Widener University, in partnership with NBC10 and Telemundo62, announced the winners of the 13th 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 1,300 students over more than a decade.

This year, the program recognized 137 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.

From Chester County, the selected winners were:

• Avon Grove Charter School, Alma Lopez
• Delaware Valley Friends School, Isaac McGee
• Downingtown STEM Academy, Olivia Steinberg
• Great Valley High School, Marcus King
• Unionville High School, Luca Guidotti
• B. Reed Henderson High School, Jason Rice
• Woodlynde School, Kaelin Godfrey
• Collegium Charter School, Mac Batdorf
• Oxford Area High School, Owen Oliver
• Bayard Rustin High School, John Anthony
• Valley Forge Military Academy, Benjamin Ramasute

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

• Collectively accumulated more than 700 hours of community service over the past year.
• Upheld rigorous academic course loads while still being involved in numerous extracurricular activities.
• Coached and mentored younger students and others in the community.

“Widener is distinctive because of our inclusive culture where students belong and can thrive as their authentic selves. I salute these 137 award winners for demonstrating courage, tenacity, and leadership while exhibiting the same drive reflected in Widener’s principles. We congratulate them!” said Stacey Robertson, president of Widener University.

 Winners are invited to an in-person program on Wednesday, March 20, 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 participate in the university’s prestigious Apogee Leadership Scholars program and receive a $20,000 scholarship over four years.

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

“These students are not just the future leaders; they are already making a difference today, as evidenced by their daily efforts to improve their schools and communities,” said Ric Harris, president and general manager of NBC10, Telemundo62, and NBC Sports Philadelphia.

“We are proud of our continued involvement in this program and in honoring these exceptional young individuals for their remarkable achievements. We are eager to witness their future successes in college and beyond.”

Find out more about the High School Leadership Awards.

Widener University is a private institution known for its commitment to the personal and professional success of every student, where academic experiences are distinguished by excellence and students develop the leadership qualities employers seek.

Core values of respect, integrity, and excellence are reflected in an outstanding student experience provided through an agile, innovative, and inclusive approach to learning. Industry-shaping faculty provide close, personal mentorship and share powerful connections that help students build professional networks.

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.