West Islip Student Named 'Deans Winner' In Global Robotics Competition

WEST ISLIP, NY — A West Islip High School student is being recognized for his robotics and leadership skills.

Christopher Palazzo was recently named a For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Dean's List Award winner at its World Championship in Houston.

The West Islip School District stated that he was one of 10 students selected from all the finalists worldwide as an award winner.

Students who earn this award are recognized as student leaders who have led their teams and communities to increase awareness for FIRST and its mission while also achieving personal technical expertise and accomplishment, a press release said.

Palazzo was nominated by his team, the district told Patch. The nomination process included the completion of five separate essays to attest to meeting the philosophies of the FIRST core values of: discovery, innovation, impact, inclusion, teamwork and fun. The subsequent four essays supported Palazzo’s eagerness to increase awareness for FIRST, technical expertise, individual contribution to the team and leadership role with team members.

Student nominees must also demonstrate academic excellence. Palazzo was selected to be interviewed by judges at the competition and was chosen as the regional FIRST Dean’s List Finalist.

He then attended the championship in Houston, where he was awarded a finalist. The event is a four-day four-day robotics championship held annually in April at which FIRST student robotics teams compete.