Meet the Best and Brightest class of 2020

Since 1993, The Patriot-News and PennLive have been honoring high school seniors with the Best and Brightest award.

Students nominate themselves with an application, essay, letters of recommendation and details about their academic successes, extracurricular activity and service to their school and community.

Eligible students included seniors with at least a B or 3.0 grade point average attending school in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry and York counties. Students are asked to talk about any challenges they have faced and overcome.

This year we received 147 applications.

The judging process for 2020 was quite different, however. Because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, we were unable to complete the judging in person.

Instead, judges were emailed applications to read and select the 20 Best and Brightest winners.

We also had to forgo one of the highlights of Best and Brightest - having our award-winning photographers take portraits of the winners. Instead, the students were asked to submit photos of themselves.

On May 20, PennLive celebrated the award winners with a virtual program on Facebook and YouTube, sponsored by Renewal by Andersen. The winners will receive a plaque and gift card.

Our guest speaker for the celebration was Flora Posteraro, co-host Chick2Chick Podcast and senior multi-media specialist for PennWatch.org. Posteraro also served as a judge.

• Watch the Best and Brightest virtual ceremony on YouTube or on Facebook.

Here are the students named the PennLive/Patriot-News Best and Brightest of 2020:

Name: Alisher Aminov

School: Commonwealth Charter Academy (Lebanon)

Parent: Beth Aminov

In his words: “I have found that helping children in my community is far more important and rewarding than starting a business, although I still hope to start a business (or two) someday. Today, Yellow Brick Robotics has come a long way. I have worked with over 300 children between the ages of 4 and 13 on a variety of extracurricular STEAM projects, programs and camps in both Lebanon and Harrisburg, facilitated by and/or in partnership with eight local schools/colleges and organizations. More than 80 percent of the children I work with have significant special needs. … Over the years, I have learned the greatest impact I can have in my community has little to do with STEAM, although that is important, too; it is encouraging children to feel good about themselves and have confidence in their potential.”

In their words: “In coming to get to know him over the years that I have been able to work with Alisher, he has shown himself to be hardworking, resilient, kind, and an independent thinker. … He has demonstrated responsibility, self-discipline, organization, leadership and has become a self-motivated learner while enrolled with CCA …” – Brian Comegna, manager of pupil services, Commonwealth Charter Academy

Honors: Graduated high school in 2½ years, National Society of High School Scholars, first place science fair 2018.

Activities: Founder of Yellow Brick Robotics, Inc., non-profit that teaches elementary and middle school children the basics of physics, simple and powered machines, coding and robotics; volunteer with Making a Difference, Lebanon; political campaign volunteer; team leader of Real World Design Challenge; volunteer and youth group member at church; aquaponics internship and independent study; commercial drone pilot; Strategy Battle Games competitor; works part time on lawn care and at Country Lane Furniture.

Mentor: Rainier Lee

Plans: Will take summer classes at Harvard University and a language study in Germany, then return to Harvard in the fall of 2021 to major in social psychology. He also plans to attend law school.

Name: Mandi Armstrong

School: Susquenita High School

Parents: Robert and Tina Armstrong

In her words: “I have lived through hell. Imagine a feeling of complete dizziness, waves of nausea, blurry vision and not being able to concentrate on anything for weeks at a time. Now picture going through this not once, not twice, but three times in a span of five months. This was what my sophomore year had consisted of. The first concussion, the day my life had changed, was Sept. 25, 2017. I was at a softball tournament, playing in front of college coaches when I had gotten into a collision with a fellow teammate and had been knocked unconscious. The dizziness, the nausea, the blurry vision, all of the symptoms had hit me like a truck. … I want to be able to help people in the community do what they love, like the physical therapists had with me after each time I had experienced terrible concussions. Thus, my own rough personal experiences have led me to want to help and better others.”

In their words: “Miss Armstrong is one of the strongest academic students that I have had the pleasure to teach in my almost 21 years of being an educator. She is ‘good’ at just about any task in class. Writing, discussing, analyzing, synthesizing, arguing, just name it and Mandi performs well with it, and if she does not, then she will take criticism to improve her abilities. … Mandi does not like to be idle. There is a drive in Mandi that is instantly recognizable; she is always busy, always involved and if for some reason she is unable to do what makes her happy, she searches out another way to be engaged. Mandi has had her share of difficulties and hardships, but she is resilient and has found ways to cope when presented with what seemed to be insurmountable odds.” – Janet Ray, English teacher, Susquenita High School

Honors: Hanover Holiday All Tournament basketball team, Gary Reed Basketball Tournament Most Valuable Player, basketball team captain, Tri-Valley All Conference softball team, softball team captain, National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society.

Activities: Student Council vice president, Leo Club, computer club, Special Olympics buddy and volunteer, basketball team, softball team.

Mentor: Mandi Albright, Drayer Physical Therapy physical therapist

Plans: She will attend Lebanon Valley College enrolled in the accelerated physical therapy program. She also will play softball at LVC.

Name: Maya Arora

School: Trinity High School

Parent: Kavita Davé

In her words: “Shivering arms. Sweaty palms. Burning face. This is the story of my midlife crisis. Sitting in the uncomfortable desk of a classroom at the Pennsylvania Governor’s School, I attempted to tune in to the speaker’s lecture. As he described the foundation he began in college, I had a revelation. Similar to the speaker, I was inspired by the butterfly effect – the theory that individual actions can have far-reaching effects. My crisis occurred when I asked myself a dreaded question: How could I, a fervent, driver’s-license-lacking, 15-year-old possibly impart my own butterfly effect on the world? The answer manifested itself through a program whose goal diverged from the typical operation of a non-profit organization. Instead of simply fundraising, this program’s focus was placed around connecting special-needs students to community service. The idea turned into reality with a leap of faith from the special education director at Cumberland Valley High School. My butterfly effect became known as Community Voices Together, a partnership between Trinity and Cumberland Valley special-needs students. It encourages the students to bond with one another and contribute to their community through service projects.”

