Cheers, applause and proud smiles filled the room as the community came together to recognize the inspiring achievements of some young, local trailblazers. Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) honored the 18 Under 18 Class of 2025 at a special celebration sponsored by Teddy Bear Pools and Spas, Holyoke Community College, Savage Arms and The UPS Store. About 120 people attended the event at Storrowton Carriage House on Monday, putting a spotlight on outstanding teenagers from throughout Western Massachusetts who exemplify innovative spirit, leadership and community involvement.
“It was a wonderful night celebrating 18 inspiring young people from across Western Mass.,” said Amie Miarecki, president, JAWM. “They go above and beyond to serve their communities and lead by example. We are proud of their accomplishments and can see a very bright future ahead of them.”
The following students comprise the 18 Under 18 Class of 2025:
- Abigail Drumm, Agawam High School
- Abigail Jolin, Quaboag Regional Middle/High School
- Arianna Hopkins, West Springfield High School
- Asher Rose, Southwick Regional School
- Caidence Goodreau, Chicopee Comprehensive High School
- Cameryn Valentin, Holyoke High School
- Howard Wichert, Pathfinder Regional Vocational Technical School
- Juliana Gadouas, Chicopee Comprehensive High School
- Kassandra Perry, Palmer High School
- Laiyla Arroyo, Springfield Honors Academy
- Lorie Perez, Libertas Academy Charter School
- Mackenzie DaFonseca, Minnechaug Regional High School
- Olivia Latorre-Williamson, Joseph Metcalf School
- Rebecca Mlapah, Longmeadow High School
- Samantha Dean, Agawam High School
- Samantha Rodriguez, Holyoke High School
- Soraya Blissett, Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy
- Yumalai Melendez, Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy
The event featured Western New England University’s Brenda Garton-Sjoberg as the emcee. Speakers included Ted Hebert, owner of Teddy Bear Pools & Spas Ted; William Reyes-Cubides, Assistant Vice President of Student Success at Holyoke Community College; and Charter Oak Financial’s Terrell Joyner, head of The Consulting Web and co-chair of the JAWM Board of Directors.
Nominations for 18 Under 18 were open to anyone 18 years or younger who attends school in Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin or Berkshire counties, as well as the Quabbin, Quaboag and Tantasqua regional school districts and the state of Vermont.