The Mayor’s Youth Commission recognized nine Kenosha students for their achievements and community contributions during a Common Council meeting on March 18.
The awards program was created to honor young people who have shown dedication to improving their community and the world. The recipients were acknowledged for academic excellence, leadership, volunteerism, and personal resilience.
Owen Carlson was nominated for his independent work at the Columbus Neighborhood Garden, where he installed benches and butterfly birdhouses as part of efforts to keep Kenosha beautiful. Sophia Green, a senior at Lakeview Technology Academy, was honored for her perseverance through two cancer diagnoses and her commitment to medicine and service. Green has volunteered with Feed My Starving Children for nearly a decade, participated in clinical studies, worked as a swim instructor, served in SkillsUSA leadership roles, and contributed to environmental initiatives.
Lydia Kennedy from Tremper High School received recognition for her academic success in Honors and Advanced Placement courses. She is also involved in tennis, founded a weightlifting club, and earned the Michigan Tech Women in STEM Award in 2025. Viviana Garcia Pascual from Frank Elementary School was celebrated for her character and academic dedication; she also participated in the KUSD production of “A Christmas Carol.”
Max Riesselmann of St. Joseph Catholic Academy led a fundraising project that raised over $6,000 for student scholarships by selling engraved pavers. He is active in sports, honor societies, community service projects, and studied abroad in Italy. Ariana Rivera from Roosevelt Elementary serves as Safety Patrol captain while volunteering with Feed My Starving Children and participating in local events.
Zach Rizzo of St. Joseph Catholic Academy was recognized for his athletic leadership—helping win state championships in football and baseball—and his involvement as team captain, National Honor Society member, student ambassador, and community volunteer. Issac Shailor from St. Joseph Catholic Academy plans to pursue a doctorate in mathematics after earning several academic honors; he volunteers as an SAT math tutor and peer mentor.
Sarah Yusuf of Lakeview Technology Academy serves as vice president of Youth as Resources for the 2025–26 school year. She leads meetings, coordinates outreach initiatives, participates in Advanced Placement courses and National Honor Society activities, with plans to pursue a medical career focused on service.
