DREW BANK
Drew Bank is a student at American Heritage School Plantation, Florida. He is an active member of his school television network, PatriotsTV, as he plans to study broadcast journalism, and ultimately travel the world to meet new people. His dream school is Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Communications. Besides his broadcast passions, he serves as co-president of his school’s genocide awareness club, the Butterfly Project.
Drew has taken an active role in promoting Holocaust Education around his community, winning multiple awards for his work including the 2nd place award for his video in the 2020 State of Florida Holocaust Reflection Contest and first place in the American Heritage Genocide Awareness project in 2021. Drew effectively uses his platform as a student journalist to further spread awareness of the Holocaust because he feels it important to share stories of Holocaust survivors to the current generation of students who are the last generation that can have the opportunity to meet with and get to know, and learn from a Holocaust survivor. He has found every story to be unique and feels the moral obligation to help have these stories told to everyone through the videos he makes, even well after the survivor has passed. Drew has already completed four interviews with Holocaust survivors. He has also interviewed Craig and Barbara Weiner, founders of the Craig and Barbara Weiner Holocaust Museum of South Florida, while doing a journalistic piece on the museum earlier this year. Drew plans to continue speaking with survivors and sharing their stories with the world, and is hoping to go on the March of the Living during the 2024 school year and see this history in person.
Drew Bank is a student at American Heritage School Plantation, Florida. He is an active member of his school television network, PatriotsTV, as he plans to study broadcast journalism, and ultimately travel the world to meet new people. His dream school is Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Communications. Besides his broadcast passions, he serves as co-president of his school’s genocide awareness club, the Butterfly Project.
Drew has taken an active role in promoting Holocaust Education around his community, winning multiple awards for his work including the 2nd place award for his video in the 2020 State of Florida Holocaust Reflection Contest and first place in the American Heritage Genocide Awareness project in 2021. Drew effectively uses his platform as a student journalist to further spread awareness of the Holocaust because he feels it important to share stories of Holocaust survivors to the current generation of students who are the last generation that can have the opportunity to meet with and get to know, and learn from a Holocaust survivor. He has found every story to be unique and feels the moral obligation to help have these stories told to everyone through the videos he makes, even well after the survivor has passed. Drew has already completed four interviews with Holocaust survivors. He has also interviewed Craig and Barbara Weiner, founders of the Craig and Barbara Weiner Holocaust Museum of South Florida, while doing a journalistic piece on the museum earlier this year. Drew plans to continue speaking with survivors and sharing their stories with the world, and is hoping to go on the March of the Living during the 2024 school year and see this history in person.
NINA GULATI
In the fall, Nina will be attending Bishop Verot High School, to which she has been awarded the DeSales Scholarship for her outstanding score on the school's entrance exam. She also received scholarships for her score on the PSAT, which was administered to a few select eighth graders based on their standardized test scores, as well as the Franciscan Award at her prior school - St. Francis - an award given quarterly to students with an A+ grade point average for 15 consecutive quarters. In the seventh grade, Nina finished second at a regional science fair for her project on pet therapy, and was also elected Treasurer of the student council. Nina, as a National Junior Honors Society member, was selected Valedictorian upon completing middle school. Currently she is the captain of her competitive soccer team.
"The trip to Washington D.C. was extraordinary! We students learned so much more about the Holocaust than our history textbooks could tell us. By hearing the thoughts and opinions of several dignitaries, we were able to not only learn about the Holocaust, but from the Holocaust. The private tour of the Holocaust Museum was extremely moving--- something that could not have been experienced at home in the classroom. Thank you immensely for giving us the opportunity to travel to D.C. where we learned so much. I learned that it is imperative as the next generation of our country to acknowledge the horrors of the Holocaust and learn from it that it is vital that the people of the world, no matter their race, religion, or gender, are respected."
In the fall, Nina will be attending Bishop Verot High School, to which she has been awarded the DeSales Scholarship for her outstanding score on the school's entrance exam. She also received scholarships for her score on the PSAT, which was administered to a few select eighth graders based on their standardized test scores, as well as the Franciscan Award at her prior school - St. Francis - an award given quarterly to students with an A+ grade point average for 15 consecutive quarters. In the seventh grade, Nina finished second at a regional science fair for her project on pet therapy, and was also elected Treasurer of the student council. Nina, as a National Junior Honors Society member, was selected Valedictorian upon completing middle school. Currently she is the captain of her competitive soccer team.
