The opinions expressed in these student essays and poems belong to the student authors and do not necessarily express views of the Holocaust Commission of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.
Senior Essay Winners:
The first place essay award in the senior category is dedicated to the memory of Marino Bertini. Marino taught his daughters about the importance of knowing world history. He encouraged his girls to watch movies about the Holocaust, in an effort to teach them that while humanity often doesn't resemble anything kind, the strength of individuals to overcome evil is real.
- 1st Place: Bree Faulkner, Norfolk Academy -- Mrs. Blair Monaco
- 2nd Place: Emily Chang, Albemarle High School -- Mr. Brian Nagel
- 3rd Place: Addisyn Carruthers, Oscar F. Smith High School -- Mrs. Marianne McMillin
Senior Poetry Winners:
The first place poetry award in the senior category is dedicated to the memory of former Holocaust Commission Chair, Linda Epstein Belkov, by her family. Linda was dedicated to Holocaust education and was a talented writer who championed the abilities of students.
- 1st Place: Areen Syed, Norfolk Academy -- Mrs. Elaine Denson
- 2nd Place (tied): Logan Heselton, Oscar F. Smith High School -- Mrs. Marianne McMillin
- 2nd Place (tied): Keon Tavakoli, Norfolk Academy -- Dr. David Kidd
- 3rd Place: Simone Lyons, High Bluff Academy (CA) -- Mrs. Ellen Sullivan
Junior Essay Winners:
- 1st Place: Jayden Proctor, The Williams School -- Ms. Casey Lee
- 2nd Place (tied): Ana Liberatore, St. John the Apostle Catholic School -- Mr. Michael Moore
- 2nd Place (tied): Rachael Provident, St. Therese of Lisieux School (PA) -- Mrs. Hallie Leach
- 3rd Place: Grayson Brock, Isle of Wight Academy -- Mr. James Lidington
Junior Poetry Winners:
Areen Syed, Why?
2021 Senior Poetry Winner, Areen Syed reads her poem, "Why?"