Senior Pema Yankey receives Thomas J. Ellis Community Service Award

Congratulations to Roycemore Senior Pema Yankey, this year's recipient of the Thomas J. Ellis Service Award!

The Thomas J. Ellis Service Award is given to one student from any division of Roycemore School who truly embodies the core value of Community. This award is named in honor of Thomas J. Ellis, who served as chair of Roycemore’s Board of Trustees for 14 years, ensuring that the many transitions under his leadership were smooth, supported, and laid a foundation for the continued success of Roycemore. His devoted service, kindness, and compassion for our mission serve as an inspiration to all. This award was established in 2020 in his honor and is the only student award given at the annual Celebration of Dedication and Excellence ceremony.

Pema serves not only as a proud student ambassador for Roycemore, displaying excellent citizenship within our school community, but also goes above and beyond the Roycemore campus to serve the broader community. 

Throughout her time at Roycemore, she has pushed herself tremendously as a Distinguished Robert Eisner scholar, co-captain of the Volleyball team, Vice President of Student Ambassador Club, and even a founding member of Diversity Club. She is also involved in student government, yearbook, and DECA. 

Pema's dedication to academic excellence, civic engagement, and leadership is clearly evident. Her service extended beyond the Roycemore community through her January Short Term project where she focused on understanding and taking action to assist the community by providing food to the unhoused in Chicago.

Congratulations, Pema, and thank you for all of your contributions to the Roycemore School community!