Senior Named Pennsylvania Recipient of National WWII Leadership Award


Senior Michael Hertzberg was notified by the National WWII Museum that he was selected as the Pennsylvania recipient of the Billy Michal Student Leadership Award.

This year, the National WWII Museum added the Billy Michal Student Leadership Award to its annual American Spirit Awards. Awards are given to one Grade 8 – 12 student from each state and the District of Columbia who demonstrates the American Spirit in his or her community. The award recognizes students who demonstrate that "the values of leadership, teamwork, tolerance, creativity, and perseverance can and should be learned and lived by all Americans regardless of age."

According to the WWII Museum, "During World War II, when six-year-old Billy Michal from Zimmerman, Louisiana, helped his one-room school win a statewide scrap-metal collection contest, he understood that every citizen—no matter their age—could contribute to our victory in the War. Billy’s example, and the actions of millions of other students on the home front, reminds us that service to country and community helps create active, engaged citizens. Through the Billy Michal Student Leadership Award, the Museum promotes these values to students nationwide and honors those who exemplify them, giving them an opportunity to be mentored by recipients of the American Spirit Awards, so that they may learn lessons of leadership and success." 

Michael was nominated by Director of Equity, Inclusion, and Service Learning Mrs. LaVern Burton and chair of the history department Ms. Michael-Ann Cerniglia, along with help from Michael’s Grade 11 U.S. history teacher Mr. Steven Collier. Initially, Michael was unaware of his nomination. “I did not know I was being nominated,” he explained. “The application process was on my teachers ends. I was humbled when I found out I was nominated.”

As part of the award, Michael, accompanied by a parent or chaperone, along with the other 50 student awardees, will receive an all-expense paid trip to New Orleans to attend the 2018 American Spirit Awards in June. Students will have the opportunity to participate in leadership activities including a Q&A session with the American Spirit Awards recipients, explore New Orleans and the museum, and participate in exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences.

Michael is excited about the trip. “I have never been to the 'Big Easy,' and I am especially looking forward to touring the Bayou on a fan boat and eating and exploring the French Quarter,” he said. “This award will also help me to stand out as a community leader in the present and future.”

Back