Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) congratulates the seven high school seniors chosen by their respective schools to represent specific pillars of leadership: Caring, Citizenship, Courage, Fairness, Respect, Responsibility, and Trustworthiness. The Superintendent’s Character Trait Award winners were recognized at the April 21 Board of Education meeting, where they received commemorative certificates.

“The character of these students is not defined by a single achievement, but by the consistent choices they make every day,” said Superintendent Dr. Wesley Smith. “While we recognize these individuals, they represent just a small sample of the many outstanding students across our district. They are leaders in their schools and in our community, reminding us that character truly matters and that our future is in capable hands.”

Join us in congratulating Newport Harbor High School's 2026 Superintendent’s Character Trait Award winner:

Courage: Cruz Marsella

Cruz Marsella embodies courage through perseverance in the face of profound loss. After the sudden passing of his older brother, Cruz entered high school carrying immense grief. His grades initially suffered, and the weight of that loss could have defined his experience at Newport Harbor.

Instead, Cruz made a conscious decision to honor his brother’s legacy. He recommitted himself academically, sought support from teachers and coaches, and steadily rebuilt his confidence. On the football field, he demonstrated resilience and leadership and emerged as a team captain. He became someone teammates could lean on, offering encouragement while pushing himself to improve.

Cruz consistently approaches challenges with humility. He does not shy away from hardship, instead meeting it head-on. Turning grief into motivation, he transformed personal tragedy into purpose and helps others around him do the same.

After graduation, Cruz plans to attend community college before transferring to the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he hopes to continue playing football and carry forward his brother’s legacy.

Together, the seven Superintendent’s Character Trait Award winners reflect the values that define Newport-Mesa Unified School District. Through their actions, both large and small, they demonstrate how character, leadership, and compassion shape strong school communities. NMUSD is proud to recognize these outstanding seniors and celebrate the positive example they set for younger students across the district.