The Cattaraugus County Youth Bureau announces that this week’s featured Youth Citizenship Award recipient is Lilah Cudney, the daughter of Jayme and Mark Cudney and a graduate of Franklinville Central School.

Cudney’s multiple nominations highlight her as an intelligent, caring and hardworking student. She excels in academics and athletics.

This fall, Cudney intends to pursue college studies in sports management and physical education with the goal of becoming a PE teacher and athletic director.

Cudney devotes a considerable portion of her free time to volunteering in youth sports, where she actively coaches football and provides instruction in ice skating to children, demonstrating her dedication to fostering athletic skills and promoting healthy, active lifestyles among young people.

Cudney actively volunteers within her community by participating in the Maple Festival, where she helps sell food and beverages to raise funds for the senior trip, demonstrating her commitment to supporting local events and initiatives. In addition, she dedicates her time to the youth football concession stand, efficiently selling snacks and drinks to spectators, which not only helps fund youth sports programs but also fosters a sense of community involvement and teamwork.

Cudney participates in various extracurricular activities, notably the Spanish Club, where she contributed to organizing and fundraising for a trip to Peru, and the Student Council, serving as vice president for the past two years, during which she coordinated events and fundraising efforts for school dances.

Cudney’s impressive leadership and athletic achievements, including serving as team captain and earning awards like Defensive Player of the Year, Captains Award and MVP across softball and hockey, demonstrate her dedication, teamwork and exceptional performance over 12 years of commitment to her sports, making her a standout athlete and leader.

Her dedication to academics, sports and community demonstrates her leadership, resilience and positive influence, establishing a strong foundation for her future goals. Congratulations, Lilah!

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.