Learning to lead is an expectation for SAC students. It’s a lesson Dhruv Krishnan has learned well.
Last night, Dhruv was one of 20 area graduating high school students recognized for their exceptional contributions to fellow students and citizens as well as ongoing dedication to community involvement.
The Give Back Awards are an annual $500 cash prize donated by Magna International’s Neighbourhood Network initiative to students in Aurora, Georgina, and Newmarket. The ceremony took place at the Magna International head office in Aurora, where Dhruv was presented his award by Aurora Mayor Geoff Dawe and Magna CEO Donald Walker.
“Dhruv is the most complete combination of ability, skill, dedication, and personality that will enable him to continue what he has begun – giving back by making a difference in the lives of others,” said SAC’s Chaplain, the Reverend Bruce Roffey, in an endorsement letter to the Give Back selection committee.
In the community, Dhruv volunteers with the Alzheimer’s Society of York Region as their Youth Ambassador, using his musical talent as saxophone player to enrich lives as well as performing at fundraising events. He also volunteers his time with the Learning Disabilities Association of York Region, tutoring grade 5 students weekly, and acts as the Student Engagement Coordinator for the Canadian Cancer Society at St. Andrew’s, organizing volunteers and leading the Pink Ribbon Campaign.
As this year’s Head Prefect, Dhruv serves as a role model and leader among his peers. He has made a difference by introducing the “Wash Hands if you Touch, Cough, Handshake or Sneeze” campaign. He involved other students to help distribute information to raise awareness of good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of disease both in the School and the wider community. As well, he holds the number three leadership position in the SAC Cadet Corps as Adjutant, is a section lead in the Wind Ensemble, and co-captain of 1st Cricket. To top it off, he maintains a 98% average.
It is estimated he has over 350 hours of community service, but that of minor concern for the altruistic student who states that, “The path to success should not be focused on ‘me,’ but ‘we,’ and that the key to happiness is supporting each other and rising together.”
“He has dedicated himself to being a volunteer and a leader within his school, the surrounding community and in other parts of the world, trying to make a difference where he perceives a need,” added Mr. Roffey.
How does one student manage to do it all? “I have learned to balance a busy workload, improve my communication skills, and work with other people,” said Dhruv, ever modest about his many and varied accomplishments.
Story by Cindy Veitch
