APRIL 2023
FRESHMAN: Cadet Sadie Heiger has been nominated by Mrs. Dick as her last shining seahawk of her teaching career. Sadie is a student in her Honors English class. She has one of the best overall grades AND one of the best overall attitudes. Sadie has such a positive spirit. She's hard working, she's kind, and she's a pleasure to have in class. She puts 100% effort into everything she does...always with a smile. She's the first to volunteer and also not afraid to advocate for herself if there's a question. She's simply one of the best, and Mrs Dick said to say that she’s glad that she got to teach her this year before she retired.
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Eric Dorsey has been nominated by Mrs. Short because he is an excellent example of a shining Seahawk. He is a star on and off the field. He plays on the varsity football team and is a positive role model for both his teammates and class mates. Cadet Dorsey is also the kind of student that every teacher wants to have in their classroom. He comes to class every day prepared and ready to learn. He is attentive in the class and asks great higher order thinking questions. Cadet Dorsey is also respectful and helpful to staff and his fellow cadets. He is patient and works hard to engage and learn new material. I know that cadet Dorsey can accomplish anything he sets his mind to and I cannot wait to see what he achieves moving forward.
JUNIOR: Our junior cadet, Cadet Zak Ward personifies all of the wonderful qualities that make Shining Seahawk the highest award a cadet can receive from DMA. Since the moment Zak walked into DMA, he has become an integral part of nearly all activities and events. To say that Zak is involved at DMA is an understatement, for there is rarely a day that he is not on campus. From the drill team, choir, regimental staff, and honor guard, to track and field and mock trial, Zak is ever present, ever vigilant and forever volunteering and participating. Zak is thoughtful, kind and giving and will even laugh at Mrs. Soltow’s unfunny jokes to show his wonderful smile. It is a pleasure having him in class the first thing in the morning for his energy lights up even the darkest day. Zak's greatness does not end with his love of DMA and his ever-present involvement - it only begins. Even with his busy schedule, Zak takes the most challenging classes here at DMA and ranks at the top of the Junior class. Zak earns high grades in all of his classes and is the first cadet to help others, whether it is in solving an equation or setting up a lab. He scored #1 on the Asvab test and hopes to continue his education at the US Naval Academy. Zak is truly deserving of this honor and he will continue to be a success in all that he does. Bravo Zulu Zak!!!
SENIOR: Cadet Drew Simpson has been nominated by Mr. Lingenfelter. Drew’s career here at DMA has been so rewarding, because he leads by example and has shown this leadership, time and time again, in not only the classroom, but on the mat, and on the field as well. Drew doesn’t showboat, he gets the job done. He doesn’t need to tell people who he is, he shows them. Drew isn’t conceited, doesn’t talk the talk. Drew is a dedicated Cadet who excelled in all he has done, by performing when it counts. Congratulations Drew, you’ve climbed the Mountain Top Well.
MARCH 2023
FRESHMAN: Cadet Joshua Roy has been nominated by Mrs. Limmina, for his tremendous growth from the beginning of his Freshman year to now. Josh started the school year not very enthusiastic to learn or be in school (and he would agree with this) and just wanted to get by. Come Marking Period 2, Josh had a complete turn around and all his teachers noticed. Something just "clicked." Josh is now the most vocal student in the room - he is among the cadets who participate most and is often asking higher-level conceptual questions showing that he is thinking even deeper into the mathematics. He is often the first done his math work before it is even assigned. He comes to class prepared, ready to learn and ready to participate. He has improved so much that he achieved all A's in MP3. Josh also keeps his other classmates in line and shows others around him how to be respectful. He is always seen in the hall with a smile on his face greeting his teachers and wishing them a good day. Josh was chosen as Shining Seahawk because he is a student who has come into his own. He didn't start off as strong as his teachers knew he was capable of but he made a decision. He decided he has goals and he discovered who he wants to be. Josh, continue striving for the best you can be and huge success is coming your way!!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Rachel Logullo is being nominated for shining Seahawk for being an exemplary student. She excels academically and is always respectful to students and faculty alike. Education is extremely important to her and she works hard to better herself every day, she is a role model to her fellow cadets. She always completes her classwork and homework and is attentive in class. She works hard to get A’s on all of her assessments and has one of the highest grades in Honors Biology. When she graduates high school, she has aspiration of being a doctor. Cadet Logullo is also helpful to her peers and faculty alike. If you ask her to help out a fellow cadet or a faculty member, she is always happy to assist and does so without complaint. We can’t wait to see what she is able to accomplish, congratulations and Bravo Zulu!