In their words: “It is clear that Maya is a born leader with the desire to make a positive impact in every aspect of life. She is viewed as a leader and role model among her peers. She is an insightful, sensitive, and deeply self-aware individual driven to succeed in life. I am certain that Maya is going to continue to do great, creative, and innovative things in her future. … She is talented, caring, intuitive, dedicated, and focused in her pursuits. Maya consistently seeks out constructive feedback so she can improve in all aspects of her life, which is a rare and impressive quality in a high school student.” – Leah N. Kostelac, special education transition consultant/coach, Capital Area Intermediate Unit No. 15/Cumberland Valley School District

Honors: National Merit Commended Student, National Honor Society, Math Honor Society, All-Academic Team, Foreign Language Honor Society.

Activities: Founder of Community Voices Together volunteer program that works with special-needs students, House Captain (student government), tennis team, basketball team, Feel Your Boobies volunteer, mock trial, in sophomore year selected to Pa. Governor’s School for Global and International Studies, tutoring.

Mentor: Frank Karli, AP statistics teacher at Trinity High School

Plans: Will attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, majoring in neuroscience and public health. She also plans to attend medical school.

Name: Nathan Brubaker

School: Donegal High School

Parents: Tony and Rebecca Brubaker

In his words: “I learned a very important lesson: life is uncertain. I have learned to do my best every day because I will never know what tomorrow holds. … As part of a 1,200-cow family dairy farm in the community around Donegal, I have seen the difference that good relationships can make in the lives of individuals and in the whole community. We have dedicated ourselves to creating positive relationships and interactions with our neighbors to cultivate a welcoming community. … I have been a kind and uplifting classmate who has been a role model of dedication to academics, volunteer work, athletics, extracurricular activities and compassion. I have committed myself to being present and aware in my relationships, classes, activities and community. Rather than allowing myself to be distracted by selfish impulses or modern-day distractions like smart phones, video games, and television, I have devoted myself to hard work, learning, and self-improvement for the benefit of the people around me, the school, the community, and society as a whole. My experiences in high school, on my farm and in my community, and the complications I have had with my heart have equipped me with the tools to make a difference in society as a whole because I know that life is complex and fleeting. If I live my life for myself, everything I build will fall with me, but if I live my life as a servant of society, what I build will live on long past my death.”

In their words: “Nate is defined by his charisma and his constant drive. He is the type of student whose shining personality will guarantee success in any environment. His optimism marks him as a leader amongst his peers, and he pushes those around him to excel, holding them to the same standards that he expects of himself. His constantly positive outlook will prove a boon to himself and those who surround him as he tirelessly pursues his future. Nate is a well-rounded and remarkable student and citizen.” – John Paul, English teacher, Donegal High School

Honors: Track and Field Jed Sweigart Memorial Award, Track and Field Captain’s Award, Delta Mu Sigma, Commonwealth of Pa. Certificate of Merit, National Merit Scholarship Program letter of commendation, National Art Honor Society, National Honor Society, Math Honor Society.

Activities: Camp YoliJwa counselor, prayer group, Mount Joy Mennonite Church Youth Group, annual mission trips (have included North Carolina, Philadelphia, Jamaica and Lancaster), track and field team captain, German American Partnership Program Exchange, Link Crew Leader, vice president of his class, math tutor, employed at Brubaker Farms LLC.

Mentor: Justin Neideigh, teacher, Donegal High School and counselor at Camp YoliJwa.

Plans: Will attend Cornell University to study biological engineering in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Name: Rachel Collison

School: Penn Manor High School

Parent: Karl Collison

In her words: “I have always had an uncertain relationship with my voice. For many years, despite being such an integral part of my being, it felt foreign and separate from myself. … However, I soon became conscious of the fact that the struggles I faced were not unique, and numerous individuals suffered far worse experiences than my own. … The role of an advocate fit me. I was willing to put my own fears and anxieties aside if it meant supporting someone else, so I began to speak up. … My journey to confidence has not been effortless, with both my outer and internal environments attempting to block my path, and I am not finished yet. My experiences, positive and negative, have accumulated to form the person I am today, and I am learning to amplify my voice and strengthen my words, for the benefit of myself and the world around me.”

In their words: “Rachel has proven herself to be a neoteric and compassionate individual who takes it upon herself to seek out exciting and new experiences by navigating a very rigorous academic schedule and as a leader in our Young Humanitarian League. While many of my students are comfortable with being solely academics, Rachel has demonstrated that beyond her academics is a desire to be defined as an individual that initiates action and change in others. Rachel is not only well respected by her peers, but also by her teachers for her willingness to approach risk and challenge with unwavering resoluteness.” – Jonathan Zimmerman, gifted support teacher, Penn Manor High School

Honors: National Honor Society, letter of commendation for National Merit Scholarship Program, Yale Book Award, Pennsylvania Governor’s School for Global and International Studies at the University of Pittsburgh in 2019, QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship (full scholarship to attend the University of Pennsylvania), National High School Model UN Conference.

Activities: Young Humanitarian League, Model United Nations, volunteer for a political campaign, Recycling Initiative at school.

Mentor: Jonathan Zimmerman, gifted support teacher

Plans: Will attend the University of Pennsylvania to major in anthropology and political science. She also hopes to attend law school.

