Malak Elsherbiny, a sophomore at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School, and Shan Lateef, a junior at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology* (TJHSST), were among those honored as recipients of the Prince William Chamber of Commerce Agnes L. Colgan Community Service Award in Arts & Education. Elsherbiny and Lateef were the only two high school students to receive the award.
Elsherbiny and Lateef were recognized for the work they do with Melodies for the Mind, a student organization they started with their piano teacher, Annemarie Landry. The organization plans monthly musical performances by students to entertain seniors in assisted living facilities throughout the community. Student members hope that sharing their musical talent will help enrich the lives of seniors living away from family and help in bringing two generations closer together. Melodies for the Mind has over 50 volunteers and has served over 500 seniors. More information can be found at their website, melodies4themind.org.
The Agnes L. Colgan Community Service Awards are awarded to two not-for-profit organizations making a positive contribution to the quality of life in the greater Prince William region. Each award is accompanied by a check for $1,000 to continue the organization's work.
*Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology is a full-time regional Governor's School that serves other school districts, including Arlington, Loudoun, and Prince William counties. Lateef is a resident of Prince William County and attended Benton Middle School in PWCS.