Cafeteria recess aides Joey Cumbow (Emerson) and Bob Kuhn (Pointview) were surprised on March 17 when a group of Sunrise Rotarians showed up in their schools to present them with Diane J. Conley Rotary Club of Westerville Sunrise Service to Youth awards. They received a plaque from the club, along with a cake and a gift card donated by the Walmart Supercenter on Schrock Road. In addition, an American flag will be flown in their honor during Westerville’s Field of Heroes display. Cumbow, Kuhn and other Service to Youth award winners will be honored at a breakfast in May.
According to his nominator, Cumbow has an excellent rapport with students, teaching them how to resolve conflict, treat everyone with respect and collaborate. He is “always smiling, one of the most positive people in the building – cheerful and enthusiastic.” Cumbow is kind and sensitive to those who are struggling, teaching them skills to overcome adversity. He volunteers for field trips, attends every Emerson event, and has “rapidly become a member of the Emerson family.”
Kuhn, says his nominator, is a wonderful influence on the children, helping them to earn awards and talking with them about their problems. Despite personal losses in his own family, Kuhn’s strength and faith have never wavered. He comes to school every day with a “can do” attitude, ready to listen and make a difference. “They love him,” explains the nominator. “Mr. Bob teaches the best way to be a better student, friend and representative of Pointview.”
Rotary Sunrise instituted Service to Youth awards five years ago to recognize exceptional school employees who have made a special contribution to youth; have served as a positive role model for young people; and have demonstrated service above and beyond the call of duty in performing their job responsibilities. The award is named in honor of Sunrise Rotarian Diane Conley, retired Chief of Academic Affairs for Westerville City Schools.