JUNIOR: C/Rylee O'Donnell stepped up in the middle of AMI preparations, earning her position as Regimental Admin Officer just 2 weeks before AMI. Upon this appointment, she quickly coordinated several working parties with the Battalion and Company Admin Officers where she instituted a full-steam-ahead approach. This ensured all required paperwork work was on file and properly organized for the Area 4 manager's review during the AMI. She and her team committed over 40 hours of work to the NJROTC Admin Department during Naval Science and after-school and on the weekend. Rylee is a true shining seahawk and the epitome of what it means to be a part of something bigger than herself.
SENIOR: Positivity is defined as the practice or tendency to be positive or optimistic in life. When we are positive, we engage in positive thinking, have positive emotions, and engage in positive behaviors like kindness and generosity.
Alayjah Pressey defines this character trait. I am certain Alayjah has bad days from time to time, the difference is Alayjah does not allow a negative situation to define her or derail her from her goals. Alayjah carries herself in a manner that does not coincide with negativity or toxicity.
Always having a kind word to others, a smile on her face and a willingness to lend a helping hand when needed. Her positive and upbeat personality bleeds over into her appearance which is demonstrated by the respect and pride she has for the NJROTC uniform... which is always on point.
Alayjah, I believe your future is bright, because you are someone other folks and leaders will want to be associated with. Continue to work hard, remain positive and always go that extra mile to strengthen your family or organization you are associated with. To me, it is clear your attitude, work ethic and presence is noticed and will take you as far as you choose to go.
FEBRUARY 2023
FRESHMAN: Cadet Liana Trilla has been chosen as our Freshman Shining Seahawk. Since the beginning of our 2022-2023 school Year Cadet Liana Trilla has demonstrated every trait of an exemplary leader. She goes out of her way to lead the Platoon with passion and determination in and out of the classroom. She leads with a helping hand and strength to make sure her platoon is the best they can possibly be. She is a perfect example of a DMA Cadet, showcasing her motivation and hunger to be the best she can possibly be. Cadet Trilla exceeds in every category of leadership, Citizenship and Scholarship with her strong traits of gratitude, Integrity and courage and this makes her stand out as a Shining Seahawk. Congratulations Cadet Trilla!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Faith Albert is being recognized as the Sophomore Class as Shining Seahawk for the month of February 2023. Faith is an accomplished and goal oriented young woman who personifies the Navy’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment. She serves as the lead member of the NJROTC Supply Inventory Team – a position of great responsibility. In this capacity she receives, stows, issues, and maintains an accurate inventory for over $550,000 of NJROTC clothing and uniform material. Her can-do attitude and commitment to excellence is most noteworthy along with her team player approach as she contributed greatly to DMA’s 2023 Annual Military Inspection.
Congratulations Faith, you are truly an outstanding example of a Shining Seahawk!
JUNIOR: The administration recognizes Cadet McKenna Vest as Junior Shining Seahawk.
C/McKenna Vest has quickly found her place at DMA by learning and exemplifying the three ships of DMA. She has stepped up since day 1 of New Cadet Orientation over this past summer and at every opportunity presented. Most recently, she volunteered to help Regimental Admin complete and file mandatory paperwork as the unit worked towards AMI. She committed over 10 hours of work to the Admin department after school hours and during her Naval Science block which earned her a placement as Company Admin. McKenna is a true shining seahawk and the epitome of what it means to be a part of something bigger than herself. Congratulations McKenna!
SENIOR: Cadet Isaac DiMaio is being recognized by the DMA Staff as Senior Class Shining Seahawk. Cadet DiMaio is an outstanding student and all-around excellent person. He excels in academics, always putting his education first, and is always respectful to students and faculty alike. He is a great leader as evidenced by his skill and popularity as Student Government President. He truly exemplifies the core values of citizenship, scholarship, and leadership. Congratulations Isaac!
