Atlantic City High School senior Aryiane Hill won the Boys & Girls Club of New Jersey State Youth of the Year award on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Montclair State University.
Hill, who has been a member of the Atlantic City Boys & Girls Club for the past 12 years, attributed her personal success to the strength of her community.
“It takes a village to raise a child,” said Hill. “The club, the community and the school have been that village for me. I wouldn’t be where I am without everyone.”
Hill aspires to be a criminal defense attorney. She recently met Governor Mikie Sherrill to learn about the state budget process and was present during the governor’s budget address. She is a member of the Atlantic City High School marching band, participates in the school’s Visual Performing Arts program, and she is a member of the NJROTC. Hill said service comes naturally.
“I love to volunteer,” Hill said. “Wherever I go I like to help. I do a lot. But I don’t really think about it. It’s just something I love to do.”
Each year, two extraordinary teens are selected as the New Jersey State Youth of the Year and New Jersey Military Youth of the Year—the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can achieve. These honorees serve as ambassadors for Boys & Girls Club youth and role models for young people throughout the state and nation.
Hill was one of 15 finalists for Youth of the Year.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. La’Quetta S. Small praised Hill for her leadership, dedication and commitment to serving others.
“Aryiane Hill exemplifies the very best of Atlantic City High School and our entire school district,” Dr. Small said. “Her academic achievements, leadership, service to others and unwavering commitment to her community reflect the character and determination we strive to cultivate in all of our students. We are incredibly proud of Ariyane for earning this prestigious honor and for representing Atlantic City with excellence on the state level.”
Atlantic City High School Principal Dr. Constance Days-Chapman commended Hill for leadership.
“As Principal of Atlantic City High School, I am incredibly proud of Aryiane Hill and all that she represents. Aryiane is the definition of excellence, leadership, resilience, and service,” said Dr. Days-Chapman. “She leads with grace, uplifts those around her, and continuously demonstrates what is possible when talent is matched with hard work and heart. Being named the 2026 Boys & Girls Club of New Jersey Youth of the Year is not only a tremendous personal achievement, but a reflection of the bright future ahead of her.”
The New Jersey State Youth of the Year program recognizes teens who demonstrate excellence in health and well-being, character and leadership, academic success, and life and workforce readiness. Finalists participate in public speaking, interview and essay competitions as part of the statewide selection process.
As the New Jersey State Youth of the Year, Hill will now advance to regional competition, where she will represent New Jersey and compete for additional scholarship opportunities. The statewide program awards more than $50,000 in scholarships to finalists and winners pursuing higher education.
“Aryiane has made our school and community proud, and I have no doubt that she will continue making history wherever life takes her,” Dr. Days-Chapman said.
This story was produced by and reprinted with the permission of the Atlantic City Public Schools system, whose website is www.acboe.org
