WESTFORD CENTER — The Kiwanis Club is proud to recognize Lena Wilcox, a senior at Nashoba Valley Technical High School, as a recipient of the prestigious STAR Award — Service Together Achieves Results. This award celebrates young people who demonstrate exceptional dedication to community service and civic engagement.
Lena is enrolled in the Television and Media Broadcasting and Theater Arts programs at Nashoba Valley Tech, where she has put her skills to work for her school community by filming graduation ceremonies and senior awards nights. This fall, she will take her talents to the University of Connecticut, where she will pursue a degree in Fine Arts with aspirations of a professional acting career.
Lena’s commitment to service began well before high school. Inspired by her mother, she began volunteering in middle school through her local library’s children’s department, eventually expanding her work to the adult department as well. She has also volunteered at school open houses, welcoming prospective students and families to Nashoba Valley Tech.
Perhaps Lena’s most impactful work has been with Open Door Theater in Acton, an inclusive theater company dedicated to serving individuals with mental disabilities. Volunteering with auditions, ticket sales, and concessions, Lena found herself deeply moved by the experience.
The work opened her eyes to the profound difference that showing up for others can make — and strengthened her resolve to continue serving this community long into the future.
“Community service has made me more aware of the impact I can have on others.” Lena reflected. Especially as I pursue acting, I want to be a role model — particularly for people with mental disabilities.
Lena’s story is a testament to what the STAR Award represents: that when we commit to serving together, the results can change lives — including our own. The Kiwanis Club congratulates Lena Wilcox on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to watching her bright future unfold.
