Skip To Main Content

Logo Image

Logo Title

Meet the PW AVID Class of 2025

Meet the PW AVID Class of 2025

Bashiru Adams

Bashiru Adams bio pic

My name is Bashiru Adams, and I have been in AVID for two years. The AVID program has been a great help during my final two years of high school, assisting me with everything I needed, especially in preparing for and applying to colleges. Through AVID, I had the opportunity to participate in many fundraisers. I have been a member of the Varsity soccer team for two years and plan to play soccer in college, as it s both my hobby and a big part of my life. I am also taking dual enrollment computer science classes and am a member of the Computer Science club. I plan to major in Computer Science in college. AVID has helped me become a better student and has taught me how to be more responsible. This program has not only assisted me academically, but it has also provided a safe space when I needed support. I would like to thank Mrs. Ruggiero, Mrs. Benn,  and all the other teachers and counselors who have heled me during my time in the program. 

 


Kira Boakye

Kira Boakye bio pic

My name is Kira Boakye, and I have been in the AVID program for five years. I have served as co-president of the Black Cultural Awareness (BCA) club for two years and have been a member since ninth grade. Additionally, I have participated in multiple sports. During my freshman year, I played basketball, and now I focus on throwing in track & field, a sport I’ve been involved with for four years. Last year, I had the great opportunity to join the first-ever PW girl’s flag football team. Track & field and flag football are sports I definitely want to continue pursuing in college. As for my academic future, I plan to attend a four-year university to study biology and become a physician or PA. AVID has taught me how to step out of my comfort zone and try new things. Without this constant lesson, I don’t think I would have participated in or tried new activities, clubs, and classes that might interest me. As a result, I am now in a tech program that helps guide me through concepts that I will need to experience in my future career as a physician or physician assistant. The AVID program has not only shaped my academic pursuits but has also provided me with a community of supportive mentors, including Mrs. Ruggiero,  Mrs. Benn and Mrs. Lynch, as well as peers who feel like family. Their guidance and encouragement have been invaluable, and I would love to thank them for everything.


Amelia Buffington

Amelia Buffington bio pic

My name is Amelia Buffington, and I have been in AVID for five years. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity, as it has helped me  in so many ways. AVID has made me more organized and prepared, not only in school but also in my everyday life. Unfortunately, I do not have someone at home who is familiar with college, so having all these amazing people by my side, helping me every step of the way, is something I will forever be grateful for. Through AVID, I have had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people I never thought I would connect with, and I will never take that for granted. I am excited to pursue a career in interior/graphic design at a four-year university. At first, I was scared to apply because I had a setback during my junior year. However, with the unconditional support from AVID, I new I had nothing to worry about. I don’t know where I would be without AVID. It has been an immense help throughout my entire high school career, and I will always be grateful for the support of my counselors, Mrs. Benn and Mrs. Lynch, my classmates, and, of course, my AVID teacher, Mrs. Ruggiero.


Alex Gallo

Alex Gallo

My name is Alex Gallo. I’ve been in the AVID program for three years, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it. AVID has taught me how to better manage my time, both in and out of school, and has helped me become more organized with my schoolwork as well as my personal life. AVID has also encouraged me to take on challenges I wouldn’t have considered before. For example, I enrolled in my first honors class during 11th grade, something I never thought I’d be able to accomplish in high school. Outside of AVID, I’ve enrolled in an EMT course to deepen my knowledge for my future career in the medical field. The course includes a lot of hands-on work, giving me real-world experience with people in the community. Every other Saturday, we take a 100-question test to track our progress. I’ve also been accepted to work with the Whitemarsh Ambulance Station, where I get to go on rides and learn from more experienced EMTs. When I’m not focused on school or my EMT training, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family and going shopping.


Madi Giangiulio

Madi Giangiulio bio pic

My name is Madi Giangiulio and I have been part of the AVID program for three years now. Before joining, I struggled with motivation for school and lacked the supportive social group I needed to succeed. Through AVID, I have gained essential study skills and found a dependable community that has supported me throughout my classes. This program introduced me to some of my closest friends, with whom I’ve created many of my most cherished high school memories. Beyond AVID, I participated in the first PW flag football program and am committed to helping establish it as a PIAA sport by 2025. Additionally, I discovered my passion for working with children, which I plan to pursue in college by becoming a pediatric nurse. To reach this goal, I intend to major in Pre-Med or Nursing. Without the encouragement and guidance from AVID, I wouldn’t have the confidence or motivation to pursue admission into such a competitive field. I am grateful for Mrs. Ruggiero, Mrs. Benn, and my AVID family for providing me with the support to become my best self during high school.


