Widener University, in partnership with WCAU-TV NBC10, is proud to recognize the winners of the 2021 Widener University High School Leadership Awards. Over the past 10 years, the university has recognized more than 1,300 students from high schools in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware who demonstrated leadership within their communities.

This year, the program recognized 129 students from high schools throughout the region for their abilities to stand up for what they believe in, speak out on behalf of others and make an impact in their communities.

Local students include:

• Autumn Benedict of Palmerton. Benedict, who attends Carbon Career & Technical Institute, made a difference by creating a public service announcement video with information relating to COVID-19 and proper use of masks and gloves to stop the spread of germs.

• Lauren Reaman of Nesquehoning. Reaman, who attends Marian Catholic High School, made a difference by demonstrating leadership as a member of the student council and by responding to the needs of health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Winners were invited to a celebratory virtual program with their families and school administrators. In addition to being recognized as young leaders in the region, if students enroll at Widener University as undergraduates, they will take part in Widener’s prestigious Apogee Leadership Scholars program and receive a $20,000 scholarship over four years. Apogee Scholars receive four years of leadership programming, and they earn a Widener Leadership Certificate.