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Congratulations to Kyra M. Lewis

This is the year of excellence for Kyra M. Lewis, a Penn State University student from the Frankford section of Philadelphia.

It was not long ago that this early graduate from the PA Virtual Charter School Class of 2013 entered college at the age of 16. At the prime age of 20 she has a lot to smile about. When Kyra embarked at Penn State Abington Campus, she knew it was going to require hard work and dedication. She credits her tears of jubilee to her supportive family, friends, and mentors but above all she graciously gives thanks to God as she has obediently followed the plan which was presented before her. Kyra is a determined young woman. She not only motivates herself but she inspires others through her charming personality.

Penn State Abington honored students at its annual Awards and Leadership Reception with families, friends, and other supporters in the audience on Tuesday, April 18, 2017. Kyra Lewis received the following award:

Eric A. and Josephine S. Walker Award: Recognizes an undergraduate enrolled at a commonwealth location whose outstanding qualities of character, scholarship, leadership, and citizenship have been directed into programs and services that have positively influenced fellow students and have contributed to the prestige and well-being of their campus, and, hence, to the reputation of the University as a whole: Kyra Lewis.

Lewis served as an Orientation Leader for three years including as the head Orientation Leader. She is the founder and president of the Beauty Club, an organization that promotes beauty from within, by recognizing the power of self-esteem and a body positive image.

“She has contributed to a culture at Abington that sees beauty in all, regardless of size, color, religion or any other defining factor that is used to label others,” according to Gina Kaufman, director of Student Affairs.

Kyra will graduate from Penn State Abington on Friday, May 5, with a baccalaureate degree Psychological Social Sciences and a minor in Human Development. Following graduation she has accepted the generous career offer to work at Bancroft as a Clinical Assistant in New Jersey. Kyra intends to return to school for her master degree in the Fall of 2018. She will marry  Lance Corporal Shyeem Gayle of the United States Marines on Sunday, July 16, 2017.

Kyra’s family and community of friends are overflowing with joy over the ambitious milestones that this young woman has achieved. Many well wishes, as she continues in her future endeavors.