Nolan Francis — a science researcher, violinist, swimmer, honor student and active volunteer in and out of school — has won Staples High’s greatest honor.
He was awarded the Staples Key, at last night’s annual awards ceremony.
Three outstanding students are nominated by faculty, based on superior academic achievement, loyalty to Staples, and contribution to the Staples community Voting is done by members of the senior class.
The other finalists were Gunnar Eklund and Sophie Smith.
Introducing Francis last night, assistant principal Christine Cincotta said, “Nolan’s school counselor describes him as talented, disciplined, and highly personable. His demeanor is calm and jovial, always accompanied by a big smile, and he remains consistently focused on his personal goals. Nolan has served as captain of the boys swim and dive team for 2 years, and advanced to the state finals.
“He was selected to be part of the Link Crew, and is a 4-year member of Staples’ Service League of Boys. He has also served as vice president of the Science National Honor Society, and is the co-founder of our newly reestablished National English Honor Society chapter.
“Through Staples’ research program, Nolan was named a Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholar (one of only 300 in the country).
Nolan Francis
“He is also an accomplished violinist who has received recognition at the state level. Outside of school, Nolan has coached Special Olympics swimmers, served as a camp counselor for children with severe medical conditions at Camp Discovery, and researched rare genetic skin conditions at Yale. He even wrote a children’s book to help kids living with these conditions feel seen and connected to a community.
“One of the things I appreciate most about Nolan is the way he brings humor and a level-headed perspective to every conversation. I am grateful that he is a member of our Staples community.
“Nolan will attend Williams College in the fall to study biology (and bring his banana-bread-baking skills to the Berkshires).
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Introducing Eklund, Cincotta said: “Gunnar’s school counselor describes him as kind, considerate, intelligent and genuine. He brings a thoughtful approach to everything he does.
“Gunnar has served as president of the Staples Debate Team, worked with the Staples Service League of Boys board to coordinate volunteer events, and collaborated with last year’s ‘We The People’ Constitution team to represent Connecticut as Top 10 national finalists.
“During his summers Gunnar has worked as a lab intern, a camp counselor at Camp Mahackeno, and a courtroom aide for North Carolina’s 4th Prosecutorial District.
“This past year he has become even more involved in the Westport community by contributing to Dan Woog’s ‘06880’ blog, delivering a Veterans Day speech at Town Hall, and helping 2023 Staples alum Addison Moore become the youngest-ever elected RTM official.
“Regardless of these accomplishments and roles, Gunnar says his time at Staples has been shaped most by the extraordinary people he has met. I would add that Gunnar has also shaped those around him over the past 4 years because he is an extraordinary person himself. He will always greet you with a smile and ask how you are doing. He genuinely cares about those around him, and that thoughtful approach is something I will always remember about him.
“Gunnar will study government and biology at Cornell University this fall.
Gunnar Eklund delivers his Veterans Day speech at Town Hall.
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In introducing Smith, Cincotta said: “Sophie’s school counselor says she is a wonderful example of what it means to be a well-rounded person. She is an accomplished student in the classroom, actively involved in our community, and looked up to as a leader, all while finding time to give back to others in need. Sophie demonstrates that Staples is a place where students support one another in an encouraging environment.
“She is co-editor-in-chief of Inklings, one of our largest extracurricular activities. As the social media specialist for Business Leaders of America, she actively recruits new members. Sophie is also a member of the varsity squash team and the co-founder and co-president of Peter’s Heart Club, which provides educational support to underprivileged children in Uganda.
“In each of these spaces, Sophie has learned that success is rarely individual; instead, it is built on collaboration. She consistently goes out of her way to support her staff members and teammates while fostering a positive environment.
“From my own experiences with Sophie, I have seen her genuine care for others, as well as the strength and conviction behind her voice. These qualities will undoubtedly benefit those around her.
“Sophie will attend the University of Virginia this fall to study English and public policy.”
Sophie Smith (Photo courtesy of Inklings)
(“06880” regularly reports on the accomplishments of Westport’s youth. Please click here to support our continued coverage of these remarkable young men and women. Thank you!)
