Ortt honors youth leadership recipient Brooke Johnpier

Senate Minority Leader Ortt recognized Brooke Johnpier from Ransomville with the Senate Youth Leadership Award. The program was established to distinguish outstanding high school students for their leadership in the classroom, on the sports field, in extracurricular or community activities.

Brooke, a senior at Wilson High School, is involved in a variety of clubs and organizations including the National Honor Society – making the honor roll every quarter of high school. She is also active in the yearbook club, stage crew, pit band and has been part of the Scholastic Bowl and morning announcement team since freshman year.

A press release stated, “To achieve these merits, Brooke has had to overcome autism and stutter.

“In addition to her outstanding achievements at school, Brooke is also a published author, writing ‘The Fort Niagara Bayonet,’ inspired by the historic landmark just minutes from her 50-acre family farm. She got the idea for the fictional book when she was only 6 years old and started working on it in 10th grade. Brooke is currently writing the next book in the series.”

Ortt said, “With her scholarly achievements and hard work outside of the classroom, Brooke exemplifies what it means to be a leader. It is my honor and privilege to present the Senate Youth Leadership award to a young woman in our district who truly deserves it.”

The press release added, “Brooke is also a history buff and member of the National Society Children of the American Revolution, National Society Children War of 1812, and the National Society Descendants of American Farmers. After high school, Brooke plans to attend St. Bonaventure University to major in journalism and sports media, so she can pursue her dream of becoming a motorsports journalist.”