At the top of their game OHS SENIORS AWARDED FOR TOP-RANKING SAT SCORES BY JOY RICHARD TIMES STAFF WRITER OXFORD — Academically neck and neck for years, two of Oxford High School’s best were honored for four years of hard work. For seniors Ben Murray, 17, and Erin Sullivan, 17, fighting for first place academically has just become par for the course. The pair recently accepted two of the more prestigious scholastic awards —the National Merit Commendation Award and the Oxford Public School Superintendent’s Award for Excellence. The Merit Commendation honors students from all over the United States who have scored in the top 3 percent nationally on the PSATs. According to Oxford High School Principal Kevin Wells, the award hasn’t been given to an OHS student in more than a decade and he said he is thrilled to see Murray and Sullivan rewarded for their hard work. Both seniors were also awarded the Oxford Public School Superintendent’s Award for Excellence. Wells said this was the first time the citation had been given to two students, but since their GPAs were separated by less than a grade point, administrators thought it was only fair. During an interview with the Webster Times last week, the classmates and friends joked about how they have been in constant competition for the number one place in their class since middle school. They added the rivalry is nothing but friendly competition and they are on each other’s side when it comes to succeeding. “I think we first noticed at middle school graduation,” said Murray, referencing their neck-and-neck race for the top spot.He added that while they weren’t friends when they were younger, similar social circles and after-school activities have given them the opportunity to get to know one another better. Murray is Student Council president, Sullivan is vice president, and they are also in Theater Club together. Murray said he is looking forward to college and is currently in the process of applying to school. He said he would like to study secondary education and his top two dream schools are Boston College and the University of Connecticut. Sullivan said she is also looking at school and hopes to study political science with a focus on policy. She said her top two choices are the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester and Boston College. “At the beginning we weren’t close friends. It was more competitive, but now we are friends and we want each other to do well — well, at least I do,” she said with a laugh. “I am first [in the 2014 class] and he is second by less than a point.” Sullivan said it was truly a shock to get the congratulations letter for the National Merit Award. She said she knew Murray had already received his so she didn’t think they would send her one too. Wells added that the two seniors are hard workers and have a lot to offer when they graduate. “They are two great kids and are very much involved with the school,” said Wells. “I just think that they are prime examples of what Oxford High School has to offer to all its students. It was through their commitment,dedication and family support that they have obtained the level of academic success that they have.” Joy Richard may be reached at 508-909-4129 or by email at jrichard@stonebridgepress. com.
Posted on: Thu, 24 Oct 2013 14:00:33 +0000