Core values: the foundation of character and success

NEVERSINK, NY — Fine character and unbridled success are not ready-made commodities. They result from hard work, diligence, perseverance, and for Cecilia Pompeii, a senior at Tri-Valley High School, an adherence to a code of basic values.

Service to her community and those in need, respect for her self and those around her and a tireless work ethic are the hallmarks of Pompeii’s relationship to the world.

“I always try to help other people accomplish their goals and to set a good example for my peers,” Pompeii said.

Such manifestations of character and unselfish devotion to others are not the result of mere happenstance. The old adage, “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” applies to Pompeii, who is one of four children of Phil and Mary Lou Pompeii. Raised in a nurturing, supportive environment that fosters respect, belief in oneself and the rewards of hard work, Pompeii is the oldest of four children that include Rachael, 14; Agnes, 12; and Emma, 6.

“My parents always taught me to believe in myself and that I could accomplish anything if I was willing to work for it,” said Pompeii, currently ranked number one in the Class of 2005.

The idea that hard work could pay off with lasting dividends was reinforced through her seven-year tenure with the Monticello Gymnastics Club under the tutelage of long-time coach Pedro Tweed. “More than anything, gymnastics was the activity in my life that helped me develop my character, discipline and work ethic. Pete was my mentor,” she said wistfully.

Pompeii was a stellar gymnast and a classy competitor. Though she suffered from painful Osgood Schlatter Disease, an ailment common among adolescents that is characterized by serious knee pain, she came to practice night after night, competed at numerous meets and earned her fair share of medals and trophies. Competing alongside older girls who were good role models made an indelible mark on Pompeii, who now serves as a role model to others.

The time taken from school activities and friends eventually led Pompeii away from gymnastics. Nonetheless, the flexibility and body control that she learned now fuels her current passion for cheerleading and dance. She has been participating in cheerleading since last year, and she attended Pine Forest Cheerleading Camp in the Poconos last summer.

“I’m a flyer and I draw on my gymnastics experience to help me control my body in mid-air flight,” she said. Her cheerleading coach is Janna Worden. The Bears’ cheerleaders did well in competitions last year. This year, they hope to do even better. Worden directed last year’s production of “Guys and Dolls” and recruited Pompeii to dance in the show. From all accounts, Pompeii was a big hit.

Now in her fourth year of soccer, with the last two years on varsity, Pompeii plays midfield and is key in many assists.

She is most committed to her role in Tri-Valley’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), a club that focuses on community service and provides competitions to introduce students to business, entrepreneurship, networking, leadership and communication skills. The effects can be noted in her articulate speaking and poise.

She worked as the school’s store manager in ninth grade, served as club president in her sophomore and junior year and is now the club historian. Her duties have included keeping a club scrapbook and a record of all the club’s activities.

Pompeii’s mother is a nutritionist at Catskill Regional Medical Center and has influenced her daughter’s concepts about food.

“I’m interested in nutrition and dietetics and I might want to open a health food store someday,” she said. Pompeii is looking into Russell Sage College in Troy, NY, which is known for its strong program in nutrition. Her guidance counselor, Page Pinto, nominated Pompeii for the Russell Sage Scholarship. Other possible choices include University of Connecticut, CW Post and New York University.

With unanimity of purpose and a strong sense of what she is about, this bright young woman has evolved into a dynamic leader. Fortified by her fine work ethic and remarkable character, this week’s youth in focus can look forward to a bright and promising future.