Community Volunteer Awards

2024 Honoree

Van Merrill

Distinguished Teen Service

Van Merrill

Van Merrill is a Cordova High School student who makes us feel good about the future.

Van has it all going on: excelling in the classroom, playing sports and serving his community.

At Cordova High, Van is everywhere.  He has served as vice president for service for the Cordova High chapter of the California Scholarship Federation, an organization which prioritizes high standards of scholarship and community service.

He has served as president of the Student Advisory Board, which provides a liaison between students and the Board of Education.

Last fall, Van was appointed as a Student Member of the Folsom Cordova Unified School District Board of Education.  The job is not just prestigious, but an important link between Rancho Cordova teens and the adults making decisions that affect them.

That’s where he caught the attention of Board Member Jennifer Laret, one of two who nominated Van for this award. 

“Van already had a familiar face,” she said. “I rarely attend a community event that I don’t see Van volunteering his time and efforts. From volunteering at the Rancho Cordova Fourth of July Celebration to working parking at the Rancho Cordova Chamber Business Expo, Van is always cheerful and professional. It is rare to find a youth as involved in his community as Van is.”

It doesn’t stop there.

Van is a member of several service clubs, including Mentors at Cordova High and Link Crew.  During the summer months, he holds down a job at American River Raft Rentals, adding work experience to his growing resume.

Jennifer told us his work on the school board has been exemplary and he can be counted upon to provide thoughtful input.  While he is an advocate for all students, he is particularly sensitive to underserved students who need extra support.

Conrade Mayer, who leads MACH, shared some of the same insights as Van’s second nominator.  He noted that Van has managed to participate in numerous activities at school, juggling homework, sports and more while retaining solid grades.

The best part is there is more to come.  Van Merrill is just a junior.

Van, you have set sail on the exciting journey of life.  Have the courage to follow your own path, even in the face of uncertainty.  Never forget that the true treasure lies not in the gold and jewels, but in the bonds we form with those who believe in us.  Sometimes and greatest treasure is hidden within the depths of our own hearts.

Congratulations Van Merrill on this honor for Distinguished Teen Service.  May the fair winds blow you to wonderful places you cannot imagine.  We will be watching!