By Alisha Donahue
The 12th annual “A Night Among the Stars” illuminated hearts and ignited minds with the brilliance of young philanthropists. Held at On the Greens in Cypress, this year’s event on April 26, marked a milestone as nominees showcased their extraordinary contributions. It was a radiant affair, sparking joy and inspiration throughout the room. Established in 2013 by Elaine Wissuchek, a student volunteer, this event serves as a heart-warming reminder of the transformative power that youth-driven service can have within our communities.
“Seal Beach resident and Seal Beach Leo President Kyan Whiten, received the Seal Beach Lions S.E.T.H. Scholarship for his excellence in leadership and community involvement,” according to an email from Seal Beach Lion Scott Weir.
“S.E.T.H. stands for Scholarship for Excellence and Training from the Heart, a scholarship in honor of community leader and Seal Beach Lion Seth Ecker-Morgan who passed away December 18th, 2019,” Weir wrote. From hundreds of exceptional candidates, 18 outstanding youths were carefully selected for their remarkable influence on the community. Students were nominated by The Youth Center, LAUSD, Rotary, Precious Life Shelter, Casa Youth Shelter, Girl Scouts, Lions Club, Los Alamitos Ballet Theater, city of Los Alamitos, National League of Youth Men, LAHS Interact Club, Heart of the City, and Summer Harvest. During the event the following students were honored: Austin Hsiung, Tuscany Gorman, Ellie Sutherland, Aidan Grimshaw, Abigail DeForest, Zoe Ronnau, Naomi Lee, Jasmine Moya, Olivia Udabe, Kyan Whiten, Kaela Alvarez, Nicholas Carlton, Skyler McClain, Lwam Kibrom, Rylee Robles, Calvin Harding, Tyler Mogg, and Dean Widener. All nominees were honored with certificates of achievement from the City of Los Alamitos, the office of Congresswoman Michele Steel, City of Los Angeles, and Los Alamitos Chamber of Commerce further underscoring the significance of their contributions to society. Scholarships were provided to five Stellar Volunteers by The Seal Beach Lions (S.E.T.H. Award), The Rotary Club of Los Alamitos, Cypress & Seal Beach, Rossmoor Women’s Club, and Rossmoor Homeowners Association.
For the first-time, The Youth Center partnered with the Rotary Club of Los Alamitos, Cypress & Seal Beach, adding a new dimension of support and recognition to the occasion. “Our partnership with Rotary has not only elevated the impact of this event but has also reinforced our shared commitment to empowering youth and fostering a culture of service and leadership within our communities. We are grateful for their support and an incredible team of volunteers who helped us bring this fabulous event for the kids,” said Lina Lumme, executive director of The Youth Center.
The event was sponsored by Golden State Water Company. Cookies for kids were provided by Butter+Cream, printing was sponsored by Sir Speedy of Los Alamitos, and flower centerpieces were created by Cypress Forest Lawn. A special music performance was provided by The Groove Merchants: Zach Zonni, John Sabino, Nicolas Pallone and Hyde McFerson. The student musicians were recognized during the event for their philanthropy through music by Chris Forehan and Annette Wissuchek. The event was attended by many influential leaders. “We are thankful to our event volunteers, interview committee, and our amazing event photographer Rudy Huezo,” said Amanda Hernandez, the Youth Center’s fundraising coordinator. To nominate a youth volunteer for the 2025 Night Among the Stars, visit TheYouthCenter.org.
