Middle School Students, Runey Honored by Lions

Two Beckwith Middle School students and Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Bill Runey were honored on May 21 at the Russell Latham Citizens Recognition Awards Night hosted by the Rehoboth Lions Club.

Seventh grader Macy Frissell and eighth grader Abbie Oldmixon were named recipients of the Rehoboth Lions Outstanding Youth Award, which recognizes young individuals whose personal qualities and community contributions serve as models for others.

Frissell was celebrated for her exceptional compassion, creativity, and leadership. A dedicated member of the ACE Community Service Group and the Beckwith Kindness Task Force, she played an active role in caroling at the Council on Aging, supporting the Project 351 Clothing Drive, and coordinating food drive efforts.

Frissell also volunteered at Green Lock Therapeutic Riding Center, supporting individuals with disabilities.

In addition to her service, she helped design and paint a mural at her school, won second place in Bristol County’s Fire Safety Poster Contest, and earned first place in the PTSA State Reflections Contest.

“Macy’s leadership is marked by humility and purpose, making her a standout role model for her peers,” Runey said.

Abbie Oldmixon was recognized for her inspiring dedication to both service and achievement. She brought joy to Rehoboth seniors through holiday caroling, helped lead school wide donation drives, and was named a Project 351 Runner-Up. A leader on the Beckwith Believers Unified Team, she also shined athletically as a softball champion and field hockey player, and academically as a member of the league-winning Debate Team.

“Abbie’s kindness, determination, and consistent excellence reflect the best of the Beckwith and Rehoboth communities,” Runey noted.

Runey received the 2025 Rehoboth Public Servant of the Year Award.

Since taking on the role of Superintendent in 2022, Runey has helped the district with his strategic #WeAreDR focus.

Runey explained his efforts to foster collaboration and public trust have not only benefited Rehoboth but have gained attention at the national level, earning him a 2025 Innovative Superintendent Award from Tech & Learning magazine.

 “We are immensely proud of Macy, Abbie, and Superintendent Runey,” said School Committee Chairperson Aaron Morse. “Each of them represents the very best of Dighton-Rehoboth - leaders who serve others, lead with heart, and uplift our community through their actions.”