McGorty, Shelton Legislators Honor Student Essay Winners

Recently, State Representative Ben McGorty, State Representative Jason Perillo and State Senator Kevin Kelly joined Naugatuck Valley Savings and Loan to honor student essay winners from Perry Hill and St. Joseph Schools in Shelton.

The students participated in an essay contest where they wrote about “Important Women in Connecticut’s History” and how their contributions to the state affected them.

The contest – held during Women’s History month in March – was open to all sixth grade students in Shelton.  The contest rules required students to compose a 300-word original essay. Winners from Perry Hill School were:

• Elizabeth Porto – profiled Actor, Katherine Hepburn
• Mya Gabriel – wrote about American Feminist, Charlotte Perkins Gilman
• Caroline McCormick – described the life of Joan Steitz a Sterling Professor of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry at Yale University
• Sydney Leifer – honored Alice Hamilton, first woman appointed to the faculty of Harvard University and was a leading expert in the field of occupational health.

Winners chosen from St. Joseph School:

• Anna Akter – wrote about former Connecticut Governor Ella Grasso
• Daniel Ramos – showcased Joan Steitz, a Sterling Professor of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry at Yale University
• Ana Bushati – focused on Harriot Beecher Stowe, American Abolitionist and Author

“These essayists showcased excellent topics and demonstrated in-depth research,” said Rep. McGorty.  “They have earned this recognition for their superior scholarship.”

The Principals, Teachers and Students of Perry Hill School and St. Joseph School along with the legislators thanked Naugatuck Valley Savings and Loan for sponsoring the educational event.