Hanover Township honors local leaders at reception

The Hanover Township Committee on Youth held its annual Celebration of Leadership Awards Banquet Tuesday, May 21, at the Township Senior Center, honoring individuals and their families.

The committee presented awards in five different categories:

• Julia Pachuta of Bartlett Elementary School, Rising Star Award winner.

• Maria Mendez of Tefft Middle School, Junior Leader Award winner.

• Ana Easter of Streamwood High School, High School Leader Award winner.

• Ellen Smith, Teacher at Glenbrook Elementary School, Community Adult Leader of Youth Award winner.

• Ana "Lizza" Arroyo of Parkwood Elementary School, Principal of the Year Award winner.

"The quality, and quantity, of nominations for this year's awards made it especially challenging for the committee in selecting the winners," said Gino Martinez, Hanover Township trustee and committee liaison. "Each individual stands out in their own way for their contributions in not only improving themselves, but also those around them."

Rising Star Award winner Julia Pachuta was honored for her work in mentoring students and instilling a sense of pride and self-motivation in those she works with.

The committee recognized Junior Leader Award winner Maria Mendez for her leadership with the Tefft Student Ambassadors, a group that welcomes new students and provides an in-depth orientation to the school. Menendez is also in the school's honors program.

High School Leader Award winner Ana Easter is enrolled in the high school's Leadership in Action class and is a youth leader in Sabre Smash, which is a youth led Streamwood High School freshman engagement event. Her ability to connect with younger students, especially those with disabilities, stood out to the committee.

Community Adult Leader of Youth Award winner Ellen Smith was recognized for her dedication in applying 21st century learning skills in the classroom and her efforts in the after school programs she coordinates.

Principal of the Year Award winner Ana "Lizza" Arroyo was selected for her visionary leadership at Parkwood Elementary School. Principal Arroyo is credited for creating a student-centered climate that utilizes restorative practices to positively improve student behavior.

The Committee on Youth is a township advisory committee comprised of youth and adult volunteers that meet once a month. The mission of the Committee on Youth is to be a catalyst for promoting well-being among township youth and families through family education, outreach and the fostering of community connections with an emphasis on positive youth development.

To learn more about the Hanover Township Committee on Youth or its events, visit www.hanover-township.org or call (630) 483-5799.