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Team McConnell Member named AMC Youth of the Year

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Lafosse
  • 22 ARW/PA
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- --  Michelle Dillard, daughter of Col. Michael Dillard, 22nd Maintenance Group commander, and Jeanene Dillard, recently won the 2008 Air Mobility Command and Installations Youth of the Year award.

The Air Force Youth of the Year Program recognizes individuals for their superior leadership, academic achievement, and outstanding service to youth programs and their communities.

Michelle first won Kansas Youth of the Year on behalf of the Boys and Girls Club in Topeka, Kan., March 12.

"We are grateful that Michelle has the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute at the Youth Center Boys and Girls Club," said Colonel Dillard. "As a dedicated volunteer, she has gained new organizational and leadership skills. She has also become a more confident and assertive communicator."

She then went on to win Youth of the Year at McConnell, March 28. Volunteering at the McConnell Youth Center for two years was one of the many things she did to earn her this award.

"She quickly came to appreciate this special opportunity to inspire, encourage and be a positive role model for the young students in her class," said Colonel Dillard. "She has become more passionate about her desire to teach as she has become a more experienced leader and mentor."

"We are honored that her contributions have made a positive impact on this community and that she is being recognized," said Colonel Dillard.

To win the 2008 AMC and Installations Youth of the Year, an individual must stand above their peers. This year's Installations Youth of the Year are:
· Jesse Dailing -- Charleston Air Force Base
· Melanie Stalworth -- Dover Air Force Base
· Christopher Pencheon -- Fairchild Air Force Base
· Miranda Nedegaard -- Grand Forks Air Force Base
· Gabrielle Taylor -- McDill Air Force Base
· Matthew Stage -- McChord Air Force Base
· Michael Bolden -- McGuire Air Force Base
· Matthew Garrett -- Scott Air Force Base
· Jessica Gillotte -- Travis Air Force Base