Woodbury Student Recognized For Volunteering

WOODBURY, MN— A junior at Science and Math Academy in Woodbury was recognized Tuesday for her volunteering in civic engagement and local politics, Washington County said.

Paula Akakpo began volunteering in 2018 with the summer reading program at R.H. Stafford Library, the county said.

After participating on her school's debate team in ninth grade she became interested in the criminal justice system and civic involvement, leading her to be selected to be a Student Fellow in the Youth Civic Engagement Program through the League of Women Voters Minnesota - Woodbury Cottage Grove Area (LWVMN-WCGA), the county said.

It was through this opportunity that Akakpo helped create a student-led Q&A with the Minnesota Secretary of State, the county said.

Akakpo is also a member of the Woodbury Community Foundation where she participates in meetings and helps support the organization's major fundraiser, the county said.

Through this organization, Akakpo has helped distribute meals, helped with the end-of-year fundraising video, and plans to participate in a new project to promote anti-racism, the county said.

Akakpo said that receiving this award is possible because somebody gave her the opportunity to serve.

“It allows the community to flourish and grow when youth are involved in decision making,” Akokpo said.

Akakpo also:

• Has interned with Minnesota Historical Society
• Serves on the Math and Science Academy Board of Directors
• Represents Congressional District 4 on the Minnesota Youth Council

“Paula is a shining example of the value of our youth, service for the common good, and the potential to continue in many positive ways to our society,” Woodbury Mayor Ann Burt said.