Three of Harborfields High School’s finest – seniors Caitlin Rees, Moore Theobold and Caitlin Fealy – have been recognized for their incredible achievements through the Long Island Arts Alliance Scholar-Artist program. Created in 2007 as a collaboration between Long Island arts administrators, the Long Island Arts Alliance, Newsday and the New York Community Bank Foundation, the Scholar-Artist program is designed to recognize students deemed to be “the best of the best.” These three students, of course, fit the bill.
Rees, honored in the area of Media Arts, took the news with pleasure and a sense of purpose. “I am extremely proud to have been selected as a 2021 Long Island Scholar-Artist,” she said. “It has been a great opportunity for me to represent Harborfields and all of those involved in the arts.”
Her teacher, Mrs. Eileen Rottkamp, was beaming with pride when she heard about the award. "Caitlin is an extraordinary student," Rottkamp remarked. "Her talent and commitment to creativity is inspiring. She goes above and beyond with her photography and, as a result, creates beautiful work.”
Theobold, a well-polished actor who was an Award of Merit winner in the area of Theater, was excited about this recognition and appreciative of the help he received from his teachers. “I'm grateful for this Scholar-Artist award,” he said. “I’d like to thank Ms. Scilla and Ms. Jackson for taking the time to nominate me, especially considering everything going on at the time."
Jackson, quick to respond, had this to share about Theobold. "Moore is one of the most respected actors in our theater program,” she said. “He goes above and beyond to perfect his craft while remaining dedicated to giving his all off of the stage, too. He has truly earned this honor, and I could not be more proud of him."
Fealy, an accomplished flutist receiving an Award of Merit in the area of Music, couldn't contain her joy at the news. "Receiving this award is a dream come true,” she said. “I've worked so hard all of my life in music, especially with the flute. I'd like to thank Ms. Scilla and Mr. Bilawsky for being my biggest supporters throughout my musical journey. I'm eternally grateful to the entire Harborfields Music Department for sharing their gifts with me and helping me become the musician I am today."
Scilla, on hearing the news, spoke incredibly highly of Fealy. "Caitlin is one of the most hardworking students I have ever taught,” she said. “She is dependable, conscientious and kind. She is so deserving of this honor."
With these three students each being one of six or fewer on Long Island to be recognized within their respective award categories, they sit within extremely select circles. Their incredible achievements speak volumes about their talent, discipline and dedication to their craft while also highlighting their academic strengths and abilities to balance a schedule filled with many and varied commitments. We congratulate them, their families, and their teachers and support networks within and beyond our schools.