Walter G. O’ Connell Copiague High School 12th grader Jada Angel has been named a recipient of the 2021 Billy Michal Student Leadership Award from the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. The national honor is awarded annually to one student in every state who has maintained a strong record of volunteerism, demonstrates school and community activism, and helps implement creative solutions to recognized problems. Each honoree will be virtually recognized at the Museum’s American Spirit Awards program on June 18.

Jada is the Class of 2021 vice president, One Mind Club co-president, and the PTSA student representative. She also participates in National Honor Society, Voice to Voice Women’s Empowerment, varsity and All-Star cheerleading and varsity track. Jada is the president of her local churches young people’s division and is teen leader for the teen ministry as well. She has been a Girl Scout since kindergarten and does many service activities. While participating with Junior Achievement of New York’s High School Heroes Program and the Copiague District Saturday School Program, Jada taught elementary school children about monetary decisions and the English language.

“It’s extremely gratifying to recognize students throughout the nation for the wonderful contributions they make to their local communities,” said Stephen J. Watson, president and CEO at the National WWII Museum. “During World War II, our country needed everyone to come together for a common goal of securing freedom and democracy around the world. Much like Billy Michal’s contribution more than 75 years ago, our student honorees prove that their positive actions, no matter how big or small, can make a difference in their communities. We are proud to honor their accomplishments.”