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ALEXANDRIA — The Northern Minnesota Robotics Conference recently recognized its 2022 Annual Awards recipients, which included volunteer of the year, coach of the year and team member of the year.
“The NMRC believes in recognizing the extraordinary efforts of our members,” a release said. “Their excellence comes in many forms from competition to academics, and from teams to individuals. Whether it be a student or a volunteer we feel it is our responsibility to shine a light on those who set a standard we all strive to achieve.”
Among the recipients was Caraira Jensen from Cass Lake-Bena High School's Accelerators team, who was named “Team Member of the Year.” Tami Liberty of Red Lake High School’s Ogichidaag team also received “Coach of the Year.”
According to a release, “Team Member of the Year” is given to a student whose actions, dedication and selflessness directly result in their team’s success. They also display “gracious professionalism,” a willingness to problem solve and leadership ability.
In Jensen’s nomination letter for the award, her mentor referenced Jensen’s 30 hours a week of work on robotics, learning how to use all metal shop machinery, teaching new students about robotics and treating Native American and non-Native students equally and passionately.
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The release adds that “Coach of the Year” is given to someone whose actions, dedication and selflessness impact student success. Anyone can nominate a coach for this award though special consideration is given to nominations submitted by students.
“(Liberty) brings knowledge, enthusiasm and encouragement to all students,” the release said. “(Liberty) has been integral in the recruitment of new members, communicating with the community and establishing opportunities including Powwows and parades at Red Lake and Ponemah.”
Corey Applegate from St. Cloud also earned the “Volunteer of the Year” award.
More information can be found at www.nmrconference.org.