FRESHMAN: Cadet Liana Trilla has been chosen as our Freshman Shining Seahawk. Since the beginning of our 2022-2023 school Year Cadet Liana Trilla has demonstrated every trait of an exemplary leader. She goes out of her way to lead the Platoon with passion and determination in and out of the classroom. She leads with a helping hand and strength to make sure her platoon is the best they can possibly be. She is a perfect example of a DMA Cadet, showcasing her motivation and hunger to be the best she can possibly be. Cadet Trilla exceeds in every category of leadership, Citizenship and Scholarship with her strong traits of gratitude, Integrity and courage and this makes her stand out as a Shining Seahawk. Congratulations Cadet Trilla!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Faith Albert is being recognized as the Sophomore Class as Shining Seahawk for the month of February 2023. Faith is an accomplished and goal oriented young woman who personifies the Navy’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment. She serves as the lead member of the NJROTC Supply Inventory Team – a position of great responsibility. In this capacity she receives, stows, issues, and maintains an accurate inventory for over $550,000 of NJROTC clothing and uniform material. Her can-do attitude and commitment to excellence is most noteworthy along with her team player approach as she contributed greatly to DMA’s 2023 Annual Military Inspection.
Congratulations Faith, you are truly an outstanding example of a Shining Seahawk!
JUNIOR: The administration recognizes Cadet McKenna Vest as Junior Shining Seahawk.
C/McKenna Vest has quickly found her place at DMA by learning and exemplifying the three ships of DMA. She has stepped up since day 1 of New Cadet Orientation over this past summer and at every opportunity presented. Most recently, she volunteered to help Regimental Admin complete and file mandatory paperwork as the unit worked towards AMI. She committed over 10 hours of work to the Admin department after school hours and during her Naval Science block which earned her a placement as Company Admin. McKenna is a true shining seahawk and the epitome of what it means to be a part of something bigger than herself. Congratulations McKenna!
SENIOR: Cadet Isaac DiMaio is being recognized by the DMA Staff as Senior Class Shining Seahawk. Cadet DiMaio is an outstanding student and all-around excellent person. He excels in academics, always putting his education first, and is always respectful to students and faculty alike. He is a great leader as evidenced by his skill and popularity as Student Government President. He truly exemplifies the core values of citizenship, scholarship, and leadership. Congratulations Isaac!
JANUARY 2023
FRESHMAN: Cadet Nissi Wadieh is being recognized by the DMA Staff as Freshman Class Shining Seahawk. Cadet Wadieh consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership, superb initiative, professionalism, and meticulous attention to duty. Nissi exemplifies a Cadet first, mission always mentality. As a natural born leader, she is able to demonstrate the leadership traits and serve as a living example of the Navy Core Values of honor, courage, and commitment. As the new-cadet Color Guard Team Commander, her leadership was instrumental in her team placing in the Bulldog Classic at First State Military Academy. Cadet Wadieh is a ready source of motivation and inspiration, always motivating others to do their best and she knows how to lead people.
Congratulations Nissi, and keep up the great work!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Adrian DiMaio has been chosen as sophomore Shining Seahawk because he is one of the most respectful and driven cadets they have ever had the privilege to teach. Other than Adrian’s consistency in maintaining more-than-impressive grades on everything he does, he also is an amazing peer coach; he has been observed helping his classmates work through tough questions and activities, never just giving them the answers, but always guiding them through the process of learning to make sure they understand. Adrian also consistently brings new ideas and an impressive understanding of the content to the table! As a cadet who never asks for shortcuts and never complains, Adrian is nothing short of a model student.
JUNIOR: The administration recognizes Cadet Abigail Pankiw as Junior Shining Seahawk.
Abigail is an outstanding student and all-around excellent person. She excels in academics, and shows a great passion in all she does. She is always respectful to students and faculty alike, and can always be counted on to contribute to DMA’s overall success. She serves as the 4th Company Supply Officer – a position of great responsibility. In this capacity she receives, stows, issues, and maintains an accurate inventory for over $550,000 of NJROTC clothing and uniform material. Her leadership and can-do attitude are most noteworthy as she contributed to DMA’s 2023 Annual Military Inspection.
Abigail shows great ambition and is always striving for the best, exemplifying true citizenship, scholarship, and leadership. Congratulations, Cadet Pankiw!
