Nominated by: Youth Service America

Whether preparing food for the homeless, mentoring classmates, or advancing civic education initiatives, William (Will) Andrione shows how the leadership of one student can ripple across an entire county. His humility, compassion for others, and leadership continue to make a difference across Anne Arundel County and beyond.

A senior at Severna Park High School, Will has balanced a 4.42 GPA and a rigorous AP course load while contributing over 700 hours of volunteer time to causes and programs focused on food insecurity, youth civic engagement, and service-learning.

At Happy Helpers for the Homeless, Will is a cornerstone volunteer, with 400 hours of service — preparing meals, distributing essential items, supporting large-scale community events, and leading volunteer teams to serve individuals experiencing homelessness. Happy Helpers Founder, Bobbi Coffman, calls him a “Happy Helpers legend.”

Will’s civic impact is equally remarkable, said nominator Scott Ganske, Vice President of Education at Youth Service America (YSA) and Coordinator of the Maryland Civic Education Coalition Youth Advisory Council (YAC). As a key member of YAC, Will has advanced civic education initiatives across the state, including helping to organize the Maryland Civic Education Summit and advocating at the State House for the Civic Seal bill. In addition to his extensive service within the county, Will has emerged as a trusted leader on both state and national platforms.

“I have witnessed firsthand Will’s rare ability to inspire peers, collaborate with adults, and drive initiatives that create meaningful change,” said Scott. “Will’s commitment to service and civic engagement extends far beyond any single project. In 2024–2025, he was instrumental in helping YSA launch the National Gold Ribbon Schools in Service-Learning Program. His contributions included shaping program materials, advising on youth engagement strategies, and representing Anne Arundel County students at a national level.”

Will serves as a Local Policy Director for the American Youth Association, Regional Director for Vote16 Maryland, and is on the Superintendent’s Teen Advisory Council. He also contributes his leadership to the Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) Service-Learning Leadership Team, where he co-chairs the Projects and Grants Committee, mentoring peers and shaping county-wide student-led initiatives. As Civic Engagement Coordinator for the Chesapeake Regional Association of Student Councils (CRASC), he spearheaded voter registration drives across all AACPS high schools. Most recently, Will was elected CRASC Secretary of Education for the 2025–26 school year. He is a Maryland Secretary of State Student Ambassador and contributes as a Student Reporter Intern for the Severna Park community.

“Will’s leadership is humble, consistent, and heartfelt. He brings people together, leads by example, and lifts up every space he enters,” said Lori Fowler, Manager of Service, AACPS Office of College and Career Readiness.

Stacy Pellegrin, AACPS Manager, Student Leadership, agreed, “From the very beginning, Will stood out — not just for his curiosity and initiative, but for his deep commitment to service and amplifying student voices. What drives Will is not the spotlight, it is his deep compassion and unwavering belief in helping others. His service reflects who he is: someone who leads with heart, purpose, and a genuine desire to make the world better.”

This award honors an individual student or youth group, from elementary through college, who has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the community through direct financial support, development of charitable programs, volunteering, or leadership.

Join us in celebrating William and all of the honorees at the 2025 Celebration of Philanthropy Awards on October 29 at Live! Casino & Hotel.