Glen Cove's Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center Honors New 'Upstander'

Michelle Olakkengil, a senior at Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School, was recognized by The Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center as its June 2013 “Upstander of the Month.”

A Plainview resident, Olakkengil was nominated for her “outstanding work to coordinate and administer ‘Mix It Up Day,’ an ongoing event at her school,” according to the HMTC. It’s a day where students who normally do not socialize with each other to get to know one another. Olakkengil work this year brought the day to a new level by helping to unite the student body and embolden individuals to step out of their comfort zones.  She also invited a wide array of speakers to the school for the event, including three Holocaust Survivors from the HMTC.

In addition, Olakkengil led the school’s “Stomp Out Bullying Campaign.” This initiative included students, teachers, parents, and other family members. More than 1,000 pledges against bullying were collected, and students created an acceptance mural. 

“Michelle recognizes individuals based on who they really are,” Kennedy’s High School Assistant Principal Sharon Lasher said, in a statement. “She encourages others to get involved.”

Olakkengil’s deep commitment to action reflects HMTC’s mission, according to the organization.

Each month, the center accepts nominations from teachers, civic leaders, family and friends of a Long Island youth that has implemented the HMTC’s mission by advocating respect for all people. The student’s action as an Upstander could be one of intervention or prevention.  To nominate a student for “Upstander of the Month” or learn more, email Jennifer Carpenter Low at jenniferlow@holocaust-nassau.org or call 516-571-8040 ext. 107.