SENIOR: Cadet Linhy Dewson is being recognized by the DMA Staff as Senior Class Shining Seahawk. Cadet Dewson is an outstanding student who puts forth great effort, and an all-around excellent person. She excels in academics, always putting academics first, and is always kind and respectful to students and faculty alike. She serves in the NJROTC program as the Regimental Operations Officer and aide to the Senior Naval Science Instructor where she excels at every task assigned and always delivers the desired product on time or ahead of schedule. She truly exemplifies leadership, citizenship, and scholarship. Congratulations Linhy!
FRESHMAN: Cadet Nissi Wadieh is being recognized by the DMA Staff as Freshman Class Shining Seahawk. Cadet Wadieh consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership, superb initiative, professionalism, and meticulous attention to duty. Nissi exemplifies a Cadet first, mission always mentality. As a natural born leader, she is able to demonstrate the leadership traits and serve as a living example of the Navy Core Values of honor, courage, and commitment. As the new-cadet Color Guard Team Commander, her leadership was instrumental in her team placing in the Bulldog Classic at First State Military Academy. Cadet Wadieh is a ready source of motivation and inspiration, always motivating others to do their best and she knows how to lead people.
Congratulations Nissi, and keep up the great work!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Adrian DiMaio has been chosen as sophomore Shining Seahawk because he is one of the most respectful and driven cadets they have ever had the privilege to teach. Other than Adrian’s consistency in maintaining more-than-impressive grades on everything he does, he also is an amazing peer coach; he has been observed helping his classmates work through tough questions and activities, never just giving them the answers, but always guiding them through the process of learning to make sure they understand. Adrian also consistently brings new ideas and an impressive understanding of the content to the table! As a cadet who never asks for shortcuts and never complains, Adrian is nothing short of a model student.
JUNIOR: The administration recognizes Cadet Abigail Pankiw as Junior Shining Seahawk.
Abigail is an outstanding student and all-around excellent person. She excels in academics, and shows a great passion in all she does. She is always respectful to students and faculty alike, and can always be counted on to contribute to DMA’s overall success. She serves as the 4th Company Supply Officer – a position of great responsibility. In this capacity she receives, stows, issues, and maintains an accurate inventory for over $550,000 of NJROTC clothing and uniform material. Her leadership and can-do attitude are most noteworthy as she contributed to DMA’s 2023 Annual Military Inspection.
Abigail shows great ambition and is always striving for the best, exemplifying true citizenship, scholarship, and leadership. Congratulations, Cadet Pankiw!
SENIOR: Cadet Linhy Dewson is being recognized by the DMA Staff as Senior Class Shining Seahawk. Cadet Dewson is an outstanding student who puts forth great effort, and an all-around excellent person. She excels in academics, always putting academics first, and is always kind and respectful to students and faculty alike. She serves in the NJROTC program as the Regimental Operations Officer and aide to the Senior Naval Science Instructor where she excels at every task assigned and always delivers the desired product on time or ahead of schedule. She truly exemplifies leadership, citizenship, and scholarship. Congratulations Linhy!
NOVEMBER 2022
FRESHMAN: Cadet Nicholas Daws has been nominated by Ms. Limmina to represent the Freshman Class as the Shining Seahawk for the month of November 2022. Nick is a highly motivated and intelligent cadet who always strives to go above and beyond in the classroom. He is always involved in class, whether asking a clarifying question in front of the class or taking a leadership role within the class during group or class work. Students look up to Nick as a positive role model in the class. He always wants to help others. This often means Nick is helping others instead of finishing his own work first. He truly cares about the success of others and it is evident when he puts the needs of others before himself. He is a true leader and team player. Nick is also an athlete and active community member. He is always seen with a positive attitude and smile on his face. Nick is truly a Shining Seahawk because he sets himself apart from others through his work ethic, drive, motivation and care for others. I see nothing but success in Nick’s future and I can’t wait to see all his accomplishments! Keep up the amazing work, Nick!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Abbygale Riddell has been nominated by Mrs. Diaz to represent the Sophomore Class as Shining Seahawk for October 2022. Cadet Riddell demonstrates responsibility, leadership, and determination through her participation in Spanish class and outside of school. She takes the lead in Spanish class helping other members of the class, showing respect and tolerance. She does not give up when lessons become difficult – instead she communicates with respect asking for clarification. She also collaborates with Mrs. Diaz and her classmates to have a better learning environment, modeling with her behavior and her positive attitude. Cadet Riddell also plays softball and basketball and volunteers at church. She always leads by example and positively motivates others. Mrs. Diaz notes that she is a pleasure to have in Spanish class. Keep up the great work!
