Adam Steffan, Theatre Director at Wauwatosa West High School, received the Arthur B. Kohasky Leadership Award from the Wauwatosa Library Foundation in recognition of his exceptional leadership and for building a nationally recognized theatre program, that continues to inspire, innovate and lead.
Wauwatosa West student Olivia Ridolfi and Wauwatosa East student Emilia Ruggini also were both recognized with Student Leadership Awards at the event.
Olivia Ridolfi is an outstanding leader, a compassionate student, and an exceptional role model who is dedicated to making a difference in her school and the community. Olivia is active in Best Buddies, where she supports an inclusive environment for students with disabilities in the school community. She also organized the Tosa West's Engineering Day and Winter Craft Day to inspire and engage children. Ou side of school, Olivia is a student representative on the Wauwatosa School Board and serves on the Teen Advisory Council at the Wisconsin Children's Hospital. After graduation, she hopes to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison and become a pediatric nurse.
Emilia Ruggini loves to challenge herself by taking rigorous courses. She excelled in the American Public Policy Special Emphasis course (APPSE), is an AP Scholar with distinction in German, and plans to complete a two-year AP Capstone independent research project. In addition, Emilia held executive board positions in Math Club and Tri-M Music Honor Society. She is active in Best Buddies, German Honor Society, HOSA, Global Scholars, Link Crew, Key Club, Marching Band, and other school organizations. In her free time, Emilia volunteers with Special Olympics, tutors students of chemistry, and assists at youth church programs. She also works as a lifeguard and swim instructor for the Wauwatosa Recreation Program.