Nick Housenga was recognized for the leadership he provided while a student at F.P. Walshe school.
F.P. Walshe school nominated Nick for the prestigious Dr. Lloyd Cavers Student Leadership Scholarship.
“Nick is an extremely diligent student,” F.P. Walshe school assistant principal Mary Krizan wrote in the nomination. “In spite of his many extracurricular commitments, he has maintained an over 90 per cent average throughout high school, culminating with the achievement of being recognized as valedictorian of his graduating class.”
“He has superior work habits and time management skills and effectively balances the many obligations placed on him.”
Each high school in Livingstone Range nominates one student for the $1,000 student leadership scholarship.
The overall winner was Nicole Kirkness of Matthew Halton high school in Pincher Creek.
Nick and the other nominees each receive $200.
Nick was part of the F.P. Walshe school student leadership committee as well as the social media committee.
“As part of his commitment to leadership, Nick presented at the student leadership symposium at the University of Lethbridge in front of hundreds of students,” Krizan noted. “He also holds the position of president of the Regional Council of School Leaders where he has planned and organized a variety of different activities, leadership retreats and conferences.”
Nick was part of the Minister’s Youth Council which gives him the opportunity to share ideas about provincial programs and initiatives.
Nick was also part of the Student Summer Advisory Panel run by the Minister of Education and the Youth Advisory Committee for Foothills MP John Barlow.
“When I’m asked why I’m a part of leadership I always say that high school is really what you make of it, just like any other opportunity,” Nick told Livingstone Range School Board trustees during a presentation in May. “Leadership is the best way of making high school your own. You get direct influence on your high school experience.”
In addition, Nick is part of the Fort Macleod Community Aquaponic Greenhouse Society.
“Nick takes on all his challenges enthusiastically and works tirelessly to complete his many tasks,” Krizan added. “ He is greatly supportive of his school peers and always acts as a positive role model.”
“One staff member commented, ‘(Nick) gives tirelessly in many good causes and is unfailingly kind and thoughtful. He is both humble and willing to be vulnerable yet step up to do the hard things’.”
Nick also played senior boys’ volleyball at F.P. Walshe and was a member of the senior high band.
“Not only is he very well-liked and respected, but he is mature beyond his years which allows him to empathize with others in ways in which most students are not yet able,” Krizan added. “He conducts himself with class and integrity and is kind and considerate of others.”
During the graduation ceremonies on June 12, F.P. Walshe honoured Nick and Esther Oosterwijk as the school’s outstanding students with the Danny Van Wyck Memorial Award.
The award recognizes all-around individuals for their pleasant personalities, outstanding moral character, compassion and involvement in school life.
Nick also received the Town of Fort Macleod Leadership Award, the Valedictorian Award, and a number of scholarships and bursaries.
“I am certain Nick will be successful in any endeavour and would greatly benefit any organization of which he becomes a part,” Krizan noted.