And now she is student of the year!

Near North District School Board
News Release

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The impressive accomplishments of two Near North District School Board students were recognized last evening, at the North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce ‘Evening of Excellence.’ Youth in Motion’s Top 20 Under 20 recipient and West Ferris Secondary School student, Jerri Clout, was named Student of the Year. Rachel Fung, Chippewa Secondary School student was among the top three nominees in the city for the same award.

The Student of the Year Award was sponsored and presented by Nipissing University’s School of Business and Economics. The award celebrates the accomplishments of a student, between the ages of 15 and 18, who is role model to their peers, demonstrates academic success, self-determination and personal growth through activities such as volunteerism, sports, music and art.

In addition to being named one of Youth in Motion’s “Top 20 Under 20” in Canada for 2008, this youth knows how to make a difference. At the age of fifteen, she has competed at the National Science Fair and, internationally at Robotics competitions; all while keeping up with community work. She has championed with a strong voice the need for more education about HIV and AIDS though her work with Patrick4life. She has presented at two international AIDS conferences, been Honourary Co-Chair of the Run Walk 4 Patrick for three years and is currently sitting on the Board of Directors of the HIV Aids awareness and education non-profit agency.

Rachel Fung is quite an accomplished young lady. She has earned top scores in the Grade 9 and 10 math contests at Chippewa and has competed at the National Science Fair. This top scholar is a high level gymnast in Level 6 in competition that has her training 9 hours a week and coaching 5 hours per week. Last year, she competed as OFSAA in track and field and has her Grade 7 piano. She still finds time to give back to her community during her involvement with the Volunteer Now program and her work with Cycle for Autism and assisting with a local special needs hockey team.

The Near North District School Board extends congratulations to Jerri and Rachel! Both students are excellent role models for their peers.

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