Sam Luzzi now has a unique rejoinder, should he need one, to offer his high school friends. "I definitely have something I can say if my friends give me any trouble — I can tell them I'm the top dog," Luzzi said Wednesday during an interview at Westerly High School. On Tuesday night, during the school's baccalaureate service, Luzzi was named the first recipient of the Top Dog award, a new honor developed by the school's principal, Michael Hobin.

Hobin, who started his position in August, said he wanted "a top award" to bestow upon the senior class member who "gave their all and got as much out of the school as possible. Someone who invested themselves." Luzzi received the most nominations from the school's staff, which did not surprise Hobin. "He's the most polite, respectful, kind kid and he's a leader," Hobin said.