The Melissa J. Schlag Good Citizenship Education Award, a $1,500 scholarship, was presented to Reagan Aronson of Higganum on June 8, 2026.
Reagan has demonstrated a strong commitment to journalism, public service, and informed citizenship throughout her high school career. Her leadership and work in Haddam-Killingworth High School’s broadcast media studio, along with her advanced studies in journalism and civics, have inspired her to continue pursuing these values by studying Political Journalism at American University this fall.
According to her guidance counselor, Emily Baerlein, “Reagan will not back down from a challenge in the classroom or in her life. Reagan has undertaken an extremely rigorous course schedule in high school, including managing our TV studio. At times, she has felt overwhelmed with everything on her plate, but she always perseveres, does the absolute best that she can do, and learns new skills along the way.”
Reagan chose to take AP U.S. Government and Politics online. “This is a very independent endeavor for Reagan; none of her peers at our school are enrolled in the class, and she is completing Advanced Placement work on her own. If Reagan wants to engage in a topic academically, she commits herself to learning at the highest level that she can,” Baerlein said.
Perhaps nothing encapsulates Reagan as a student more than her experience in HK’s TV studio. Reagan produced and directed HK’s live annual holiday show this year, a local tradition that typically raises tens of thousands of dollars for charity. She was also selected as a student vlogger for EF Tours, creating a short film documenting her trip to France. In addition, Reagan served as a reporter for the Cougar Chronicle, HK’s school newspaper, where she regularly contributed articles that inform and engage her fellow students.
Beyond her academic and journalistic pursuits, Reagan has demonstrated exceptional initiative and community involvement. She volunteered at the Special Olympics Volleyball Fundraiser, helping support athletes and promote inclusion. As a member of the Yale Polo Team, she balanced the demands of competitive athletics with her academic responsibilities. Reagan also launched her own photography business, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and dedication to serving her community.
Reagan seeks to ask important questions, challenge misinformation, uncover the truth, and help others better understand the world around them. She is committed to informing the public and encouraging critical thinking.
We commend Reagan’s curiosity, integrity, leadership, and dedication to making a positive difference through honest and responsible journalism, community service, and civic engagement. We are confident that she will carry forward the values Melissa championed throughout her life.
Friends of Melissa Schlag 