2011 Scholarship Recipient
Gabe Erion
Nominated by Linda Purrington
I am honored to be able to nominate Gabe Erion: an exceptional person and an exceptional student. Each year our high school graduates an elite group of two or three students whose academic abilities, extra-curricular contributions, work habits and personal qualities are second to none. Gabe Erion is at the top of this elite group.
Gabe has an unblemished transcript, which is no small feat. He has never avoided difficult courses, but searches for academic challenges. His intelligence, quite influence, morals and values, along with his positive attitude, reflect an outstanding individual in Gabe.
In my 32 years of counseling, Gabe has been the most dependable, dedicated and conscientious student with which I’ve ever worked. Gabe is self-motivated; creative, with the highest work ethic; stimulated with a thirst for knowledge, both academically and artistically. Without a doubt, he is one of our future leaders who will make a positive impact on society.
Gabe’s focus is service to other, not self. Gabe has volunteered throughout high school in many capacities: library volunteer, peer tutor, building web sites for the BHS Bank program, Habitat for Humanity, Feeding Brookings, Harvest Table and Science Visions. I am on the board and a volunteer worker for Harvest Table, which provides a free, once-a-week meal to anyone in the community who has a need. I have had the opportunity to observe Gabe’s commitment to this program. For two years, Gabe has arrived every Monday at Harvest Table ready to take on the various challenges of that day. He may sack and pack diapers, mark and shelf canned food, serve milk or food, wash or dry over 200 to 280 plates, bowls and glasses, sack up groceries for each of our 200 families to take home a bag, or sweep the floors. It is always an extremely hectic 2 ½ hours. Gabe immediately pitches in: he is motivated, dedicated, ambitious and hardworking. He is a leader by example through this tremendous work ethic. The high school and college volunteers seek him out, as he is this tireless, eager worker who effortlessly delegates tasks and encourages each volunteer. The sincerity and compassion he shows to each guest is remarkable. He has surpassed his peers in his philanthropic endeavors, giving freely of his time to multiple causes in our community. He serves as a positive role model for all.
Gabe is a young man of integrity; a genuinely fine person. He displays sensitivity, humility, kindness and patience to everyone around him. He is well-liked by peers and teachers. He sets high standards for himself and puts forth the effort needed to always reach his goals. He has found great satisfaction in doing weekly volunteer work in our community. He is well-grounded and has a strong sense of who he is and what he hopes to accomplish in his future.
Gabe is an outstanding student, leader and person. I nominate Gabe Erion for the Ashley and Amanda Loban Scholarship.