Widener University, in partnership with NBC10 and Telemundo62, has named the winners of the 12th annual Widener University High School Leadership Awards.

The awards recognize high school juniors in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware who have displayed exemplary leadership in their communities, allowing the university to honor more than 1,400 students over more than a decade.

This year, the program recognized 104 students who were selected for their ability to stand up for what they believe in, speak out on behalf of others and make an impact in their communities.

This year’s winners from Delaware County were:

• Marple Newtown High School, Gurneet Pabla
• Penn Wood High School, Gianna Bryson-Gamble
• Ridley High School, Mu’Nairah Saleem
• Springfield High School, Claire Lynch
• Strath Haven High School, Carolyn Eskenazi
• Cardinal O’Hara High School, Mariana Pagano

Among the winners, the Widener University High School Leadership Awards recognized students who:

 ·         Launched numerous inclusivity initiatives with the goal of fostering safe and welcoming environments for all students.

·         Organized volunteer programs to support those in need through food drives, clothing drop-offs, elder companionship, youth mentorship, and more.

·         Collectively accumulated more than 1,000 hours of community service over the past year.

 “For the 12th consecutive year, Widener University is proud to recognize student leaders from all over our region with the High School Leadership Awards,” said Stacey Robertson, president of Widener University. “These 104 young people exemplify what it means to be a successful leader – they’re courageous, selfless, determined and passionate about their goals.

“Widener is distinctive because of our relentless and universal commitment to student success, and our inclusive culture where students thrive. I see the award recipients’ drive reflected in Widener’s principles. The entire university extends heartfelt congratulations to them on this achievement!”

 Winners were invited to an in-person program on March 30 with their families and school administrators at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia’s historic district.

 In addition to being recognized as young leaders in the region, if students enroll at Widener as undergraduates, they will take part in the university’s prestigious Apogee Leadership Scholars program and receive a $20,000 scholarship over four years.

Apogee Scholars also take part in four years of leadership programming and earn a Widener Leadership Certificate.

 “NBC10 and Telemundo62 are honored to partner with Widener University for another year as we celebrate the winners of this prestigious award,” said Ric Harris, president and general manager of NBC10 and Telemundo62. “These students are not only the leaders of tomorrow – they’re the leaders of today, as exemplified through the work they’re doing on a daily basis to better their schools and communities. We are proud to be a part of this program and recognize these extraordinary young people for their tremendous accomplishments. We look forward to seeing all that they will achieve in college and beyond.”

Widener University is a private institution known for its commitment to the personal and professional success of every student.

Recognized as one of the Philadelphia region’s leading universities, Widener offers programs and experiences that empower our community of learners to discover and create better futures as scholars, leaders, and globally engaged citizens.

Find out more about Widener University.