Bronxville High School senior Lily Mei Peckham was recently honored with a 2026 Westchester County Youth Service Award for her outstanding service and leadership. She was selected for her strong academic commitment and significant contributions to community service, particularly in relation to environmental outreach, education and research.
She was among 12 exceptional high school students recognized by the Westchester County Youth Bureau and the Westchester County Youth Board for their leadership and dedication to service and social justice. The students received certificates from Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and the Westchester County Board of Legislators, along with awards from the members of the Westchester County Youth Board and their NYS legislators.
Bronxville High School counselor Deana Hasandjekaj nominated Peckham for the honor, citing her impact on environmental justice through her research and robust community service in and outside of Bronxville School.
“She has pursued environmental science research through multiple independent studies at Bronxville School,” Hasandjekaj said. “Lily Mei has taught children biology and environmental science and spent countless hours teaching visitors through her internship. Her research through [New York Botanical Garden] has involved working with a colleague on a book promoting the importance of community gardens and encouraging visitors to explore them. I am continually impressed by Lily Mei’s intelligence, caring nature and desire to make a real-world impact.”
Peckham plans to continue her work in the field by studying environmental science at New York University this fall.