Name: Connor Coyle

School: Trinity High School

Parents: Thomas and Erin Coyle

In his words: “I am an active member of three distinct communities: my school, my church and my local community. My school community has provided me with a supportive environment for learning and interacting with other students, and I have sought out ways to serve my school community in return. … I have found it to be fulfilling to take more active roles within the communities that I am a part of and to use my talents to serve others. I plan to continue to use my talents to serve others during my college years and beyond through a career in world affairs.”

In their words: “Without a doubt Connor is a phenomenal student. … I have taught thousands of students in both public and private schools and Connor very easily stands out for me as one of the few students that I will always remember by name, not simply for his academic excellence but also for his leadership, his integrity and his heart. Connor’s quiet confidence makes him a natural leader. His positive outlook on even what may seem to most teenagers as the direst of situations draws respect and admiration from all. … I can say with confidence that Connor is one of the most caring and driven students I have come across in my over 15 years of teaching.” – Sarah Zellers, French teacher, Trinity High School

Honors: Trombone player Cumberland County Band Festival, PMEA District 7 Upper Band Festival, PME Region V Band Festival; AP Scholar; National Merit Scholarship commended student; Service in Leadership Award from Sisters of Sts. Cyril and Methodius; American University School of International Service Community of Scholars program; Pennsylvania Governor’s School for Global and International Studies at the University of Pittsburgh; Rotary Youth Leadership award; DAR Good Citizen Award; French Honor Society; Math Honor Society; National Honor Society.

Activities: Trombonist with Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra, Central PA Friends of Jazz Youth Band, high school musical, high school concert band; Quiz Bowl Team president; School Captain in school’s house system; sacristan and lector, St. Joseph Parish; Community Voices Together member; Harrisburg Foreign Policy Association; Model UN.

Mentor: Peter Joyce, teacher, Trinity High School

Plans: Will attend Georgetown University to study foreign service.

Name: Maxwell Hahn

School: Mechanicsburg Area Senior High School

Parents: Jim and Jennifer Hahn

In his words: “Perhaps the most basic saying of leadership in scouting is ‘lead by example.’ I have embodied this as my own philosophy toward leadership, whether it be speaking in front of a group of my peers or helping a younger Scout learn a new skill. Since middle school, I have been a Scout in Scouts BSA Troop 190, working my way from the rank of Scout all the way to Eagle Scout. Not only have I grown in my own character as I strive to live up to the fundamental pillars of the ‘Scout Law’ but I have also had the opportunity to grow in my leadership skills and abilities. Serving as my troop’s senior patrol leader – and more recently as junior assistant scoutmaster – I have had ample opportunities to interact with my peers and younger Scouts, imparting the knowledge I had learned previously from those older than me.”

In their words: “Max treats everyone exactly like he likes to be treated, and he does not choose favorites. That sounds like a line, but Max treats everyone the same – with kindness. … As I’ve gotten to know Max, I realized that he is more than a great Scout. He has turned himself into an impressive young man, with excellent grades, volunteer service, extracurricular activities and a great sense of humor. He inspires me to be better every time I see him.” – Patrick Grill, scoutmaster, Troop 190, Grantham

Honors: Eagle Scout, AP Scholar with Distinction, Rotary Youth Leadership Seminar, Shippensburg University Mathematics Festival, National Honor Society, Latin National Honor Society, magna cum laude on the National Latin Exam.

Activities: Licensed FCC technician for shortwave radio, open water scuba certification, high school spring musical student producer and production crew, math team, treasurer of his class, Quiz Bowl, marching band, FEMA National Youth Preparedness Council, Boy Scouts audio/visual operator at Trinity Lutheran Church in Camp Hill, Cumberland County Youth Advisory Board, volunteer at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, youth group, Astronomical Society of Harrisburg, Naylor Observatory, volunteer math tutor.

Mentor: Dave Shoemaker, physics teacher, Mechanicsburg Area Senior High School.

Plans: Will attend Penn State’s Schreyer Honors College to major in mathematics and political science. Hopes to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics.

Name: Abigail Han

School: Hershey High School

Parents: David and Elizabeth Han

In her words: “Every day, I look for opportunities to help those who cannot help themselves – to help those whose challenges may not be obvious – so whether I am spending a few hours volunteering with my mom or organizing a service event for groups in my community, I have been able to educate not only myself but also those around me of the challenges that food insecurity presents to our world and how we, as a community, can begin to take steps towards overcoming them. My parents have taught me many things, but perhaps the most important lesson of all has been to ‘help those who cannot help themselves.’ I admit I used to live in oblivion. I used to assume that I could have no effect in matters that did not concern me, nor did I want to get involved. But I have since changed my approach and I believe that it has made all the difference.”

In their words: “… Abby is a talented student with a fierce work ethic and desire to excel. Abby is clearly a committed student. She demonstrates the kind of passion for learning that every teacher dreams about. Abby has vision in the classroom; her project planning, creative process, and analysis were always far superior to the rest of the class. … Abby is a self-motivator, challenging herself daily, both at school and home, to develop her skill set to become the best she can at whatever she puts her mind to. Most importantly, Abby is a kind, respectful young lady that demonstrates strong personal character traits that help her excel as a student-athlete at Hershey High School.” – Patricia Costello, art teacher, Hershey High School

Honors: National Honor Society, French National Honor Society, Math National Honor Society, AP Scholar with Honor, Youth and Government Best Justice Award, Mid-Penn Conference Golf All-Star Team.

Activities: YMCA Youth and Government, varsity golf, class president, Hershey Food Bank volunteer, Derry Presbyterian Church Youth Leadership Team, Girl Scouts, high school math and science tutor, track and field, employed at The Hershey Story Museum.

