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By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Prince William Living
Each year, Prince William Living has the privilege of recognizing high school seniors who are already shaping the future of our community through leadership, service, and a strong sense of purpose. These Extraordinary Teens are not defined by a single achievement, but by the way they consistently show up for their schools, their peers, and the broader community.
What stands out most is not just what they’ve accomplished, but how they’ve done it. With intention. With compassion. And with a clear understanding that leadership is about lifting others along the way.
This year’s Extraordinary Teens reflect the very best of Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park.
Aurora Beckett, Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School
Aurora Beckett
Aurora Beckett is a dedicated student leader whose impact spans academics, athletics, and service. At Colgan High School, she serves as President of the Sports Medicine Club, contributing more than 100 service hours, while also tutoring peers through multiple honor societies. A four-year member and JV captain of the field hockey team, Aurora leads both on and off the field. Her commitment to service extends into the healthcare community, where she volunteers weekly in the emergency department at UVA Health Prince William Medical Center and has also served at UVA Health in Charlottesville. In addition to her school and volunteer commitments, she works at Jiffy Lube Live and as a regular babysitter, demonstrating both responsibility and work ethic.
Her nominator, Katie Finelli, shared, “Aurora is the best of all worlds. She is a compassionate advocate for what she believes in, she has a strong work ethic toward her goals, and she maintains meaningful relationships with those around her.”
Henry Pavu, Patriot High School
Henry Pavu
Henry Pavu is a leader whose impact spans healthcare, emergency response, education, and environmental research. At Patriot High School, he is a member of the National Honor Society and a top-performing student, and he has dedicated more than 1,000 hours to volunteer service. As an Emergency Department Volunteer Trainer at UVA Health Prince William Medical Center, Henry supports both patients and staff, helping create a more compassionate care environment. He also serves as an Emergency Medical Technician with the Nokesville Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department, contributing to real-time emergency response. His leadership extends into education as the former Virginia Chapter Head of InspireCuriosity, where he led virtual STEM classes for younger students. His environmental research on bioremediation earned top honors and recognition, reflecting his commitment to sustainability.
His nominator, a manager at UVA Health, shared, “What sets Henry apart is not just what he has accomplished, but the perspective that drives his commitment to serve others. He leads by example, demonstrating that consistency and presence are powerful forms of leadership.”
Kareena Grover, Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School
Kareena Grover
Kareena Grover is a dynamic student leader whose influence extends across local, state, and national levels. She serves as the student representative to the Prince William County School Board, ensuring that student perspectives are included in decisions that impact thousands of learners. Her leadership includes roles as Vice President of the Virginia Student Council Association, participation in the National Student Council, and service as a Student Senator for Prince William County. Within her school community, she leads as President of No Place for Hate and founder of the S.A.V.E. Promise Club, while also serving as an ambassador for the Human Rights Student Leadership Council. Through these efforts, Kareena has helped shape initiatives focused on student voice, safety, equity, and inclusion.
Her nominator, Babur Lateef, shared, “Kareena doesn’t simply hold leadership positions—she elevates them. She models what it means to lead with integrity, to listen deeply, and to act with purpose.”
Audrey Shanahan, Patriot High School
Audrey Shanahan
Audrey Shanahan is a compassionate student leader whose impact is rooted in consistent service and a genuine commitment to caring for others. At Patriot High School, she is an accomplished musician, serving as a second chair cellist, while also participating in her school’s medical club. Audrey has dedicated more than 300 hours as a volunteer and trainer with the Dream Team at UVA Health Prince William Medical Center, where she supports patients and families and mentors new volunteers. Her service extends into local elementary schools, where she promotes kindness and empathy among younger students, and through years of leadership in her church’s programs. Whether assisting neighbors or stepping into leadership roles, Audrey demonstrates a steady commitment to making her community more compassionate and connected.
Her nominator, a manager at UVA Health, shared, “She shows others that making a difference doesn’t require grand gestures, but a willingness to show up, support others, and lead with empathy.”
Grayson “Gray” Gatling, Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School
Gray Gatling
Grayson “Gray” Gatling is a thoughtful and innovative student leader whose impact spans the arts, academics, and healthcare. At Colgan High School, Gray serves as President of the Science National Honor Society and Vice President of Music Technology within the Center for the Performing Arts, while also performing as a vocalist in Chamber Voices and the 1623 House Band at community events. Gray has volunteered and trained in the emergency department at UVA Health Haymarket Medical Center, offering support and connection to patients. Beyond service, Gray has launched initiatives that improve access and inclusion, including peer support programs and fundraising efforts to help classmates participate in international opportunities. Through music and leadership, Gray contributes to both the cultural and social strength of the community.
Her nominator, a manager at UVA Health, shared, “By consistently identifying where people may feel overlooked and taking meaningful steps to include them, Gray helps shape a more welcoming and connected community.”
Brianna Sanitra, Patriot High School
Brianna Sanitra
Brianna Sanitra is a dedicated student and leader who brings energy and compassion to everything she does. At Patriot High School, she serves as an officer in the Key Club, helping lead volunteer efforts such as creating care packages for patients in local hospitals and nursing homes. She is also a strong presence within her dance community, where she supports and mentors younger dancers, offering encouragement and guidance both inside and outside the studio. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to service, teamwork, and personal responsibility.
Her nominator, Kelly Colgan, shared, “She is truly an exceptional teen who inspires everyone around her. Her dedication, positive attitude, and strong character set her apart, and she leads by example in everything she does.”
These Extraordinary Teens are not waiting for the future to begin. They are already making a difference—strengthening our community through service, leadership, and a genuine commitment to others.
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Rebecca Barnes, Publisher of Prince William Living, is a longtime community leader, CEO of Imagine, and Public Information Officer for the OWL Volunteer Fire Department. With more than 30 years of experience in media, marketing, and communications, she is passionate about telling stories that connect, inform, and strengthen the Prince William community.
