Local students win regional history competition with project honoring Dr. Frank Boston

Two eighth grade students from Indian Crest Middle School have earned top honors in the regional finals of the National History Day competition, thanks to a compelling project spotlighting a local hero, Dr. Frank Boston.

Aavni Sitapara and Valencia Nguyen, guided by teachers Jeffrey Zaleta and Joseph Gunn, took first place in the junior group exhibit category.

    Student Valencia Nguyen and Aavni Sitapara pose next to a display honoring the legacy of Dr. Frank Boston. (Photo courtesy of Boston Legacy Foundation)
  

Their project, titled “Dr. Frank Boston: Champion for the Marginalized Communities’ Medical Rights,” explored the legacy of Dr. Boston, founder of the Jefferson Lansdale Hospital and the Volunteer Medical Service Corps (VMSC).

Their success at the regional level earned them a place in the Pennsylvania State competition held at the University of Scranton on March 22.

Although they did not move on to the national competition, the students’ dedication and achievements are being celebrated throughout the community.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of these students,” said George Whitehair, Executive Director of the Boston Legacy Foundation. “Their project has truly impressed us all.”            

To honor their accomplishment, the students were given a behind-the-scenes tour of Jefferson Lansdale Hospital, including a visit to the Dr. Frank Boston Lobby, trying on surgical scrubs, and even stepping onto the hospital’s helicopter pad.

    Joe Gunn, Jeffrey Zaleta, Student Aavni Sitapara, Student Valencia Nguyen, McKinley Thomas, George Whitehair and Dr. Francis Jeyaraj. (Photo courtesy of Boston Legacy Foundation)
  

McKinley Thomas of Jefferson Lansdale and Shane Wheeler of VMSC joined Whitehair and Dr. Jeyaraj in recognizing the students’ work.

The day concluded with a special tour of VMSC’s facilities and a visit to the permanent Dr. Boston exhibit.

The National History Day program challenges students in grades 6–12 to conduct in-depth research on historical topics related to an annual theme.

This year’s theme, “Rights and Responsibilities,” inspired Aavni and Valencia to shed light on the impact of Dr. Boston, an African-American World War I veteran and trailblazing physician who fought for better medical services for marginalized communities.

“Aavni and Valencia are the epitome of why we value the National History Day program,” said Zaleta. “They showed tremendous growth as learners and even as educators. Through their research, they uncovered a little-known story that enriched all of us."

    Students Aavni Sitapara and Valencia Nguyen. (Photo courtesy of Boston Legacy Foundation)
  

Zaleta also noted how the project deepened his own understanding of local history. “I’ve lived nearly my entire life in Bucks and Montgomery counties and never once encountered the story of Dr. Boston. Learning about his legacy has made me feel more connected to this area.”

While the students may not have advanced to nationals, their impact is already being felt — not just in the academic realm, but in the hearts of a community rediscovering one of its most influential figures.

For more information on the Boston Legacy Foundation, visit www.bostonlegacyfoundation.org or search for “Dr. Frank E. Boston” on Facebook