SENATOR BRUNO MEETS WITH TROY BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB YOUTH OF THE YEAR, PHILLISSIA ROUSE

Tuesday, May 7, 2002

Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno today met with Phillissia Rouse, the Troy Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year. She was a finalist in the statewide competition, held May 6th and 7th in Albany. The winner at the state level advances to the national competition in Washington, D.C. to compete for a $5,000 scholarship.

"I am very proud of this outstanding young woman representing our community, and of her efforts to reach out and help others in need," said Senator Bruno. "We can all learn from her motivation and insight."

Phillissia has been a Boys and Girls Club Member for over 12 years, four of those years with the Troy Boys and Girls Club. She was chosen as Youth of the Year because of her outstanding leadership, dedication and character. Since joining the Troy chapter four years ago, Phillissia has played an integral role in many programs and activities, and has been a great source of encouragment and support to other members, even while struggling with the difficulties of lupus - a disease she was diagnosed with in 1998, which can hinder her physically, emotionally and spiritually.

"Phillissia has overcome great adversities in her life and is always willing to go above and beyond the minium requirements to put the Club youth first," said Senator Bruno. "To find this degree of selflessness in adults is rare; to find it within one so young is remarkable."

For a high-resolution photo of Senator Bruno with Phillissia Rouse, click here.