Patricia Muraco, Director of the MERRIMACK VALLEY SCHOOL OF HAIR DESIGN (MVSHD), is pleased to nominate ELIZABETH FRANCIS COTTO for an Outstanding Student Achievement Award. Elizabeth, who resides in Lawrence, came to the U.S. in 2000 at the age of 28 without any blood relatives here. Even though she is fluent in both French and Spanish, comprehension of the English language was a major struggle. However, she was determined to overcome the language barrier in order to achieve her goals. When she first talked to Pat about training, the school was in the process of opening. Every week, after working five 12-hour days, Elizabeth would go the school and assure Pat that she would be the first student. Pat questioned her ability to accomplish this goal several times. Elizabeth would say, "Pat, please, I don't want to work in a factory my whole life. I love only to be a Cosmetologist. No matter how long it takes I will do it!" Elizabeth is so unselfish, generous and friendly. She has been hospitalized on several occasions for an ongoing illness, which has jeopardized not only her schooling, but also housing for her and her son. Together Pat and Elizabeth have weathered many storms. Elizabeth's strong will and determination to conquer and overcome the roadblocks, even through another illness this past March, is incredible. Pat states, "I feel privileged and honored to have shared a role in Elizabeth attaining her goal of becoming a Cosmetologist. I am also happy to announce her recent citizenship to the United States!"