NORTHAMPTON, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- Emma O’Sullivan, a valedictorian and student-athlete at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School in Northampton, received a $1,000 scholarship from the Gary Rome Auto Group Surprise Squad.

O’Sullivan was nominated by faculty and recognized for her work in the school’s public safety program. She hopes to become a lawyer and plans to attend Western New England University in the fall.

Gary Rome said the Surprise Squad honors students who set an example for others in the community. “Honoring people like this and recognizing them is great for the rest of the people in our community because she is a power of example so others will hopefully want to follow suit,” he explained.

O’Sullivan was surprised by classmates, teachers, family, and friends. She said she initially thought the group was gathering for pizza during her class’s last week of shop. “I want to start off by saying thank you so much,” O’Sullivan said. “Through receiving scholarships, I’ve actually realized how important it is for these people in the community because not only do they help the next generation get to where they’re getting, but it gives me and other students hope that we can do what we want to do and pursue what we want to pursue.”

Joe Brewer, a public safety instructor, said O’Sullivan has been an “amazing student” and described her as intelligent, driven, kind, caring and empathetic. “The community is going to be gaining an advocate, an advocate for themselves,” he added. “I think she’s going to make an amazing attorney and we’re going to read about her in the news for a long time to come.”

Hayleigh Ferin, a friend and classmate, said O’Sullivan has been a leader since freshman year. “She’s been the sergeant, she’s been in charge of all of us, but everyone listens to her,” she noted.

O’Sullivan also is doing an internship with the Holyoke Police Department, according to Rome.

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