DILLON VASSALLO, Pingree
Dillon Vassallo isn't afraid of avoiding the conformity that haunts high school hallways and classrooms. Peer pressure and the need to fit in by following what is considered acceptable has not controlled Vassallo's time at Pingree.
A standout in the classroom and community as well as his school's football and baseball fields, Vassallo has walked a path very few athletes have been able to travel in the past. For three years, he has been an Honors Dance Student.
"Most boys his age struggled with the awkwardness of dance, but Dillon took to it," said Pingree's co-Director of College Counseling, Meghan Farley. "He has stuck with dance every year since, and for the past two years he has been a member of the honors dance curriculum. It is great to watch him perform during the class performances. He does what he loves and is not afraid of what others think. I admire that quality."
Admiration seems to follow Vassallo. That's why he is a two-sport captain for the Highlanders, as well as President of the Pingree School and Student Council.
Pingree does not release class rank or GPA, but Vassallo has been on the Honor Roll and Headmaster's List every year. He has also won the Champion of the American Red Cross Award, and was invited to participate in the 2007 National Young Leaders Conference and the Lead America Conference in Washington, D.C.
