Severna Park Kiwanis Teenager of the Year

The Kiwanis Club of Severna Park is pleased to announce the 2012-2013 Teenager of the Year is Ms. Bethany Studnicky. The other two finalists were Ms. Gretchen Compere and Ms. Kylie Taylor, all of Severna Park High School. All three finalists and their parents were at the Teenager of the Year Dinner on Tuesday, April 9 where the winner was announced. Each finalist received a plaque, a commendation letter and a $250 scholarship. Ms. Studnicky received an additional $750 scholarship for a total of $1000.

     The Kiwanis Club sends out packets in January to the high schools, Churches and Synagogues in the Greater Severna Park area asking for nominations.  They look for students who demonstrate service to school and community, citizenship, superior academic achievement, handling of obstacles, leadership performance, and growth and responsibility in the family. The nominated student must then complete a resume and obtain three recommendation letters from a teacher or principle, adult community leader or clergy, and community organization or employer. The selection committee, comprised of Severna Park Kiwanis members, then carefully reviews every applicant and makes their selections.

     Ms. Studnicky’s Awards including Principal’s ‘A” Honor Roll, Top Scholar Athlete, Minds in Motion Athlete, National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society and Leadership Institute clearly set her apart from her contemporaries. Her role as Vice-President and then President of DECA, being a special education aide, volunteering for Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge and organizing the NHS Blood Drive all prove her motivation to volunteer. Doing all of this while also being in Cross Country, Varsity Indoor & Outdoor Track, Green Hornets Rugby, taking eight AP Courses and being in the top 10% of her class is clearly impressive.

     Bethany’s volunteerism and leadership are an inspiration to the members of the Kiwanis Club of Severna Park, which is clearly expressed in the comments of some of her recommendations: Ms. JoAnn Best, SPHS Business Department Chair and DECA Advisor, states” Bethany is an extremely motivated individual, one of the hardest workers that I have seen.” Ms. Best continues that as DECA President,  “Bethany has more than doubled the membership and her meetings are well planed, informative and fun. Her presentation skills in her business plans are impressive and incredibly persuasive.” Mr. Patrick Bathras, SPHS Principal says, “Bethany has a great work ethic and shows much perseverance in her academics. She exemplifies student leadership and creativity.”

     The Kiwanis Club of Severna Park has been selecting a Teenager of the Year for over 10 years. The club winner goes on to the Kiwanis Division 14 level. If selected at the division level, he/she will be a nominee for the Capital District Teenager of the Year, representing the District of Columbia, Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. The District finalist will receive a $2000 cash award and be honored at the Capital District Convention in August.

     Gretchen Compere, Bethany Studnicky & Kylie Taylor were all highly recommended and exhibited superior performance in the previously mentioned criteria. Selecting the finalists and one winner is an extremely difficult task.

Congratulations to all of them and their families!