Each year, The Historical Society of Mount Lebanon recognizes a student who demonstrates a strong passion for history as well as the discipline and expertise in the study of history. History teacher Peter DiNardo helps the Society select the student and a book appropriate to that student. A second copy of the book, inscribed with the student’s name, is given to the high school library. On the morning of April 30, Historical Society president Jim Wojcik recognized two students completing their Junior Years for their achievements in studying history – Charles Yuan and Amanda Vosburgh.
As part of his history class assignments, Charles had to prepare a research paper. His research paper topic was: “Victims of Disease, Victims of Government: Unethical Disease Research on Humans by the United States in the Twentieth Century”
Based upon his research paper subject matter, Charles was presented with a copy of Rebecca Skloot’s book, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. This book tells the story of a person whose cells were taken from her without her permission or knowledge and were used for developing polio vaccine, uncovering secrets of cancer and other medical breakthroughs.
—Pete DiNardo says of Charles: “He exhibits excellence in preparation and analysis. He is a great participant in small group discussions as he demonstrates the ability to listen as well as advance the discussion. Charles is a strong debater, who demonstrates an ability to present and then deconstruct opponents’ arguments.”
Amanda’s research paper topic was: “The Subway Vigilante: Bernhard Goetz and the Stereotype of the Black Criminal”
—Pete says of Amanda: “She is a premier musician who possesses an inquiring mind that is pensive and reflects on issues. She was very engaged in debates and simulations with passion and a nice level of competitive interest. She pushes herself for a depth of understanding of history topics.”
Amanda was presented with a copy of Gail Collins’ book When Everything Changed: The Amazing Journey of American Women from 1960 to the Present. This book begins in 1960 when most American women had to get their husband’s permission to apply for a credit card and ends with Hillary Clinton’s historic run for president in 2008. This book documents the great changes that occurred for American women in just a generation.
The Historical Society is honored to recognize these stellar students and wishes them all the best in their future endeavors.
Past Winners:
|
Year |
Student(s) |
Book |
Author |
|
2014 |
Charles Yuan |
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks |
Rebecca Skloot |
|
2014 |
Amanda Vosburgh |
When Everything Changed: The Amazing Journey of American Women from 1960 to the Present |
Gail Collins |
|
2013 |
Lani Cupo |
The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks |
Jeanne Theoharis |
|
2013 |
Kathleen Brown |
The Warmth of Other Suns |
Isabel Wilkerson |
|
2012 |
Erin Worden |
A Northern Light The War |
Jennifer Donnelly Geoffrey Ward |
|
2010 |
Matthew Caplan |
The Pacific |
Hugh Ambrose |
|
2009 |
Christa Owens Ryan Pollock. |
Great American Documents |
|
|
2008 |
Maria Grinko |
Villains of All Nations: Atlantic Pirates in the Golden Age |
Marcus Rediker |