We are incredibly proud to share that Club Member Mellodi Flowers was selected as one of the finalists for the 2026 Princeton Prize in Race Relations (PPRR)—a prestigious national award that honors high school students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing racial equity and understanding in their schools and communities.
The Princeton Prize in Race Relations celebrates young changemakers whose work fosters understanding and cooperation across racial and cultural lines. Finalists are selected for their leadership, initiative, and impactful service toward creating more inclusive environments.
Celebrating Mellodi’s Leadership and Impact
As a sophomore, Mellodi has already made a meaningful impact through her dedication to racial equity:
She has been an active member of the Black Student Union (BSU) for two years—a group committed to promoting comfort, equity, and belonging for students of color.
Drawing from her passion and experience, one of Mellodi’s goals is to establish a new club focused on education and appreciation of diverse cultures and histories.
What This Honor Means
Being named a finalist for the Princeton Prize is a remarkable achievement. Penfield is the only district in the Greater Rochester region with two students honored as finalists this year, highlighting the strength of student leadership and community engagement in our area. Mellodi’s work exemplifies the spirit of service and advocacy we strive to nurture in all our members.
Finalists will be recognized at a regional award ceremony later this month. Winners of the Princeton Prize receive a $2,500 award and an all-expenses-paid trip to Princeton University, where they will participate in a Symposium on Race and connect with other young leaders committed to racial justice.
💫 Congratulations, Mellodi! Thank you for representing our club with excellence and for your inspiring dedication to equity and inclusion. We can’t wait to see what you do next!
