Foundation honors scholars, community leaders

KING OF PRUSSIA » More than 400 attendees gathered at the Sheraton Valley Forge Hotel to celebrate scholarships earned by seven scholars and four community leaders who were recognized by the Young Men and Women In Charge Foundation (YMWIC) Foundation.

The evening’s emcee was Barbara Gee, CEO of PositiveLee for You. Keynote speaker, Rev. Marshall Mitchell from Salem Baptist Church of Jenkintown, delivered a message of “Understanding the Importance of Giving and Passing it Forward” at the eighth annual Scholarship and Awards Banquet. The graduating scholars included John Coleman, Delaware Valley Friends School; Rya Jones, Janelle Pedroza, Valeria Reynoso, Tyzhana Raison, and Arrielle Zurita, all graduates from Coatesville Area Senior High School; and Sebastian Rosas, Norristown Area High School. Commissioner Kathi Cozzone presented certificates to each of the collegebound graduates.

James Scanlon, superintendent of the West Chester Area School District, received the Educational Leadership Award for Secondary Education. Under his leadership, district schools have consistently ranked in the top 10 percent of the state and country. In 2010, he was the catalyst for launching the West Chester Area Education Foundation which now raises more than

$100,000 in donations annually to fund innovative projects that connect classroom curriculum to realworld experiences.

Because of his commitment, leadership, and service to individuals and organizations throughout Chester County, Patrick Bokovitz received the Community Leadership Award. This award is given to a leader who is a strong advocate for economic development, promotes policies that strengthen families and communities, and supports the foundation’s mission. As director of the Chester County Department of Community Development, he has an integral role in many County projects.

John O. Chikwem received the Educational Leadership Award for PostSecondary Education for his leadership and commitment to education and support of scholars. Chikwem was instrumental in establishing the YMWIC STEM Leadership Camp. During the 2017-18 program year, he was responsible for structuring monthly Saturday workshops at Lincoln University that were engaging, hands-on learning activities in biology, chemistry, engineering, and computer science. YMWIC members said the partnership with Lincoln University has been a remarkable, life-changing experience for many of the scholars.

West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc., received the Impact Award. This award is given to an organization that improves the quality of life for others, is socially responsible, is connected to and makes a significant impact in the communities it serves, values educating and inspiring youth to pursue academic excellence particularly in STEM-related courses, and embraces a Culture of Philanthropy and Community Involvement. Moving forward, the Impact Award will be known as the West Impact Award. Brian Stocker, vice president of Human Resources, accepted the award.

YMWIC members said they are proud to partner with these distinguished leaders and their organizations as they continue to pave the way for future professionals. For more information, visit www.YMWICFoundation.org.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Pictured are: John Coleman, of the Delaware Valley Friends School; Rya Jones, Tyzhana Raison, Valeria Reynoso, Janelle Pedroza, graduates from Coatesville Area Senior High School; Sebastian Rosas, of Norristown Area High School; Arrielle Zurita, of Coatesville, and Chester County Commissioner Kathi Cozzone, who presented certificates to each of the college-bound graduates.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rick Roberts, Brian Stocker, James Scanlon, John Chikwem, and Patrick Bokovitz, were honored by the Young Men and Women In Charge Foundation.