CHS Student's Volunteer Efforts Earn Humanitarian Recognition

Evan D. Rice, senior at Cazenovia High School, is the recipient of the inaugural Jean M. Coon Humanitarian Award presented by the Zonta Club of Brewerton, NY – Friends for Equality, Inc.

Junior or senior students who preform outstanding community service may apply for this annual award by submitting a completed application and reference letter to the Zonta club in January, February, or March. Academic achievement is not relevant. The winning club award application is forwarded to Zonta District 2 for consideration at district-level recognition and a $1000 cash award.

Co-Captain (#80) of the Cazenovia Lakers Varsity Football team, 6’ tall Evan shows leadership on and off the field. Rice finds time to be involved in his school’s Unified Sports (Special Olympics) and his church community’s Cazenovia Young Life programs.

Rice says, “Being a good role model for children can change their lives, knowing someone cares. Students with disabilities are often not included. I have had the opportunity to participate in sports throughout my years in school, and it has greatly helped my self-esteem and given me purpose. It has brought me much joy being able to work with students with challenges and give them the opportunity to have a sense
of belonging in a peer group.”

“Evan is a deserving winner of your award because he has a giving spirit, an excellent work ethic, sense of humor and amiability towards individuals of all abilities. Evan has been helpful in the school, academic and sports-based setting while attending Cazenovia High School. His kindness is easy to notice and improves the day-to-day experience of all those around him,” says Mr. Todd Macintosh, Special Education Teacher at Cazenovia High School.

Kyle Martin, varsity coach at Cazenovia High says, “Evan Rice will make your community better. He is a special individual that makes those around him better. His work ethic is contagious, his generosity is humbling, and his leadership is inspiring.”

Jean McCoy Coon graduated cum laude from Syracuse University in 1951. She continued her education at Syracuse Law School, graduating magna cum laude in 1953. During her outstanding career, Ms. Coon argued many precedent-setting cases in the New York State Court of Appeals. Her reputation among the bar and the judiciary was unparalleled. In 1982, Jean died at age 52. Shortly thereafter, District 2 established the Jean M. Coon Humanitarian Award to honor her many achievements, and to continue her example of doing good for others.

Zonta Membership is open to all people who share a passion for making a difference. The club welcomes members from all walks of life, ages, abilities, professions, and backgrounds to join and contribute their unique talents and perspectives. Learn more about the club and membership opportunities at www.ZontaDistrict2.org/Brewerton

About Zonta International
Founded 104 years ago in Buffalo, NY, Zonta International, is a global service organization of people working to Build a Better World for Women and Girls. With more than 25,000 members in 65 countries, Zonta International is a powerful force for change. www.Zonta.org

Article submitted by Theresa Harris