Willow Creek Middle School Student in Rochester Named 2020 Youth of the Year

It feels like it was just yesterday when I was taste-testing bowls and bowls of chili for the Boys & Girls Club Chili Challenge.  I met so many amazing kids that day (and ate a lot of chili) and saw a community come out and support this great organization.  Boys & Girls Club of Rochester had some big news this week and a very special 8th grader learned that she was the 2020 Youth of the Year for Rochester, MN.  Huge congrats to 8th grader at Willow Creek Middle School, Galilea Hernandez!

“I felt very proud of myself in the moment that they announced me as Youth of the Year for 2020.  Being Youth of the Year means I am someone that inspires and motives others, both older and younger. Boys & Girls Club of Rochester is a place for everyone, no matter why you come here there’s something for everyone here.” Galilea Hernandez

According to the press release sent out by the Boys & Girls Club of Rochester, a panel of amazing judges helped make the decision, including Mayor Kim Norton, Olmsted County Sherriff Kevin Torgerson, Rochester Public School Board member, Dr. Jean Marvin, and Think Bank's VP of Business Solutions, Becky Wendland, J.D.  They picked the winner based on interviews, public speaking, and written essays that were shared by each participant.

Galilea made a lasting impact on the judges and with the staff at the Boys & Girls Club.  What I love most of all is how they expressed Galilea's gifts and talents in the words they shared about her.

“I was inspired by Galilea’s message of giving back, learning and believing in yourself – no matter your age. I was delighted to meet and listen to all the resilient, courageous and passionate candidates.” - Becky Wendland

 

“All [candidates] made a point of speaking about the people and organizations--especially the Boys and Girls Club--that helped empower them to make decisions to become leaders and role models in their community. Ms. Hernandez, as we discovered, is a talented writer and speaker with limitless enthusiasm, optimism and empathy. She will do a fantastic job representing Rochester at the state competition!”  - Dr. Jean Marvin

 

“Galilea is an exceptional young person - intelligent, passionate, inspiring, and poised to accomplish big things in her life. We’re proud to have her represent Boys & Girls Club of Rochester’s work as our Youth of the Year. On behalf of our staff, board, and community – I congratulate Galilea on what’s she’s accomplished, and all that she will achieve in her great future!” - Chad Campbell, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Rochester

Galilea, I'm wishing you the best of luck as you compete at the Minnesota State competition in March!  I'd love to chat with you on the radio too.