Fort Smith has two fresh reasons to cheer this holiday week, as local young people and a hometown university both earned well-deserved recognition.

The Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs honored their Youth of the Year, spotlighting the outstanding accomplishments of a standout young member of the organization. The Youth of the Year program is one of the Boys & Girls Clubs’ most prestigious traditions, recognizing a young person who demonstrates leadership, service, academic excellence, and a commitment to their community. Being named Youth of the Year is a milestone that can open doors to further scholarships and opportunities at the state and national level.

Meanwhile, the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith earned national recognition for its Intrepid Ambition campaign publication, which took home a Silver Circle of Excellence Award. The honor highlights the university’s commitment to telling its story with creativity and distinction, reflecting well on the institution and the River Valley community it serves.

Together, these recognitions are a reminder that Fort Smith is home to driven young people and institutions that support and celebrate their growth — a great way to head into the Fourth of July holiday.

Sources: River Valley Democrat-Gazette, River Valley Democrat-Gazette