Senate Resolution No. 2026

BY: Senator RHOADS

HONORING Emily Kesler upon the occasion of her
designation as recipient of the New York State
Citizenship Award on May 28, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor the young
adults of today, and leaders of tomorrow, whose character 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
Emily Kesler upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the
New York State Citizenship Award, to be recognized on May 28, 2026, at
John F. Kennedy High School in Bellmore, New York; and

WHEREAS, Citizenship is defined not only by rights, but by
responsibility, and Emily Kesler has consistently demonstrated a
profound understanding of what it means to be an engaged, respectful,
and service-oriented member of her school and community; and

WHEREAS, Emily Kesler has distinguished herself through her
unwavering commitment to civic responsibility, demonstrating integrity,
accountability, and respect in all of her endeavors, thereby setting a
powerful example for her peers and younger students alike; and

WHEREAS, Through her active participation in student leadership and
school governance, including her service as President of the Student
Government, Emily Kesler has demonstrated exceptional citizenship by
representing student voices, fostering collaboration, and working to
strengthen her school community as the "beating heart" of student
engagement; and

WHEREAS, In this leadership capacity, she has consistently motivated
her peers and worked tirelessly to improve the student experience,
reflecting a deep commitment to shared responsibility and collective
well-being; and

WHEREAS, Emily Kesler has further strengthened her civic foundation
through her involvement in the School and Community Leadership program
and various honor societies, reflecting both academic excellence and an
informed commitment to active and responsible participation in school
life; and

WHEREAS, Beyond school governance, Emily Kesler has extended her
service through meaningful community engagement, including her roles as
a youth group leader and a school district ambassador, where she has
helped foster unity, communication, and mutual respect among students
and the broader school community; and

WHEREAS, In these roles, she has consistently demonstrated the
principles of good citizenship by guiding others with patience, serving
as a bridge between students and administrators, and promoting
cooperation and understanding; and


WHEREAS, Emily Kesler has consistently upheld the values essential
to responsible citizenship, including perseverance, diligence,
integrity, and respect for others, all of which have contributed to the
strength and spirit of her school community; and

WHEREAS, Her commitment to civic-minded leadership is further
reflected in her desire to improve the lives of those around her,
seeking not recognition, but meaningful and lasting positive impact
through service; and

WHEREAS, Throughout her academic and extracurricular pursuits, Emily
Kesler has maintained a steadfast pursuit of excellence while
demonstrating a consistent awareness of her responsibility as a
contributing member of a larger community; and

WHEREAS, Bright, driven, and thoughtful, Emily Kesler exemplifies
the ideals of citizenship through her leadership, academic dedication,
and passion for learning, all of which have been evident throughout her
school experience; and

WHEREAS, Her journey has been marked by continuous striving for
excellence, maintaining a top academic ranking while leading by example
in both school and community settings; and

WHEREAS, In Emily Kesler, this Legislative Body recognizes a student
who embodies the highest ideals of citizenship: service, leadership,
responsibility, and respect for others, and who represents great promise
for the future of her community and State; and

WHEREAS, Her aspirations reflect a deep-rooted commitment to
continuing her service to her school, community, and beyond, carrying
forward the values of engaged and responsible citizenship; and

WHEREAS, In Emily Kesler, one finds a student who is not only
scholarly and dedicated, but also humble, enthusiastic, and kind; and

WHEREAS, Poised with a strong sense of purpose and responsibility,
this scholar now stands honorably, with just pride in her
accomplishments and in eager anticipation of future challenges,
understanding and appreciating the guidance and support provided by her
teachers, mentors, family, and community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Emily Kesler 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 Emily Kesler.