Hoboken High School students are making a name for themselves in debate and the arts, proving their skills on a national level.
Recently, a group of students traveled to San Francisco to compete in the Harvard Model Congress, one of the country’s most competitive debate events.
At the same time, Hoboken High School junior Tasha Fu gained recognition in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, winning a Gold Key for their digital artwork, an award reserved for only the top 7% of submissions.
Beyond individual achievements, these students are using their talents to lead, educate, and inspire others in their community.
- Hoboken High students won top honors at the Harvard Model Congress, showing strong debate and leadership skills.
- Junior Tasha Fu earned a Gold Key in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, ranking among the top 7% of artists.
- These students prove that success comes in many forms, from public speaking to creative expression.
Hoboken High School Stands Out at Harvard Model Congress
Hoboken High School students recently traveled to San Francisco to compete in the Harvard Model Congress, one of the top debate competitions in the country.
The event allowed them to act as U.S. senators, House representatives, FBI agents, members of the Presidential Cabinet, UNESCO officials, and journalists.
During the competition, students debated real issues, including climate change, artificial intelligence regulations, cybersecurity, military funding, freedom of speech, and privacy rights.
They had to represent real political figures, which meant setting aside personal views and arguing based on the perspectives of the individuals they were assigned.
Samantha Gotimer represented Alejandro Mayorkas, the former Secretary of Homeland Security.
She focused on immigration policies and protecting both documented and undocumented immigrants.
Arya Khanna represented Senator Kevin Cramer, a Republican from North Dakota who believes climate change is a hoax and prioritizes economic interests over renewable energy.
This role was challenging for Khanna, as her personal views were the opposite, but the experience helped her understand different perspectives.
Many students found the event valuable for learning how to engage in meaningful discussions.
Coby Kriegel said that hearing different points of view is important for learning.
Louise Dirkx shared that each debate helped her become more confident and willing to participate.
The competition was fast-paced, and students had to think quickly while staying composed.
The closing ceremony recognized Hoboken High School’s strong performance.
Coby Kriegel won Outstanding Delegate for his work in the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
Lucas Daly received an Honorable Mention for his role in the FBI committee.
Tasha Fu was selected as the first Redwing (Hoboken High School student) to speak during the closing ceremonies, a distinction shared by only one other delegate.
Debate team advisor Paul Huggins praised the students, saying their experience at the Harvard Model Congress gave them skills that would help them in the future.
He pointed out that public speaking, critical thinking, and the ability to understand different viewpoints are skills that will be useful in college and beyond.
Hoboken High School Student Wins Scholastic Art Award
While Hoboken High students stood out in the debate, Tasha Fu, a junior, also gained recognition for their artistic talent.
Tasha won a Gold Key in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards for their digital artwork titled “Stories in Bloom.”
This award is given to only the top 7% of submissions at the regional level, making Tasha’s work one of the best entries in the competition.
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is a highly respected competition for young artists and writers.
Professionals judge entries based on originality, technical skill, and artistic voice.
Winning a Gold Key means that Tasha’s artwork will now be considered for national recognition.
In addition to this achievement, Tasha’s painting “Balance in My Hands” received an Honorable Mention, showing their ability to work across different artistic styles.
Beyond their personal success, Tasha Fu is also the founder of Art for Unity (@artforunitys), which provides free art education and resources to children in Hoboken.
Through weekly in-person classes, monthly virtual workshops, and art supply donations, their program reaches nearly 50 students per week, making art more accessible to young people in the community.
Principal Robin Piccapietra said Tasha’s accomplishments show talent, dedication, and a strong commitment to the community.
She said winning the Scholastic Art & Writing Award and running Art for Unity proves that Tasha uses art to help and inspire others.
Hoboken High School Continues to Inspire and Achieve
Hoboken High School is proving to be a place where students grow, challenge themselves, and succeed in different fields.
They are learning valuable skills—critical thinking, leadership, public speaking, creativity, and community service—to help them in college, careers, and beyond.
With a school that supports their passions and hard work, Hoboken High School students will undoubtedly continue to excel and lead in the years to come.
