In her childhood, Sakinah lost her mother far too soon.  But in the wake of tragedy came hope and inspiration. Surrounded by positive adult influences, she learned, earlier than most, some very life affirming lessons.  Her resiliency has evolved her into a hard working, determined and compassionate teen. On any given day, you may find her serving food at St. Francis DeSales, cooking dinner at the Ronald McDonald House, sorting items at the FreeStore FoodBank, tutoring children at the Melrose YMCA, or teaching bible study at her church.  Among her many school activities are membership in the International Club, the Honors Club, the Black Student Union, the Spanish Club, the Marianist Urban Students Program, the Dance Team and her student government.  She has also participated in the YMCA Black Achievers program for the past two years.  Sakinah's contributions have paved a clear path for her as she looks toward the future.  She wants to pursue a degree in elementary education, specifically so she can make a difference in the lives of at-risk youth.  Sakinah believes the place to improve the world is in one's own heart, head and hands. She's certainly proving that every day.

Molly has been described as someone with constant enthusiasm whose strong drive motivates others to work harder.  An instrument major at SCPA last year she joined an intense jazz ensemble without any previous knowledge of jazz music.  It's just one example of her eagerness to pursue challenges as paths for growth. Those qualities are especially important in her work as part of the counselor in training program at the YMCA's Camp Ernst, where instilling character values are a part of every activity.  Molly's warm personality tends to put her in situations where she's making everyone feel welcome, and especially giving extra attention to that person who may be having difficulty 'fitting in'.  Being included and respected, she knows, is meaningful for everyone.  For all these qualities, Molly was recognized with the Honor Camper Award as a participant at Camp Ernst.