18 Under 18 Honoree: Tess Berman

Tess is passionate about making a difference in both her community and the world. A role model for her peers, Tess has led her grade at Riverwood High School each year as vice president, continuing to take on more responsibilities. She is a strong advocate for gun control and co-founded Students Demand Action at school, serving as co-president since the organization’s inception. Tess was an ADL intern last summer, a volunteer for the ADL Concert Against Hate, and a participant in ADL’s No Place for Hate Summit. Tess is working with a fellow graduate of The Epstein School to coordinate a voting drive for her high school. She’s also a talented soccer player and an IB Diploma candidate.

Activities and Awards:
National Honor Society member, January 2020
ADL No Place for Hate Summit participant (2019, 2020)
Beta Club member, January 2019
Riverwood varsity soccer Coach’s Award, May 2019 – honors and recognizes leadership, being a team player and coachability
Riverwood High School Student Government Association vice president, freshman, sophomore and junior years
Riverwood Students Demand Action club co-founder and co-president
Riverwood Varsity Soccer, freshman, sophomore and junior
GiGi’s Playhouse junior executive board and secretary
American Jewish Committee Leaders for Tomorrow alum (2018-2019)
Anti-Defamation League intern (summer 2019)
ADL Concert Against Hate volunteer
Riverwood High School Principal’s List (GPA of 95 or greater), fall 2017, spring 2018, fall 2018, spring 2019, fall 2019
YMCA Camp Thunderbird Double Gold Bandana Award, July 2017 – youngest female in history of camp to achieve this highest honor for a camper. It reflects athleticism, commitment, hard work and drive.

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