Baldwin students named ‘Student Stars’

Three Baldwin students — Tess Ferguson, of Baldwin High School; Ronnie Marchese-Silano, of Baldwin High School; and Abigail Story, of Sacred Heart Academy — have been recognized by State Sen. Todd Kaminsky as “Student Stars.”

The senator honored 28 graduating high school “Student Stars” for their exceptional work and leadership. Amid the pandemic, in lieu of his annual ceremony to recognize these budding scholars, Kaminsky visited each recipient’s house and presented them with the New York State Senate Student Stars Award.

“I am thrilled to recognize these extraordinary students who have excelled academically and established themselves as leaders in their communities,” Kaminsky said in a statement. “The Student Stars Award winners represent the best and brightest that our schools have to offer, and serve as role models for their peers. I applaud their achievements and will be eagerly awaiting their future plans.”

Ferguson is a junior who has been the team captain of the girls lacrosse team since her sophomore year. She felt it was important to provide direction to her teammates and continued to do so during the pandemic sending out drills and directions so that the team could stay connected and focused. Just because the team could not get together in person, she felt obligated to guide her team to work harder and get better on their own.  Her leadership skills shined and helped many of the teammates feel connected.

Ferguson is an organizer and a go-getter. She is most proud of the walk the team did for the Out of the Darkness Community Walks for Suicide Prevention held at Jones beach last October. The team raised $3,000 for the cause. She is a compassionate friend and a student who is always trying her best.

Marchese-Silano is a member of the National Honors Society, and challenged himself with the most difficult classes. He will be graduating in the top 20 of his class. He is a true leader, recognized by his peers and teammates. Marchese-Silano was named football and lacrosse captain. He is also a member of the baseball and ice hockey teams at his school. He was named Homecoming King because of his kindness and empathy for others. He is the president of the Key Club, the Future Business Leaders of America Club and the Baking Club. He will attend Molloy College in the fall.

Story is an excellent honors student who has excelled in her classes. She participated in Stanford’s Environmental Science and Harvard Neuroscience courses over the summer. She has been class president for the last two years and an active member in Key and Women in Healthcare. She spends time outside of school participating in Irish Step Dance, teaching the younger girls as well. She is interested in pre-med with an interest in surgery.