Mentor: Mary Kennedy-Zierke, golf coach

Plans: Will attend Penn State University with a major in chemistry.

Name: Tyler Harker

School: Dauphin County Technical School

Parents: Brad and Stephanie Harker

In his words: “Making a difference in a school or community is no easy feat to accomplish. However, when one is able to have an impact on others, there is no better sense of pride and accomplishment. One way that I believe I have made a difference in both my school and my community was to help break down the stigma that is often attached to students who attend career and technical schools. Society often considers career or technical schools as being for marginalized or underperforming students who cannot succeed in a ‘regular high school setting,’ but I have worked tirelessly to show that the educational opportunities available at career and technical schools are suitable for all types of students, even those that hope to attend college after graduation. Society and industry are in dire need of skilled workers, and career and technical schools are ideally situated to meet that need by providing multiple avenues for student success. Whether a student is interested in pursuing a career or a post-secondary education, career and technical schools ensure that both options are available to every student.”

In their words: “I see Tyler as one of those rare individuals whose natural skill, intellect, and ability match his humility, character, and heart. This combination of character and ability will surely take him far and allow him to positively impact many lives. The truth is, it already has. Whether it was church programs, small groups, service projects, community events, or school activities, I frequently witnessed first-hand Tyler’s influence as a natural leader – not someone who simply wanted a title for their college applications, but someone who, by their heart for what is good and true, influences others for the common good.” – Pastor David Layser, Trinity United Methodist Church, Danville

Honors: First place awards in SkillsUSA Job Skills 2019 Chapter competition and district competition; first place in SkillsUSA Medical Math 2019 Chapter and district competitions, Cornell University Summer College Program for High School Students, president of the National Honor Society, vice president of the National Technical Honor Society, National Society of High School Scholars, Halifax Area High School marching band leadership award.

Activities: Halifax Area High School marching band section leader and drum major, Dauphin County Technical School Theatre program, president of FFA, Dauphin County Technical School student ambassador, RockSOLID Core Leadership Committee, Upper Dauphin Relay for Life youth team captain, Halifax Area High School jazz band, Science Olympiad, Chemistry Olympiad, Troupe 8974 International Thespian Society, Halifax High School soccer team and senior class council, owner of Tyler’s Tailored Tails animal grooming, care and sitting business.

Mentor: David Layser, former youth pastor, Halifax United Methodist Church

Plans: Will attend Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Hopes to be accepted into Cornell’s accelerated veterinary school program.

Name: William Hoover

School: Mechanicsburg Area Senior High School

Parents: Mark and Lisa Hoover

In his words: Hoover wrote about his experience in the AP Human Geography class. “This was the class that changed my point of view. First, the curriculum was different. We spoke about real life events. We learned how to study the distributions of human activities at global and regional scales. … We Skyped with real people and learned about amazing places all over the world. … We Skyped with a man from a school in Kenya. … The school was not actually a school, it was more like an open air lecture ceremony. He called it the Cheery Center. It was located directly in the middle of the Kibera slum. He discussed the need for an actual school, a school with rooms and a roof. The students joined him during our next Skype session. It was amazing to see the dedication of the students. It was clear they needed support. The energy in our room that day was remarkable. We started planning how to raise money, which was not easy at first. Our group was looking to get these students out of the slum. We realized that if we could extend their education beyond the sixth grade level they could utilize their education.” The students, Hoover said, raised $24,000. It is an ongoing project. “The students we met have talents and aspire to do better for themselves and their community. The AP HUG community provided them the tools to utilize those talents and rise above, one step at a time and I learned that, truly, I can change the world.”

In their words: “Will is mature beyond his years. He is very level-headed, responsible and a well-rounded young man. He does a great job of balancing academics, athletics and family life. Will has a very bright future ahead of him. He tackles everything with a positive outlook and enthusiasm. Will is a young man who will make a difference in this world, no matter where his journey through life takes him. … My family feels great honor in knowing Will.” – Gary Gochenaur of Mechanicsburg. (When Gochenaur had a serious medical crisis, Hoover took care of his outdoor yard work including mowing and shoveling snow, visited with him and did not accept payment)

Honors: National Honor Society, National Latin Honor Society, President’s Award, Mid-Penn Keystone Division second team football 2019, Team Litchel Award winner for football.

Activities: Varsity football, varsity baseball, mini-Thon, Special Olympics buddy, Literacy Night, participant in Sleep Out for the Homeless, Backyard Ministries, musicals at the high school, Shiremanstown Historical Society volunteer, self-employed lawn care and snow removal, summer employment with Eric Davies construction and data programming and game development at Harrisburg University.

Mentor: Joseph Reidy, assistant principal and former teacher, Mechanicsburg Area Senior High School

Plans: Will attend Bucknell University to major in mechanical engineering.

Name: Lindsay Keiser

School: Northern Lebanon High School

Parents: Carvel and Laura Keiser

In her words: “My time in high school has been characterized by a number of changes in staff. As a devoted member of the music program, I was most affected by changes in the choir and marching band directors. While my personality is not one to ‘go with the flow,’ and I tend to like consistency, the changes within this period have been beneficial to both me and the music department. Previous leadership positions within musical activities allowed me to play an active role in the transitions. As the marching band drum major and an experienced member of the choir, I had to fulfill greater responsibility in these sectors, especially in the case of communication. When other students were wary of the new staffs’ reactions to different situations, my leadership roles allowed me to act as mediator between both parties. While these transitions still had their struggles, I helped make the transitions smoother. In the future, I hope to continue bridging gaps in communications and assisting with changes. This ability to serve the greater good has been expanded by my participation in other organizations. … I have used leadership and seniority roles to aid organizations, but just as importantly, I have also gained experience as a servant to fellow community members.”

