Alessandra (Ali) Fraim ’19 has been named as the recipient of the Peter A. Zimmerman, M.D., J.D. Award in Recognition of Academic and Intellectual Excellence. The award is given to a student who, at the completion of their junior year of high school, has exhibited academic and intellectual excellence in keeping with the highest educational standards of The Waldorf School of Garden City.

A life-long Waldorf student, Ali has maintained a stellar academic record, particularly over the first three years of high school where she maintained a solid A average while taking some of the School’s most rigorous courses such as College Biology, Accelerated US History, and Calculus 2.  Ali displays the same dedication in her extracurricular activities. She is a 4 year varsity athlete (Soccer, Cross Country, Basketball, and Softball), a member of the High School Model UN, and a member of the Orchestra where she plays the violin. She has also served as a class representative to the Student Council in 9th and 11th grades and currently serves as the Treasurer of our Tri-M Music Honor Society.

The award was presented by Peter’s sister, Andrea Mascuch who shared with the audience the love and support she and her family had received from all the Waldorf community members whose lives were touched by Peter. She recounted many anecdotes from Peter’s classmates and teachers that remembered him as a great man. “Peter would be honored to be remembered this way by his classmates, friends, and teachers.” she said. “He would be so grateful that his legacy at the Waldorf School of Garden City lives on, in this award to a student who shares his commitment to excellence, and dedication to the Waldorf Spirit.” Peter and Andrea’s parents, Dr. Alan and Mrs. Marcia Zimmerman, who established the award in 2017 were also in attendance.

An alumnus of the Waldorf School and member of the class of 1978, Peter Zimmerman exhibited a breadth and depth of intellectualism that was as compelling as it was unique. His academic achievements continued as an undergraduate at Dartmouth College. Peter went on to earn a medical degree from Northwestern University and a law degree from Fordham University School of Law. According to his sister, Peter’s Waldorf core remained an integral part of his being throughout his entire life.

Congratulations to Ali on this well-earned accomplishment!

If you would like to contribute to the Peter A. Zimmerman, M.D., J.D. Award Fund click here.