Reese Ponds, the current Miss Leesburg and First Academy high school senior, has been awarded the prestigious Samsung American Legion Scholarship, receiving $5,000 at the national level — a rare honor for any student and the first ever for her local district.

Reese was selected last summer to represent her region at Florida Girls State, a weeklong leadership and civic engagement program sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. Held in Tallahassee, the program brings together more than 300 rising seniors from across the state to learn about government, elections and public policy.

During the program, Reese was elected Mayor of her city, served as a member of the House of Representatives, and was one of just ten girls selected to interview for Girls Nation, the national counterpart held in Washington, D.C.

“All girls had the opportunity to apply for the Samsung American Legion Scholarship,” Reese says. “I was beyond blessed for my application to be the only one selected to go to the national level — and even more blessed to be awarded the $5,000 scholarship nationally.”

According to local American Legion Post 219, which sponsored Reese’s participation, she is believed to be the first recipient from the area to ever receive the scholarship.

In addition to the national recognition, Ponds was also awarded a $250 regional scholarship through the American Legion Auxiliary Northern Area, which raises funds through its annual Area Ball.

“She had one of the best scores I’ve ever seen since I’ve been judging,” says Ms. Wehrli, one of the scholarship judges. “She scored a 94 — we had a lot of strong candidates this year.”

The Samsung American Legion Scholarship is one of the most competitive scholarship programs affiliated with the American Legion, offering awards to high-achieving students who have demonstrated leadership and who have direct family ties to U.S. military service.

Reese’s selection comes as no surprise to those who know her, though her family says she’s humble about her accomplishments. “She hates when I brag on her,” her mother, Kerry Ponds, says. “But she worked incredibly hard and we’re just so proud of her.”

Reese continues to serve as Miss Leesburg, representing her community at public events and civic functions throughout the year. Her dedication to leadership, service and education makes her a standout example of the next generation of community leaders.