation Day and Remembrance Day Ceremony, and fundraisers, such as 10,000 Tonight food drive for the Salvation Army, Haunted House For Kids to provide Christmas hampers for needy kids and funds for a Dry Grad.

Physical/health education and science teacher Tim Haberstock said, “In class, Mya sets a high bar of achievement for not only herself but her peers as well. Her beaver-like work ethic and positive outlook are contagious, making her a huge asset to any undertaking ranging from school sports and fundraising drives to youth activities outside. Her ability to excel academically while devoting so much time and energy to these other laudable pursuits attests to her organizational skills.”

Pinnacles FC Lisa Moore said, “As past Administrative Assistant for the Youth Junior Coaching Program, I recruited Mya based on her outgoing personality, can-do mindset and love for the sport (soccer). She displayed all the traits one looks for in a kids’ coach, engaging with them in a fun-filled, energetic and creative way while also teaching proper technique and sportsmanship.”

Music is also an important part of Burghardt’s life. She began taking formal piano lessons in grade 6 and has now completed up to Level 6 in The Royal Conservatory of Music Certificate Program.

Burghardt is quick to credit her dad, her role model, for her healthy, well-balanced lifestyle, noting that “he has always encouraged me to try new things and challenge myself

athletically.”

For relaxation, Burghardt enjoys being active in the outdoors with family and friends: hiking, biking, camping, waterboarding and exploring our scenic valley and in winter, skiing up at Apex on weekends. She also loves playing the guitar and teaching the family dogs tricks.

Given her “fervent desire to embark on a career that benefits the health and wellbeing of others,” it is fitting that upon graduation, Burghardt plans to obtain a BSc degree in the biomedical sciences at UBC Okanagan before pursuing doctoral studies in dentistry as a prelude to a productive and rewarding career following in her dad’s footsteps.

This jewel of a young lady with the “human touch” will surely enrich and inspire the lives of all those she meets along the way.

February 2024 - Ciara Browne

Penticton Herald - Rotary Student of the Month for February 2024

The Rotary Club of Penticton Sunrise is pleased to announce the selection of Ciara Browne – an immensely gifted, all-around, high-octane fueled and altruistic Grade 12 student at Princess Margaret Secondary School – as Rotary Student of the Month for February.

Browne is being honored for her many outstanding achievements encompassing the full gamut of school activities, from academics and athletics to leadership initiatives, community engagement and selfless service to others.

First and foremost, Browne is a brilliant student.

Endowed with a curiosity-fuelled, razor-sharp intellect and insatiable appetite for knowledge, she has achieved an astonishing 97.3% average throughout Grades 10-12.

This stellar record is especially impressive given her demanding course load, featuring a full slate of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math)-related subjects.

She was the recipient of Maggie’s Top Academic Award in Grades 9 and 10, and was the top student in Calculus 12 (98% mark) and English Studies 12 (97% mark). She also scored 100% in English First Peoples 12 and Anatomy & Physiology 12.

Browne especially thrives on courses of practical value, such as English First Peoples 12, which introduced her to the Indigenous-defining concept of human-nature reciprocity and our interdependence on the natural world.

Upon learning of the endangered Monarch butterfly and its connection to Showy Milkweed, Browne was inspired to apply the reciprocity concept by creating a project that aims to introduce hundreds of Showy Milkweed plants into the Penticton area.

She intends to use her position on Youth Council Penticton – a new volunteer organization composed of high school students that aims to foster community betterment – to complete the project while engaging with local elementary schools to foster an educational milieu where youth learn to value ecological balance. By these efforts, she aims to educate them about environmental conservation and empower them to act.

Sports have always been another major part of Browne’s life.

Passionate and dedicated, she competed in karate from 2015 to early 2023, climaxing with a gold medal at the 2022 Canada Open Karate Championships in Vancouver and a bronze medal at the 2023 Canada Winter Games in P.E.I.

To reach the podium, she had to train long and hard and battle back from numerous injuries – lower back, right foot and both knees. At present, she has instructed over 150 students of all ages and assisted teammates as a ring-side coach at regional and provincial competitions.

“I’ve known Ciara for nearly 8 years since she joined Taneda Dojo Penticton at a relatively late age of 9, making the transition to elite competition at age 12 challenging,” said karate instructor Mike Ditson.

