PURDUE POLYTECHNIC HIGH SCHOOLs’ Student selected for bank of America’s prestigious student leaders program
Indianapolis, IN, June 26, 2024 — INDIANAPOLIS Bank of America recently announced that Mariah Questelles, a junior at Purdue Polytechnic High School (PPHS), is one of four Indianapolis-area high school students chosen for the prestigious Student Leaders® program. “Initially, when applying for the program there were many questions about my identity and my look on the community, which I was very excited to see because I am driven by community values and am huge on lifting, serving, and encouraging those around me.” says Mariah. Mariah's selection is a testament to her dedication to being a positive role model for her family, peers, and community.
“I am super proud of Mariah; she represents what we as a school are all about – community and leadership,” said Keeanna Warren, CEO of Purdue Polytechnic High Schools. “I would also like to express my gratitude to Andy Crask, the president of Bank of America Indianapolis, for investing in our youth and the future of Indianapolis.”
Mariah’s involvement in PPHS’s Student Ambassador program has given her valuable insights into the effects of poverty, unemployment, and inequality. During the eight-week paid summer internship, student leaders will gain practical work and leadership experience, receive financial education coaching from Bank of America’s Better Money Habits curriculum, and collaborate with the local nonprofit Conner Prairie.
Bank of America's Student Leaders program, now in its 20th year, aims to build a diverse pipeline of community-minded young students and support Indianapolis' workforce development and long-term growth. The program annually recognizes 300 community-focused juniors and seniors from across the U.S., providing them with valuable opportunities to develop their skills and contribute to their communities.
Questelles is one of the four student leaders and attributes her selection to God, support from her family, friends, teachers, and to the Bank of America and Conner Prairie staff. The other three of her peers in the program come from Carmel High School, Decatur Central High School, and Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory Academy. This endeavor by BoA for our youth plays a crucial role in fostering the next generation of leaders who will drive positive change and economic growth in our community. Mariah’s journey is just beginning, and we are excited to see the lasting impact she and her peers will make on our city and beyond.
PPHS is incredibly proud of Mariah for her outstanding contributions as a student ambassador for our schools and communities. Her dedication of positively representing and giving back to her community embodies the core values of PPHS and we are grateful to have her within our school community.
Read more about Indianapolis Bank of America’s Prestigious Program in their latest release here.
Purdue Polytechnic High Schools (PPHS) is a tuition-free public charter high school network that opened its doors in 2017. The network operates four high schools across the state and accepts all students who are Indiana residents regardless of ability or background. PPHS uses a student-centered, STEM-focused, and project-based approach to learning. Purdue Polytechnic High Schools is proud to partner with Purdue University to provide a unique pathway for students to the university.