In their words: “As a gifted education teacher, I consider myself lucky to work with some amazing, intelligent, and truly exceptional students. Very few stand out like Lindsay. Her focus and dedication when it comes to academics is incredible. She is always seeking out new information in new fields to learn and master. She sets a very high bar for herself and almost always exceeds it.” – Jason Getz, gifted education and social studies teacher, Northern Lebanon High School

Honors: National Merit Scholarship letter of commendation, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Certificate of Merit, National Honor Society.

Activities: Youth group, marching band drum major, student council, chamber choir, Pocono Plateau Youth Music Camp, high school musical, jazz band, volunteer for vacation Bible school, youth choir, bell choir, Quiz Bowl, Envirothon, flute lessons, vocal lessons, summer counselor at Gretna Glen Camp and Retreat Center.

Mentor: Tom Robinson, youth pastor

Plans: Will attend Lebanon Valley College with dual majors in chemistry and mathematics and a minor in music.

Name: Jason Kline

School: Central Dauphin High School

Parents: Ross and Jane Kline

In his words: “One of the biggest ways that I have made an impact on my school and community is through athletics. I have participated on my high school’s soccer and tennis teams for four years each. On the soccer team, I have played varsity for three years, and for tennis, I have played varsity for four years. Also, on the tennis team, I have competed in the top singles position and the district doubles team for the entirety of my participation. As a result of my commitment and success on both teams, I was selected as a captain for both during my senior year. One responsibility as a captain was to represent my team in the community. My actions served as an example for my teammates, and my work ethic inside and outside of the classroom was a representation of my entire team’s dedication to excellence. … The lessons that I have learned from participating in athletics are invaluable, and I have been able to translate them to other ways of engaging in the community.”

In their words: “Jason is a talented, conscientious, relentless and respectful young adult. … Jason is an exemplary student and athlete. In fact, he is one of the best and brightest young people I have ever had the pleasure of teaching or coaching. But, to me, Jason is much more than the impressive statistics, test scores and medals. … Jason is a young adult that, despite all that he has going on, is patient and caring enough to make time for my son, who greatly admires him. That’s the greatest compliment I can give Jason: he is the kind of person my son looks up to, and the type of individual I wish my son to become.” – Michael Bricker, teacher and tennis coach, Central Dauphin High School

Honors: National Merit Scholarship Commended Student, Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Workshop, AP Scholar with distinction, National Honor Society.

Activities: Soccer team co-captain, tennis team captain, FBLA four-time State Leadership Conference qualifier, co-founder of Ping Pong club, pick-up volleyball, Central Dauphin Nutripacks Program volunteer, worked at Colonial Golf and Tennis Club.

Mentor: Michael Bricker, tennis coach

Plans: Will attend the College of William and Mary, major is undecided.

Name: Elizabeth Landis

School: West York Area High School

Parents: Joseph and Terri Landis

In her words: “I was honored to be elected into the position of student council president for the 2019-2020 school year and wanted to use that to make a change in not only my school but in the community. I put into place many different programs that helped to link our school and local communities. One project was a communication program where student council members weekly visit each classroom to talk face to face with the students about their concerns for the school. As a society, we do everything through the internet and I think that the internet is a great form of communication but what is missing is personal contact. This program makes students feel like they are being heard and it creates action against problems that are occurring in our school.”

In their words: “… I have found Ellie to be a young woman of high integrity, high standards and high ethical conduct. She has the ability to lead and to take instruction, the heart to empathize and sympathize with others and the grit to overcome struggles and to forge a path she alone sets for herself. One look at her transcript shows that she challenges herself and she takes coursework which inspires her and makes her think. Her curiosity drives her, as does her work ethic and she is not your average young woman. Ellie is a leader – a quiet and confident one.” – Jennifer Yutzy, teacher, West York Area High School

Honors: Lamp of Learning Award, Bausch and Lomb Science Award, National Honor Society.

Activities: Swimming team captain, all-state swimmer, marching band drum major, track and field, president of student council, jazz band, pit band for the musical, Physics Club, youth group, vice president of the class of 2020, Link Crew Leaders, Helping Hands at church, lifeguard for Keystone Aquatics, dog watching and babysitting.

Mentor: Faye Gepfer, former babysitter

Plans: Will attend the University of Rochester with a pre-medicine major.

Name: Xenia Makosky

School: Carlisle High School

Parents: Paul and Alexandra Makosky

In her words: “In fourth grade I first embraced the issue of literacy in my community by becoming a student representative for a community and school district campaign called Buck-a-Book. The campaign challenges elementary children to read and obtain sponsors to fund the adult reading and GED classes at Employment Skills Center. I suggested we invite community leaders to come and read to us in our school and talk about the importance of reading. I was even able to get the first lady of Pennsylvania to visit my elementary school. My idea caught on and now all seven elementary schools in our district invite readers each year to all library classes during the campaign. … When I graduate from high school this spring, I want to be remembered as a student representative who helped promote literacy and the power of words.”

In their words: “Compassionate, competent, inquisitive, intelligent, caring and dedicated come to mind when I think of Xenia. Previously, I was in charge of a program called Buck-a-Book. Xenia, age 11, joined with her mom but Xenia was in charge of her destiny from day one. … A child is sometimes a token appointment but to my surprise Xenia took on the role with more commitment than most adults. … While she has been blessed with a solid foundation, she has also taken personal responsibility combined with good decision making and initiative coupled with joy and humility.” – Joseph Kloza, coordinator of education and community outreach, Project SHARE of Carlisle

Honors: Britton Scholar Dickinson College, Scholastic Writing gold key awards, president of the National English Honor Society, National Honor Society, National French Honor Society.

