After a few years away, the Green Vale Handwriting Contest is making its return, and to help mark the occasion, the Lower School welcomed back a familiar and accomplished face.
On Friday, September 25, students gathered for a Lower School assembly celebrating the revival of the contest. Joining via Zoom from Vanderbilt University was alumna Cecilia "CC" Saad '21, who knows better than almost anyone what it means to put your very best work on the page. In 2016, CC won the Zaner-Bloser National Handwriting Contest for 3rd Grade, besting more than 37,350 students from across the country. Her story was featured in Newsday and on News 12, and she was presented with a trophy, medal, and a $1,000 prize at a Lower School assembly that year. In a gesture that says a great deal about her character, CC chose to donate a portion of her winnings to the Tanzanian Children's Fund.
CC was introduced by 5th Grade teacher Ms. Campbell, who had the distinction of being CC's teacher the year she won, alongside Head of Lower School Delphine Michaud. Ms. Michaud opened the assembly by speaking about the importance of strong handwriting and its connection to this year's guiding value, Character. "Handwriting is how we present ourselves and our best work," she said, noting that the care and intention we bring to our writing is itself a reflection of who we are.
CC shared that she entered the contest somewhat on a whim, not knowing much about it but deciding to give it a try. What followed was a commitment to practicing both in and out of school, refining each letter along the way. Her skills became a household calling card — her family appointed her the designated writer for invitations and greeting cards.
Today, CC is enrolled in the pre-dentistry program at Vanderbilt, where she is also studying art. She credits her handwriting with giving her an advantage in both disciplines and looks forward to its positive impact on her future career.
The Green Vale Handwriting Contest launches next week. We cannot wait to see the diligent work our students put forward.