JAY – Anna Marie LeBlanc, daughter of Paul and Bonnie LeBlanc of Jay and a student of Jay High School, was named the 2005-06 recipient of the Saint Michael’s College Scholarship and Service Book Award.

The award recognizes students who demonstrate a commitment to volunteerism and leadership through community service. Saint Michael’s, a liberal arts residential college in the Burlington area of Vermont, was founded on the belief that serving others is part of its Catholic tradition, and through the award seeks to honor those who demonstrate the spirit of volunteerism.

Award recipients, named at schools throughout the country, are high school juniors who are inductees of the National Honor Society or an equivalent school-sponsored honors organization. They must demonstrate a commitment to service activities in high school or community organizations, taking leadership roles in these activities.

“These students have demonstrated deep commitment to learning while being concerned with the well being of the people around them,” said Jerry Flanagan, vice president of enrollment and marketing. “They are good students, they serve their community and are strong leaders.” Flanagan says the goal of the book award program is to recognize students who practice the St. Michael’s college mission of scholastic achievement and service.

LeBlanc was presented the book “First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers” (Harper Collins 2000) by Loung Ung, a 1993 Saint Michael’s College graduate who has become an acclaimed author.