By dave benjamin
Staff Writer
HOWELL — A Howell High School student assistance counselor has been recognized for her efforts in dealing with problems students have related to drugs, alcohol and a multitude of personal crises.
Camille Mussari, student assistance counselor, is the first recipient of the Starlight Award, given by Prevention First, a nonprofit agency working with Monmouth County schools to provide educational programs involving substance abuse and violence prevention.
"She has the ability to see things as they are without bias, to act and not react in the most difficult of situations and above all, to keep her head when all about her are losing theirs," said high school Principal Barbara Mc-Morrow.
It was also noted that Mussari’s commitment to substance abuse extended to her work as a volunteer rape counselor at a facility in the region and as a volunteer prevention counselor for high risk use at a Lakewood housing complex.
"The deciding factor was based on copies of student letters that accompanied the nomination application," said Sheri Kirkpatrick, development director.
The letters, which were addressed to McMorrow, were written to acknowledge Mussari’s assistance and support in dealing with various students’ problems.
One letter, written by a student who had attempted suicide, credited Mussari with saving her life.
"She was able to convince me that suicide is a final answer to a fixable problem," the student wrote. "I owe my life to her. Without her, I probably wouldn’t be here today. She is my saving grace."
As an assistance counselor, Mussari said she deals with the emotional side of the academic world. In addition to working with students who have drug- and alcohol-related problems, she also counsels students who are "experiencing personal crises and need someone to talk to."
Kirkpatrick said the decision to nominate Mussari as the agency’s first recipient was unanimous.
Upon notification of the award, Mussari said she was speechless, and she thanked McMorrow for nominating her to receive the honor.
Ilse Whisner, public information coordinator for the Freehold Regional High School District, said Mussari described herself as a humble person who just does what she loves to do —help youths.
Established in 1967, Prevention First works directly with community leaders, educators, businesses, legislators, parents and children to counter the negative effects of substance abuse and violence in the community.
Mussari will receive the award at a presentation during the first Amethyst and Amber Ball, to be held on April 26 at the Ocean Place Hotel, Long Branch.