October 22, 2007, Yarmouth, Maine: North Yarmouth Academy (NYA) senior Marion Leslie (Wiscasset) was presented with Portland Rotary’s Youth Service Award at a ceremony on October 12. Rotary’s Youth Service Award recognizes leadership in service to the community in addition to school service programs. Rotary’s motto of "service above self" is the first and most important criterion. NYA nominates one student each year for this program. Leslie was nominated by NYA for her "desire to meet needs, fill gaps and simply give back," said Director of College Counseling Katherine Sillin. Leslie organizes activities for patients in the Alzheimer's unit of a local nursing home, leads tours for prospective students and families at NYA, raises money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and spends her summers working in education at Morris Farm. She is also very involved in her church, making sure that major annual events run smoothly. "Marion is always there, smiling, putting others before herself," said Headmaster Peter Mertz. "She exhibits pure motives and true humility."
NYA is one of nine schools that Portland Rotary honors with this award each year. A recipient is selected monthly from each school. Rotarian and NYA Chief Financial Officer Rick Post explains, "We celebrate and encourage the service that these kids already exhibit in their lives." In addition to the award, the Rotary donates a $100 contribution to the charity of the recipient’s choice. Leslie requested that the donation go to the Morris Farm Trust in Wiscasset, an organic community farm.
North Yarmouth Academy is an independent, college preparatory, coeducational day school serving students in grades 6 through 12. NYA is dedicated to fostering integrity, character and intellect in young adults. For more information, please contact NYA at 207-846-2380 ext. 9327.