Activities: Principal flute with the Harrisburg Symphony Youth Orchestra, Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District and Regional music festivals, Middlebury Intensive Immersion Language Program to study Arabic, translator for Jordanian students in the high school, Harrisburg Symphony Youth Orchestra Chamber Ensemble, private flute lessons, volunteer at Project SHARE, Buck-A-Book Literacy Campaign, Young Adult Writers and Poets literary publication, tennis, member of and volunteer with St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, student librarian at Amelia S. Givin Free Library, self-employed music performance with flute and harp duo, owner of Xenia’s Happy Hens.

Mentor: Regina Sweeney, professor at Dickinson College

Plans: Will study Arabic this summer with the State Department’s National Security Language Initiative for Youth and attend Dickinson College in the fall.

Name: Jose Perez-Zetune

School: Gettysburg Area High School

Parent: Victoria Zetune

In his words: “The day before my father died, we were eating Chinese takeout and watching a movie. It was a ritual born out of my mom’s complete distaste of fast food and laying in front of the television. I was barely 13 when I last saw my father. Even today, four years later, I struggle with grief. He never got to teach me how to drive, tie a tie, or shave. Instead, he left me a legacy of community service. My father was an immigrant and a local immigrants’ rights activist. His life was devoted to his community, not himself. A way I have processed grief has been using my father’s passion of community service to connect with him on a discarnate level. When one boils down their passion for social justice, one realizes it is love they care for the most. Love for my home fuels my activism.”

In their words: “It would be difficult for me to think of a student I could recommend more than Jose. I have known him casually for years – Gettysburg is a very small community and I taught at the college where his father worked. I have recently had the pleasure of having him in my AP Government and Politics course, my first class since leaving the college to teach high school. … Unfortunately, it was an AP course, which means it was geared to the test – Jose’s score, the highest possible, speaks for itself on his intellectual capacity. … For many reasons, Jose is anything but normal, but rather than submit to the pressure to conform, Jose has used his force of personality to make others accept him exactly as he is. His overwhelming success in this is all the more remarkable in a small, rural community like Gettysburg.” – Thomas Jurney, government and economics teacher, Gettysburg Area High School

Honors: National Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society, Interfaith Council for Peace and Justice Youth Peacemaker Award, poetry published in school magazine.

Activities: President of Key Club International, president of Gender and Sexuality Alliance, co-founder of Amnesty International chapter, studying Arabic, string ensemble.

Mentor: Thomas Jurney, teacher, Gettysburg Area High School

Plans: Will attend Cornell University as an industrial and labor relations major.

Name: Megan Ruoro

School: Bishop McDevitt High School

Parent: Maggie Ruoro

In her words: “As I grew older [I] came to understand the great strength of the women in my family. My grandmother took care of her family after her father was killed in the violent Mau Mau uprising that occurred in Kenya in 1952. This strength was passed on to my mother. Through all the challenges she faced, all of the jobs she worked, and all of the tears she shed, my mother’s priority was always to provide the best for me. I learned to be appreciative of my rich culture and understand its importance to my identity. I made it a goal to devote my life to using my voice for those whose voices have been silenced. This goal became the driving force behind my life [along with a] passion for the performing arts. … Theatre is powerful in its ability to remind us that although we may go through different experiences, we are all united in one human experience and this should be celebrated.”

In their words: “Megan is one of the brightest and most creative students that I have had the pleasure to teach in my 15 years in the classroom. … Megan is a rare student. One that studies, reads and learns not because of some test or for any grade, but because she wishes to expand her horizon. She values learning, and sees it as an extension of herself, and that this kind of growth, though arduous at times, is the most rewarding due to its intrinsic nature. She is a thinker, and as such weighs and evaluates the thoughts of other, more experienced thinkers, and so grows and shapes her intellect. It has been a pleasure to witness the blossoming of this unique and creative mind and to be a small portion of its formation.” – Joshua Yeckley, teacher, Bishop McDevitt High School

Honors: National Honor Society vice president; Math National Honor Society; Broadway World Central PA nomination for best leading actress in a play, Open Stage St. Genesius Award for Dedication to the Theatre, Scholastic Art and Writing Awards gold and silver keys for poetry, writing portfolio and critical essay; National History Day awards; FBLA awards; Hershey Theatre Apollo Award nominations; Capital Area Science Fair awards; NAACP Afro-Academic Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics first place drama and voice award.

Activities: Local theater including Gamut Theatre, Open Stage and Theatre Harrisburg; FBLA; Christian Service Club; chorale; high school plays and musicals; Poetry Club; Philosophy Club; voice lessons; actor with Sankofa African American Theatre Company.

Mentor: Sharia Benn, founder and executive director, Sankofa African American Theatre Company

Plans: Will attend Yale University with a double major in theatre studies and political science.

Name: Elijah Schreiber

School: Schreiber Academy of Excellence home school (Dillsburg)

Parents: Cory and Rebecca Schreiber

In his words: “When I think of what word best describes my family, I think of the word ‘shape-shifting.’ Our home is always open to anyone, which means the group around the dinner table can change by the night. My parents desire and have taught me to desire, that anyone who enters our home would feel loved and at peace. We want our friends and family to leave better than when they came in, recharged and ready to face life with renewed strength. The clearest way my family and I have lived that out has been through working in the foster care system. … Our family has had six different children stay with us over the past six years, all for different amounts of time. With each child, I have seen the results of abuse, drug addiction and the depression that can come with inescapable poverty. I have learned to love people for their value as a human, not for what they do or say to me. I have been taught the value of family by seeing it ripped away from children who deserve to have one. … I have realized that the education, family life, religious beliefs, financial position and physical abilities I have are not to be spent building myself up. They all have been given to me to help others thrive.”

