Three Hauppauge students were recognized for their accomplishments and commitment to personal growth at the Suffolk County Legislature’s Distinguished Youth Award ceremony on August 19, hosted by Legislator Leslie Kennedy.

Hauppauge High School students Jillian Potenza and Lindsay TenBrink, along with Hauppauge Middle School student Ella Muilenburg, were among four local students honored during the ceremony. Potenza received a Bronze Award, TenBrink received a Silver Award, and Muilenburg earned a Gold Award.

The Distinguished Youth Award program recognizes Suffolk County students ages 13 to 18 who set and accomplish goals in four areas: volunteer service, personal development, exploration, and physical fitness. Students earn a Bronze Award by completing requirements in two areas, a Silver Award by completing requirements in three, and the Gold Award by meeting requirements in all four.

The recognition celebrates students who challenge themselves to grow while making meaningful contributions to their communities. Through their accomplishments, Hauppauge’s honorees demonstrated the dedication, initiative, and commitment that the program seeks to recognize.

The awards were presented during a ceremony hosted by Legislator Kennedy, who praised the students for their accomplishments and the dedication they demonstrated throughout the process.

“Every year, I’m blown away by the dedication of the applicants,” Kennedy said. “They always have an impressive story and an impressive way of carrying themselves. I know they will end up being future leaders.”

Hauppauge Public Schools is proud to celebrate Jillian, Lindsay, and Ella for earning this recognition and for the time and effort they invested in their personal growth, service, and development. Their accomplishments are a wonderful example of the many ways our students are making a difference both in our schools and throughout the community.