Marsh was nominated for the award by the school psychologist, Carrie Shapiro, in large part because of her enthusiasm for the Schenectady County Embraces Diversity (SCED) workshop. In the fall of 2007, Marsh became the first SCED Study Circles facilitator from Schalmont, after completing a rigorous three-day training session. She served as a facilitator again this fall.

“It’s a lot of work, and it takes a lot of speaking up and showing leadership skills,” said Shapiro. “The workshop is all about fighting racism and promoting equality. Gabby went outside of the school day to participate in the community and also motivated other students to come back with her this year. That kind of initiative stands out.”

As the first place winner, Marsh will receive $500, a commemorative plaque and formal recognition during the Siena College Martin Luther King and Coretta Scott King Lecture Series on Race and Nonviolent Social Change. The lecture series will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2009, at 7 p.m. in the Marcelle Athletic Complex (MAC), 515 Loudon Road, Loudonville. Marsh will also join the lecture series advisory board for dinner.

“It means a great deal to me,” said Marsh of the honor. “It feels good to know that I’m doing something. It’s not just for me; it’s for everybody.”

Marsh is an honor roll student and a member of the National Honor Society and Art Honor Society. She also serves as the Key Club secretary and mentors students at Jefferson Elementary School. She has amassed over 100 volunteer hours in the community during high school, but her service as a facilitator helped her develop new skills and become more comfortable working with strangers. She hopes that other students will be inspired by her accomplishments.