2021-2022 OU BOCES Humanities Honorees: John O'Sullivan and Tory Shropshire-Howerton

John O'Sullivan and Tory Shropshire-Howerton were named 2021-2022 OU BOCES Humanities Honorees. The artists were nominated by mustic Ms. Jillian Caci and art teacher Ms. Gina Carbone respectively. 

 

JOHN O'SULLIVAN:

John O’Sullivan is a consummate musician, artist, and scholar who currently performs in the Newburgh Free Academy Madrigals Honors Chorus, the A Cappella Mixed Chorus, and the Robert D Williams Tenor/Bass Chorus. He is a member of Tri-M Music Honor Society, National Honor Society. During his 4 years in high school John has performed in countless music department concerts and school shows. John has chosen to ‘do more’ since the fifth grade, auditioning and being accepted to All County in grades 5-12. He has also prepared NYSSMA solos all four years of High School and was selected for Zone 9 Area All State in 2021, a highly competitive regional festival. John frequently uses his talents to help others, lending his voice to events such as the Lap for Life and NFA Graduation. John has held various leadership positions and elected offices in his performing ensembles where he has demonstrated great initiative. Most recently, he has been elected Treasurer of the NFA MusicCouncil, where he leads that organization’s initiatives and events.

John is also very active outside of the school setting. In addition to being a high performing student and musician, John is an Eagle Scout, having completed the requirements to achieve the highest rank that only 5% of scouts attain. John’s ability and willingness to take on and accomplish this exceptionally difficult challenge is typical of his can-do attitude and constant striving for self improvement. John brings this Eagle Scout attitude to everything he does, consistently.

John is held in high esteem by his peers, who admire and respect his abilities and work ethic, and frequently seek his input and assistance in music, academics, and life. John is gracious in sharing his skills and knowledge, and has found that rare balance in leadership between listening and telling. John is a true leader.

 

TORY SHROPSHIRE-HOWERTON:

Tory Shropshire-Howerton ha a keen creative vision that guides her ability as a talented photographer. Tory is an intelligent, well-spoken individual who is an active participant in class. She is a valued contributor to class discussions and always offers thoughtful insights. Tory takes on every project with enthusiasm, and it shows in the quality of the work she produces. She is a creative and talented photographer with a keen eye. As a result, she was awarded a spot in the prestigious Dia Teens art program at the Dia Beacon Museum last summer.
 

Academically, she has a strong work ethic and creative problem-solving skills that will serve her well in any career she chooses to pursue. In addition to photography, Tory also participates in the dance program here at NFA and sings with A Capella. Outside of school, she is on the Newburgh Crew rowing team.

Tory is outgoing and friendly. She is honest and forthright, willingly accepts any criticism, and continually strives to improve her work.