Distinguished Finalist

Jessica Roper, 18, of Soldotna, Alaska, a senior at Kenai Central High School, is an emergency response volunteer with Central Emergency Services, where she recently began a project to fund and implement a swiftwater rescue program for all firefighters at four area departments. In just a few months, Jessica has raised more than $2,000 toward her $13,000 goal by organizing a silent auction, a meet and greet event, a spaghetti dinner and a benefit concert.