AMHERST — There was no shortage of fond memories and well-wishing Thursday evening, as school officials and community leaders heaped praise on the best and brightest from local high schools at the annual Quality Students banquet.

The principals from North Tonawanda, City of Tonawanda and Cardinal O’Hara high schools showcased a varied group of achievers. In reading the most memorable moments chosen by North Tonawanda students, Principal James Fisher said, as expected, the 2009 state championship for the football team proved to be the high water mark capping off a four-year high school career.

But other students warmly recalled the rivalry and pageantry associated with the 100th T-NT game. The students who organized the events and cheered from the stands felt as much of a connection with the event as those who took the field.

Other athletes had their own personal bests nestled firmly in memories, and musicians recalled stirring performances that can never be duplicated. For others, becoming a leader in their clubs was a proud achievement.

But it wasn’t always a scholastic or athletic achievement that left the largest impression. Cardinal O’Hara Principal Matthew Ciurczak said Brandon Schultz chose his path toward the nursing field after helping his father grapple with a serious leg injury throughout much of his high school career. Tonawanda Principal Kevin Kazmierczak said Anita McKay’s love for her sister is what led her to the decision to become a special education teacher.

Whatever path the students decide to take in their lives, former Quality Student Colleen Meyer asked that the students not forget their roots, no matter where their lives take them. While she said the desire to see new places and experience new things is often a strong and positive one, Meyer added that she’s seen plenty of people who moved away return to raise their own children.

“Keep a place in your heart for your hometown and what all of the Tonawandas and your parents have done for you,” Meyer said.

Erie County Legislator Kevin Hardwick, who delivered the keynote address, focused on the theme of community as well. He told students not to overlook electives like political science on their journey through college just because it doesn’t seem to pertain to their chosen field. Even though most of the students will never hold elected office, Hardwick argued that it is government that ushers in sweeping societal changes and reshapes communities. To ensure that change reflects their needs, he said the community’s youth needs to lend its energy to the movement.

“Your enthusiasm is infectious,” Hardwick said. “It makes us old people feel young again.”