North County High School senior Camilla Shanley has found herself in some elite company as one of just 53 state winners – and the lone Maryland recipient – of a National Honor Society Scholarship from the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).
There were nearly 6,800 applications nationwide for the scholarships, with 200 students chosen as finalists. From those finalists, 53 recipients were selected.
“Among the things that sets Camilla apart from other student leaders is her confidence,” said North County High School Assistant Principal Elena Thomas. “She is always willing to be our mistress of ceremonies or lead representative during various meet and greets. While being an involved member of the student body, she is a positive role model for her peers and maintains outstanding academic achievement. She is driven and dependable.”
Participating National Honor Society chapters from across the country nominated senior members to compete in this year’s program. Finalists were selected on the basis of their leadership skills, participation in service organizations, clubs, and other student groups at school and in the community, and their academic record. As a state winner, Camilla is recognized as one of the top 53 NHS members in the nation this school year.
While at North County, Camilla has served as the president of the National Honor Society, Model United Nations, Technology Student Association, and Future Business Leaders of America. She also helped found the Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society chapter. In addition, she has served two terms as the Maryland Technology Student Association state president, and has volunteered with Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership and several other service projects.
“Camilla is the embodiment of this scholarship and I am proud of her for earning this recognition, as she makes North County proud every day,” said North County High School English teacher Jennifer Mermod, who nominated Camilla for the award.
Camilla will live in Denmark and study international politics from the European perspective for one year before majoring in International Affairs at The George Washington University’s Elliot School of International Affairs.