“This did not deter Ciara, however, as her innate talent, consummate work ethic, mental and physical toughness, and infectious positive attitude kicked in to set her apart.”

A versatile athlete, Browne has played school basketball since 2014 (except for Grade 11, due to karate). This past year she played power forward on the Maggie senior girls’ basketball team and defense on their field hockey team. For relaxation, she enjoys skating at local ice rinks.

While Browne’s accomplishments in academics and athletics are indeed eye-popping, it is her novel leadership initiatives and tireless pursuit of altruistic acts that serve to set her apart.

One of her most impactful initiatives has been the creation of an outreach program introducing engineering in an insightful way to over 150 middle school students in our school district.

Also, in the English First Peoples 12 course, she completed an amazing project on reconciliation in aerospace engineering with a website outlining what she believes is a path forward in creating equity in this field.

Lastly, she volunteered to film and edit a music video that the class created with their kindergarten buddies, leaving a memory that will be treasured by many people.

Holy Cross School teacher Michele Cumberland said: “I had the absolute pleasure of teaching Ciara in Grades 7 and 8. Driven to excel, Ciara is an exceptional person whose leadership potential was evident early on.

“Last fall she visited classrooms, including mine, to give a STEM talk inspiring middle school students to consider a career in engineering,” continued Cumberland.

“Also, she was a judge at our Grades 6-8 science fair, providing students with constructive feedback and she peer-tutored nearly 50 students in Pre-Calculus 11 and Calculus 12 classes. Lastly, she became a volunteer leader on our city’s new youth council. Each of these deeds requires a deep commitment of time, dedication and excellence. Clearly, she freely gives of herself to enable others to reach their full potential.”

English teacher Erica Fitton said: “Ciara is a remarkable young lady. Her proactive approach and unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, combined with her stellar academic record, proven leadership ability, and strong athletic feats make her an ideal Rotary SOM recipient.

“I truly believe that she will continue to excel wherever her future leads may take her while making major contributions to her community and country, and the greater environmental landscape.”

This past fall, Browne was one of 5,200 Canadian students who applied for the prestigious, full-range, $100,000 Loran Award tenable at 25 partnering universities.

The rigorous, multi-stage selection process is self-described as “unique in its attention to a young person’s character … believing integrity, courage, grit and personal autonomy are better indicators of overall potential than standard academic measures.”

Clearly, these criteria are right up Browne’s alley, as she is one of only 90 finalists who will soon travel to Toronto for two days of interviews to select up to 36 award recipients. To have reached this stage is a mind-boggling feat and there may well be more to come.

Upon graduation, Browne plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, specializing in software engineering or engineering physics, at Queen’s University, the University of B.C. or University of Waterloo.

Upon finishing her bachelor’s degree, she intends to either undertake graduate studies or enter the aerospace industry as a software engineer focusing on promoting environmental sustainability.

Regardless, this exceptionally talented and highly motivated young person with a passion for mentorship seems destined to leave an indelible mark reverberating well beyond the shores of Lake Okanagan.

Student of the Month is a Rotary Club of Penticton Sunrise project. The award aims to recognize outstanding students for unique achievement in scholastics, extracurricular activities, community involvement, leadership, and service to others. The club is pleased to recognize Penticton Secondary School and Princess Margaret Secondary School as project partners, and Cascades Casino Penticton for generous financial aid.

November 2023 - Graci Gallicano

Penticton Herald - Rotary Student of the Month for November 2023

The Rotary Club of Penticton Sunrise is delighted to select Graci Gallicano – an immensely gifted, industrious and compassionate grade 12 student at Princess Margaret Secondary School – as Student of The Month for November.

The selection of Gallicano is a slam dunk, given her tireless commitment to, and key role in, numerous extracurricular activities – musical theatre, athletics and Indigenous leadership, to name three – not only at Maggie but also across School District 67.

Her zeal to freely serve as a strong and effective advocate for the rights and reconciliation of her Syilx Okanagan people has led her to become an admired cultural leader and role model in her school and native community.

Principal Bo Boxall said: “Graci’s ability to transcend so many diverse areas of interest, to connect with everyone she meets, and to offer insight into all aspects of our education system defines her uniqueness. Her reflective initiatives to increase our insight into the truth and reconciliation movement and how actionable steps can be taken to fulfill our duties are highly valued by all.”

