The Olivet Boys & Girls Club of Greater Reading and Berks County celebrated the academic achievements of six young alumni and the generosity of four community donors during its annual Scholarship Recognition Luncheon, held Thursday, August 14, at the Oakbrook Club.
The event highlighted the accomplishments of recent Olivet graduates who each received a $7,500 scholarship to support their higher education. Donors Sue Palmer, Art Haberberger, Tom McMahon, and Bernice Lebo were honored for making the awards possible.
“This luncheon is an opportunity to highlight the incredible potential of our youth and the powerful impact of those who invest in their futures,” said Sarah Althen, Development Director of Olivet Boys & Girls Club. “We are proud to honor both our students’ accomplishments and the donors whose support is helping to shape their educational journeys.”
Honorees
Among those recognized was Noah Gibney, a 2025 Wyomissing High School graduate and former Olivet Youth of the Year nominee. Gibney, who received the Presidential Award for Academic Excellence and the Principal’s Award, will attend Berklee College of Music this fall.
“My favorite Club memory was working on songs at Gravity Studios at the Pendora Park Club and then circling back to help teach that class with Cliff Starkey through my internship with Reading Musical Foundation this past year” said Gibney.
Zahavah Oliveras, a 2025 Reading High School graduate and Olivet’s 2025 Youth of the Year winner, will pursue forensic science at Cedar Crest College as a Trustee Scholarship recipient.
“My favorite memory as a Club kid is the lifelong friendships I’ve made along the way. But one of the proudest moments of all was finally being named Olivet Boys & Girls Clubs 2025 Youth of the Year: after three tries. That experience taught me the power of perseverance, and it’s a moment I’ll never forget” said Oliveras.
Jennasea Rodriguez, a 2023 Wyomissing graduate now studying at Reading Area Community College, is working toward certification in K-4 special education and has been named to the President’s List for consecutive semesters.
“One of my favorite Olivet moments was the Halloween Party at Blue Mountain Camp – it was such a fun and unforgettable night. I also really valued the experience of volunteering at Clinton Street, handing out Thanksgiving meals to families in need. Both moments reminded me of the heart and community that make Olivet so special” said Rodriguez.
Jeremiah Santiago, a 2024 Reading High School graduate and National Honor Society member, is enrolled at Penn State Berks, majoring in accounting.
“Blue Mountain Camp is one of my favorite memories from being a Club kid. I had the chance to enjoy so many outdoor activities with my friends: experiences I never would’ve had if it weren’t for being part of Olivet Boys & Girls Club. I’m truly grateful for those opportunities” said Santiago.
Kahlil Samuels, a 2025 Reading graduate and three-sport athlete who played on the boys basketball state championship team, will begin studies in business analytics at Virginia Union University this fall.
“My favorite Club memory is winning three basketball championships at Clinton and just learning how to play the game I love. I will also never forget the mentors I’ve had while growing up at the Clinton Olivet. I also enjoyed all the trips, activities and of course summer camp” said Samuels.
Nico Sosa, a 2024 Reading graduate and former state basketball champion, was unable to attend as he was moving into college. After spending last year at Manor College, Sosa will continue his education and athletic career at Sussex Community College.
“My favorite memory of being an Olivet kid has to be the sense of extended family I found as a member at Clinton Street. The mentorship I received from every single staff member, and the guidance they shared, truly helped shape me into the person I am today. I’ll always remember the late nights when staff kept the gym open, giving me a safe place to stay off the streets and work on perfecting my basketball skills. Without Olivet, I wouldn’t be nearly as involved in my community as I am now, and for that, I’m forever grateful” said Sosa.
A lasting impact
The luncheon brought together Olivet board members, community leaders, and representatives from Wyomissing Area and Reading High Schools to celebrate the connection between youth success and community support.
The Olivet Boys & Girls Club serves young people across the Greater Reading area, offering programs that promote academic achievement, leadership, and healthy lifestyles.
