Malverne School District is proud to announce that Malverne High School junior Olivia Brown has been honored with the 2024 Princeton Prize in Race Relations.
The Princeton Prize in Race Relations is an esteemed accolade awarded to high school students who have made significant contributions to improving race relations through leadership, understanding, and actions toward racial equity.
Olivia has been recognized for her leadership in the transformative campaign to rename a local street previously named after a Ku Klux Klan member, championing her community's values of inclusivity and respect for all races. This extensive three-year project showcased Olivia's unwavering commitment to justice and equity, involving rigorous research, compelling advocacy at town hall meetings and the active engagement of her fellow students alongside the Malverne Village committee. The successful renaming of the street to Acorn Way stands as a powerful testament to the community's collective stand against racial hatred and its unwavering commitment to creating a legacy of equality and unity.
In his recommendation for the award, Malverne District Supervisor of Humanities Mr. Jason Mach praised Olivia's dedication and influence stating, "Olivia’s relentless pursuit of justice, combined with her ability to inspire and unite her peers and community members, has made a tangible impact on promoting racial understanding and equity in Malverne. Her leadership and passion for change are truly exemplary."
The impact of Olivia's work extends far beyond the symbolic renaming of a street. It has ignited a wider dialogue on racial equity and underscored the significance of community activism. Olivia's actions have inspired her peers to engage in civic readiness and activism, showcasing the impactful role of youth in driving positive societal change.
Olivia exemplifies the exceptional leadership and dedication to racial equity that the Princeton Prize in Race Relations aims to acknowledge and celebrate. Her contributions have not only enriched her community but have also set a precedent for future generations to follow.
Olivia will be honored at a ceremony in New York City in April and is invited to participate in a race relations symposium at Princeton in the spring.
Date Added: 3/15/2024