Senate Resolution No. 1955

BY: Senator RHOADS

HONORING Lana Lee upon the occasion of her
designation as recipient of the New York State
Citizenship Award

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor the young
adults of today, and leaders of tomorrow, whose character, integrity,
and achievements best exemplify the ideals and values cherished by this
great State and Nation; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Lana Lee upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the New
York State Citizenship Award; she will be recognized at a Senior Awards
Night event on Thursday, May 28, 2026; and

WHEREAS, The New York State Citizenship Award recognizes students
who demonstrate excellence not only in academics, community service, and
extracurricular involvement, but also in the enduring principles of
citizenship, including responsibility, civic engagement, integrity,
respect for others, and a commitment to the common good; and

WHEREAS, True citizenship is reflected in the willingness to lead by
example, to contribute meaningfully to one's community, to uphold
ethical standards, and to act with compassion and accountability in all
endeavors; and

WHEREAS, Lana Lee, a senior at Wantagh High School, has proven
herself to be an intelligent, motivated, and civic-minded student leader
who consistently demonstrates these qualities; and

WHEREAS, Lana Lee has exhibited a profound understanding of
citizenship through her active participation in school organizations and
community initiatives, showing a steadfast dedication to service,
collaboration, and leadership among her peers; and

WHEREAS, Academically, Lana Lee has been a member of the National
Honor Society and the Science National Honor Society; she is the
recipient of the Woman in STEM Award from Rochester Institute of
Technology and is recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction; and

WHEREAS, Through her academic pursuits, Lana Lee has demonstrated
not only intellectual excellence but also a deep sense of responsibility
to apply her knowledge in ways that benefit others and contribute to
society; and

WHEREAS, Athletically, Lana Lee has participated in varsity tennis,
badminton, and bowling; she served as Captain of the tennis team and
Junior and Senior Captain of the badminton team, embodying leadership,
teamwork, and sportsmanship; and

WHEREAS, Lana Lee has exhibited her leadership skills by serving her
peers as President of Heroes Among Us, the Orchestra Board, and the
World Food Club, Fundraiser Coordinator of the Class of 2026, Historian

of the Science National Honor Society, and Vice President of the
Orchestra Board; and

WHEREAS, In these roles, Lana Lee has demonstrated the core tenets
of citizenship by fostering unity, encouraging participation, and
organizing efforts that support both her school and the broader
community; and

WHEREAS, Additionally, Lana Lee played first violin in the Chamber
Orchestra Ensemble, acted as a member of the Chemistry Club, and
represented Wantagh for Section 8 badminton; serving her community, she
has been a counselor in training at her Girl Scout camp and assisted the
Heroes Among Us Club in many fundraisers for veterans and first
responders; and

WHEREAS, Lana Lee's commitment to service reflects a deep respect
for those who serve others and a sincere dedication to giving back,
hallmarks of exemplary citizenship; and

WHEREAS, The impactful leadership, civic awareness, and unwavering
drive which Lana Lee has continually displayed have earned her this
distinguished recognition; she hopes to attend Syracuse University where
she will study secondary education, focusing on history and
communications; her dream is to obtain her master's degree and become a
high school teacher; and

WHEREAS, Lana Lee's aspiration to become an educator further
underscores her commitment to citizenship, as she seeks to inspire
future generations to be informed, responsible, and engaged members of
society; and

WHEREAS, As Lana Lee looks forward to her next chapter, she is sure
to continue fostering her leadership skills, advancing her academic
achievements, and making a meaningful difference in her community; and

WHEREAS, Poised with a great sense of enthusiasm and purpose, this
scholar now stands honorably with just pride in her accomplishments and
in eager anticipation of future challenges, understanding and
appreciating the caring counsel and support provided by her teachers,
mentors, and parents; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Lana Lee upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the
New York State Citizenship Award; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Lana Lee.