Centennial Honors High School Students with Youth Achievement Awards
Published on May 15, 2024
The City of Centennial is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Youth Achievement Awards, recognizing four exceptional high school students for their outstanding contributions to the community. Each recipient will receive a $1,000 scholarship in recognition of their service, leadership and dedication.
The Youth Achievement Award program, sponsored annually by the City of Centennial and Jacobs (Centennial's public works and code compliance provider), celebrates young residents who exemplify leadership and community involvement.
This year's recipients of the Youth Achievement Awards are:
Case Snell, a distinguished graduate of Grandview High School, demonstrated a strong aptitude for language studies and athletic excellence in swimming. Case is poised to pursue a dynamic academic path at Augustana University, where he will delve into Financial Technology and Business Administration, aiming to shape innovative solutions in finance and leadership.
Joaquin Salazar Diaz, a standout graduate of Regis Jesuit High School, excelled in classical dance and music, specializing in piano performance. He embarks on an academic journey at the University of St. Andrews in the United Kingdom to study neuroscience, driven by a deep curiosity about the brain and its mysteries around aging and neurodegenerative disease.
Lauryn Long, an accomplished graduate of Arapahoe High School, distinguished herself as a student-athlete in swim and dive, cross country, and track and field. With a passion for human behavior and health, Lauryn will pursue her studies in Medicine or Psychology at California Polytechnic State University – San Luis Obispo, aspiring to make meaningful contributions to wellness and mental health awareness.
Rachel Cooper, a distinguished graduate of Regis Jesuit High School, excelled as a student leader in Business Leaders of America, competitive swimming, community service and international studies. She will continue her academic journey at the University of Notre Dame, pursuing a dual major in Global Affairs and Computer Science, with a keen interest in leveraging technology for global impact.
“These outstanding students have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service within our community,” says Centennial Mayor Stephanie Piko. “There is no doubt these youth will leave their mark as they embark on this next chapter of their lives and we wish them the best.”
The City of Centennial extends its congratulations to the 2024 Youth Achievement Award recipients and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.
For more information about the Youth Achievement Award program, visit centennialco.gov/youthachievement