Whitney Stewart, a University of Pennsylvania freshman from Sarasota, Fla., is the recipient of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year Award for 2015-16. 

She also earned the title of 2015-16 Southeast Youth of the Year. 

Stewart, a political science major in the College of Arts & Sciences at Penn, received the award at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Sept 29. 

As the Youth of the Year, the organization’s highest honor, Stewart will receive $145,000 in academic scholarships and prizes. She will serve as the official spokesperson for the Boys & Girls Club and its Young Alumni & Friends Club that connects former members. 

Later this year, Stewart, along with five other Youth of the Year finalists, will travel to the White House to meet President Obama. 

At Penn, Stewart is a member of the Penn Government & Politics Association, Black Wharton Undergraduate Association and Speech and Debate team. 

“Boys & Girls Clubs saved and forever changed my life,” Stewart said. “My club ignited a passion in me to achieve my dreams, and I’m proud to represent millions of teens and young alumni whose lives are forever transformed by their Boys & Girls Clubs.” 

After graduating in 2019, Stewart is hoping to become an attorney in the United States Air Force, followed by a career in politics and higher education. 

"Through it all, 'I will,' is the legacy I hope to leave,” Stewart said.