Ponaganset High School Announces 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients

GLOCESTER, R.I. - Jan. 18, 2024 - PRLog -- The recipients of the 2023 Ponaganset Distinguished Alumni Award (DAA) have been announced.  The recipients are:  Arnold Poole (class of 1975), Linda Samson Lane (class of 1978), Heidi Verity Rivard (class of 1984), and Jeff Hopkins (class of 1988.)  The DAA is awarded to Ponaganset alumni that have distinguished themselves in their field of work or study, or in their community.

The 2023 recipients exemplify the high standards and community contributions the award was intended to highlight.  Mr. Poole is a retired Major in the US Marine Corps who has distinguished himself as a court-appointed criminal defense attorney and fair-minded Municipal Court Judge, in addition to serving in the capacity of volunteer for many community organizations.  Ms. Samson Lane, better known as "Sensei Linda" to many, is a community leader managing a successful martial arts studio and a career as a makeup artist serving the television and film industry.  Ms. Verity Rivard, now retired as Captain, was the first female officer with the Providence Fire Department. Mr. Hopkins is a renowned, artist, illustrator and educator who has become known to many through his PBS series, "Sketch with Jeff," part of the CAMP TV show.

Detailed information about each recipients' careers and accomplishments is available on the Foster-Glocester School System website at:

http://www.fg.k12.ri.us/cms/One.aspx?portalId=87963&pageId=255448.

A public award ceremony is anticipated in November 2025 and will recognize the winners in person.

Nominations for the 2024 Ponaganset Distinguished Alumni Award (DAA) are open now and will remain open until May 1, 2024.  Information and nomination forms may be found on the Foster-Glocester School System website at http://www.fg.k12.ri.us/cms/One.aspx?portalId=87963&pageId=255448 or by calling the Superintendent's office at 401-710-7568.  Completed nomination forms and supporting information can be emailed to PonagansetDAA@gmail.com or mailed to the address provided on the nomination form.

It is the mission of the DAA committee to honor individuals who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to their field of work, to their community, or to society. Nominees must have graduated from Ponaganset High School, must have graduated at least ten years prior to the nomination, and must display the highest standards of ethical conduct and moral character. Applications are open each year and must be submitted by May 1 to be considered for that year. Updated information on previously submitted candidates is encouraged and welcomed.