Each year, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan (B&GCSM) selects an outstanding young person to receive its annual Youth of the Year Award (the highest honor bestowed upon a member of Boys & Girls Clubs).
This award recognizes commendable character, academic achievement and outstanding volunteer service to a member’s Club and community.
We are grateful to our Judges this year, comprised of prominent members from business and professional circles throughout Southeastern Michigan. CLICK HERE to see the Panel of 2015 Judges
2015 Youth of the Year Judges
Peter Karmanos, Jr., Founder (retired) – Compuware Corporation
Tom Hoeg, CEO – Agency Business Solutions
Cathy Gregory, Member – Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan Women’s Association
Larry Knox, CEO – Knox Consulting Group
Tony Showich, Managing Director & Investment Officer – Weissman, Eppler & Showich Investment Group
2015 Youth of the Year – 1st Place
Vania Quintana-Vega
Huron Valley Club
Ypsilanti
Ms. Quintana-Vega says, “My Club has become my second home. I have been a member for five years and attend the Club year-round, with a few interruptions for sports. My involvement in the Club is BIG. I participate in almost everything or try to be a help in running an activity. The Club contributes to my academic, personal and leadership development.”
2015 Youth of the Year – Runner-Up
Kiwane Johnson
Fauver-Martin Club
Highland Park
Mr. Johnson says, “The Club has been wonderful. They treat my brother and me like family. After completing the career development program, the Boys & Girls Clubs gave both my brother and me our first jobs. It brought tears to my eyes knowing that somebody was willing to allow me to work for them. I appreciated it! The Club has also helped me get accepted into colleges, and keep me on track to graduate high school.
2015 Youth of the Year – Third Place (Tie)
Aaliyah Chanel Hardy
The Dick & Sandy Dauch Campus
NFL/YET-Boys & Girls Clubs
“My experiences at the Club over the last eight years have made me see the world differently. I realize there’s more out there to explore, and this is just the beginning.”
Marissa Nicholson
Matilda R. Wilson Club
“The Club saw potential in me that I didn’t initially see in myself. In the future, I will be back to share with new members what I have learned. Great futures really do start here.”
Kennede Fischer
Richard & Patricia Donahey Club
Belleville
Kiara Thompson
Romulus Club
Cameron Weathers
Lloyd H. Diehl Club
Detroit
Imani Tinsley
James & Lynelle Holden Club
Detroit
Brianna Eveningred
Vic & Lucille Wertz Club
Shelby Township