Senate Resolution No. 2145

BY: Senator RHOADS

HONORING Sophie Shiner 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
Sophie Shiner 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, at its highest expression, is demonstrated
through responsibility, integrity, and a consistent commitment to the
well-being of one's community; Sophie Shiner has exemplified these
qualities throughout her high school career, earning the respect of
peers, educators, and community members alike; and

WHEREAS, Sophie Shiner has distinguished herself as a young leader
who understands that citizenship is not defined solely by participation,
but by active contribution; through her service, leadership roles, and
daily conduct, she has consistently modeled what it means to be a
conscientious and engaged member of society; and

WHEREAS, As Track and Field Captain, Sophie Shiner has demonstrated
citizenship through leadership, encouraging teamwork, perseverance, and
accountability among her peers while fostering a culture of mutual
respect and shared achievement within her athletic community; and

WHEREAS, In her role as Key Club Vice President, Sophie Shiner has
further embodied civic responsibility by helping to organize and support
service initiatives that strengthen her school and local community,
reinforcing the importance of volunteerism and collective action in
building a stronger society; and

WHEREAS, As a founding member of the Psychology Club, Sophie Shiner
has contributed to the development of a thoughtful academic environment
that promotes awareness, dialogue, and understanding of human behavior,
reflecting her commitment to intellectual citizenship and the pursuit of
knowledge in service of others; and

WHEREAS, Sophie Shiner has extended her sense of citizenship beyond
school walls through meaningful community service, including her work
supporting children with special needs, where she has demonstrated
patience, empathy, and a steadfast dedication to ensuring that all
individuals feel supported and valued; and

WHEREAS, Through her engagement in social media advocacy, Sophie
Shiner has responsibly utilized modern platforms to create awareness and
provide encouragement to others, showing that civic engagement today

includes thoughtful and respectful communication in both physical and
digital spaces; and

WHEREAS, Sophie Shiner's actions are deeply informed by her personal
family experiences, which have shaped her understanding of resilience,
responsibility, and the importance of lifting others during times of
difficulty, further strengthening her commitment to compassionate
citizenship; and

WHEREAS, In every endeavor, Sophie Shiner has demonstrated
reliability and initiative, consistently stepping forward to serve as a
positive example for her peers and contributing meaningfully to the
betterment of her school environment and broader community; and

WHEREAS, Sophie Shiner's aspiration to become a psychologist
reflects her enduring commitment to serving others, as she seeks to
dedicate her future career to helping individuals navigate challenges
and improve their quality of life through care, understanding, and
professional support; and

WHEREAS, Sophie Shiner's academic diligence, coupled with her strong
moral compass, has positioned her as a role model of student
citizenship, one who recognizes that education and service are deeply
interconnected in the development of responsible and engaged adults; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body recognizes Sophie Shiner as a young
citizen whose character, service, and leadership reflect the very best
ideals of community responsibility, and whose ongoing contributions
promise a future marked by continued dedication to the public good; 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 Sophie Shiner 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 Sophie Shiner.