The Cattaraugus County Youth Bureau is pleased to announce that this week’s featured Youth Citizenship Award recipient is Natalie Reynolds, a senior at Portville High School and the daughter of Jennifer and Marty Reynolds.

Reynolds was nominated by her school counselor, who highlights her exceptional qualities as a strong leader and role model within the school community. Known for her dedication, she actively supports younger students through mentorship programs, offering guidance and encouragement that help them navigate academic and social challenges.

After graduation, Reynolds plans to pursue a degree in biochemistry with the ultimate goal of gaining admission to medical school to become a physician. She aspires to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives through compassionate care and innovative medical practices, channeling her passion for science into a lifelong commitment to healing and healthcare.

Reynolds has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service, dedicating five years to volunteering with the American Red Cross, where she has taken an active role in organizing blood drives. Additionally, her involvement in setting up 2,977 flags honors the memory of every victim from the 9/11 attacks, reflecting her deep respect for those lost and her dedication to meaningful remembrance.

She has actively contributed to her school community by volunteering with the sports boosters, where she helps sell food at the concession stand during games. She has also taken on the role of referee for the Portville youth soccer program, demonstrating her commitment to supporting local sports and youth activities.

Her dedication to volunteering as a peer tutor for elementary students over the past three years highlights her commitment to education and her ability to positively influence young learners by providing them with essential homework assistance and effective study techniques.

As a member of both the National Honor Society and the Student Council, engaging in volunteer work is a crucial aspect of maintaining her membership. Tasks such as helping to set up and organize school dances, collecting cans for the food bank and wrapping gifts for the Presents for Panthers not only contribute positively to the community but also enhance leadership skills and foster a spirit of service among peers.

Reynolds is actively involved in several extracurricular activities at school, showcasing leadership and dedication. With seven years in the jazz band, she has served as secretary and earned accolades in various competitions. Her two years with the Physics Club, where she held the president and secretary roles, included volunteer work and organizing a trip to Cedar Point. Additionally, she has participated in the International Club for four years, engaging in cultural exchange, community service, and fundraising activities, including a memorable trip to Costa Rica.

With 12 years of soccer experience as a defensive player, Reynolds played a key role in helping her team achieve league championships and the corporate cup, while also being recognized as a 2024 All Western NY scholar athlete. Also playing basketball and serving as JV captain, she demonstrated leadership on the court. Additionally, Reynolds has four years of golf experience, where she earned scholar athlete honors, and two years in varsity track focusing on discus and shot put, further showcasing her extensive athletic versatility and academic dedication.

Reynolds has achieved a remarkable academic record, consistently earning high honor roll throughout her high school years, and has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Bausch and Lomb University of Rochester Science Award, RIT’s Women and STEM Award and the Portville Junior Alumni Medal, all highlighting her excellence in academics, character, and leadership.

Reynolds’s passion for traveling, skiing and reading reflects her adventurous spirit and love for learning, while her positive attitude and determination are key traits that will undoubtedly contribute to her future successes. Congratulations, Natalie!

Nominations for the 2025 graduating class are closed. For more information, visit cattcoyouth.org or contact Christina O’Brien, Youth Bureau program coordinator, at (716) 701-3360.