JUNIOR: Cadet Ellie Barbato has been nominated by Mrs. Soltow. This is the first time that Mrs. Soltow has nominated a candidate, and there is truly no one more fitting of this achievement and honor than Ellie. Ellie is in Mrs. Soltow’s 1st period AP Biology and we all know that it can be a struggle to learn material at 7:30am, let alone having to learn college level Biology concepts. Yet, each morning Ellie comes in smiling, prepared and eager to learn. When Ellie does not fully understand a concept, she is the first to ask questions and not to simply look up an answer. When a classmate needs help, Ellie is a mentor and helps others to understand. She excels in all areas of AP Biology, especially the labs and experiments. There is no wonder why Ellie has one of the highest grades in the class. She is strong, determined and champions herself over any adversity and she makes us all feel better simply with her smile. However, Ellie's greatness does not end with her stellar academics, it only begins. Ellie exemplifies kindness and maturity. She is courteous to everyone at DMA and builds up her fellow cadets rather than put them down. She takes pride in her appearance and in being a DMA cadet as she participates in many activities. Ellie is always engaged and ready to help. She is strong and fair, determined and funny and personifies all the qualities of a Shining Seahawk.
Congrats Ellie, you deserve it.
SENIOR: Cadet Madison Maynerich has been nominated by MCPO King. Cadet Maynerich is an outstanding student and all-around excellent person. She excels in academics, and shows a great passion in all she does. She is always respectful to students and faculty alike, and as the Regimental Operations Officer, she can always be counted on to complete every task assigned. She shows every day that her education is important to her and she is a great role model for others to follow. During DMA’s annual Veteran’s breakfast, Madison beautifully and elegantly played the five United States service songs on her violin to recognize the veterans and service members during the ceremony. She shows great ambition and is always striving for the best, exemplifying citizenship, scholarship, and leadership. Congratulations Madison!
FRESHMAN: Cadet Nicholas Daws has been nominated by Ms. Limmina to represent the Freshman Class as the Shining Seahawk for the month of November 2022. Nick is a highly motivated and intelligent cadet who always strives to go above and beyond in the classroom. He is always involved in class, whether asking a clarifying question in front of the class or taking a leadership role within the class during group or class work. Students look up to Nick as a positive role model in the class. He always wants to help others. This often means Nick is helping others instead of finishing his own work first. He truly cares about the success of others and it is evident when he puts the needs of others before himself. He is a true leader and team player. Nick is also an athlete and active community member. He is always seen with a positive attitude and smile on his face. Nick is truly a Shining Seahawk because he sets himself apart from others through his work ethic, drive, motivation and care for others. I see nothing but success in Nick’s future and I can’t wait to see all his accomplishments! Keep up the amazing work, Nick!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Abbygale Riddell has been nominated by Mrs. Diaz to represent the Sophomore Class as Shining Seahawk for October 2022. Cadet Riddell demonstrates responsibility, leadership, and determination through her participation in Spanish class and outside of school. She takes the lead in Spanish class helping other members of the class, showing respect and tolerance. She does not give up when lessons become difficult – instead she communicates with respect asking for clarification. She also collaborates with Mrs. Diaz and her classmates to have a better learning environment, modeling with her behavior and her positive attitude. Cadet Riddell also plays softball and basketball and volunteers at church. She always leads by example and positively motivates others. Mrs. Diaz notes that she is a pleasure to have in Spanish class. Keep up the great work!
JUNIOR: Cadet Ellie Barbato has been nominated by Mrs. Soltow. This is the first time that Mrs. Soltow has nominated a candidate, and there is truly no one more fitting of this achievement and honor than Ellie. Ellie is in Mrs. Soltow’s 1st period AP Biology and we all know that it can be a struggle to learn material at 7:30am, let alone having to learn college level Biology concepts. Yet, each morning Ellie comes in smiling, prepared and eager to learn. When Ellie does not fully understand a concept, she is the first to ask questions and not to simply look up an answer. When a classmate needs help, Ellie is a mentor and helps others to understand. She excels in all areas of AP Biology, especially the labs and experiments. There is no wonder why Ellie has one of the highest grades in the class. She is strong, determined and champions herself over any adversity and she makes us all feel better simply with her smile. However, Ellie's greatness does not end with her stellar academics, it only begins. Ellie exemplifies kindness and maturity. She is courteous to everyone at DMA and builds up her fellow cadets rather than put them down. She takes pride in her appearance and in being a DMA cadet as she participates in many activities. Ellie is always engaged and ready to help. She is strong and fair, determined and funny and personifies all the qualities of a Shining Seahawk.
