Finger Lakes Today

Senator Pam Helming recently honored 25 high school juniors with the 2025 Youth Leadership Recognition Award. The ceremony took place on March 7, acknowledging students for their leadership and achievements in various fields such as academics, athletics, music, arts, and community service. Nominations were made by educators and school counselors.

"The students recognized today possess extraordinary leadership qualities and a determination to positively impact the lives of others and enhance the success of their communities," said Senator Helming. "They are truly raising the bar and serve as an inspiration to us all. These young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are the leaders of today. The Youth Leadership Recognition Award is a wonderful way to honor these outstanding students and their many accomplishments."

The recipients from Livingston County include Jonathon Ochs from Keshequa High School, Dominic LaPiana III from Mount Morris High School, Matthew Zygadlo from Livonia High School, and Brandon Parsons from York High School.

Wayne County's honorees are Camden Rice from Clyde-Savannah High School, Benjamin Stone from Red Creek High School, Katherine Kuhl from Williamson High School, Noah Lovell from East Palmyra Christian School, Felisha Santoro from Lyons High School, Jenna Lindstrom from Palmyra-Macedon High School, Ella Michaels from Gananda High School, Chloe Cole from North Rose-Wolcott High School, and Evan Laird from Sodus High School.

In Ontario County, Madeline Askin was recognized from Geneva High School along with Wyatt Rossignol (Manchester-Shortsville), Zachary Lincoln (Marcus Whitman), Rowan Biggs (Naples), Makenzie Davis (Phelps-Clifton Springs), Anna Cywinski (Canandaigua), Ethan Bradshaw (Bloomfield), and Emma Mastrangelo (Victor).

Monroe County awardees include Kayla Tran of Rush-Henrietta High School; Katelyn Behr of Gates Chili; Kahlia Boyle of Churchville-Chili; and Cora Baird of Wheatland-Chili.

A group photo featured many awardees alongside Senator Helming but noted that Benjamin Stone, Madeline Askin, and Ella Michaels were not present for the picture.