It’s that time of year again — graduation season — when high school seniors toss their caps in the air and look forward to the endless possibilities of the future. For the rest of us, it’s a chance to spotlight the accomplishments of an amazing group of young people. The hardest part, it turns out, is not in identifying those with spectacular achievements. For that, we get plenty of help in the form of nominations from local educators, clergy, community leaders and, of course, you, our readers. The real trouble comes in narrowing down this group of terrific teens. These students have distinguished themselves as role models and leaders, either by taking on causes or by personally overcoming odds and inspiring others. But choose, we did. And once again, this year’s group has shown an impeccable ability to change the world — on a scale both small and large. They have shown the value of excellence in academics, discovered their life’s passions and harnessed them to better the lives of others.
Milana Bochkur Dratver
Science is in her cells
Nikki Gutman
Gymnast, linguist, jewelry designer
Ori Brian
Leadership from left to right
Emma Bloom
Generation inspiration
Rachel Brunelle
The giver
Micah Hyman
A man developing a plan
Tamar Willis
World traveler, community journalist
Jacob Artson
Advocating for dignity
Aliza Mchugh
Teacher and student of Israel
Janine Moses
Shooting for the stars
Benjamin de Toledo
A leap of faith to excellence
Daniella Wenger
Issues-oriented, with a heart
Yosef Nemanpour
Building a positive outlook
