North Middlesex Regional High School Seniors Recognized at Academic Scholars Luncheon

TOWNSEND — Superintendent Brad Morgan is pleased to share that two North Middlesex Regional High School seniors were selected to participate in the Merrimack Valley Superintendents Association (MVSA) Academic Scholars Luncheon. 

Caitlin O’Brien and Lukian Yamanishi attend the luncheon — hosted on Wednesday, May 15 at Lenzi’s Restaurant in Dracut — based on their academic excellence in achieving the highest GPAs in their junior year.

The students were accompanied by their parents and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Gary Burboa-Reese. 

MVSA President Dr. Christopher Chew, Westford School Superintendent, opened the event with a welcome address and provided an overview of the format for student recognitions. 

There were 60 recipients from 30 districts in attendance, and each district was invited to recognize its top students. As is tradition, recognitions began with the president’s district and progressed through the districts alphabetically.

Dr. Burboa-Reese introduced O’Brien and Yamanishi, highlighting why the students stood out among their peers:

Lukian Yamanishi

At the end of his junior year, Lukian Yamanishi earned a weighted GPA of 4.96, having enrolled in the most challenging courses North Middlesex has to offer. 

In addition to his superb academic performance, Yamanishi is heavily involved in his school community. He is a three-season varsity athlete, serving as captain of the soccer and basketball teams, as well as playing volleyball. He participates in student government as the acting class secretary and is Vice President of the NMRHS National Honor Society chapter. Additionally, he has volunteered his time in service learning organizations, as well as for Giving Tree. 

“Lukian’s academic achievements are impressive, but what stands out more to me is his humility, maturity, and willingness to help others,” said Dr. Burboa-Reese. “Lukian conducts himself in a mature and composed manner and has earned the respect of staff and his peers.”

Caitlin O’Brien

Caitlin O’Brien is a devoted scholar with a lifelong passion for science and engineering. Among her awards and recognitions, she has received the Dartmouth College Book Award and the MassSTAR Youth Leadership Award. She intends to pursue a career in engineering.

Caitlin is a member of the National Honor Society and is a Student Ambassador at NMRHS. Additionally, she is a member of the Giving Tree, is a three-sport athlete in varsity soccer, softball, and basketball, and has volunteered at coaching clinics to share her love for sports with youth. 

“Caitlin uses both sides of her brain, and enjoys painting, drawing, and making creatively crafted gifts for family and friends,” said Dr. Burboa-Reese. “Passion for learning, devotion to service, and commitment to activities are hallmarks of a successful scholar. Caitlin manages all these things with kindness, patience, and humility.”