Two Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center graduates recently received the prestigious “Triple C” award from New York State (NYS) Attorney General Letitia James in recognition of their courage, commitment, and character. Anihea Allen, a Kingston High School student who is a graduate of the Ulster BOCES Business and Entrepreneurship program, and Arielle Cruz, a Wallkill Senior High School student who is a graduate of the Cosmetology program, are this year’s recipients.

“I want to thank you and your fellow students for the inspiration you have provided us all during these difficult times,” wrote James. “By facing the challenges that have been thrust upon you with grace and determination, your generation is providing us with much-needed hope.”

Anihea was nominated by her teacher, Amy Poux. “Anihea is a true leader and visionary,” said Poux. “An independent learner, she is driven by her own goals, research, and ethics. A highly respected member of our program, Anihea sets the bar high for others in her midst by going above and beyond in every project in our program.”

A member of the National Technical Honor Society, Anihea was also a class representative, a leader in the Business & Entrepreneurship program, and was voted “Best Senior” by her classmates, Poux adds.

Anihea is interested in filmmaking and real estate and will be pursuing an apprenticeship with HUDSY-TV, a new media company in Ulster County. She has also been accepted by a number of colleges and universities.

Arielle was nominated by her Cosmetology instructor, Kate Weston. “Arielle is a joy to be around,” said Weston. “She is smart, talented, compassionate, and when inspired, she is driven! She was an excellent SkillsUSA member, she worked hard to prepare for New York State competitions, and was an incredible Ulster BOCES representative.”

Arielle was a silver medalist at the regional SkillsUSA competitions for Cosmetology (Cosmo) Quiz Bowl, Weston noted, and was a Silver medalist for NYS SkillsUSA in Community Service.  

After graduation, she plans to take continuing education classes and the cosmetology licensing exam. 

Ulster BOCES Cosmetology Instructor Kate Weston (left) nominated Arielle Cruz, a Wallkill Senior High School student who is a graduate of the Ulster BOCES Cosmetology program, for the prestigious “Triple C” award. The award, which Arielle won, is given by New York State  Attorney General Letitia James in recognition of students’ courage, commitment, and character.

Anihea Allen, a Kingston High School student who is a graduate of the Ulster BOCES Business and Entrepreneurship program, recently received the prestigious “Triple C” award from New York State Attorney General Letitia James in recognition of her courage, commitment, and character.