CCHS student named Rensselaer Medal winner; Award recognizes promising students who excel in math and science

Colonie Central High School (CCHS) student Timothy Knowles.
Colonie Central High School (CCHS) student Timothy Knowles.

Earlier this week, Colonie Central High School (CCHS) student Timothy Knowles was notified by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute as being selected as one of the recipients of their prestigious Rensselaer Medal and scholarship award.  This merit scholarship is worth a value of up to $120,000 and is awarded for promising students who have distinguished themselves in mathematics and science.

Knowles, now a rising senior at CCHS, is a three sport athlete who plays soccer, bowling and tennis as well as viola with the Symphonic Orchestra. In addition to his commitments at school, Knowles also serves as a Lector at Christ our Light Church in Loudonville. 

“We are proud of Tim for being selected for this award,” said CCHS Executive Principal Kachadurian. “His interest in pursuing math and science in college in addition to his involvement in the school and community is why he was nominated to receive this incredible recognition.”

CCHS is one of 5,000 high schools across the world that participate in RPI’s medal program. Each school can nominate one student per year, and the medalists are then selected from that pool. Typically, more than 150 medalists enroll in RPI’s freshman class every year.

“The Rensselaer Medal is a wonderful way to pay tribute to the high school students who have achieved excellence in math and science,” said Karen Long, director of undergraduate admissions. “As we do so, we are aware that these early achievements, as impressive as they are, mark only one milestone on their future journeys of commitment to hard work, drive, focus, and collaborations.  The Rensselaer Medal winners represent the next generation of leaders, scientists, innovators, artists, scholars, game designers, architects, humanitarians, and entrepreneurs.”

“I am very honored that I was chosen to receive this prestigious award.  I take my academics very seriously and even though I was a virtual learner for most of this past year, I strived to do my best, keep up my grades, and stay focused on my goals,” said CCHS student Mr. Knowles. “I would like to thank Mr. Kilmer, Mr. Zaccari, and Mrs. Lewicki for challenging and supporting me. They make their subjects interesting and fun which keeps me engaged and helps me know that I would like a STEM career. I would like to study chemical, electrical or environmental engineering in college. “

Knowles resides in Colonie with his parents Graham, Lisa and sister Madison (CCHS Class of 19’).  

For more than 100 years, Rensselaer, in conjunction with high schools around the world, has awarded the Rensselaer Medal to promising secondary school students who have distinguished themselves in mathematics and science. Learn more about the Rensselaer Medal here.