East Haven Rotary Club Honors 3 'Students of the Month' For 2025-2026 Academic Year

EAST HAVEN, CT—The East Haven Rotary Club honored several Students of the Month for the 2025-2026 academic year.

The Club recognized Nicholas Cinquino as its December Rotary Student of the Month for his outstanding leadership, academic dedication, and commitment to service. Nicholas is deeply involved in the school community and contributes his time and talents across a variety of academic and extracurricular settings. He is a dedicated member of the Debate Team, serves as a Writing Center Tutor, and participates in Books and Brownies, all of which highlight his love of learning, communication, and collaboration. In addition to these roles, Nicholas actively supports his peers as part of Peer Mentoring, which fosters a positive and supportive school environment. He also holds leadership responsibilities as a class officer for the Class of 2027 and serves as an officer in Drama Club. Nicholas is also a valuable member of the Yearbook Club, helping capture and preserve the school’s most meaningful moments. Nicholas plans to attend college and pursue a career as a forensic psychologist, a path that reflects his analytical thinking, empathy, and interest in understanding human behavior.

Vincenzo Plano was honored as the Rotary’s January Student of the Month for his strong character, dedication, and positive contributions to his school community. Vincenzo is an accomplished student-athlete who participates in both hockey and golf, demonstrating teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Beyond athletics, Vincenzo is distinguished by his work ethic, respectful demeanor, and willingness to set ambitious goals for his future. He plans to pursue a career as either a firefighter or a businessperson, reflecting his leadership, community-oriented mindset, and entrepreneurial spirit.

J’Heem Charles is East Haven Rotary’s February Student of the Month. J’Heem is a young man with a clear vision for his future and the determination to make it happen. He is focused on building a strong academic foundation in mathematics and science as he prepares for admission to the University of

Connecticut. His goal is to pursue a degree in Electrical Engineering, where he can develop the practical problem-solving and analytical skills needed to create innovations in technology and engineering. J’Heem is committed to challenging himself through advanced coursework, STEM activities, and hands-on learning opportunities. In addition to his academic drive, J’Heem is passionate about basketball. His dedication as both a student and an athlete reflects a maturity and focus that will undoubtedly serve him well in college and beyond.

Rotary Student of the Month

Each month the Rotary recognizes a student from East Haven High School's junior class. The club makes these presentations at Superintendent Erica Forti’s monthly, district-wide Students of the Month Assembly, which takes place the last Friday of the month in the Media Center at the high school.

The East Haven Rotary Club presents each honoree with a certificate, a Rotary commemorative coin and a check for $100. Winners then become eligible for the $1000 Jack Leary Memorial Scholarship to be awarded at the end of their senior year.