Local Dog Park Champion Receives Major Recognition
Bianca Bryant, a senior at Woodland Park High School, was named one of Colorado’s Distinguished Finalists by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a national wide program honoring young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism.
Bryant is one of six distinguished finalists from Colorado chosen for her impressive community service activity. Bianca’s project included building the first dog park in Woodland Park. To do so, she organized a petition; collaborated with Woodland Park Parks and Recreation Department; participated in local hearings; and held fundraising events that raised more than $40,000 to cover building costs. The daughter of Stacey Graham and David Bryant, Bianca is planning to attend Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ, in the fall.
“Bianca is truly a special leader in our school and in our community,” Woodland Park High School Principal Kevin Burr said. “Over the course of many years, we’ve helped students to apply for this prestigious award. Bianca is the first to reach this level of distinction. This award is truly deserved,” he said. “She’s put herself out there as a model for others to follow who want to make a difference in their world. We’re so glad to have her as a member of the class of 2020. She’s a Panther to watch, going forward!”
“I couldn’t have received this award without the amazing support of this community,” Bryant said. “I love seeing all the people bringing their four-legged friends to enjoy the park. Thank you to everyone for helping make this dream a reality,” she said. “I am excited to begin the next chapter of my life at Northern Arizona University, but will definitely miss Teller County, which will always be my home.”
All finalists will receive an engraved bronze medallion. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards is conducted by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).
The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards represents the U.S. largest youth recognition program based solely on volunteer service. All public and private middle level and high schools in the country, as well as all Girl Scout councils, county 4-H organizations, American Red Cross chapters, YMCAs and Points of Light Global Network members, were eligible to select a student or members for a local Prudential Spirit of Community Award. These Local Honorees were then reviewed by an independent judging panel, which selected State Honorees and Distinguished Finalists based on criteria including personal initiative, effort, impact and personal growth.
“In our 25th year of honoring young volunteers, we are as inspired as ever by the work students are doing to address the needs of a changing world,” said Charles Lowrey, chairman and CEO of Prudential Financial, Inc. “We hope that their resolve, their initiative and their perspectives on society’s challenges move others to consider how they can make a difference too.”