5th annual Buckley-Valade Scholarships for Altruism presented to two NRHS students

THE BUCKLEY AND VALADE families presented the 5th annual Altruism Scholarships in honor of the late Paul Buckley and Jay Valade to NRHS Class of 2024 graduates Jessica Simone and James Dillon. From left: Sean Buckley, Tim Buckley, Liam Buckley, Audrey Buckley and Lisa Buckley; Class of 2024 scholarship recipients Jessica Simone and James Dillon; Leanne Valade, Laina Simone, Jared Valade and Joe Dillon. Missing from photo were Jeremy Buckley and Emma Valade. (Courtesy Photo)

NORTH READING — Recently, the Buckley and Valade families happily met Jessica Simone and James Dillon who are the 2024 recipients of the Jay E. Valade and Paul E. Buckley Scholarships for Altruism.

Both recipients of the fifth annual memorial scholarships received multiple recommendations from North Reading High School faculty.

The faculty spoke of Jessica’s kindness and generosity and shared that she has worked with DCF in Lawrence for over eight years where she implemented a program to provide birthday presents to children from families in need. She also coordinated with the North Reading Food Pantry and set up a clothing drive for families in town.  Additionally, she was also a volunteer at the first “Real Senior Prom” held in the fall of 2023 for North Reading’s senior citizens at the Hillview Country Club.

James was described by faculty as one of the “most selfless students” whose “efforts make the world a better place.”  He worked closely with the NRHS custodial team by helping out in numerous ways, including setting up tables and cleaning up trash after track meets.

An Eagle Scout, James’ final project was building custom tables for the dressing rooms adjacent to the Performing Arts Center that are now used by theater students at the High School and Middle School, including members of the Masquers.

James is a willing and enthusiastic mentor to younger students and helped to develop a strong school culture.

Jessica will be attending Sacred Heart University to study business management and real estate.  James will be attending the University of New Hampshire through the ROTC educational program focusing his studies on Homeland Security and Emergency Safety.

Both the Buckley and Valade families wish Jessica and James well in the fall and their future endeavors!