PRINCETON NJ Press Release

Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County Names 2026 Youth of the Year

(Trenton, NJ) – Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County announced tonight that Serenity, a 16-year-old sophomore at Foundation Academy Collegiate, has been named the 2026 Youth of the Year, the organization’s highest honor recognizing leadership, service, and academic achievement among Club teens.

The announcement came during the Club’s 6th Annual Great Futures Celebration at Cobblestone Creek Country Club, where more than 200 guests gathered to celebrate the achievements of the Club’s outstanding young leaders.

Local dignitaries, family members, educators, community supporters, and business executives were on hand for the March 5 event, including partners who support the Club’s efforts to help build a strong talent pipeline for tomorrow’s innovation economy.

“When I first walked into the Boys & Girls Club, I was nervous about how I would be perceived,” said Serenity. “But I soon found that I didn’t have to explain myself or code-switch. I was allowed to show up as my full self—my Blackness, my womanhood, and my youth all existing together unapologetically. The Boys & Girls Club became a place where I learned that my differences were not weaknesses—they were strengths. Through mentors, leadership and community, I gained confidence. I learned that when you are given the space to be yourself, you don't just grow—you rise.”

All eight Youth of the Year contestants attended the celebration and enthusiastically cheered on the winner in a powerful show of support and camaraderie.

“These young people are truly the best of us,” said Reginald J. Coleman, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County. “Every day at the Club we see young people discovering their strengths and finding their voice. Tonight’s Youth of the Year—and every finalist who stood on that stage—demonstrates what is possible when young people are given opportunity, mentorship, and a place to belong.”

Elected officials who spoke at the event included Assemblywoman Tennille R. McCoy, Trenton Councilwoman Crystal Feliciano, and Mercer County Commissioner Samuel T. Frisby Sr.

“I want to recognize these incredible young people we are celebrating tonight for their extraordinary dedication, leadership, and resilience throughout this rigorous selection process, which included essays, interviews, and speeches,” said Assemblywoman McCoy. “Thank you for the hard work and commitment you showed along the way.”

Trenton Councilwoman Crystal Feliciano praised the students for their determination and accomplishments, telling the finalists and contestants, “You are all winners.”

Commissioner Frisby added, “Today you are receiving awards and accolades, and you may be asking yourself, ‘Am I worthy of all this?’ You are truly worthy of it. The theme here tonight is a ‘Garden of Dreams,’ and I will tell you that Trenton produces incredible seeds. This organization is here to help make sure your dreams come true.”

Each of the young people received certificates recognizing their achievement from the New Jersey State Assembly, the Trenton City Council, and the Office of the Mayor of Trenton, along with a ceremonial proclamation from the New Jersey General Assembly honoring the Club’s 6th Annual Great Futures Celebration.

As Youth of the Year, Serenity will represent Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County at the New Jersey Youth of the Year competition on May 12, 2026, at Montclair State University, where teen leaders from Clubs across the state compete for the statewide title. Serenity hopes to pursue a career as a lawyer or writer and plans to attend either Howard University or Cornell University.