Amherst CSD Student Shines in Virtual Production and Design

With a combination of creativity, kindness and hard work, Amherst Central School District student Declan Goldhawk is thriving in the Virtual Production and Design program at the Calspan CTE Center.

Instructor Jason Bieger said Declan has been “an outstanding student who consistently has over 100 percent average.”

Declan is known for accepting every opportunity that comes his way and has been recognized in the community for his work. Notably, Declan won his category in the 2024 Buffalo News Editorial Cartoon Contest and placed third in a design contest for a suicide prevention campaign through Brylin Hospital.

Bieger describes Declan as a “perennial overachiever with the kindest personality.”

Declan said his passion for photography and graphic design led him to join this program.

“I chose this CTE program because I wanted to hone my skills in an area I love,” he said.

Balancing a rigorous Advance Placement course load at his home school, Declan sought a creative outlet that would allow him to enjoy his studies while meeting new people. Looking to the future, Declan plans to pursue a master’s degree in Earth science policy, combining Earth science and political science. However, he doesn’t want to leave graphic design behind.

“Hopefully, I will be able to add a minor or double major in graphic design or digital media,” he said.

Declan credits the innovative technology and supportive teachers at the CTE Center at Calspan Business Park for helping him develop his unique art style.