"The trip to Washington D.C. was extraordinary! We students learned so much more about the Holocaust than our history textbooks could tell us. By hearing the thoughts and opinions of several dignitaries, we were able to not only learn about the Holocaust, but from the Holocaust. The private tour of the Holocaust Museum was extremely moving--- something that could not have been experienced at home in the classroom. Thank you immensely for giving us the opportunity to travel to D.C. where we learned so much. I learned that it is imperative as the next generation of our country to acknowledge the horrors of the Holocaust and learn from it that it is vital that the people of the world, no matter their race, religion, or gender, are respected."
ELIJAH BISHOP
Elijah, a National Junior Honor Society member, is currently a 9th grade student at Bishop John J Snyder High School in Jacksonville, Florida to which he received a “Focus on Excellence” scholarship award. Amongst his many accomplishments he has received awards as the First Place winner for Florida middle schools with his essay submission to the Holocaust Reflection Contest, First Place in an essay contest earning him the Caroline Trisnadel Scholarship (Value of Education) at Annunciation Catholic School, The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Patriot’s Pen Essay Award for 2014-15, various awards for local and regional speech contests, as well as being an award winner of the Notre Dame Catholic Confirmation Essay program providing scholarship dollars to attend Bishop John J Snyder High School. Elijah further served as Captain of both the Brain Brawl academic competition and the Bishop's Bowl Catholic Academic teams and is currently a Life Scout in Troop 425 at the St. Luke Parish in Middleburg, Florida in addition to volunteering at a number of community centers.
"The trip was more than I could have ever imagined. Last night, when mom and I were in the hotel, we looked through the pictures and it seemed as though I had a story about each and every one of them. The people that we met and the things that we had done are not what most individuals would have the opportunity to do. I was really inspired by Mrs. Margit Meissner (Holocaust Survivor) and the incredible story she told. The visits to FOX and CNN were so much fun and I have so much respect for Mr. James Rosen and Mr. John King. I have even seen clips of them on Fox News and CNN since our meeting. It was fun to say, "I met him!"
Elijah, a National Junior Honor Society member, is currently a 9th grade student at Bishop John J Snyder High School in Jacksonville, Florida to which he received a “Focus on Excellence” scholarship award. Amongst his many accomplishments he has received awards as the First Place winner for Florida middle schools with his essay submission to the Holocaust Reflection Contest, First Place in an essay contest earning him the Caroline Trisnadel Scholarship (Value of Education) at Annunciation Catholic School, The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Patriot’s Pen Essay Award for 2014-15, various awards for local and regional speech contests, as well as being an award winner of the Notre Dame Catholic Confirmation Essay program providing scholarship dollars to attend Bishop John J Snyder High School. Elijah further served as Captain of both the Brain Brawl academic competition and the Bishop's Bowl Catholic Academic teams and is currently a Life Scout in Troop 425 at the St. Luke Parish in Middleburg, Florida in addition to volunteering at a number of community centers.
"The trip was more than I could have ever imagined. Last night, when mom and I were in the hotel, we looked through the pictures and it seemed as though I had a story about each and every one of them. The people that we met and the things that we had done are not what most individuals would have the opportunity to do. I was really inspired by Mrs. Margit Meissner (Holocaust Survivor) and the incredible story she told. The visits to FOX and CNN were so much fun and I have so much respect for Mr. James Rosen and Mr. John King. I have even seen clips of them on Fox News and CNN since our meeting. It was fun to say, "I met him!"
GARRETT GOLD
Garrett is a 10th grade student at Palm Beach Central High School. He has been a member of both the National Junior Honor Society and FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America). As a member of the Debate Club in middle school, Garrett was consistently chosen as the debate team leader. He enjoys helping those less fortunate by delivering food, painting houses and volunteering to spend time with elderly residents of an assisted living facility. He currently volunteers with the Salvation Army assisting with food packaging and distribution for children who do not have enough food in their homes. As a member of the concert band, he enjoys playing the clarinet. With his easy going nature, Garrett always finds the good in others and stands up against bullying, racism and anti-semitism without hesitation. With his strong moral compass, Garrett is an outstanding role model in always doing, and encouraging others to do the right thing.
"I am still in awe of the incredible trip we took to Washington, D.C. Visiting the Holocaust Museum and meeting Margit Meissner meant a lot to me. I still think about how lucky we were to get to go to so many embassies, to the State Department and to the US Capitol. While there is still so much intolerance in the world, meeting ambassadors, congress members and other important dignitaries gave me hope that the world is listening to our message."
Garrett is a 10th grade student at Palm Beach Central High School. He has been a member of both the National Junior Honor Society and FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America). As a member of the Debate Club in middle school, Garrett was consistently chosen as the debate team leader. He enjoys helping those less fortunate by delivering food, painting houses and volunteering to spend time with elderly residents of an assisted living facility. He currently volunteers with the Salvation Army assisting with food packaging and distribution for children who do not have enough food in their homes. As a member of the concert band, he enjoys playing the clarinet. With his easy going nature, Garrett always finds the good in others and stands up against bullying, racism and anti-semitism without hesitation. With his strong moral compass, Garrett is an outstanding role model in always doing, and encouraging others to do the right thing.
