Community brief

Student earns national volunteer honors

Cupertino resident Ajay Mallya, a junior at Bellarmine College Preparatory, earned a Certificate of Excellence from the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a national program that honors youth volunteers nationwide for outstanding community service.

Mallya, an accomplished musician who last summer traveled as a member of the National Youth Orchestra USA, was recognized for tutoring and teaching violin to local middle school students.

“Ajay’s passion for sharing his gifts and talents with others stands out,” said Bellarmine Principal Kristina Luscher. “He uses his musical talents to spread joy throughout the community.”

Mallya also led efforts to secure funding and donations of instruments for the string program established at Sacred Heart Nativity School in San Jose, where he and a fellow Bellarmine student provide weekly lessons.

“When I consider the work Ajay does in instructing younger students and creating music programs … I believe he represents the epitome of the Bellarmine motto of being a ‘man for and with others,’” said Steve Pinkston, Bellarmine’s Christian service program director.

The awards program, sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, grants Certificates of Excellence to the top 10% of all applicants in each state and the District of Columbia.

Prudential Spirit of Community Award nominees’ volunteer activities were judged on criteria including initiative, effort, impact and personal growth.