A Chinook's Edge School Division student was named a top student leader in Canada.

Davina Merritt, who graduated from Ecole Olds High School in June 2023, has been awarded the Bill Conconi Leadership Award, by the Canadian Student Leadership Association (CSLA).

The award goes to one high school student leader in Canada each year, and comes with a $1,000 scholarship.

“I honestly feel like I am in awe,”said Davina Merritt.“I did some research on past recipients and I am humbled. Mostly, I am grateful for all of the opportunities that I have had that led me to this prestigious award.”

The process of selection for the award involves member schools making nominations to CSLA. One student is selected from each province or territory for a total of 12 students who receive provincial recognition and $500. Davina Merritt received the Alberta award. From the group of 12, CSLA narrows the selection to three top leadership students and completes interviews with candidates and their teachers. In 2023, CSLA chose Davina Merritt as the recipient of the Bill Conconi Leadership Award.

“Davina is very deserving of this recognition, and the fact she calls Ecole Olds High School home is humbling,” said Meaghan Reist, Principal, Olds High. “When we think of students who truly make change in their school communities, who do so because they love it but also because they know the difference it will make in the lives of others, we think of Davina. Her leadership capacity is natural; she is humble, humorous and hardworking. Our whole community is so proud of Davina.”