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Local College Student Laying Groundwork For Entrepreneurial Future
8/28/2008
by Karen Fetter, Contributing Writer
Young women today need role models. It not only helps them set high goals, but it reminds them that anything is possible. One role model that has proven that is Stephanie Bortoluzzi. Stephanie is 20 years old and is a member of the Trafford Borough Council. Her term started in January of 2008 and she has already implemented many programs that help the youth of the area.
“Stephanie is what the Trafford Council needs,” said council member Richard Laird. “I know she is young, but that doesn’t matter. She is intelligent and she informs us on the views of our young people. I support her 110%.”
Not only did Stephanie set her goals high to achieve this elected position, but also she had to run against an incumbent. However, that was not an obstacle for her. She visited many of the residents of the community while campaigning so they could meet her and understand her perspective on the community.
“Initially I thought it was a great opportunity to help out my community,” said Stephanie. “There were a lot of people that were skeptical because of my age, but I wanted to pursue it anyway.”
That commitment and perseverance is what helped Stephanie win over the 3,500 residents of Trafford to gain the open seat on council. While Stephanie feels as though she had help from other council members, Trafford Council Vice-President Frank Bruno assuredly said that she did it all on her own.
“We always encourage people to get involved in the community and Stephanie has been a role model for us,” said Frank. “So far she has done a great job.”
Frank adds that now the council is evenly represented by democrats and republicans, men and women, and youth and senior citizens. Richard, who is the eldest member of council, sits next to Stephanie during meetings and he believes the approach that Trafford has taken to lead its community is one of the best ways possible.
“Our country and the world is changing and we need everyone’s perspective. I am glad Stephanie has pursued this endeavor,” said Richard.
In the eight months that she has been in office, Stephanie has implemented several programs. One program she began was a junior council program. This program allows teenagers with an interest in political science to do a silent internship. This opportunity allows the students to attend council meetings and give input on issues that are discussed. It also educates them on Trafford Borough.
Stephanie also began a youth volunteer program. High school graduates of Penn Trafford High School are required to complete a certain amount of community service hours. This program allows students to do work in the community to fulfill this obligation. Projects are accomplished and the hours are completed. According to Stephanie, it’s advantageous for everyone.
Furthermore, Stephanie is currently working with state representatives to try to get funding for a new skate park. She feels the youth needs a safe place to go for fun and this would be the answer.
Stephanie is a Penn Trafford High School graduate and is currently attending the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg. And while politics is what Stephanie is involved with now, she is majoring in microbiology.
“I am not sure what the future holds after this term. None of my friends still can believe that I am on the borough council,” said Stephanie. “It does prove that the youth can get involved and it doesn’t matter what your age is if you can help.”
“Stephanie has positively affected our community,” said Frank. “I think she is an inspiration for the youth of today and hopefully will inspire other young people to do the same in their communities.”
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