October 5, 2007 - The entire Shaker High School auditorium was filled to capacity on Oct. 3 as hundreds of parents, students, graduates, teachers, district staff and administrators gathered to honor the life of former North Colonie student Harrison Carnevale.

Harry, as he was known by his friends and peers, graduated from high school in June after just three years. Shortly after graduation, he was killed by a speeding motorist. This fall, he would have been studying film at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles.

Harry's closest friends organized the "Shaker High School Tribute to Harry Carnevale," with the whole-hearted support of Superintendent Randy Ehrenberg, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum Joseph D. Corr and Director of Pupil Personnel Services Sheelah Lucier.

According to school psychologist Dr. Michael Gunning, the students were very passionate and persistent in creating this opportunity for students to express their sorrow and to honor Harry's life.

During the two-and-one-half hour tribute, student after student read powerful impact letters, statements and poetry they wrote to honor Harry's memory; capturing the significant effect this young man made on the lives of so many people.

"If there is any example of a young man that was truly blind to all social stigmas and judgments, it is him," read Carnevale's classmate Alex Morrison. "I can only hope that everyone can learn from the way he lived—with love, acceptance, and a smile."

"Harry was the type of person who would have changed the world," another classmate read from her impact letter. "He was accepting of everyone... He is loved and missed and will never be forgotten."

Anyone who would like to write an impact letter to the Carnevale Family to offer condolences, express feelings and show how Harry deeply touched those who knew him should submit it by Tuesday, Oct. 9. Letters may be dropped off in boxes available at the guidance office, B202, J112 or in the art wing.