From left to right, guidance counselor Zelma Pugh, Aidan Dobbins, Alex Pfeiff, Randolph Larsen, Jeffery Davis, Sydney Anderson, Anna Seminara, Claire Dickson-Burke, Madison Wilson and Kaliyan Gorman. Not pictured: Chelsea Ireland.

Prince Frederick, MD – The Optimist Club of Calvert-Prince Frederick continued a tradition that goes back 45 years. The local club has celebrated Youth Appreciation Week, a nearly 60-year program established by Optimist International. The purpose of the program is to recognize the area’s outstanding youngsters for their achievements in academics and extra-curricular activities and participation in out-of-school programs within the community.

Last month the Calvert County Commissioners declared Nov. 3 through 10 as “Youth Appreciation Week in Calvert County.”

With the assistance of guidance counselors from Calvert County’s four public high schools, as many as 10 seniors were recognized from each school.

The seniors from Huntingtown High School (HHS) this year are:

Sydney J. Anderson, who has a long list of academic orchestral achievements and is planning to major in international affairs and work for the U.S. Department of Defense.

Jeffery R. Davis, who has excelled in academics and has done a lot of volunteer work outside the classroom; and plans to become a research physicist.

Claire B. Dickson-Burke, who has earned honors in math, foreign language and history, with future plans to join the Peace Corps after college.

Aidan D. Dobbins, who received the Sandra Day O’Connor Award for outstanding achievement in advanced placement American Government and hopes for a career in economics.

Kaliyan A. Gorman, who participates in HHS’ Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) program and plans to major in biology at college.

Chelsea L. Ireland, who is an honors student and captain of the HHS Volleyball team; and plans to study nursing after graduation.

Randolph K. Larsen, who excels in academics, is an Eagle Scout, has plans to major in biology with long-range hopes of becoming a neonatologist.

Alex M. Pfeiff, who has served as a member of class council, participated in the NJROTC’s Rifle Team and plans to major in engineering or business.

Anna B. Seminara, who received academic honors, been involved with theater, creative writing and golf; and plans to major in microbiology.

Madison L. Wilson, who has received academic recognition in math and Spanish, volunteered at a church soup kitchen and plans to major in accounting.

Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com