The Walter J. Markham Award
Rohit Kaushik of Hopedale, a senior in our Information Technology program is the sole recipient of the 2021 award – May 3, 2021
Superintendent-Director Dr. Michael F. Fitzpatrick is proud to announce that Rohit Kaushik of Hopedale, a senior in our Information Technology program is the sole recipient of the 2021 Walter J. Markham Award.
The award is presented annually to a Massachusetts vocational school senior who has demonstrated excellence in their technical, academic, and personal achievements throughout their career.
"Rohit is a distinguished member of our school community with a remarkable resume," said Superintendent-Director Dr. Michael F. Fitzpatrick. "He speaks numerous languages, fluent in English, Kannada, Spanish, and Hindi. He plays and teaches the piano and led the effort to conceptualize, construct, and deliver three ice rescue ladders for emergency use by first responders at the Hopedale Pond to the town to be available for the winter season. And that is just the tip of the iceberg. Earning the prestigious Markham Award is an impressive achievement. We are proud of all of his accomplishments."
As an Information Technology student Rohit has earned CompTIA A+ Certification, Cisco NetAcad CCNA 1 and 2, TestOut PC Pro Certification, and OSHA 10-hour general industry signifying that he is certified in maintaining healthy and safe work environments.
Rohit is the President of both the National Honors Society and the National Technical Honors Society. Delegate, Model United Nations; Outstanding Student for academic excellence in Math, English, and Information Technology, junior year; Gold Medalist, SkillsUSA at the regional level; National School Development Council award recipient; and National Merit Scholarship Commended Student.
As Senior Patrol Leader and Eagle Scout, Rohit has completed numerous service, community engagement, leadership, and outdoor activities through Boy Scouts of America. He has organized food drives and meal delivery programs for the underprivileged in his hometown and volunteers at the town library, park, and church.
The Markham Award is named after the state’s first associate commissioner of occupational education and is sponsored by the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators and the Massachusetts Vocational Association.