Stillwater Christian School senior Tessa Harmon is an “academically gifted and driven young woman,” according to counselor Michelle Fetveit.

Fetveit nominated Harmon, who was named the Today’s Achievers, Tomorrow’s Leaders honoree for December.

“She is involved in leadership and is a role model for the youth at our school,” Fetveit stated in her nomination submission. “Not only did she score a perfect 36 on her ACT, she is also a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist. She is the epitome of what this program is trying to highlight.”

The Today’s Achievers, Tomorrow’s Leaders program recognizes the academic achievement and community involvement of high school students who contribute to improving the lives of others. Kalispell Regional Healthcare sponsors the award in collaboration with the Daily Inter Lake. In addition to the recognition, honorees choose a school club or activity to receive a $250 donation. She plans to donate the money toward the senior class trip.

In addition to her perfect ACT score, Harmon has a 4.0 grade point average. It’s not all about academics, however. Harmon also volunteers and serves in leadership roles to better her school and community.

“Tessa is always willing to lend a helping hand,” Fetveit said.

In one of her leadership roles, Harmon is one of six captains of what Stillwater calls “houses,” which are groups of sixth- through 12th-graders. As a captain, she serves as a role model to about 30 students, organizes team building activities and competitions.

As a member of the National Honor Society, Harmon is involved in volunteer work that serves the school and community through the “Adopt a Highway” program and Operation Christmas Child, for example.

“She makes the community a better place by investing in the youth at her church and school,” Fetveit said.

She is also a member of Leaders of Tomorrow and attended the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State delegate and development program over the summer. Last year she served as the student body treasurer.

Outside of school, Harmon serves with the children’s ministry at Canvas Church.

“I think it’s really an opportunity to give back what I’ve been given and contribute to the school make positive change,” Harmon said.

Nominate a student at krh.org/TomorrowsLeaders.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.