Jason Basaur, a Grade 12 student at Centre Wellington District High School, is this year’s Centre Wellington Junior Citizen of the Year.
The award, issued by the Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce, was sprung on Basaur in a presentation in front of his classmates in the CWDHS library on April 23.
Carefully set up as a surprise, local dignitaries, members of the chamber and Basaur’s parents were on hand to offer congratulations.
As principal Beth Burns made the announcement, Basaur’s classmates erupted in a round of applause.
Later, as things calmed, Basaur commented that his chemistry class had come to the library and there was an elaborate scheme to inform him of the recognition.
“I turned around and saw all the cameras. There was this crazy shock of adrenaline. It was an incredible surprise to win and a great honour.”
Basaur added, “I’ve tried to involve myself in every aspect of the community, from Sports and arts, and be representative of what a good citizen is.
“I feel God has given me a lot of great talents and opportunities. I feel the need to make the most of them.”
He said he set out to win the award, which he didn’t even know existed until a few weeks ago, when he heard about his nomination.
He described himself as shy when he began high school, and never imagined that later he would be elected as co-prime minister of the student council.
Basaur said he ran at the suggestion of a friend.
“I had amazing friends who supported me in the election process and continued to support me …
“I just try to live life to its fullest. I have yet to click the button, but I’m planning to head off to Queen’s University in the fall.”
He noted that the first two years in any science program are pretty general, “but after that, I plan to specialize in biomedical physics in pursuit of a medical doctorate degree.”
As to his career choice, Basaur said, “I’ve always had an interest in biology and am very good at it. I can see myself in that type of field.”
At the same time, Basaur is not ready to shut the door on other opportunities, such as becoming a general practitioner.
Basaur thanked those involved in the nomination.
“I’m honoured they would think of me,” he said.
The award will be officially presented at the Chamber of Commerce’s Awards of Excellence on May 16.
