Malverne High School Senior Awarded Princeton Prize in Race Relations
The district is proud to congratulate Malverne High School senior Matthew DaCosta on being named a recipient of the prestigious Princeton Prize in Race Relations, recognizing his leadership and impact in advancing racial equity and cross-cultural understanding.
Matthew is the second winner from Malverne within two years. “To have two winners from any school is rare, especially for a school the size of Malverne. We are so happy for Matthew," said Rebecca Madson, Chair of the Princeton Prize in Race Relations for the NYC Region.
Matthew’s work reflects both vision and action. As Chair of the ERASE Racism Student Task Force, he organized multi-district conferences on structural racism and testified at the New York State Foundation Aid hearings, advocating for equitable school funding. He developed restorative workshops addressing hate speech and founded the Malverne Youth Towards Equity program for younger students. He also helped to launch Malverne’s first district-wide MLK Day of Service, uniting students in meaningful service and education centered on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.
“Matthew exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and integrity,” said principal Dr. Bascombe. “He creates programs and spaces that foster understanding and bring people together in meaningful ways.”
District Supervisor of Humanities Mr. Mach added, “None of this work is a means to an end for Matthew. I truly believe this is where his future lies, and all of our futures will be better for it.”
As a Princeton Prize recipient, Matthew will receive a $2,500 award and attend the Princeton Prize Symposium on Race, joining student leaders from across the country.
The Malverne community proudly celebrates this achievement and the lasting impact of Matthew’s work.