Born to run things
Whenever Kevin Harrigan gets involved in an activity, he tends to end up leading it.
That’s how the St. John Neumann High senior became president of the National Honor Society, a student council officer, a First Team All-Catholic defensive lineman and — fittingly enough — a recipient of the Student Leadership Award.
Kevin, of 27th and Tasker streets, is also a Millay Scholar and a member of the usher corps and the Ambassador Club.
The 18-year-old hopes to continue his reign as big man on campus when he attends Kutztown University in the fall.
Like any good football player, Kevin attributes his success to the members of his team, particularly his parents and his trusted mentors at Neumann.
"My parents support me in whatever I do," he says.
The student noted that Luis DeVelasco, Neumann’s assistant principal for student affairs, encouraged him to become involved with school activities.
Assistant football coach Steve Smith, Kevin adds, "helped me become a better person, on and off the field."
DeVelasco believes the teen should also take credit for his accomplishments.
"Kevin is very serious and conscientious," he says. "He is an excellent student, athlete and leader."
Kevin Harrigan will receive a $150 savings bond. The Review has a sufficient amount of nominations for the remainder of the school year, so subsequent nominees will be featured next fall. If you would like to nominate a student (first through 12th grades), call 215-336-2500 ext. 120 or e-mail editor@southphillyreview.com for a nomination form.
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Leading through reading
South Philadelphia resident Marilyn Ashbrook (second from right, front row) was inducted into the Center for Literacy Tutor Hall of Fame for generously contributing her time to help adults read. She has been a volunteer tutor for three years. Philadelphia 76ers general manager Billy King (right, front row) was the special guest speaker who recognized the CFL volunteers’ accomplishments at a ceremony at PNC Bank’s Center Hall last Thursday. Also recognized were (back row, from left) Kevin Robinson, Monica Yant Kinney, James Hill and (front row) Nikkita Shoatz-Ahmad.
