Caitlin McLaughlin Honored by Widener University

Widener University, one of the nation's premier universities for civic engagement and applied leadership, in partnership with WCAU-TV NBC10, is proud to recognize Caitlin McLaughlin of Pottstown as a winner of the Widener University High School Leadership Awards.

In its second year, the program recognized 93 students from high schools throughout the Philadelphia region for their abilities to stand up for what is right, address a wrong and make a difference in their communities or schools.

Caitlin McLaughlin from Owen J. Roberts High School has made a difference in the community by serving as executive officer in the Gay Straight Alliance Club, which provides peer support and resources to LGBT youth.

"This year, the High School Leadership Awards program has exceeded our expectations and it's refreshing to see that there are so many students in our area who are demonstrating courage and leadership within their communities," said Widener University President James T. Harris III. "This award embodies Widener University's focus on developing strategic leaders and responsible citizens who demonstrate the capacity to lead outside their comfort zone, and it's one that we are extremely proud of."

"This year's winners are involved in wonderful initiatives in the communities they serve, and it's an honor to be a sponsor of the High School Leadership Awards," said Eric Lerner, president and general manager of NBC10 Philadelphia. "These local students deserve to be in the spotlight, as they are shining examples of how we can all work together to improve our communities and help those in need."

Winners are invited to a celebratory breakfast at the National Constitution Center on February 19, as well as a leadership conference at Widener in fall 2013. Most notably, winners will receive a scholarship of $20,000 over four years should they enroll at Widener University for undergraduate studies.

For more information regarding the Widener University High School Leadership Awards and to view a complete list of winners, please visit: http://bit.ly/Wrrlrr.

About Widener University: Widener University is a private, metropolitan university that connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention, leadership development and experiential learning are key components of the Widener experience. A comprehensive doctorate-granting university, Widener is comprised of eight schools and colleges that offer liberal arts and sciences, professional and pre-professional curricula leading to associate's, baccalaureate, master's and doctoral degrees. The university's campuses in Chester, Exton, and Harrisburg, Pa., and Wilmington, Del., serve some 6,500 students. Visit the university website, www.widener.edu.