URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – Urbana School District #116 and the City of Urbana will recognize Urbana High School (UHS) students for their outstanding community service during the fourth annual Mayoral Recognition Program.

“We are proud to recognize Urbana High School students for their outstanding volunteer service in our community,” said Mayor Diane Wolfe Marlin. “Through their dedication, they are growing into lifelong volunteers and future leaders. Every connection they build, every person they support, and every act of kindness they share contributes to a stronger, healthier Urbana.”

The Mayoral Recognition program honors over 80 students who have collectively volunteered more than 6,000 hours this year. The program is in its fourth year, since its creation in 2022. A whopping 320 students have contributed 23,934 hours of community service. The celebration will be held on Wednesday, April 16 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Urbana High School Gymnasium.

The keynote address will be delievered by Dr. Wanda E. Ward, Executive Associate Chancellor for Public Engagement at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

“The dedication our students show to supporting the Urbana community is inspiring. Their impressive volunteer efforts show their generosity, leadership, and commitment to making a difference. Thank you, Mayor Marlin, for always championing our students and celebrating their passion and hard work. We are truly Urbana Better Together,” said Dr. Jennifer Ivory-Tatum, Superintendent of Urbana School District.

Highlights of Student Service This Year:

  • ? Partnered with Habitat for Humanity to improve eight homes locally and in other states.

  • ? 60 student mentors supported Urbana Middle School students.

  • ? Served over 250 meals at the UHS Community Thanksgiving Dinner.

  • ? Distributed 300 holiday turkeys and grocery bags to local families.

  • ? Restored over 235 acres in six Urbana parks, removing invasive species and planting native seeds.

  • ? 50+ students performed at community events in music, theater, and other arts.

  • ?️ Over 60 students participated in the Walk to the Polls event, promoting civic engagement.

The Mayoral Recognition Program is open to any UHS student who completes at least 30 hours of volunteer service during the academic year. Eligible students will receive a Certificate of Service from Mayor Marlin, Superintendent Dr. Ivory-Tatum, and UHS Principal Jesse Guzman.