Shamir Goldman

Shamir Goldman Bio pic

My name is Shamir Goldman, and I have been in the AVID program for five years. I have been a member of the Interact and Letters for Rose clubs since my sophomore year and in the Black Cultural Awareness (BCA) club since my freshman year, serving on the leadership council since my junior year. I have participated in activities such as Foundation Day, the BCA fashion show, Smiles for Guatemala, and many more. During my free time, you will likely catch me doing one of three things: spending time with friends, listening to music, or playing video games. In regard to my academic future, I plan to attend a four-year university to study marketing or digital marketing. AVID has greatly facilitated my high school career, helping me maintain high educational standards and supporting me throughout my college application process. The AVID program has not only helped me with my education, but it has also provided me with a second family and a support system that I can depend on. I’d like to thank Mrs. Ruggiero, Mrs. Benn, and my best friends in AVID. I love you all. 


Dakota Green

Dakota Green bio pic

My name is Dakota Green, and I joined the AVID program in my senior year. I spent my first two years of high school in Connecticut before having to move due to family circumstances. My father struggled with a range of addictions and mental health issues, which made it impossible for him to care for me. As a result, I moved six hours away to live with my aunt. Despite these challenges, I found support in the AVID program. Mrs. Ruggiero, Mrs. Benn, Mrs. Lynch, and the AVID team provided the guidance I needed to set a clear path for my future. Before joining AVID, I was unsure about what lay ahead, but thanks to their help, I’ve been accepted into several universities, including Duquesne, Delaware Valley, and Moravian. While I may not have been as involved in extracurricular activities as others, I maintained straight A’s during my junior year and successfully adjusted to a new school. I’ve overcome the obstacles of my past, and now I’m ready to move forward into the future.


Alison Hernandez

Alison Hernandez bio pic

My name is Alison Hernandez, and I have been in AVID for three years. I am very grateful for the opportunity to join this program. I have been involved in HLSU since my freshman year and became president in my senior year. I also joined the UNICEF club during my senior year and participated in the Art Club from freshman through junior year. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my pets and family. I also like to bake, making cookies, cakes, and brownies. As for my academic future, I plan to attend a four-year university to study nursing. I hope to earn my bachelor's degree and become a pediatric nurse. AVID has helped me become a better student, taught me how to be a leader, and prepared me for college. The program has also improved my public speaking and social skills, making my school years much easier, and for that, I am extremely thankful. I want to thank Mrs. Ruggiero, Mrs. Benn, Mrs. Lynch, and my AVID classmates for all their help. I may not always show it, but I love and appreciate you all!


Jadon Joseph

Jadon Joseph bio text

My name is Jadon Joseph, and I am a senior in the AVID program. It has been an amazing journey being a part of this program for the past four years. Outside of academics, I have a passion for playing 2K and COD in my free time. Being a part of BCA has also been a rewarding experience since my freshman year. I have had the opportunity to be involved in planning various community service events and serving as the resident of the club. On the sports front, I have been playing varsity football for the past two years and have been honored with two first-team all-league defensive tackle awards as well as all-area recognition. I am excited to continue my football career in college and hopefully play Division 1 football. As for my academic goals, I am looking forward to studying pre-law at a four-year university. AVID has played a crucial role in shaping me into a better student and leader. I am grateful for the support and guidance of my AVID teachers, Mrs. Ruggiero and Mrs. Benn, and my amazing AVID classmates, who have become like family to me. Thank you for helping me grow and succeed!


Wendi Mendoza

Wendi Mendoza bio pic

My name is Wendi Mendoza, and I have been in the AVID program for four years. I have been a part of the Spanish Club, Apoyamos a México, and the Hispanic Latinx Student Union (HLSU) since my sophomore year. In my free time, I work in the afternoons during the week, do chores, make flowers, and I love to draw. As for my academic future, I plan to attend a four-year university to study nursing. I hope to earn my bachelor's degree and become a pediatric nurse. I am grateful to be part of this program because it has taught me to grow both as a student and as a person. AVID has helped me become more organized, manage my homework provide study methods to focus. Most importantly, AVID has helped improve my social skills both inside and outside of school. My public speaking has also improved tremendously. I want to thank Mrs. Ruggiero and Mrs. Benn for all the help and encouragement they have given me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their support. Thanks to them, I was able to open up and socialize more. I also want to thank my AVID classmates for their help and understanding. I love you all and will always appreciate you!


