Victor Aristakessian, a Fenton senior, was given Bensenville’s 2019 Breiter-Cuvala Volunteer Award during an October 24 volunteer appreciation banquet. Even as a crowd applauded in his honor, Aristakessian said he felt the attention should be given to people in need.
Bensenville Village President Frank DeSimone said he decided to only review nominations of students this year. Aristakessian is the first student to ever win the award.
“Students are often recognized within the school, but students don’t always identify the positive impact they are making on the entire community,” DeSimone said. “By selecting a student for this award, I hope it helps show others that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a big impact on a person or community.”
Fenton requires 25 hours of community service in order to graduate, but Aristakessian has logged more than 200 hours in his high school career, so far.
DeSimone said he also was inspired by Aristakessian’s reliability and dedication. When a car was not available, Aristakessian was known for planning long walks in which he arrived on time and ready to help.
Superintendent James Ongtengco, other administrators, and members of the District 100 school board attended the Oct. 24 banquet to celebrate Aristakessian.
“We are very proud of Victor for being recognized. A huge part of being a Bison is giving back to our community and caring for others,” Ongtengco said. “Victor is one of many Fenton students living this belief daily. Go Bison!”
Aristakessian was joined by family and given a large plaque to take home.
“Thank you so much for this award. I am honored and extremely happy,” Aristakessian told the audience during the banquet. “Everything I did was for a worthy cause. It’s very nice to be part of a community where people really care about each other.”
Victor poses for a photo with his family and Village President Frank DeSimone (far right).
Victor poses for a photo with Fenton Superintendent James Ongtengco (left) and the District 100 Board of Education.
Village President Frank DeSimone (left) visits Fenton a few days before the banquet and surprises Victor with news of the award.