Hancock High School senior Makynzie Golden was nominated for and awarded the Washington County Board of County Commissioners Youth Meritorious Award.
During the April 16 commissioners meeting in Hagerstown, Golden was one of four students presented the award. Commissioner Wayne Keefer presented her the framed certificate.
Throughout the school year, the Board of County Commissioners present the Y outh Meritorious Awards to students in both public and private schools or those being home schooled in Washington County.
The four students were selected based on their scholastic achievement, leadership qualities, community service performed or other positive contributions to their school and community.
Hancock Middle-Senior High School counselor Amber Rubeck nominated Golden.
In her nominating letter, Rubeck said Golden has been an “exceptional and committed student” at Hancock Middle-Senior High School.
“As the school counselor, I have had the pleasure of getting to know Makynzie, both academically and personally, over the past two years and can attest to her outstanding qualities,” Rubeck said.
Golden has consistently challenged herself academically by enrolling in rigorous courses including, Honors, Advanced Placement, and Dual Credit classes.
That dedication and strong commitment to her studies has led Golden to be recognized with her induction into the National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society.
Golden is also involved in extracurricular activities such as Interact Club and Yearbook committee, where her leadership skills and strong organizational abilities have shown, Rubeck said.
Rubeck added Golden’ s dedication to foster a positive school environment shows through her role as Class Secretary.
Golden has also volunteered for organizations such as BACA, preparing for athletic spirit nights, and participating in the local Trike-A-Thon.
These experiences highlight Golden’s commitment to working collaboratively with others while giving back to her community, Rubeck said.
While keeping up with her academic, extracurricular, and community service responsibilities, Golden has taken on various part-time jobs such as a dance assistant, private tutor to younger students and leading a Reading Apprenticeship opportunity with Washington County Public Schools.
Rubeck describes Golden as an “exceptional, well-rounded individual who consistently demonstrates dedication and excellence in all aspects of her life.”
That unwavering determination, self-motivation, perseverance, and strong work ethic are what Rubeck says are key traits that will continue to be shown and serve Golden well as she continues her post-secondary goals of becoming a surgeon.
“I have no doubt that she will continue to excel in all areas and make significant contributions to the field of medicine in the future,” Rubeck said.