It was a lucky but tense moment on Wednesday afternoon for HHS North graduating senior Mahaya Tabin when she turned the last key and the car’s engine smoothly turned on, signaling that she was the winner of a brand new Hyundai Venue that was gifted by Gary Rome Hyundai.
Mahaya was the last of 19 students to try a key—the prior 18 wouldn’t start the car—prompting some in attendance to wonder if there was a problem with the car. Nope! The car was fine. It just needed the correct key to get it started, and Mahaya was the one holding it.
In all, 19 students from Holyoke High School’s Dean and North campuses were selected as finalists in the Gary Rome Academic Achievement Award announced during the 2021-22 school year, and each had a shot at winning the car. All finalists had to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher, could have no more than five absences during the school year, and could not have any major disciplinary infractions.
“I feel strongly about empowering the youth of Holyoke and encouraging them to strive for excellence,” said Mr. Rome, who is president and CEO of the local car dealership. “It’s important we give the youth of our city something to be excited about.”