Hey everyone,
As promised, I’ve made my selections for Student of the Year in the elementary, junior/senior high school, and college education levels. It wasn’t easy. Far from it.
I received hundreds of nominations which were then narrowed down based on a few objective criteria. Specifically, I was looking for students who have not only been models of excellence, but have been so against all odds, overcoming obstacles and hardships.
Every submission I read seemed truly deserving, and left me encouraged about the future of America that you students represent. As a kid I entered many things like this, and never won, which just adds to my desire to grant something to everyone. I wish there were capacity to do this, but unfortunately there isn’t. If you weren’t selected, know that you are in my company and I think very highly of you.
The contact information of those selected is in the process of being verified right now, and will be personally notified within a few days. Out of respect for their privacy, I won’t be announcing them in this post.
Again, this was not an easy choice to make. Thanks so much to everyone who participated and took the time to write in about so many extraordinary students. I feel privileged to have been made aware of you all. You teachers and faculty members are making a world of difference in the lives of these students and their future, and you students are the future! Keep working hard and striving, no matter how impossible your circumstances may seem!
May God’s blessing be upon us,
Troy
justin
i promise you i am your biggest fan
tasha bynum(ta'shawn millers mom)
thank you so much Troy! My son is one of the winners and he is so excited that he has won. This is so deserving for him since he brought up his reading from a 68 to a 95 on the reading terranova in one quater. We have worked so hard and it has paid off and now this award is simply the icing on the cake for my son! I am so greatful for these opportunities they are truly life changing! Thank you again for everything you do for our youth.
Linda
Thank you, Troy; for taking the time to honor so many great students and young citizens.
Kelly Larson
You are such a kind and caring man! Thank you so much for using your voice to promote education. I hope your success and encouragement helps others succeed in their pursuit of education! Thank you!
Lisa Long
These are wonderful awards — congratulations to the winners!
jonnell player
I am new to the FB scene but not new to being a fan of you & the Steelers. Just wanted to give you thanks for being an advocate for our youth. Mahalo & Aloha Ke Akua
Thank you Troy and to your wife for being the caring, loving people that you are. You both are an inspiration to so many.
My dream is to see a home game of the Steelers…but I am blessed to have been at every Bengals, Steelers game here in Cincinnati and despite having Scleroderma, RA and a lung disease, Obliterative Bronchiolitis..I am still able to get to my seat…I have not missed an away Steeler game here in Cincinnati…
Lisa
What a great way to promote a career that doesn’t get the appreciation it deserves.
Kent Ashley
Troy –
Thank you for the example you continue to set. If I had not been a Steeler fan since 1970, you would most certainly would make me think of changing loyalties. On top of what you and James Harrison do to give back, I look at what David Bruton from the Broncos is doing during the lockout. I also am glad to see reported what J.T. Thomas from WVU, drafted by the Bears this year, has done to represent a league he hasn’t even made. We all need to hear more of this and less of the Albert Haynesworths of the world. I wish you all the best throughout the rest of your days. One more Super Bowl wouldn’t suck. God bless.
Mary Crabtree
Thank you for doing this. I understand, via an email that I received, that one of my students is going to receive an award. I am so very thankful for this, and want you to know that this will be a life-changing thing for her, as she doesn’t get awards often, and this will make her realize how much her really hard work pays off! Thanks so much for promoting education, it’s the best equalizer in the world!
Mary Moore
Thanks, Troy for what you are doing for these young people. They are the future of our country and we need them. Thank you for your example to them, on and off the field. I love too that you are not ashamed to knowledge God in all you do.
Thanks again and May God continue to Bless you and yours.
Ramona Hall
great selection,u made!!!!!!!
Mike Mellinger
This was a great opportunity for not only students, but teachers as well, to acknowledge the success stories that they have been a major part of. I have a teacher in my school who was so flattered and heart-felt after she learned her student that she submitted will be receiving a gift. You continue to positively affect many lives on and off the field. Thank you for being a fine role model and demonstrating the character that all students can follow. Go Steelers!
Barb
I received a response regarding on of our students by email and phone call, but did not receive any more correspondence.
I just emailed Mr. Ames. I hope to be contacted soon.
Rickover Naval Academy HS
Kim Nelson
Mr. Polamalu-
Thank you so much for this program! One of our 2nd graders, Landon, was so excited to receive your autographed jersey! We appreciate you taking the time to honor students as they have challenges to face and overcome. We wish you continue to success and appreciate your positive character influence!
Mrs. Nelson, Principal
Nathan Delafield
Mr. Polamalu,
I was notified this morning both of my nomination for this award and also my receipt of the Student of the Year (college) accolade! I wear this jersey with tremendous pride in recognition of your altruistic nature and commitment to education within the community, thank you for the award. Furthermore, congratulations of achieving your college diploma and joining yet another elite cohort… This one of educated men and women! I idolize your athletic achievements and abilities but nothing can outshine your character and integrity. Hopefully you’ll read this post and accept my words of gratitude.
Karen
My son was chosen to receive this award at the high school level. Thank you SO much for recognizing these students who try so hard. We received the jersey this past week and presented it to him at a family picnic this weekend. He was so surprised, excited, and grateful! We’re still hoping for training camp so we can attend the Friday night scrimmage again. Hope to see you there!
Cendy Jovel
Troy,
Thank you so much for this. I am the sister of Luis Jovel, who won the high school section of your student of the year award! He was beyond excited and we truly admire you and we can’t thank you enough. He is your biggest fan and truly loves and admires you for the great person that you are!! Thank you again!!!!
God Bless!!!
Go Steelers!!!
-Cendy