New York State Assemblyman Joe DeStefano presented an official certificate to the 2024 Boys & Girls Club of the Bellport Area Youth of the Year, Aliya Hightower.
The Patchogue-Medford School District senior, who is planning to pursue a career in medicine, was named the Youth of the Year because of her strong community involvement.
Hightower will now serve as an ambassador for the Boys and Girls Club.
“I was honored to speak with Aliya and her mother, who has done a fabulous job of raising her. We talked about the importance of supporting our youth and keeping them safe. This is something that the Boys and Girls Club does a fantastic job with, and they will continue to have my support. My heartfelt congratulations to Aliya and I wish her the best of luck in all her future endeavors,” said Assemblyman DeStefano.