Somerset County Vocational Student Selected For Unsung Hero Award

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A senior at Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School has been selected as a Somerset County Unsung Hero.

The New Jersey School Boards Association presented the award to Shane Shanahan, a welding student from Somerville. The program recognizes students who make significant contributions to their schools and communities, even when traditional recognition guidelines often overlook them.

According to the New Jersey School Boards Association, Unsung Heroes are students who improve their school through personality, empathy, and concern for others. These individuals typically persevere despite encountering various obstacles.

During his time at the vocational high school, Shanahan served as a Student Ambassador.

He visited middle schools throughout Somerset County to promote Career and Technical Education programs. He also joined the school’s Content Creator program to highlight student achievements on social media.

His campus involvement included participating in clean-up efforts and building planter boxes for SkillsUSA fundraising events.

Within the welding shop, Shanahan regularly mentors younger students. He recently designed a decorative Christmas tree to help classmates build their technical skills and confidence.

Beyond the classroom, Shanahan volunteers with the Somerset County Food Bank and the Samaritan Homeless Interim Program. He also assists with the Helping Hands program and provides support to elderly neighbors with tasks like grocery shopping, yard work, and snow removal.

Maria Santiago, a learning disabilities teacher consultant at the school, praised Shane for his hard work and positive attitude.

"Shane is a polite young man who gets along with everyone in the school," Santiago said.

She added that he is a natural leader who is involved in his community outside of school.

When asked about his reaction to the award, Shanahan expressed gratitude for the recognition.

"I am humbled to accept the Unsung Hero Award and inspired by the other winners and their stories," Shanahan said.

He added that it gives him hope for the future generation to see people who do good work even when their efforts go unrecognized.

The award highlights the commitment of students who work to improve their local surroundings through consistent service.

Shanahan continues his studies in the welding program at the Bridgewater campus as he prepares for his future career path.

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