Gallicano is the youngest of six children with caring and supportive parents. After moving from Vernon to Penticton at age three, she attended Outma Sqilxw Cultural School on the Penticton Indian Reserve before switching to Skaha Lake Middle School in Grade 8 and then Maggie in Grade 9.

“Although it was scary going from my reserve school to one in town, I succeeded,” Gallicano said.

In fact, she excelled, as she captured the Top Student Award in her only year at SLMS.

Gallicano’s passion for musical theatre is baked in her DNA. At age four, she first sang the Okanagan Song and often starred in short plays at Outma. As a long-time member of Maggie’s Horseshoe Theatre, she was part of the ensemble in the Broadway musical “Grease” in Grade 10 and played a lead character, Audrey, in the comedy musical “Little Shop of Horrors” in Grade 11. She will cap off her stellar performing career at Maggie as the lead female character, Rosie Alvarez, in the production of “Bye Bye Birdie” next semester.

Drama/theatre teacher Lori Grant said: “I am so proud of Graci having seen her mature in drama these last few years. She has such a lovely, graceful way about her. Kind, thoughtful and mindful of her influence on others, she has spoken so confidently on Indigenous-related matters and her words have definitely resonated with her audiences. Graci will surely go on to do great things.”

Gallicano’s acting talents extends to modeling. In July 2022, she auditioned for a vegan cooking show at the urging of a model placement agency (DEJA VU Model Management, West Kelowna). She and a partner were selected over several hundred other contestants. The show has been filmed and is now being edited.

She also placed second in a “cold reading” contest at the Faces West Model & Talent Convention held in Vancouver a year ago in which 20 models from across Canada were given a four-page script to memorize 10 minutes before acting it out on stage.

A fiercely competitive and versatile athlete, Gallicano shines in volleyball and basketball, playing on both junior rep teams in Grade 10 and both senior rep teams in Grade 11. At five-foot-eight, she plays the power position in volleyball and shooting guard in basketball. She was also on Maggie’s track and field team in Grade 11, participating in the long jump and 4x100-metre relay events.

Both theatre and team sports are a major part of Gallicano’s life.

“In both cases, I am having fun working hard with close friends to achieve a common goal, while keeping myself physically healthy and mentally alert,” she said.

Gallicano is also a key player on Maggie’s dynamic leadership team, routinely taking part in such major fundraisers as 10,000 Tonight Food Drive and Terry Fox Run. She was a lead actor in the recent 2023 Haunted House Fundraising event and will MC the upcoming Christmas Concert.

And she is the driving force behind Maggie’s enlightened Indigenous leadership program, and it is this pivotal role that sets her apart.

This past year, she MCed the Truth and Reconciliation Day assembly, spoke at the Orange Shirt Day, and sang the Okanagan Song at various events. At the district level, she helped to design and implement the strategic plan, took part in the flag raising ceremony and created Nsyilxcen language resources. She will also be speaking at the 2023 BCSTA Trustee Academy on the topic of engaging student voice in district and school planning. This expansive body of work in leadership garnered her the Top Senior Service Award in Grade 11.

Indigenous support worker Jolanda Poetsch said: “An inspiration to us all, Graci radiates an infectious blend of kindness, empathy and dedication. Her readiness to freely share her family’s story of courage and hope has shed new light on the intergenerational impact of the residential school system and charted a path forward in reconciliation. Her legacy is one of tireless devotion to improving the world around her.”

Given her hectic agenda, it is not surprising that Gallicano listed time management as her biggest challenge, compounded by an underlying perfectionist bent and a tendency to procrastinate.

Although she no longer takes lessons, Gallicano loves playing the piano, as well as the ukulele and hand drum for relaxation. She said she is “very big on learning about human rights and different cultures around the globe.” Having travelled in Central America and Africa, she has found that “you can learn more about how people actually live from poor than from rich countries.”

Upon graduation, Gallicano plans to attend UBC, majoring in the performing arts and minoring in social justice while pursuing a modelling career.

Regardless, great leaders are forged in a crucible of challenges and this young lady has the mettle to defy the odds and leave an indelible mark that reverberates well beyond the majestic shores of her Syilx people’s storied Okanagan Lake.

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