Utilization Study: Learn MoreCNS students earn top honors in regional Optimist International Competitions
May 15, 2026The North Syracuse Central School District is proud to recognize two Cicero-North Syracuse High School seniors who recently earned first-place honors at the New York/New England District Optimist International essay and oratorical competitions. The students earned the right to compete in the NY/NE District contests after earning first place honors at the local level (for the Optimist Club of Cicero North Syracuse) earlier this year.
Emma Van Beveren earned first place in the NY/NE District Essay Contest for her piece titled “How My Acts of Service Help Me Understand What My Community Means to Me.” The first place prize for the NY/NE District contest included a $2,500 scholarship for her achievement.
On April 25, Joey Cox earned first place in the District Oratorical Contest after winning the local competition hosted by the Cicero North Syracuse Optimist Club. His speech, “The Moment I Realized I Belonged – My Definition of Community,” also earned him a $2,500 scholarship.
These accomplishments mark the second consecutive year that Cicero-North Syracuse High School students have earned top honors at NY/NE District level Optimist International competitions.
Robert Crabtree, who is the president of the Optimist Club of Cicero North Syracuse, spoke about this year’s students’ winning entries. He said, “One of the things that stands out about both of these students is how they defined community through their own lived experiences at CNS High School. Emma’s essay highlights the meaningful connections she built through the Unified Club, where inclusion and service shaped her understanding of belonging, while Joey’s speech reflects the sense of community he found through the Northstar Network. Their words remind us that schools are more than just places of learning, they are communities where students find purpose, connection and support. We are incredibly proud of both Emma and Joey for representing our community so well.”
The students' scholarship-winning contest entries are available:
The North Syracuse Central School District is grateful for its ongoing partnership with the Cicero North Syracuse Optimist Club, a community-based organization that provides meaningful opportunities for students through programs such as the Essay Contest, Oratorical Contest, and additional youth initiatives.
Community members interested in learning more about the Cicero North Syracuse Optimist Club and its programs are encouraged to visit: www.nscsd.org/optimist.
