Sanam Rastegar '12 receives Prudential Community Spirit Award

Sanam Rastegar '12 has been passionate about volunteerism since before coming to Hopkins as a 7th grader. After Sanam met Paul Newman in 6th grade, when he thanked her for helping raise $10,000 for the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp for children with serious illnesses, she wanted to find a way to continue to support the program at Hopkins. She successfully implemented the Hopathon, a yearly fundraiser calling students and faculty to jump rope for sponsorships to raise funds for the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. Over five years, Sanam and the Hopathon raised over $130,000.

In February, Sanam was recognized as one of Connecticut's top two youth volunteers for 2012 by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a nationwide program honoring young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism. Sanam received a medal, a $1000 scholarship and a trip to Washington D.C. in May where Prudential will announce the National Finalists.

Congratulations Sanam, and good luck in Washington D.C. this month!

To learn more about Sanam's honor and to hear her speak of her accomplishments, please use the following links:

2/7/2012 article on marketwatch.com

4/16/2012 CT Now interview