In their words: “Elijah has two biological brothers with whom he has a good relationship with. Along with those relationships, I have watched Elijah as he became a loving and responsible older brother to foster children (4), adopted siblings (2) and countless children who cross his path. He treats them with interest and respect. They are not a burden. He cares about people of any age or situation – who they are, what they are going through and how he can help make things better. … Elijah’s love of Jesus, sense of responsibility, interest in varied topics and willingness to go the extra mile makes him not just a good student, but a good human. He is an asset to any situation.” – Judy Cox, teacher

Activities: TNT homeschool volleyball league, voice lessons, leads the Alpha Course at Agape Co-op, table leader for Alpha Course at West Shore Free Church, vacation Bible school volunteer at West Shore Free Church, volunteer at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, taught beginner’s Spanish for grades 3-5 at Agape Educational Co-op, public speaker and advocate for foster care, works part time at Paulus Mount Airy Orchards.

Mentor: Russ Allen, youth pastor

Plans: Will attend Eastern University as a nursing major.

Name: Nina Shih

School: Lancaster Country Day School

Parents: Christopher and Maya Shih

In her words: “In my mind, music is a combination of all that we know – science, art, antipathy, decay – because the job of a musician is to convey human emotion, and all emotions stem from experience. The impact that my music has had on my community is measurable only anecdotally. I cannot tell you how many people were in attendance the day I played ‘Ave Maria’ with four other violinists at my friend’s mother’s funeral, but I can tell you that after the service, one old woman approached us, and, balancing on a fragile cane, told us that she had never heard such beautiful violin music. If I could touch one person in this way, then everything was worth it. … Sentimental and impractical though this may seem, such is all that I hope for in life. Though the violin may not always be my translator of choice, I will continue to convert knowledge into something that can move and influence individuals. For as long as I can, I will share that which I love with those who need it.”

In their words: "Nina is an extraordinary young woman and a thoughtful and interesting conversationalist. Nina has always had more patience and persistence for the incremental work involved in playing at a high level than most her age. She is intrinsically motivated to challenge herself and is currently mastering the Paganini Violin Concerto. She reads and has travelled widely yet is humble and aware of those less fortunate. … She is one of the most well-rounded high school students I know. As a violinist she does not show off for a sense of bravado, but rather does the work of understanding the music itself and offers organic, intelligent, heart-felt performances.” – Rebecca Henry, The Scott Bendann Chair in Classical Music, faculty, Peabody Conservatory

Honors: Outstanding High School Chemistry Award 2019; Leonardo da Vinci Award, Lancaster County Young Artists Competition.

Activities: Peabody Pre-Conservatory Violin Program, Allegro Chamber orchestra, opened for violinist Rachel Barton Pine at Mount Gretna Music Series, master classes with Midori Gogo and Kristof Barati; art lessons with University of Pennsylvania professor Ivanco Talevski; ballet, summer ballet intensive and modern dance intensive at Susquehanna Dance Center; volunteer work; gives private violin lessons.

Mentor: Rebecca Henry, violin instructor

Plans: Will attend Princeton University with an undeclared major.

Name: John “J.T.” Thomas

School: Central Dauphin East High School

Parents: John R. Thomas and Karen Grimm-Thomas

In his words: “Leadership is one of my defining qualities. I’m not always the stereotypical leader, who gives out orders and the leads the charge so to speak, though I can. Most of the time, I prefer to take a step back and let my actions speak for me. I lead by example, which is what I do on my cross-country team and in my music ensembles. I simply do the right thing, and others follow suit. When I am in charge, my actions have repercussions, which I try my utmost to make positive. Whether it’s teaching my section a piece of music in choir, setting precedents as president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, or hiring a director of religious exploration at my church, I try to set those who come after me up for success. That’s what leadership is all about to me. What use is a leader if the foundations they lay only last for a season? The things that I build are meant to last, and more importantly to make the next generation’s job easier.”

In their words: “As a student, JT is diligent and conscience. He works hard, submits his assignments on time and scores very high on assessments. JT has found success in several Honors and AP courses. His interest in learning is genuine and evident when engaged in discussion with him. JT is also a huge asset for East High outside of the classroom: JT has been a vital member of the cross-country program for the past six years, qualifying for the District III competition during all of his high school years. JT is one of East High’s leading and award-winning actors in both the play and musical productions. … His ability to not only balance academic, extracurricular and outside employment opportunities over the last four years clearly shows he is a young man who is willing to work in order to achieve his goals. … East High School is losing one of its better students when he graduates this coming spring.” – Jennifer Burns, teacher and former cross-country coach, Central Dauphin East High School

Honors: National Honor Society, served as president and vice president of Tri-Music Honor Society, Rotary Student of the Month, Hershey Theater Apollo Award nomination; cross country district qualifier for four years.

Activities: Volunteer at his church, Unitarian Church of Harrisburg; volunteer for the Harrisburg Half Marathon; EHS Choraliers and Wind Ensemble; spring musical; cross country; fall plays; track and field; works part time at Regal Theaters.

Mentor: Curtis Glidewell, Central Dauphin East High band director

Plans: Will attend Penn State University in its Classics and Mediterranean Studies program.