Shayna Moore

Shayna More bio pic

My name is Shayna Moore, and I have been in the AVID program for the past three years. I am the treasurer of the Cradles to Crayons Club, participated in Mini THON every year, and worked at Brunch since eighth grade. AVID has helped me become more active in community service and volunteer work, such as Smiles for Guatemala and MLK Day. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with friends, shopping, going to the beach, and listening to music. My biggest dream is to travel the world because I love visiting new places, going on adventures, relaxing, and appreciating the beauty of our Earth. I plan to continue my academic journey at a four-year college, entering undecided to explore my path for the future. AVID has helped me in ways I could never have imagined. I’ve become a better student, friend, and, overall, a better person. When I first joined AVID, I was quieter, shy, and fell in the academic middle. Now, I have made many new friends, taken rigorous courses, and come out of my shell. I would like to thank Mrs. Ruggiero, Mrs. Benn, and my AVID friends. I can’t thank you all enough, and I truly appreciate everything you’ve done for me. 


Leea Smith

Leea Smith bio pic

My name is Leea Smith and for the past four years, AVID has played a major role in my growth as a person. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this class, and I wouldn't ask for anything different. In addition to AVID, I have been part of the leadership committee for the Black Culture Awareness Club since my freshman year. From a sports perspective, I have been a thrower on the track and field team at PW, where I have consistently excelled. When I’m not at school, I find passion in art, particularly painting and sketching, as well as reading and, of course, working. I plan to pursue a master’s degree in architecture design at a four-year university. Before AVID, I struggled with putting myself out there and often took a backseat, continuously doubting myself. But with the guidance, encouragement, and support from Mrs. Ruggiero and Mrs. Benn, I have learned to trust myself, take the lead, and become who I was meant to be. The hardest part of this journey is saying goodbye to my classmates, my friends for life. I hope they know that. Thank you all! Peace and love.


Charlie Spause

Charlie Spause bio pic

My name is Charlie Spause, and I have been in the AVID program since 8th grade. I’ve played varsity ice hockey for the school all four years, and have been involved in numerous clubs, such as Interact, Sports Debate, and the Hockey Club, since freshman year. On weekends, I clean beach houses with my aunt. As for my academic future, I am still undecided about what exactly I want to study, but I am considering pursuing a career in education to become a teacher. AVID has helped me become a better overall student and has taught me how to feel more comfortable with public speaking. The AVID program has not only supported me as a student but also provided me with a second family and a safe place to go whenever I needed it. I always felt like I could turn to Mrs. Ruggiero for absolutely anything. Thank you, Mrs. Ruggiero, Mrs. Benn, and my AVID family. I love you all and will miss you!


Taylor Williams

Taylor Williams bio pic

My name is Taylor Williams, and I’ve been in the AVID program for four years. AVID has guided me through countless life lessons. I have learned about time management, organizational skills, and been given access to a wealth of college information. AVID has also helped me through emotional challenges by providing a comforting space and positive solutions. My time in AVID has greatly shaped my mindset  in a positive way which allowed me to make connections both in and out of school. Upon graduation, I plan to attend a four-year college, pursue a degree in biomedicine and eventually earn a PhD. I am determined to help people and advance research in the medical field. My favorite way to spend time in school is by playing sports! I’ve played field hockey, basketball, track and field, and, for the first time, I was on the girls' flag football team! I want to thank Mrs. Ruggiero for being my second mom, both in and outside of school. I love her so much for her endless support and genuine care for all of us. I also would like to express my love to our senior class!

 “Success is a journey, not a destination.” – Unknown


Aniya Wood

Aniya Wood bio pic

My name is Aniya Wood, and I have been in AVID since my sophomore year. When I first heard about the program, it immediately aligned with my goals and aspirations. AVID has provided me with many opportunities to grow and exposed me to new ideas, helping me discover what I want for my future.  From sophomore to senior year, I have served as a freshman Orientation leader. Additionally, I am a Class Officer and have served as Class Coordinator for two years. Before running for office, I gained experience as a Steering Committee member for two years, where I became involved in social media management. I have also been an active member of the Black Cultural Awareness Club (BCA) for six years. Recently, I became the president and have held this position for the past three years. During my time as president, I created an annual fundraiser called "Sweets and Treats," which raises money for the American Liver Foundation and BCA’s Senior Scholarship Fund. Outside of school, I run a custom phone case business called Madebyaniya, which I have been operating for a year. Entrepreneurship is important
to me, as I come from a family of CEOs, and it is a significant part of my heritage.