Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) is honoring its 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. The event at Storrowton Carriage House on Monday, May 19, will spotlight these outstanding young people from throughout Western Massachusetts who exemplify innovative spirit, leadership and community involvement.
“What an amazing pool of applicants we had this year,” said Amie Miarecki, president, JAWM. “We’re so proud of these students who have already made a profound impact on our community. We want to showcase their hard work so others can be inspired.”
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
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.