Local Students Recognized for Leadership by Widener

Widener University recently recognized two local high school students in the Marple Newtown Patch area for demonstrating leadership.

According to the university, the school–in partnership with WCAU-TV NBC10–awarded 69 students from high schools throughout the Philadelphia region for the Widener University High School Leadership Awards. The program recognizes young, local leaders for outstanding civic contributions to the community.

Among the 69 students, Joann Klein, of Broomall, a junior at , was recognized for perserving the high school band's history as its historian.

In addition, Najah Majors, of Newtown Square, a junior at , was recognized for demonstrating academic excellence as evidenced by receiving the Mayor's Academic Award.

"In reviewing the nominations, we were very impressed by the level of civic engagement and commitment of high school students across our region," said Widener University President James T. Harris III in a press release. "The quality of the nominations we saw reaffirms my strong belief that the mission of Widener University – one rooted in responsible and active citizenship – is critical to our future. These students are undoubtedly the next generation of leaders, and I look forward to personally welcoming all of them on campus next fall for a unique leadership experience."

The award embodies Widener University's focus on developing strategic leaders and responsible citizens, who demonstrate the capacity to lead outside his or her comfort zone.

Winners will be invited to a celebratory breakfast at the National Constitution Center in February, attend a sponsored leadership experience at Widener University in fall 2012 and be recognized for their community efforts by NBC10. Most notably, winners will receive a scholarship of $20,000 over four years should they enroll at Widener University for undergraduate studies.

According to the school, the Widener University High School Leadership Awards previously recognized students who:

• Created a dog sitting company which benefits the Delaware County SPCA

• Founded an anti-bullying club for her school

• Volunteered at an institute for disabled children in India

• Taught karate lessons as a black belt instructor

For more information regarding the Widener University High School Leadership Awards and to view a complete list of winners, please visit: http://www.widener.edu/2011hsleadershipawards.