Jonathan Law High School Valedictorian Andrew Fowler is a young man with an unusually mature outlook about life and his place in the world.
“You’ll never get anywhere without hard work,” he says.
Following the example of Dr. Ralph Barbiero, his AP American History teacher, Fowler is determined to lead by example. “If I have one message to give next year’s seniors, it is, ‘Don’t squander your talent,’” he remarks.
Fowler grew up in Milford, the middle of five children. He attended and prior to . Along with an ambitious schedule of honors and AP classes, he was a member of the cross country, basketball and track teams.
“Sports helped me focus on my school work,” he says. “I had to budget my time.”
Another benefit he found in sports was an opportunity to meet new people he might not otherwise have met. “I got a chance to spread my wings,” he notes.
Cross Country Coach Charlie Phillips was another influential force in Andrew’s life.
“He has a very nice and calm way,” Fowler says. “He showed me that leadership can be shown through example.”
Phillips, a former English teacher, became a legendary track and cross country coach in Milford - known for teaching athletic skills along with respect and self-motivation. With Phillips leadership, Fowler found his own success in sports as well as academics.
“I wanted to please him, so I worked hard,” Fowler says.
Another teacher whose influence molded him is Mrs. Kate Nolan, a teacher at . In early elementary, Fowler says, he was quiet and shy. Nolan's language teaching skills “helped me start out on the right foot,” Fowler remembers. “She made me feel relaxed and comfortable.”
In the fall Fowler will be attending UConn as a history major. His goal is to become a history professor.
Before that, this summer, he will be a counselor with the Milford recreation program. In his spare time, he plans to hang out with friends.
Rob Forbes Assistant Professor