250th Semiquincentennial Citizenship Award Presented to Dana Saramago

The New York State 250th Commemoration Commission is recognizing one graduating senior from each participating high school in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Huntington High School’s recipient is Dana Saramago for the work she did in her Advanced Placement Capstone project, “which emphasized the accessibility of music appreciation among all learners, even those who don’t necessarily produce the music.”

Districts were asked to select a worthy graduating senior “who represents the ideals of the founding generation and the continued work to ensure all New Yorkers are fully enfranchised in the promise of our nation.”

Academically, Ms. Saramago’s grade average exceeds 100 for all of high school, which puts her near the very top of the Class of 2026.

“The key to my success has been diligence and drive,” Ms. Saramago said. “By committing myself entirely to both my studies and the activities I enjoy, I have found great success. I love performing in ensembles and exploring my creativity. I tend to learn better when stimulating the creative part of my brain. So, anything that includes something creative has helped me thrive. I am actively involved in athletics, academics and music.”

Captain of the winter and spring track and field teams and a member eight separate academic honor societies, Ms. Saramago also performs with the high school’s wind ensemble and jazz band. She’s been music teacher Andre Rizzuto’s intern for the junior band. She conducted the band at the spring concert.

Chairman of Social Studies, 7-12 Joseph Leavy and Huntington High School Principal Rochelle C. Brown presented the award to Ms. Saramago, who plans to study music education at LIU Post.