HERKIMER – State Senator Mark Walczyk presented Herkimer Central School District junior Kyle Carney with a New York State Youth Leadership Recognition Award on Monday, June 12, at the Herkimer Jr./Sr. High School.
“The state of New York has a motto, ‘Excelsior,’ meaning ever upward,” Walczyk said. “Kyle has exuded the character and charisma of an individual that typifies the motto of this state. I have no doubt that Kyle will continue to move ‘ever upward’ and make us proud.”
Carney was nominated for the award by high school counselor Carolyn Saugh for the various leadership roles he has taken on, while also excelling academically and athletically. His leadership roles have included two years as vice president for the Class of 2024, one year as treasurer for the Class of 2024, three years as a representative on the Student Council, attending the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference in 10th grade, attending the Student Athlete Leadership Conference in 11th grade and being actively involved in the Herkimer County Youth Summit.
Saugh said that after viewing the nomination criteria for the award, she didn’t hesitate to nominate Carney.
“When you read it, the first person you think of is Kyle,” Saugh said. “Student government, sports and academics – he’s leading the way, as a junior.”
When presenting the award, Walczyk took time to talk with Carney about his college and career plans and offer him words of encouragement.
Carney said he enjoyed the opportunity to visit with Walczyk.
“It was surreal,” Carney said. “I didn’t think I would get to meet a state senator. It was very cool to get up close and talk to someone who is important in our state legislature.”
Carney also said he was happy to receive the award.
“It feels really good to be honored,” Carney said, adding that the award shows that people will notice if you’re working hard to make a difference. “You can just lead by example, and it will get recognized eventually. It’s definitely something I want to continue because it makes an impact and affects people.”
State Senator Mark Walczyk presents Herkimer Central School District junior Kyle Carney with a New York State Youth Leadership Recognition Award on Monday, June 12, at the Herkimer Jr./Sr. High School.
State Senator Mark Walczyk poses with Herkimer Central School District junior Kyle Carney and his parents, Michael Carney and Herkimer Superintendent Kathy Carney, on Monday, June 12 at the Herkimer Jr./Sr. High School. Walczyk presented Kyle Carney with a New York State Youth Leadership Recognition Award. From left: Kathy Carney, Walczyk, Kyle Carney and Michael Carney.
Herkimer Central School District junior Kyle Carney (center) poses with high school counselor Carolyn Saugh (left) and High School Principal Mary Tomaso (right) after receiving a New York State Youth Leadership Recognition Award on Monday, June 12, at the Herkimer Jr./Sr. High School.
State Senator Mark Walczyk speaks with Herkimer Central School District junior Kyle Carney on Monday, June 12, at the Herkimer Jr./Sr. High School, before presenting Carney with a New York State Youth Leadership Recognition Award.
State Senator Mark Walczyk speaks with Herkimer Central School District junior Kyle Carney on Monday, June 12, at the Herkimer Jr./Sr. High School, before presenting Carney with a New York State Youth Leadership Recognition Award.