World of Inquiry senior Nadia Lewis wins prestigious Young Women of Distinction scholarship award in Rochester

Rochester, New York – A senior at Rochester City School District is being recognized for her achievements both inside and outside the classroom after earning one of the region’s most respected student honors.

Nadia Lewis, a student at World of Inquiry School No. 58, was named one of four recipients of the Young Women of Distinction Scholarship Award during the Young Women of Distinction Awards ceremony held on May 4 by the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce. The annual event, now in its 26th year, celebrates young women across the Finger Lakes Region who have demonstrated leadership, academic achievement, and a strong commitment to their communities.

Lewis earned a $1,500 scholarship after being selected from a competitive group of 14 finalists representing schools throughout the nine-county region. Her recognition reflects years of balancing academics, athletics, and work experience while continuing to pursue ambitious future goals.

At World of Inquiry, Lewis has built a reputation as a dedicated student and athlete. On the volleyball court, she earned first-team all-city honors, standing out as one of the top players in local competition. Away from sports, she also gained professional experience working as a sales associate at Foot Locker, juggling employment responsibilities alongside her studies and extracurricular commitments.

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Her plans after graduation point toward a future in healthcare. Lewis hopes to study psychiatry and has identified several colleges among her top choices, including Fordham University, Stony Brook University, and University at Buffalo. Those close to her say the same determination she showed in school and athletics will likely follow her into the medical field.

The district also celebrated another student recognized during the awards process. Jazmarie Cruz Rivera, a senior at Edison Career and Technology High School, was selected as a finalist for the scholarship program. School officials praised her strong academic focus and commitment to helping others, qualities that have already helped shape her future opportunities.

Rivera has been accepted into the competitive nursing program at SUNY Brockport, where she plans to continue her education and pursue a career in healthcare. Her selection as a finalist highlighted not only her academic accomplishments, but also her philanthropic mindset and involvement in her community.

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The Young Women of Distinction Scholarship Awards program was modeled after the well-known Athena Awards and was created to recognize high school seniors who embody leadership, scholarship, and service. Each year, students from across the Finger Lakes Region are evaluated for their impact in school, their communities, and their future potential.

For Rochester City School District leaders, the recognition of both Lewis and Rivera serves as another example of students excelling through perseverance, leadership, and commitment to meaningful goals.