CABE Awards 21-22

Hamden Middle School
Alex Medina

Alex Medina is an 8th grade student at Hamden Middle School.  He is a leader in the classroom and on the court. He was a member of the HMS boys basketball team and also plays for Fundamental Man. Alex stands out as a leader because he is reasonable, polite, respectful, kind, and hardworking. He balances his social life, athletic life, and academic demands so well. He sets the bar high for himself and also pushes those around him.

He was chosen as the Student of the Month for Team Morello and is a straight-A student who has earned High Honors all year. Outside of school he does yoga, meditates, and enjoys biking and skating. He is a natural leader and a positive role model for his classmates

Hamden Middle School
Mia Thomas

Mia Thomas is an 8th grade student at Hamden Middle School.  She is a dedicated student who goes above and beyond with her academic work and with making everyone feel a part of our HMS community. She is a problem-solver, critical thinker, and kind classmate.

She loves spending time with her friends and family and playing sports.  She is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and has received High Honors all year.  She is currently captain of the Cheshire Premier soccer team and played on the HMS soccer team this fall.  Next year she will attend Sacred Heart Academy where she hopes to continue to play sports and expand her knowledge in the classroom and in life.

Hamden High School
Jeffrey Ahn

Jeffrey Ahn is an exceptional junior who excels in honors-level and Advanced-placement courses. He is charismatic, personable, resilient, and hardworking. He stands out as a leader, athlete, and musician at Hamden High School. Jeffrey is a dedicated member of the varsity swim team and a very talented clarinet player. Jeffrey is a member of the HHS Band and has been recognized as a two-time all-state and three-time regional musician by the Connecticut Music Educators Association (CMEA).

He is also a junior Drum Major. Jeffrey is a great leader who believes and understands the importance of bringing people together to work toward a common goal. His passion to enrich the character of all Hamden High School students is evident each and every day by his positive attitude. Jeffrey is well respected by both his peers and faculty. His sense of empathy and devotion are characteristics that make him successful in all that he pursues. 

Hunmae McCollum is an intelligent, ambitious, and influential member of the Hamden High School community and Hamden community at large. Hunmae has a strong connection to her peers and teachers and is committed to her education, while also striving to educate others. A social activist at heart, Hunmae has been involved with the Hamden Department of Justice's Strengthening Police and Community Partnerships Council, volunteered with the 9th District Legislative Council, worked on the State Senate Political Campaign, and had a strong voice within Students for Educational Justice.

Throughout her high school career, Hunmae has been an active participant in numerous clubs, workshops and seminars such as the Anti-Defamation League's "No Place for Hate," Student Ambassadors, Black Democrats Club, Dragons United and Rotary Youth Leadership. In addition, she co-founded the student-led activist organization CT Against Brutality. Hunmae's exceptional leadership is evident through her daily interactions with all stakeholders and she continues to strengthen the collaborative efforts to unite the Hamden community. She wishes to major in the healthcare field after graduating in June 2022 and plans to attend medical school.