CATEGORY:ACADEMIC AWARD --------------------------- INSIDE GRENADA Sunday March 25,2007 (EDITOR’S NOTE) The EU Buckmire Award is an annual award which is given to the student in the parish of St. Andrew whose CXC performance is most outstanding in the sciences.Although it is a science award, to qualify for it the student must be well-rounded (he/she must secure passes in Math, English,a foreign language and a social science). The award is given in honour of the founder of the Parris Pharmacy in Grenville which has been in existence and has been serving the parish/nation for decades.The legacy is now continued by his sons- all of whom are scientists. TELESCOPE,St. Andrew's: The most recent recipient of the EU Buckmire Award is Leon Abel, former student of the St. Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School (SAASS). He was presented with his award at a ceremony held at SAASS earlier on this month. The following citation was delivered at the ceremony by Ms. Alana Felix, a teacher of the school: “Mediocrity knows nothing higher than itself, but talent instantly recognises genius.” I am indeed honoured to be a part of this afternoon’s exercise to recognise and reward the achievements of the most humble, hardworking young man- Mr. Leon Abel. I had the pleasure of teaching Leon both English A and Spanish up to Form 3 and English A right up to Form 5. Leon began his journey at SAASS in September of 2001- a soft spoken and humble student who was somewhat diffident as well. It seemed paradoxical however, that a child with such a cool demeanour could, even at the tender age of 12, display such a keen desire to learn and an incredible passion for school. From the onset, Leon’s exceptional talents were manifested/discovered. He was one of the few students who excelled in all his subject areas- the arts as well as the sciences. In all of his classes Leon was always number one. Leon’s average at the end of each school term always exceeded 86 per cent, as a matter of fact, it has soared to as much as 95% at times. Leon’s outstanding performance and his determination were not only displayed in the area of academics. In sports too he did his utmost. I don’t think that he ever won a gold medal. What I do know however, is that Leon partook in every single event in his division- fully aware, it seems, in the words of Napoleon Hill that "effort only fully releases its reward after a person refuses to quit." His fortitude was admirable. Leon was truly a well-rounded individual. Throughout his tenure at SAASS he was involved in a number of extra and co-curricular activities. He was very actively involved in the science club of the school as a matter of fact he was president of that same club. He also represented his house- Pigott house in the school’s annual debating competition. It was no surprise to anyone when he was adjudged most outstanding debater. Leon has also led a team of students who represented the school in the SGU knowledge bowl competition in 2006- his last year at SAASS. It is said that “great ability develops and reveals itself increasingly with every new assignment.”- Exactly the case with Leon. As he advanced through school, the once timid child matured into an outspoken, assertive young man. Perhaps one of Leon’s most outstanding attributes however, was his discipline. He was a student of immaculate discipline. It is quite difficult for me to ever recall a time when Leon did not conform to the rules of the school. This does not in any way implies that he readily accepted whatever he was told regardless. No. He sometimes challenged certain principles/practices but never in a disrespectful manner. Leon’s positive attitude is also very worthy of mention. He was not one to complain unnecessarily. He has had to learn under the most dire conditions but he was never daunted. Rather than complain about the thorns among the roses, he chose to rejoice because the thorns had roses- a true demonstration of the character of the young man. Through my experience with Leon the old maxim “Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it” has gained much credibility. For Leon embodies all three of these attributes hence his impressive achievements thus far. During his graduation ceremony last year Leon’s name became embedded in the minds of all who were present. He received the awards for outstanding performances in the areas of English, Mathematics, French, Spanish and the Pure Sciences. He also received the Principal’s award. Leon really stole the show. And deservingly so! Absolutely no one was surprised therefore, with Leon’s remarkable performance at the CXC examinations. Leon sat and passed 11 subjects- gaining 10 grade ones and a lone grade 2 in Mathematics in the said exams. The subjects in which he attained grade one include: English A and B, Spanish, French, Geography, Social Studies, Principles of Business, Chemistry, Biology and Physics. Ladies and Gentlemen, students all, it really is no wonder that Leon is rewarded today for his extraordinary achievements- Among the students of St. Andrew’s- Most outstanding performance in the sciences in the 2006 CXC examinations. Leon has left an enduring impression on all who has had the pleasure of being associated with him. Because of his hard work, his perseverance, his pristine attitude and his exemplary discipline Leon has thus far excelled and will no doubt continue to do so. Today we join with his family, his friends and the Buckmire family to offer heartfelt congratulations to Leon as he proudly receives the E.U Buckmire Award of Excellence- Hats off Abel!