Senate Resolution No. 2028

BY: Senator RHOADS

HONORING Maxwell Kaufman upon the occasion of his
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 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
Maxwell Kaufman upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
New York State Citizenship Award, to be recognized on Monday, June 8,
2026; and

WHEREAS, The New York State Citizenship Award is bestowed upon
students who embody the highest principles of civic responsibility,
integrity, and dedication to the common good, serving as role models who
strengthen the fabric of their communities through their actions and
example; and

WHEREAS, True citizenship is demonstrated not only through academic
success, but through a steadfast commitment to service, ethical
leadership, and an unwavering sense of responsibility toward others; and

WHEREAS, Maxwell Kaufman has exemplified these ideals through his
consistent demonstration of respect, accountability, and compassion,
reflecting the core values of engaged and responsible citizenship; and

WHEREAS, Maxwell Kaufman, a student at Plainview-Old Bethpage John
F. Kennedy High School in Plainview, New York, has proven himself to be
an intelligent, compassionate, and driven student leader; and

WHEREAS, Academically, Maxwell Kaufman has consistently pursued the
most rigorous courses available, including AP, Honors, and college-level
courses, and currently maintains an impressive GPA of 97.96; his
intellectual curiosity, combined with his collaborative spirit, makes
him a valued peer in the classroom; and

WHEREAS, Maxwell Kaufman is a member of the Math, Spanish, and
National Honor Societies, as well as Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor
Society, of which he serves as President; his involvement in these
organizations reflects not only his academic achievements and the
respect he has earned from faculty, but also his ongoing commitment to
service, leadership, and civic-minded values; and

WHEREAS, Maxwell Kaufman's leadership and selflessness extends
beyond the classroom; he created an online AP U.S. History resource to
support peers preparing for the exam, and has contributed to student
journalism through Eskop, helping make politics accessible for young
readers; and

WHEREAS, This admirable student athlete, Maxwell Kaufman, is captain
of both his JV and Varsity Volleyball teams, earning MVP honors, while
also balancing commitments to soccer and piano; and

WHEREAS, Maxwell Kaufman has shared his love of sports through
volunteer coaching with the POB Middle School volleyball program, where
his leadership and encouragement helped younger athletes develop skills
and confidence; in the summer, he further demonstrates his
responsibility and ability to care for others through his work as a camp
counselor; and

WHEREAS, Through these activities, Maxwell Kaufman has demonstrated
not only his aptitude, but also the cooperative spirit and shared
responsibility that are hallmarks of exemplary citizenship; and

WHEREAS, The essence of citizenship lies in the willingness to act
with integrity, to serve selflessly, and to contribute positively to
society, qualities which Maxwell Kaufman has demonstrated through both
word and deed; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the selfless dedication shown by individuals
for the benefit of others which Maxwell Kaufman has displayed throughout
his life; and

WHEREAS, As Maxwell Kaufman looks forward to his next chapter
pursuing computer science, he is sure to continue fostering his
leadership skills, advancing his academic achievements, and making a
meaningful difference in his community; and

WHEREAS, His example affirms that responsible citizenship is a
lifelong endeavor, one that extends beyond the classroom and into every
aspect of personal and professional life; and

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

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Maxwell Kaufman upon the occasion of his 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 Maxwell Kaufman.