"I am still in awe of the incredible trip we took to Washington, D.C. Visiting the Holocaust Museum and meeting Margit Meissner meant a lot to me. I still think about how lucky we were to get to go to so many embassies, to the State Department and to the US Capitol. While there is still so much intolerance in the world, meeting ambassadors, congress members and other important dignitaries gave me hope that the world is listening to our message."
SUSANA OBANDO
Susana is one of the six winners of the 2015 Holocaust Reflection Contest. She is a graduate of Sagemont Academy in Weston, Florida and will be attending Emerson College to study film production and theater. This contest clearly transcends beyond the heinous crimes of the Holocaust. It is actually a valuable effort that Craig and Barbara Weiner, along with Nova Southeastern University, have created to combat anti-semitism and racism. During our g group trip to Washington D.C., I had the privilege to confer with people in Congress, in the Senate, foreign ambassadors, astute and prolific reporters, missionaries who dedicate their lives to better serve our country, and even a Holocaust survivor of Auschwitz. Amongst many of the things we discussed, we were totally united as a group to create awareness of the importance of combatting anti-semitism and racism starting with intimations by high ranking politicians in Washington D.C. My life course has forever been changed because of this experience, and I do hope that all students participate in this state-wide competition, not only for the prospect of winning, but because the Holocaust DID happen, and remembering it DOES matter.
Susana is one of the six winners of the 2015 Holocaust Reflection Contest. She is a graduate of Sagemont Academy in Weston, Florida and will be attending Emerson College to study film production and theater. This contest clearly transcends beyond the heinous crimes of the Holocaust. It is actually a valuable effort that Craig and Barbara Weiner, along with Nova Southeastern University, have created to combat anti-semitism and racism. During our g group trip to Washington D.C., I had the privilege to confer with people in Congress, in the Senate, foreign ambassadors, astute and prolific reporters, missionaries who dedicate their lives to better serve our country, and even a Holocaust survivor of Auschwitz. Amongst many of the things we discussed, we were totally united as a group to create awareness of the importance of combatting anti-semitism and racism starting with intimations by high ranking politicians in Washington D.C. My life course has forever been changed because of this experience, and I do hope that all students participate in this state-wide competition, not only for the prospect of winning, but because the Holocaust DID happen, and remembering it DOES matter.
DAILEY JACKSON
Dailey is one of the six winners of the 2016 Holocaust Reflection Contest. She attends Bishop Kenny High School in Jacksonville, Florida. "I would like to express how thankful I am for this experience. Thank you for allowing all these great kids and parents to see what happens from hate. The work that you and your wife are doing is truly amazing. This trip has not only boosted my self-confidence with my art, but it also allowed me to meet more people who are similar to me. I look forward to telling everyone what the Holocaust was REALLY like, how it affected humanity, and what we can do to make sure this never happens again."
"Quite honestly, when I heard about the trip I assumed it was going to be another one of those field trips we have in school. I thought I was just going to learn about he basic events of the Holocaust and meet a few people along the way. But, right when I walked in the doors of the Holocaust Museum, I knew this journey was going to be special. Walking through the museum and learning in depth about the events was wonderful, but when I sat down to hear Agi Geva’s testimony, I was just stunned. It really clicked in my mind that millions of people had to live, and die through this time. It struck me how little our problems are nowadays. Because of her story, I can put my life into perspective, and I just won’t complain or worry about the little things. On top of that, Lawrence Haas and James Rosen taught me the results of hard work. No matter how hard the battle is, or how much pain you have to go through, you can succeed. It made me think of the struggle that the people of the Holocaust had to go through. And then how the world finally fought against this terrible event. The next day, when we visited the embassies, my viewpoint was shifted from just America, to the entire world. Hearing about how Israel, Britain, Germany, and the rest of the world deals with cruelty really shows how big an issue hate and intolerance is. Hearing from the representatives of these countries it showed me that in in tense times of need, the world can still band together for a common cause in the same way that a diverse group of people can work together, no matter how different they are. Finally, on the last day I got to see the reality of the world today. I was able to speak to high government officials about a serious issue that concern everyone. I had a voice against hate. It showed me that even if intolerance and cruelty still continues today, we aren't helpless against it. We can fight it. And now, just as Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Senator Marco Rubio served as someone I could talk to, I now want to serve as someone that others can tell their feelings to, so that I can take action.Thank you again for this life changing experience. The trip has changed me more than I will ever realize. I hope that this program will be able to continue for many decades to come."
