During a recent Newton City Council meeting, three outstanding high school graduates were honored with scholarships aimed at fostering civic engagement and public service. The event featured heartfelt speeches from the recipients, who shared their aspirations and experiences that shaped their commitment to community involvement.

Adrian Leario, a recent graduate of Newton South High School, expressed gratitude for the scholarship, which will support his studies in political science at the University of Michigan. He highlighted his summer internship with the Asian American Foundation, where he focused on voter engagement and the importance of unity among diverse communities.

Audrey Sanger, another scholarship recipient from Newton North High School, reflected on her journey into local politics, noting her experience as an election worker. She emphasized the significance of young voices in shaping policies and the collaborative potential between youth and seasoned politicians.

The third recipient, Tenley Hansen, joined the meeting via Zoom from her position at an overnight camp in New Hampshire. She shared her lifelong passion for civics, influenced by her mother’s role as Al Gore's campaign manager. Tenley highlighted her commitment to voter registration and her excitement to engage in political activities at the University of Wisconsin.

The council members praised the recipients for their impressive achievements and inspiring words, reinforcing the importance of nurturing the next generation of civic leaders. The event concluded with an invitation for families to take pictures, celebrating the accomplishments of these promising young individuals.