Here is the transcript of the headmaster's remarks at Sarah's school yesterday when she won her wonderful award.

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We begin this segment of our program with the presentation of a very special award…

In a school full of exceptionally decent and honorable young people…

We present an award now that acknowledges one student among those many…

For the exceptional nature of his or her character…

This award – named in honor of former Headmaster Dr. Peter R. Greer – is for achievement in the area of character… THE DR. PETER R. GREER CHARACTER AWARD.

This marks the 8th year we’ve presented the Dr. Peter R. Greer Character Award. This award is given to one deserving 8th grader…and one deserving 12th grader each year. It is an award endowed by Ms. Ardath Blauvelt – an alum of the school. And is designed to honor the work of our former Headmaster – Dr. Peter Greer  – in the areas of ethics and character education.

Dr. Greer’s work throughout his career focused on the development of character…and he was the driving force behind the development of MKA’s Ethics Program.

This very special named award includes a cash award to the recipient
Plus a matching amount that the recipient contributes to a charity of choice. Each year we have the VERY difficult task of selecting one 8th grade student for this award…

From among a group of wonderful – incredibly deserving young people…

This student must be someone who embodies the meaning of character…

Someone who lives the essential habits of truthfulness…honesty…kindness to others…

Someone who promotes a climate of mutual trust and friendship throughout the school – not just by word – but by deed…by example…

Someone who is an exemplar…

What has been so rewarding to me each year…as difficult as it has been to distinguish one student from all the others… Is the response of the recipient’s classmates when the award is announced…

Each year – the enthusiastic – genuinely warm and respectful applause and excitement among the student’s peers… Has not only validated the choice… But has validated for everyone in attendance – the quality of character of that young award recipient…

This year’s winner of the Dr. Peter R. Greer Character Award inspired faculty to write some of the following in their nomination ballots…

“I don’t think I have ever known a more sincere and good-hearted middle school student"

“This student listens to people as well as anyone should…and considers carefully what other people say"

“This student is humble…never seeks credit – although there certainly is credit due for the many – many accomplishments"

“The student makes sure everyone’s voice is heard"

“And serves the school in many ways – both big and small – including significant leadership roles"

“This student is a catalyst for the accomplishments of student government that improve the lives of classmates"

“Whenever this student says something you know it is sincere"

“The youngest students in the school know that they can count on this student to talk with them…to listen to them…to care about their concerns"

“For this student – there is only what is right…and that is what she does each and every moment…each and every day"

“She rises above the pettiness that sometimes goes on around her"

“To say that she is considerate and polite is a profound understatement – she embodies kindness"

"I have had the opportunity – personally – to speak with, work with, and listen to this young woman in meetings with Student Government Representatives…and in Student Life Committee meetings. And I have been in awe of her intelligence – her common sense – her thoughtfulness – her decency – and her commitment to the school"

To quote more than one faculty member in the nominating ballot – “her character is the goal of the MKA ethics standards for all of our community members”.

For me…And I suspect for others, as well…In difficult – challenging situations – that demand a thoughtful solution – I can sometimes find myself thinking… “What would Sarah Do?”

It is an honor – and a pleasure – to present the Peter R. Greer Character Award to – SARAH WEISWASSER.

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We couldn't be more proud.