A group of high school movers-and-shakers were recognized at the YWCA Westmoreland County Women of Achievement Awards, held June 6 at Ferrante’s Lakeview in Hempfield.
The program is planned by local women business leaders to honor young women who excel in their academic and extracurricular pursuits and make a difference in the lives of others.
Students were nominated by their teachers or coaches and other community members, with a judging committee selecting the winners.
Award recipients in five categories included:
Athletics: Antolena Damico and Tiffany Zelmore, with other nominees including Jordan Bass and Rachel O’Bryan
Community service: Katherine Berich, with other nominees including Brianna Cunningham, Lori Jiminian and Madison Setzenfand
Faith: Elizabeth Dlugos, with other nominees including Autumn LaVella and Laurel Uhlinger
Minority group member: Ayiana Martin, with other nominees including Cunningham and FrankeDeVae Crosby
Overcoming an obstacle: Oceana Felipe-Sirnic, with other nominees including Cunningham, Lillian Gatons, Miriah Martin and Caroline Ray.
The high achievers and other guests were treated to dinner with entree options including carved beef au jus, stuffed chicken breast and ricotta cheese-stuffed shells, topped off with ice cream sundaes.
YWCA Executive Director Carol Palcic recognized Jessica Rafferty and the Hon. Michele Bononi for spearheading the program. YWCA interns Isabella Guerrieri and Alisha Scroggins received thanks for taking the lead in organizing the dinner.
Also participating in the program were YWCA board President Theresa Rusbosin and Carolyn Falcon. Board members on hand included Toni Wilson, Patti Buhl, Cassie Ellson and Paula Maloney.
