Rising stars: Junior Achievement honors its 18 Under 18 Class of 2025

Author: JAWM
Corporate Responsibility
Published: Friday, 16 May 2025

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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.