Senate Resolution No. 2202

BY: Senator RHOADS

HONORING Michael Verbanac 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
Michael Verbanac upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of
the New York State Citizenship Award; he 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 in academics, community service, and
extracurricular involvement; and

WHEREAS, Michael Verbanac, a senior at Bethpage High School, has
proven himself to be an intelligent and driven student leader; and

WHEREAS, Academically, Michael Verbanac is a dedicated and
hardworking student with a 104.51 weighted GPA which he earned while
taking the most rigorous AP and Honors coursework offered; he has been a
member of the National Honor Society and National Science Honor Society;
and

WHEREAS, Additionally, Michael Verbanac has been recognized as an AP
Scholar with Distinction and a candidate for the New York State Seal of
Biliteracy in Spanish; and

WHEREAS, Athletically, Michael Verbanac has been a dedicated member
of the varsity soccer team since June 2024, balancing daily practices
and multiple games per week; and

WHEREAS, Additionally, Michael Verbanac started working as a
part-time busser at Me and You in August 2024; he provides high-quality
guest service in a fast-paced restaurant environment; and

WHEREAS, Outside of school activities, Michael Verbanac has acted as
Outreach Ambassador for Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes Organization since
September 2022; using his personal experience with diabetes, he
demonstrates leadership and service by mentoring children, guiding
parents, and sharing experiences to strengthen the diabetes community;
and

WHEREAS, Actively involved in his community, Michael Verbanac has
served as a Red Cross member since September 2024; he has participated
in beach cleanups and local wildlife conservation initiatives to protect
marine ecosystems; and

WHEREAS, The impactful leadership and unwavering drive which Michael
Verbanac has continually displayed have earned his recognition; he is
skilled in communication, teamwork, and resilience and carries a strong
history of academic achievement, service, and personal growth; and

WHEREAS, As Michael Verbanac looks forward to his next chapter, he
is sure to continue fostering his leadership skills, advancing his
academic achievements, and making a meaningful difference in his
community; 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 Michael Verbanac 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 Michael Verbanac.