Chan Lian

Senior
Sanford H. Calhoun High School
Bellmore-Merrick CHSD

Chan Lian came to the United States from China four years ago without knowing a single word of English. In that time she has proven herself as an invaluable member of both school and the Bellmore- Merrick school community and is beloved by teachers and peers alike.

After arriving at Calhoun High School, Chan soon became extremely active in the World of Difference club, which is devoted to breaking down prejudices and making the world a better place. As a devoted member of the club, Chan has contributed to the annual Jones Beach cleanup, the Halloween dance for special education students, and the club's recycling efforts.

Chan was instrumental in expanding the focus of the ESL Buddy Club to include community building within the English as a second language program. She also took a lead role in orchestrating a holiday gift-giving donation to a local home for pregnant teens and young mothers. Her impressive leadership skills led to her becoming the club's vice president last year and president this year. Her creativity, artistic ability, organizational skills, responsibility and intense work ethic have made the annual ESL International Luncheon a rousing success.

Chan is an active member of the Art and Japanese Culture clubs, and volunteers regularly in her community. She has raised funds for a local church, donated money to and walked for the American Cancer Society, and contributed to relief efforts for the Bellmore-Merrick community in the wake of Hurricane Sandy.

"Chan Lian has made a difference in the lives of those around her from the moment she walked through the doors of Calhoun High School," wrote her award nominator. "Her truly kind, generous and thoughtful nature quickly shined through. Though she struggled with difficult academic subjects, she reached out with both hands to her teachers, classmates and community. It is because of Chan's open-minded and friendly attitude that the community within our classroom is so strong."