Congratulations to OHS senior Nicolas Bustamante who has been named the Kiwanis Club of Lander Circle “SENIOR OF THE MONTH” for January 2025. The multi-sport athlete has worked diligently to promote exercise and excellence throughout the Orange Schools Community.

The OHS Cross Country Team Captain, Nicolas is also a four-year member and Captain of the Varsity Swimming & Diving Team, and a three-year Varsity team member and Captain of the OHS Track & Field Team. Nicolas also used his athletic skills through “Buddy Up Tennis,” an inclusive tennis and exercise club designed to engage people with Down Syndrome in physical activity. Nicolas has been volunteering with this program for the last four years while serving as a leader of the stretching/warm-up and activities sessions.

His community service further extends to his work as a Safety Town Volunteer, a Greater Cleveland Food Bank Volunteer, a volunteer with the Kiwanis Club of Lander Circle and the Orange Alumni Association, serving as a tour guide and 5K coordinator for the Centennial Celebration, and as a fundraising volunteer for the Junior Class Prom efforts. Nicolas was also a ‘Future of Democracy’ Poll Worker.

Nicolas has embodied his enthusiasm for the Orange Schools both literally and figuratively as the Orange Lions Mascot for the Orange Boosters Tailgates the past two years. He has also served as a lifeguard for Hastings Water Works. Nicolas plans to major in engineering in college.

One of the National Honor Society member’s most significant endeavors is as a Founder and Leader for “Caminemos Mas!” (Let’s Walk More!). This walking and exercise club is geared toward combating high obesity rates in the Hispanic community but is open to everyone. Nicolas organizes and leads monthly walks (and trash and litter cleanups) through the Metroparks with this group that has expanded to include 81 members. He invites everyone to learn more here: CAMINEMOS+CLE.

Every school year, the Kiwanis Club of Lander Circle recognizes six seniors for their leadership, integrity, and academic achievements. We thank the Kiwanis Club for its ongoing support and congratulate Nicolas Bustamante as the January Senior of the Month!