Addison Trail names February recipient of 88's Best recognition

Franc De Guzman has been named as Addison Trail’s February recipient of 88’s Best recognition for his involvement in extracurricular activities. De Guzman, a senior, was recognized during the Feb. 23 District 88 Board of Education meeting.

De Guzman said he became involved with numerous activities at Addison Trail because he enjoys meeting new people, making new friends and having the opportunity to compete. As a freshman, he had a plan to join everything to find his passion. De Guzman has participated in as many as 10 clubs and organizations, all while making the Distinction Honor Roll all four years. In each of the extracurricular activities in which De Guzman participates, he has demonstrated the compassion, leadership and motivational skills necessary to serve as a role model to his peers.

De Guzman has an extensive list of extracurricular accomplishments. He is a two-year member and Co-President of the National Honor Society (NHS), he is the current President of Science Olympiad and he is Vice President of Business Professionals of America (BPA). De Guzman also is a CORE team member of Pay It Forward (an event to welcome incoming freshmen), and he is heavily involved in the school’s mentoring program, Blazer Ambassadors. But De Guzman does not stop there. He also is a contributing member of Model UN and Psychology Club, and he will attend the District 88 educational trip to Spain this spring.

“De Guzman boasts a sterling academic record as a result of his tenacity and personal drive,” said Erica Craig, Addison Trail Art and World Languages Department Chair. “However, more important than his intellect and dedication is his genuine desire to use his strengths to help others. A superb student like De Guzman perseveres not only for his benefit, but instead with the hopes of helping others. He has made a tremendous difference in our community through his participation in Best Buddies, Pay It Forward and Feed My Starving Children. His empathetic nature, his drive to succeed and his remarkable leadership qualities are defining characteristics that will ensure a lifetime of success and meaning as he pursues his dream career as a nurse.”

Vicki Ream, Addison Trail teacher and NHS Co-Sponsor, agreed.

“De Guzman is Co-President of NHS and has done an amazing job in this leadership role,” Ream said. “He has repeatedly gone above and beyond to assist with activities, including the banquet. De Guzman’s energetic demeanor and strong leadership skills have been an asset to the NHS organization and, I believe, the school as a whole.”

De Guzman is undecided on where he will attend school next year. He has applied to University of Wisconsin-Madison, The University of Iowa, University of Illinois at Chicago, Loyola University Chicago, Michigan and University of Pennsylvania. He plans to turn his passion for service and helping others into a career in nursing.