Congrats Ellie, you deserve it.
SENIOR: Cadet Madison Maynerich has been nominated by MCPO King. Cadet Maynerich is an outstanding student and all-around excellent person. She excels in academics, and shows a great passion in all she does. She is always respectful to students and faculty alike, and as the Regimental Operations Officer, she can always be counted on to complete every task assigned. She shows every day that her education is important to her and she is a great role model for others to follow. During DMA’s annual Veteran’s breakfast, Madison beautifully and elegantly played the five United States service songs on her violin to recognize the veterans and service members during the ceremony. She shows great ambition and is always striving for the best, exemplifying citizenship, scholarship, and leadership. Congratulations Madison!
OCTOBER 2022
FRESHMAN: Cadet Veronica Holena has been nominated by Master Chief King to represent the Freshman Class as the Shining Seahawk for the month of October 2022.
Cadet Holena is the epitome of leadership, scholarship, and citizenship. As Platoon Leader, she is a passionate leader with a strong determination to lead and help others. She leads by example and sets the tone for other cadets to follow and this is what makes her perfect for the job. Her can-do attitude and commitment to excellence is most noteworthy along with her team player approach. She is a member of the DMA Choir, performing in several Choir performances throughout the community as well as here on campus. As a member of the 1st year cadet Drill Team, she is very inquisitive and always looking for better ways to improve not only herself, but others around her.
Keep up the good work and Congratulations Cadet Holena!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Shane Sullivan has been nominated by Matt Orr to represent the Sophomore Class as Shining Seahawk for October 2022.
The maintenance staff was down at the field after the homecoming football game ended, cleaning up as they usually do and they noticed one cadet putting away football equipment into the locker room. Then, completely unprompted, Shane went up into the home stands with a trash bag and began cleaning up all the trash left from the game. Luke asked him his name and if anyone told him to come clean up, and Shane’s response was "no..... I just can't believe they left it looking this way and I don't want to see my school like this" and right back to cleaning he went.
While (the maintenance staff) were doing other duties, he cleaned up about 2/3 of the home stands completely alone. His father came into the stadium looking for him and found him working. We don't know the conversation between the two of them but his father turned around from the stands, grabbed his son’s bag and went back out to the parking lot. His son continued to finish up the aisle he was in, noticed the pylons were left in the far end zone, retrieved them and put them away and then left for the weekend.
The maintenance staff just wanted to make sure that he was given the praise he deserves. When everyone else left and after playing an entire football game into overtime, Shane Sullivan stayed. Pride in his school wouldn't allow him to walk away. He was definitely an example to all that evening.
Congratulations Shane and thank you for all your hard work and dedication to DMA and the NJROTC program. You are a superb example of a “Shining Seahawk!”
JUNIOR: Cadet Emma Finch has been nominated by Ms. Fabian and the Shining Seahawk committee. Emma was an excellent ambassador of DMA and example of a Shining Seahawk on the Saturday of Open House. Every time a tour came into Master Sergeant Howie’s room, Emma took great pride in talking about the NJROTC program here at DMA. She showed excellent speaking skills, poise, and maturity in describing her experiences to parents and prospective cadets at DMA. And she was definitely a great asset to the NJROTC program and DMA on that day. But Emma goes farther than just this one day. She is a role model in appearance and behavior every day at DMA. Keep up the great work and congratulations, Emma!
SENIOR: Cadet Giada MacNamara has been nominated by Ms. Fabian and the Shining Seahawk Committee. Giada shows great leadership skills, excellent organizational skills, and a positive and successful attitude every day at DMA. Despite her busy schedule, Giada stays up to date in all her academics, staying during lunch to make up notes and tests. Her leadership as Regimental Commander shows every cadet what is expected, leading by example in every command, showing dignity and pride in her school. She is a goal-oriented cadet and is a positive ambassador for DMA, showing pride in her uniform and in her school. It is obvious that Giada will go far in life and we wish her all the best! Congratulations, Giada!
