Virginia McGinnis, a resident of East Brainerd and a server at Garden Plaza of Greenbriar Cove in Ooltewah, was named a 2016 Young Woman of Distinction.
The award was given at the local American Lung Association chapter’s annual awards banquet, held in Chattanooga on April 26.
According to the criteria, the award recognizes “a high school senior who sets herself apart as an individual outstanding in leadership, academics and character. She serves the Chattanooga area with honor, integrity, enthusiasm, generosity, compassion, a willingness to take risks and a personal dedication to goal achievement.”
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McGinnis has not shied away from serving others. In fact, she had been volunteering at Garden Plaza for six months before she began working there. On her 18th birthday, she applied for a job in the dining room," officials said.
“I am honored and humbled to be a recipient of Young Women of Distinction because I enjoy giving to others through my community, church and school,” said Ms. McGinnis.
Ms. McGinnis will graduate from East Hamilton High School this spring. She plans to attend Carson-Newman University in the fall as a business major.