JESSICA MARIE JENKINS “is the most unique student” her nominator has ever had the privilege of working with in her 28-year career in secondary education. Jessica is a brilliant young woman, a National Merit Semifinalist and vital member of her school community. Jessica entered high school with and aggressive four-year plan to take the most challenging courses offered. She contributes her time, talents and energy to the life of the school and local community. The fact that Jessica is legally blind never gets in her way of the goals she has set for herself. While maintaining her heavy academic load, she volunteers as a clerical support person in a local business, and donates her time to the Peninsula Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired where she teaches Braille and helps organize youth group activities. She is a leader in school clubs and organizations and provides Eucharistic Ministry services at her parish. She is an accomplished pianist. Jessica’s incredibly kind spirit is also impressive. She helps anyone who needs a friend or a tutor. Her intellect and her heart make her the embodiment of what an outstanding student should be. Jessica plans to work at the global level, combining her interests in community building with concerns about international relations and the rights of the disabled.