FRESHMAN: Cadet Veronica Holena has been nominated by Master Chief King to represent the Freshman Class as the Shining Seahawk for the month of October 2022.
Cadet Holena is the epitome of leadership, scholarship, and citizenship. As Platoon Leader, she is a passionate leader with a strong determination to lead and help others. She leads by example and sets the tone for other cadets to follow and this is what makes her perfect for the job. Her can-do attitude and commitment to excellence is most noteworthy along with her team player approach. She is a member of the DMA Choir, performing in several Choir performances throughout the community as well as here on campus. As a member of the 1st year cadet Drill Team, she is very inquisitive and always looking for better ways to improve not only herself, but others around her.
Keep up the good work and Congratulations Cadet Holena!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Shane Sullivan has been nominated by Matt Orr to represent the Sophomore Class as Shining Seahawk for October 2022.
The maintenance staff was down at the field after the homecoming football game ended, cleaning up as they usually do and they noticed one cadet putting away football equipment into the locker room. Then, completely unprompted, Shane went up into the home stands with a trash bag and began cleaning up all the trash left from the game. Luke asked him his name and if anyone told him to come clean up, and Shane’s response was "no..... I just can't believe they left it looking this way and I don't want to see my school like this" and right back to cleaning he went.
While (the maintenance staff) were doing other duties, he cleaned up about 2/3 of the home stands completely alone. His father came into the stadium looking for him and found him working. We don't know the conversation between the two of them but his father turned around from the stands, grabbed his son’s bag and went back out to the parking lot. His son continued to finish up the aisle he was in, noticed the pylons were left in the far end zone, retrieved them and put them away and then left for the weekend.
The maintenance staff just wanted to make sure that he was given the praise he deserves. When everyone else left and after playing an entire football game into overtime, Shane Sullivan stayed. Pride in his school wouldn't allow him to walk away. He was definitely an example to all that evening.
Congratulations Shane and thank you for all your hard work and dedication to DMA and the NJROTC program. You are a superb example of a “Shining Seahawk!”
JUNIOR: Cadet Emma Finch has been nominated by Ms. Fabian and the Shining Seahawk committee. Emma was an excellent ambassador of DMA and example of a Shining Seahawk on the Saturday of Open House. Every time a tour came into Master Sergeant Howie’s room, Emma took great pride in talking about the NJROTC program here at DMA. She showed excellent speaking skills, poise, and maturity in describing her experiences to parents and prospective cadets at DMA. And she was definitely a great asset to the NJROTC program and DMA on that day. But Emma goes farther than just this one day. She is a role model in appearance and behavior every day at DMA. Keep up the great work and congratulations, Emma!
SENIOR: Cadet Giada MacNamara has been nominated by Ms. Fabian and the Shining Seahawk Committee. Giada shows great leadership skills, excellent organizational skills, and a positive and successful attitude every day at DMA. Despite her busy schedule, Giada stays up to date in all her academics, staying during lunch to make up notes and tests. Her leadership as Regimental Commander shows every cadet what is expected, leading by example in every command, showing dignity and pride in her school. She is a goal-oriented cadet and is a positive ambassador for DMA, showing pride in her uniform and in her school. It is obvious that Giada will go far in life and we wish her all the best! Congratulations, Giada!
SEPTEMBER 2022
FRESHMAN: Cadet Caylee Moore has been nominated by Mrs. Dick. Caylee maintains a 99% average in Honors English; it's the highest overall grade in the class so far. Although she's quiet in class, she comes in every day always prepared and ready to give 100% effort, and it shows. While her writing skills are impeccable, it's also her overall GREAT attitude and stick-to-it-ness that impresses Mrs. Dick. Caylee really is an example of everything an outstanding DMA cadet should be. Keep up the excellent work, Cadet Moore!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Ian Varnes has been nominated by Mrs. Watkins and Mr. Grant. Ian is an exceptionally hard-working student. You will never catch him off-track or off-topic; he is always willing and eager to learn every day in each of his classes. In English, Ian does more than Mrs. Watkins could ever expect from her sophomores: he never misses a single assignment and excels on all of his tests and quizzes. His in-class focus and drive is unmatched. In addition, Ian is an absolute pleasure to talk to; he is one of the most respectful and pleasant cadets we have here at DMA. As a 3rd year band member, Ian displays impressive leadership and drive through every rehearsal and performance as a talented trumpet player. When the bar is raised, Ian is one of the first to dig his heels in and perform beyond expectation. Unfortunately, our senior lead trumpet player was injured mid-season and has been unable to perform… so, Ian was suddenly catapulted into the lead position and has shined brighter than both he and anyone thought was imaginable. His incredible work ethic and determination inspire the other cadets in the program and cadets like him are the heartbeat, fueling our program's success. For this and so much more, we are very pleased to recommend him for Shining Seahawk of the Month.
