Dedication

 

Fighting Forward and the accompanying research was inspired by three young individuals who passed too soon. With their families’ permission, you can learn more about them below and the impact they left on this world.

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Alison (Ali) Ternig

September 9, 1999 - June 7, 2017

Ali was from Waterbury, CT and was a senior at the Waterbury Arts Magnet School (WAMS) Class of 2017 when she passed. Ali was an outstanding student in her classes and an active community member in and outside of WAMS whether it be performing on stage or singing her heart out at a Habitat for Humanity Coffee House. She was a light in the lives of everyone she knew and always one to lend a helping hand. Her favorite song was “Seasons of Love” from the musical Rent.

Zachary (Zach) Misleh

June 24, 1997 - June 13, 2017

Zach was from Cheverly, MD and was an alum of DeMatha Catholic High School Class of 2016 as well as a freshman of St. John’s University when he passed. Zach was also a member of the Ozanam Scholars Program where he participated in both great conversation and reflection as well as meaningful service work. He was viewed by his friends and peers as a joy to be around and someone anyone could talk to because he was always looking to learn about those around him.

You can learn more about Zach at this website created by his family: https://www.zachmisleh.net/.

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Justin Weaver

February 17, 1999 - June 12, 2018

Justin was from Thomaston, CT and was an alum of the Waterbury Arts Magnet School (WAMS) Class of 2017 when he passed. After graduation, he was working towards his welder’s certification in order to become an underwater welder. During his school years, he showed a love for music through the violin among a number of other passions. Justin loved to have fun and had a laugh that was extremely contagious; whenever he was around you knew everyone was going to have fun.

Since his passing, a scholarship fund has been made in his honor: The Justin B. Weaver Scholarship for the Trades. You can learn more about him and the scholarship on this website: http://justinbweaver.com/