On Wednesday, June 2, 2021, thirty-two high school seniors who have distinguished themselves in the arts and humanities during their high school careers were honored for their significant achievement. Students from school districts in the Orange-Ulster BOCES region were feted at the Senior Scholar Humanities Honoree Ceremony held at Goshen High School’s Coliseum. The event was coordinated by the Orange-Ulster BOCES Division of Instructional Support. 

The students, their parents, high school principals, superintendents, and BOCES administration were invited to celebrate the students’ outstanding accomplishments in the fine arts, theater, music, fashion and jewelry design. 

The keynote speaker for the event was Aurora Robson, a multi-media artist known predominantly for her meditative work intercepting the plastic waste stream. Her practice is about subjugating negativity and shifting trajectories. She has exhibited her work internationally in museums, galleries and non-traditional spaces since 2002. Robson is also the founding artist of Project Vortex, an international collective of artists, designers and architects who work in innovative ways with plastic debris.

Ms. Robeson spoke about how her art was initially inspired by the landscape of her childhood nightmares. She advised the student artists to follow their bliss, be kind and to let their bliss guide them.

“Having the ability to share your bliss, share your light and make more light is a gift,” Ms. Robson said.

Local honorees are Daysia Balles and Matt Bishop of Marlboro High School.

Daysia Balles will be attending SUNY Oneonta this fall. Ms. Balles plans to major in digital and studio art.

Daysia is currently president of the Marlboro Art Club and last year she was the vice-president. She has taken Fashion, Drawing and Painting, Studio Art, Advanced Studio Art, and Ceramics. This year Ms. Balles is taking Advanced Ceramics and AP Portfolio. Daysia has pursued her passion for art at Marlboro High School for the past two years. Daysia’s inspiration for teaching was realized when she started to help mentor her peers. Daysia plans on becoming an art teacher after she graduates.

Matt Bishop will be attending the University at Buffalo SUNY this fall in Buffalo, NY. He will be majoring in finance with a minor in vocal performance. Mattalways had a passion to pursue finance and he grew a passion for music throughout high school. In the future, Matt plans on becoming a financial advisor and performing whenever he can. Mr. Bishop is currently a member of the Marlboro High School’s chamber choir, drama club, as well as a member of the National Honor Society. Throughout his four years in high school, Mr. Bishop has performed in the All-County Music Festival and as a lead in both drama productions he was a part of.