Congratulations Cadet Varnes!
JUNIOR: Cadet Katelyn Beachell has been nominated by Mr. Lincoln. She volunteers daily to be the football manager but goes well above and beyond, watching the coaches' children during practice, taking pictures during games, all the while maintaining excellent grades. Katelyn also oversaw our breast cancer awareness campaign, securing stickers for our helmets and will be giving a pregame speech honoring her mother, a cancer survivor, next week for homecoming. Cadet Beachell epitomizes the tenets of DMA. Congratulations Cadet Beachell!
SENIOR: Cadet Katelyn Kohan has been nominated by the Shining Seahawk committee for going above and beyond in exemplifying the three ships of DMA. She displays honor and discipline by the way she presents herself every day. She is a person of integrity, and is a leader in NJROTC and in her character. She can be counted on to have superior appearance and individual excellence, as well as showing great responsibility in her role as head of supply. Katelyn dedicated many hours to the NJROTC program over the summer, selflessly giving up her time to come in and work. She is always positive and friendly, and always has a smile on her face. Keep up the great work and Bravo Zulu, Cadet Kohan!
FRESHMAN: Cadet Caylee Moore has been nominated by Mrs. Dick. Caylee maintains a 99% average in Honors English; it's the highest overall grade in the class so far. Although she's quiet in class, she comes in every day always prepared and ready to give 100% effort, and it shows. While her writing skills are impeccable, it's also her overall GREAT attitude and stick-to-it-ness that impresses Mrs. Dick. Caylee really is an example of everything an outstanding DMA cadet should be. Keep up the excellent work, Cadet Moore!
SOPHOMORE: Cadet Ian Varnes has been nominated by Mrs. Watkins and Mr. Grant. Ian is an exceptionally hard-working student. You will never catch him off-track or off-topic; he is always willing and eager to learn every day in each of his classes. In English, Ian does more than Mrs. Watkins could ever expect from her sophomores: he never misses a single assignment and excels on all of his tests and quizzes. His in-class focus and drive is unmatched. In addition, Ian is an absolute pleasure to talk to; he is one of the most respectful and pleasant cadets we have here at DMA. As a 3rd year band member, Ian displays impressive leadership and drive through every rehearsal and performance as a talented trumpet player. When the bar is raised, Ian is one of the first to dig his heels in and perform beyond expectation. Unfortunately, our senior lead trumpet player was injured mid-season and has been unable to perform… so, Ian was suddenly catapulted into the lead position and has shined brighter than both he and anyone thought was imaginable. His incredible work ethic and determination inspire the other cadets in the program and cadets like him are the heartbeat, fueling our program's success. For this and so much more, we are very pleased to recommend him for Shining Seahawk of the Month.
Congratulations Cadet Varnes!
JUNIOR: Cadet Katelyn Beachell has been nominated by Mr. Lincoln. She volunteers daily to be the football manager but goes well above and beyond, watching the coaches' children during practice, taking pictures during games, all the while maintaining excellent grades. Katelyn also oversaw our breast cancer awareness campaign, securing stickers for our helmets and will be giving a pregame speech honoring her mother, a cancer survivor, next week for homecoming. Cadet Beachell epitomizes the tenets of DMA. Congratulations Cadet Beachell!
SENIOR: Cadet Katelyn Kohan has been nominated by the Shining Seahawk committee for going above and beyond in exemplifying the three ships of DMA. She displays honor and discipline by the way she presents herself every day. She is a person of integrity, and is a leader in NJROTC and in her character. She can be counted on to have superior appearance and individual excellence, as well as showing great responsibility in her role as head of supply. Katelyn dedicated many hours to the NJROTC program over the summer, selflessly giving up her time to come in and work. She is always positive and friendly, and always has a smile on her face. Keep up the great work and Bravo Zulu, Cadet Kohan!