Name: Isabella Zuccaroli

School: Cumberland Valley High School

Parents: Mario and Joy Zuccaroli

In her words: “Hundreds of single room shacks made of cardboard are packed together within a one-mile radius. Trash covers the dirt roads while children dressed in rags run around. There is no running water or electricity. This is the town named Diepsloot, South Africa. As a child, my family could drive merely five minutes from our suburban home in Johannesburg to find these shocking images. Looking back, I recognize that I grew up as any regular American did. However, a diverse cultural setting during my formative years has set me apart in my mindsets. In 2008, I emigrated from South Africa to Pennsylvania. I arrived with an accent, a different vocabulary and perspectives unlike others. However, I consider the greatest impact from South Africa to be the effect from growing up in a country with a 55 percent poverty rate. When I reflect on Diepsloot, I am inspired by the opportunities I have received as an American. In the past 11 years, I have experienced the safety of America as well as an incredible education. Through this time, the shocking images of Diepsloot have motivated me to use my education, talents and resources to give back to impoverished areas.”

In their words: “Inquisitive, inspiring, intelligent and indefatigable are just a few of the adjectives that describe Isabella Zuccaroli. To these can be added compassionate, friendly, poised, focused and well-respected. These attributes have made Isabella a leader in her large, competitive class. … Her stellar academic record attests to her quest for knowledge and her intelligence. She has challenged herself by taking the hardest courses even in her senior year. A human dynamo, Isabella maintains high grades in difficult courses, plays varsity lacrosse, engages in other extracurricular activities and still works in a restaurant to help pay for college. … Polite, respectful, curious and passionate about making this world a better place, she stands above the rest." – Barbara J. Wiggin, Mechanicsburg neighbor and retired coordinator of the Hanover Park Language Arts Department (N.J.)

Honors: National Merit Commendation, recognized for scoring in the top 5,000 ACT scores in Pa., AP Scholar with distinction, National Honor Society, National World Language Honor Society

Activities: President of CV Africa Club, TOPS soccer volunteer, lacrosse, mini-Thon, volunteer altar server at Good Shepherd Church, volunteer at UPMC Pinnacle Osteopathic Hospital and Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, cashier/barista at Hellenic Kouzina

Mentor: The late Alixe Ryder, a family friend who died of cancer

Plans: Will attend Johns Hopkins University, majoring in chemistry.

The SEMIFINALISTS for Best and Brightest were:

Macklin Ayers, Upper Dauphin Area High School

Lily Bistline, Boiling Springs High School

Skye Bixler, Upper Dauphin Area High School

Andrew Bliss, Lampeter-Strasburg High School

Bridget Bozman, Eastern Lebanon County High School

Olivia Bratton, Hershey High School

Angie Bu, Hershey High School

Thomas Chase Jr., Trinity High School

Allison Covert, Red Land High School

Diana Creech, Milton Hershey School

Abigail Dehmey, Elizabethtown Area High School

Rylee Diffenderfer, Warwick High School

Michael Dobson, Palmyra Area High School

Victoria Echternach, Cedar Crest High School

Meredith Engle, Northern High School

Megan Gouldy, Trinity High School

Joshua Guberman, Central Dauphin East High School

Sarah Hardy, Biglerville High School

Samantha Hatzfeld, Lebanon Catholic High School

Alexander Heisey, Conestoga Valley High School

Liana Hoffman, Dallastown Area High School

Ella Kielmeyer, Hempfield High School

Daniel Leach, Palmyra Area High School

Ethan Lown, Elizabethtown Area High School

Avraham Lukacher, Hershey High School

Jacquelyn McBride, Conestoga Valley High School

Haili McConnell, Dauphin County Technical School

Elisabeth Milligan, Milton Hershey School

Kendra Miller, Fairfield Area High School

Stephen Moores, New Oxford High School

Sydnee Mull, Capital Area School for the Arts Charter School

Grace O’Sullivan, Cumberland Valley High School

Aidan Park, Cumberland Valley High School

Alelia Pettus, Milton Hershey School

Madison Pontious, Carlisle High School

Emma Reed, Susquenita High School

Ethan Rogers, Hershey High School

Heather Roland, Conestoga Valley High School

Sadie Ruoss, West Perry High School/Cumberland Perry Vocational Technical School

Milena Rylatt, Susquenita High School

Kathleen Sajer, Trinity High School

Margery Schnarrs, East Pennsboro Area High School

Kaitlyn Sheriff, West Perry High School

Sophia Shienvold, Susquehanna Twp. High School

Tyler Schwarzman, Mechanicsburg Area Senior High School

Lucy Shettel, Warwick High School

Daniel Simpson, Spring Grove Area High School

Zachary Slodysko, James Buchanan High School

Amanda Smith, Trinity High School

Justin Stevens, New Oxford Senior High School

Lydia Vorodi, Boiling Springs High School

Hayley Wagner, Fairfield Area High School

Carly White, Big Spring High School

Michelle Yun, Hershey High School

Jason Zaprazny, Hershey High School

The judges for Best and Brightest were:

• Susan Anthony, board member with Dauphin County Library System, HANNA Foundation and Susquehanna Art Museum and co-founder of HANNA’s Pantry
• David Dix, president of Luminous Strategies and PennLive editorial board member
• Jim McClure, retired York Daily Record/Sunday News editor
• James A. Mullins, an attorney and father of 2019 Best and Brightest winner James Mullins Jr.
• Flora Posteraro, co-host Chick2Chick Podcast and senior multi-media specialist for PennWatch.org
• Cheryl Davis Walker J.D., (Retired) director, Office of Special Assistants, Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission; and president of American Association of Blacks in Energy, Harrisburg Chapter
• Alyson Weaver, a science teacher at Red Land High School and a 2000 Best and Brightest

READ MORE

• Judge Alyson Weaver talks about what it was like to be a Best and Brightest 20 years ago.

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