Talented Seniors Garner Attorney General’s Triple C Award
Matteo McNeil and Ketevani Tsotskolauri are two of the most outstanding members of Huntington High School’s Class of 2015. The duo are this year’s recipients of the New York State Attorney General’s Triple C Award.
The award has been presented since 2006 to graduating male and female seniors across the state in recognition of “their courage, character and commitment, exemplified in both their academic achievements and service outside of the classroom.”
Mr. McNeil and Ms. Tsotskolauri were honored during Huntington’s senior academic awards night in the school auditorium last month. Guidance counselor Lauren Brunoni presented the awards on behalf of New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman.
Known as one of the kindest and most considerate members of Huntington’s graduating class, Mr. McNeil developed a close relationship with many teachers and coaches, including Ron Wilson, a high school dean and many teachers and coaches.
“I’m very proud of this young man and all he’s given to our athletic program,” Wilson said. “I’ve had the greatest pleasure coaching Matteo in both football and track and field. He is a hard worker and a great young man who is the ultimate ‘sportsmanship man.’ Whether in victory or defeat, Matteo always acknowledges his competitors. He is well liked and respected by athletes, coaches, officials, and parents. He never lets his feelings get in the way of being humble. He is a young man I’ve come to respect and love. He’s always polite, wanting to help in any way he can. One thing for sure, he has left his stamp not only in Huntington, but in Suffolk track and field. That broad smile he has is one of a kind and he wears it no matter what the mood may be. He will be missed.”
Mr. McNeil has decided to delay college for at least six months while he embarks on widespread traveling through Europe and other lands.
Ms. Tsotskolauri is headed to City University of New York’s Baruch College, where she will study as a Macauley Scholar. The teenager plans to pursue a major in business administration.
One of the best young photographers on Long Island, Ms. Tsotskolauri said she has surrounded herself with “bright, determined friends who encourage each other to strive for the better.” She came to realize that asking for help, especially from her teachers, was instrumental in mastering subject material.
Ms. Tsotskolauri was recognized as a Distinguished Senior this past spring after compiling at least a 90 academic grade average during every semester of high school. The teenager participated in a credit bearing internship with Huntington social studies teacher Kenneth Donovan during her senior year.
A participant in numerous after school clubs and activities, Ms. Tsotskolauri earned third place honors for the website she created for National History Day during her junior year. The site focused on the “The Enlightenment.”
The two award recipients were selected by Huntington High School faculty members.