La Salle-Peru seniors Klein, Phillips win citizenship awards

Two La Salle-Peru High School seniors were named winners of the Sons of the American Revolution Citizenship Award and Daughters of the American Revolution Citizenship Award. Each honor is presented to a senior based on the qualities of dependability, service, leadership and patriotism to an outstanding degree.

Lauren Klein is the 2020 Sons of the American Revolution Citizenship Award winner. She is the daughter of Herb and Jill Klein of Peru.

“As an individual and student, Lauren leads by example,” L-P counselor Andrea Eichelkraut said. “With passion and grit, she crushes her goals no matter the circumstances. Most admirably, she frequently puts others’ needs ahead of her own, giving her time to make Tech Help videos for the students of L-P, create social media Senior Shoutouts for the Class of 2020, and so much more. Lauren strives to make the world a better place and is a true difference-maker.”

Klein is involved in tennis, basketball and softball. She also is involved in many activities including LEAD, Link Crew, FBLA, and is on the Renaissance Leadership Team. Klein said she intends to further her education, studying communications/business.

Lauren Phillips was named the 2020 Daughters of the American Revolution Citizenship Award winner. She is the daughter of Chet and Shelly Phillips of La Salle.

“Lauren Phillips is truly an exceptional young woman,” L-P counselor Meg Kowalczyk said. “She excels in the classroom, and in the sports of basketball and softball. At L-P, she has been most influential in her leadership position of the Renaissance Program. No task is too big or too small for Lauren. From making a poster for a door, creating a video to help other students navigate our computer portal, or emceeing a student rally, Lauren accepts responsibility with determination and a smile. Her willingness to help others is her greatest attribute, and she is well liked and respected by faculty, staff, and peers. Lauren is a leader in every sense of the word and she is well-deserving of this award.”

Phillips is involved in many athletics and activities at LPHS including softball, basketball, tennis, Renaissance, Link Crew, and Super Fan Club. Phillips intends to further her education, studying business/sports management at Illinois Valley Community College before transferring to another university.

Klein and Phillips were chosen for the awards by their senior classmates and by faculty. They will be recognized during the Senior Awards Program in April.