Country Day Students Recognized for Exemplary Service

Since 1965, AJC Cincinnati has honored outstanding young leaders with the Simon Lazarus, Jr., Human Relations Awards, recognizing high school juniors and seniors who demonstrate exceptional dedication to community service and social impact. This year marked the 60th annual celebration, and Cincinnati Country Day School was proudly represented by three students whose service work stood out among a competitive pool of applicants from across the tri-state region.

Each applicant submitted an essay and two letters of recommendation. Importantly, all identifying information—such as name, school, religion, and gender—was removed before being reviewed by the committee to ensure a fully anonymous and merit-based process. Out of 56 applicants, 10 juniors and 10 seniors were selected for final consideration. From that group, five juniors and five seniors were named finalists and awarded monetary prizes, following individual interviews with the judging panel.

Ali Zimmerman `26 (Indian Hill) was named a finalist, having completed an astounding 471 hours of service… before even finishing her junior year. With a passion for helping others, Ali has dedicated nearly 180 hours to Stepping Stones, a nonprofit supporting individuals with disabilities, and spent 145 hours teaching music at the School of Rock. She has consistently earned the Ambassador Award (100+ service hours) each year through the InnerView platform.

Jossi Johns `25 (New Richmond), also a finalist, has logged 396.5 hours of service throughout her high school years. Her work spans both local and international efforts. In addition to nearly 200 hours spent volunteering at Camp Ernst, Jossi has engaged in global service initiatives in Costa Rica, Hawaii, the Dominican Republic, Greece, and Italy – supporting environmental, educational, and infrastructure projects. Her plans to continue serving this summer in Germany and Portugal underscore her ongoing commitment to making a difference.

Maria Steppe `25 (Sharonville) was also recognized for her impactful service contributions, having completed more than 178 hours by the start of her senior year. Much of her time has been dedicated to food insecurity efforts through the Freestore Foodbank and Hands Against Hunger. She has also helped fellow students succeed academically through tutoring programs such as Lower School’s Math Helpers and Students Helping Students.

“This event is one of my favorites to attend each year. Hearing the different ways these young adults have made an impact in the world is incredibly inspiring; it makes me want to do more to help others around me,” says Laura Gunn, director of service learning. “At Country Day, we prioritize service learning as part of the student experience, and these three young women are just a glimpse into the many students who go above and beyond our 90-hour graduation requirement. Maria, Jossi, and Ali are leaders among their peers and difference makers in the world.”

Click here for pictures from the ceremony. All three students exemplify Country Day’s commitment to meaningful service and global citizenship through virtue in action.