Three Albuquerque Academy seniors were recently honored as Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Samsara Duravasula ‘16, Shannon Fonseca ‘16, and Elizabeth Moeser ‘16 were presented the award at the annual National Philanthropy Day luncheon on November 4, 2015.
They were selected for the award because of their volunteer efforts in our community, but especially for their work through Read to Excel, a program they founded together in 2013 that matches tutors with refugees living in the International District of Albuquerque. Since 2013, Read to Excel has positively impacted over 35 refugees through the work of 15 volunteer tutors.
Dara Johnson, Albuquerque Academy’s Community and Global Citizenship Director, nominated the students for the award, saying, “the determination and compassion of Samsara, Shannon and Elizabeth have made a significant difference in the lives of the refugees they serve.”