Dailey is one of the six winners of the 2016 Holocaust Reflection Contest. She attends Bishop Kenny High School in Jacksonville, Florida. "I would like to express how thankful I am for this experience. Thank you for allowing all these great kids and parents to see what happens from hate. The work that you and your wife are doing is truly amazing. This trip has not only boosted my self-confidence with my art, but it also allowed me to meet more people who are similar to me. I look forward to telling everyone what the Holocaust was REALLY like, how it affected humanity, and what we can do to make sure this never happens again."
"Quite honestly, when I heard about the trip I assumed it was going to be another one of those field trips we have in school. I thought I was just going to learn about he basic events of the Holocaust and meet a few people along the way. But, right when I walked in the doors of the Holocaust Museum, I knew this journey was going to be special. Walking through the museum and learning in depth about the events was wonderful, but when I sat down to hear Agi Geva’s testimony, I was just stunned. It really clicked in my mind that millions of people had to live, and die through this time. It struck me how little our problems are nowadays. Because of her story, I can put my life into perspective, and I just won’t complain or worry about the little things. On top of that, Lawrence Haas and James Rosen taught me the results of hard work. No matter how hard the battle is, or how much pain you have to go through, you can succeed. It made me think of the struggle that the people of the Holocaust had to go through. And then how the world finally fought against this terrible event. The next day, when we visited the embassies, my viewpoint was shifted from just America, to the entire world. Hearing about how Israel, Britain, Germany, and the rest of the world deals with cruelty really shows how big an issue hate and intolerance is. Hearing from the representatives of these countries it showed me that in in tense times of need, the world can still band together for a common cause in the same way that a diverse group of people can work together, no matter how different they are. Finally, on the last day I got to see the reality of the world today. I was able to speak to high government officials about a serious issue that concern everyone. I had a voice against hate. It showed me that even if intolerance and cruelty still continues today, we aren't helpless against it. We can fight it. And now, just as Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Senator Marco Rubio served as someone I could talk to, I now want to serve as someone that others can tell their feelings to, so that I can take action.Thank you again for this life changing experience. The trip has changed me more than I will ever realize. I hope that this program will be able to continue for many decades to come."
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DOMINIQUE DEER
Dominique is currently a 12th grade student at The Academy of the Holy Names in Tampa, Florida. She was a winner in the art category of the Holocaust Reflection Contest in 2015 at the end of her eighth grade year. "I traveled to Washington DC with the other winners and met wonderful people, visited many places, and learned more than I could have imagined about acceptance, speaking out, and respect." Dominique was the recipient of a full 4 year scholarship to her current high school due to her outstanding achievements in art while in middle school, as well as her being a winner of The Holocaust Reflection Contest. She currently works with a club at her school called POWER which stands for Proud Outstanding Women Encouraging Respect. "We encourage our members to speak out against injustice and participate in activities promoting equality." "Being involved with this contest and the Holocaust Learning and Education Fund has changed my life in numerous ways. It has encouraged me to be myself, love others unconditionally, and has taught me much about loyalty, acceptance, and friendship. I plan on attending college next year and bringing these values and lessons with me. I cannot be more thankful for these experiences." |
EMMA ROME
Emma is one of the winners of the 2018 Holocaust Reflection Contest. She is a tenth grade student that attends First Academy in Leesburg, Florida. There, she plays volleyball and is in the National Honors Society. In the 2018 Holocaust Reflection Contest, she was selected as a winner in the high school art category. She is always ready to take on a new challenge, do her very best at everything, and show God’s love to the people she meets.
"This contest was very special to me because my great-grandma was a holocaust survivor. It is very important for our generation to learn as much as we can about the Holocaust and its survivors so that this atrocious time in history would never repeat itself. Thank you so much, Craig and Barbara Weiner, for contributing to the awareness of the Holocaust so that students and parents are moved to do something about combating hate, prejudice and intolerance in our society so that this horrible part of human history will not repeat itself."
Emma is one of the winners of the 2018 Holocaust Reflection Contest. She is a tenth grade student that attends First Academy in Leesburg, Florida. There, she plays volleyball and is in the National Honors Society. In the 2018 Holocaust Reflection Contest, she was selected as a winner in the high school art category. She is always ready to take on a new challenge, do her very best at everything, and show God’s love to the people she meets.
"This contest was very special to me because my great-grandma was a holocaust survivor. It is very important for our generation to learn as much as we can about the Holocaust and its survivors so that this atrocious time in history would never repeat itself. Thank you so much, Craig and Barbara Weiner, for contributing to the awareness of the Holocaust so that students and parents are moved to do something about combating hate, prejudice and intolerance in our society so that this horrible part of human history will not repeat itself."