​Souhegan High School Students Honored in Concord

CONCORD, NH – Two local high school students were recently honored as a "Champion Child/Outstanding Adolescent" at a state-wide event honoring young people who overcome serious, chronic health conditions. Laurel Auth and Katherine McCann, students at Souhegan High School in Amherst, were nominated by School Counselor Anne Burke for their spirit and resilience and then selected by the State Council for Youths with Chronic Conditions, according to a press statement.

She wrote in her nominations:

Laurel Auth: “Not only is Laurel a conscientious student, but she is also a kind and caring individual. As someone who has had to overcome obstacles over the past several years, she has shown tremendous growth and resilience over the course of her high school experience.

In the future Laurel plans to study psychology in college and eventually become a school counselor. Given her natural empathy and compassion for others, she is making a good choice.

In addition, her solid work ethic and resourcefulness, as well as her willingness to help others — such as babysitting for a family in need and participating in the local “68 Hours of Hunger” project — bode well for her future contributions to her community and profession.”

Katherine McCann: “Although Katherine is one of the most intelligent and accomplished students in her class, she is also humble and always ready to help her peers. She is a positive presence in the classroom and a leader in our school.

Katie’s gifts in the field of technology, along with her initiative and organizational skills, have resulted in Souhegan’s first Computer Programming Club, of which she is the founder and president. She has also engaged in a program outside of school called Hour of Code, which teaches students how to write computer code. Furthermore, she is on track to receive her Gold Award with the Girl Scouts of America this year. Ever polite, gracious, and grateful for any help or advice, she is the ideal student and a model for others.”

Each year the Council for Youths with Chronic Conditions honors several children and youths. Most are nominated from school nurses and other professionals that engage regularly with children with serious health care issues.

Caption: School Counselor Anne Burke with award-winners Laurel Auth and Katherine McCann.

Submitted by state Sen. Jeff Woodburn