Biennial ball honors 17 local high school students for leadership, service

PITTSBURGH — High school juniors and seniors who have excelled in leadership and service were honored during an event on Saturday.

The Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill of America held its biennial Presentation Ball at the Omni William Penn Hotel Downtown.

The event honored 17 students for the leadership values they’ve learned through the Jack and Jill programs.

“This organization is important because we need to focus on building future leaders, particularly in the African American community. Jack and Jill has had a rich history of focusing on children ages two to 19 through the years and our Pittsburgh chapter is celebrating its 80th year,” said Denise Smalley, the president of the Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill of America.

The celebration also raised funds for the Homeless Children’s Education Fund, a local organization working to eliminate educational disparities for homeless children.

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