Two NFA Seniors Honored at Sixth Annual Senior Scholar Humanities Breakfast

Newburgh Free Academy scholars, Rebecca Ferguson and Joshua Picard were honored along with thirty-two high school seniors who have distinguished themselves in the arts and humanities during their high school careers. These students were honored at the sixth annual Senior Scholar Humanities Breakfast on April 25 for their achievements. The Senior Scholar Humanities Breakfast is coordinated each year by the Orange-Ulster BOCES Division of Instructional Support.

Josh Picard is a senior at Newburgh Free Academy North Campus. Josh has played percussion since 3^rd or 4^th grade. Josh’s musical career began at Meadow Hill School under the direction of Mr. Robeles. He currently plays in the band under the direction of Ms. Hannah Butler. Josh is unsure of future plans, but knows he wants to do something with computers or computer science.

Rebecca Ferguson has been a musician since 4^th grade. She began playing the Uphonium until her brother convinced her to start playing the bass trombone. “My brother convinced my to switch to get more playing opportunities. Now I know how to play both. I also know the basics of piano and guitar.” Rebecca Ferguson, senior at Newburgh Free Academy Main Campus

Next year, Rebecca will be attending Mercyhurst University and studying Special Education and Music Therapy. She was inspired to select this major by her love of music and her work as a coach for the Special Olympics. During her time in high school, Rebecca has also been involved in Key Club and Newburgh Kiwanis, PRISM, the annual Baby Shower at Montefiore St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital, a member of the SUNY Orange band, and earned a Gold Award through the Girl Scouts.

Previously, Rebecca attended Meadow Hill School and was directed by Mr. Robles and Mr. Bill Beverage, who she credits for getting her into band. Rebecca currently plays bass tromphone under the direction of Mr. Christopher Zoutis and is a member of the chorus under the direction of Ms. Jillian Caci. Rebecca has been selected for Area All-State and All County Jazz, All County Orchestra, and All County Band.

The students, their parents, teachers, high school principals, superintendents, and BOCES administration were invited to celebrate the students’ accomplishments in the fine arts, theater, music, fashion, and jewelry design.

The keynote speaker was Stuart Sachs, a sculptor and professor at Pratt Institute, who uses the detritus of modern society and modern-era building materials to create his art. Sachs is currently president of the Orange County Arts Council, commissioner on the Newburgh Arts and Culture Commission, and vice president of the Newburgh Housing Authority.

Sachs spoke about his career path and his artwork. “The magic I found in steel still compels me until this day. I doodle in steel,” he said.

He also discussed the struggles of a career in art, as well as the reasons for being an artist. “We make art because we have to,” he said. His advice to the honorees was: “Dive in and study intensely in your chosen field.”

The New York Schools Insurance Reciprocal (NYSIR) provides support for this event each year. The Storm King Arts Center also provided each student with a two-day pass. Orange-Ulster BOCES honored each student with a star award and a certificate of achievement in the arts and humanities.

Information sourced from the Times Herald Record.

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!