Southern Illinois girls honored at Girls World Expo

CARTERVILLE - There were a dizzying number of seminars and workshops and demonstrations at the Girls World Expo Saturday at John A. Logan College, but the highlight of the event, at least for six young women, was the presentation of the Girls of Merit awards by Illinois State Rep. Terri Bryant.

"You are being honored today because you've already done something special," Bryant told the girls.

The winners of the Girls of Merit awards are: Victoria Shore of Marion, Alexis Jones of Carbondale, Honey Harvill of Benton, Reese Funk of Elkville, Melissa Crosby of Chester, and Dina Butcher of Carbondale.

The Girls of Merit were nominated by members of their circles, including peers, teachers, parents, counselors, mentors, local leaders and family members. They were chosen according to a number of qualifications. They must have proved themselves exceptional members of the community through their actions, activities, leadership and positive influence on others.

Reese Funk was introduced by Bryant as a leader, "whether it's academics or athletics, community service or compassion for others."

Funk is a top student, currently No. 2 in her class with a 5.0 grade-point average. She is an accomplished athlete who participates in cheerleading, softball and volleyball. She is president of the Beta Club, an academic honors and service club, and has led them in food drives, tornado cleanup and adoption fundraisers.

"When other students need a friend or mentor, Reese is always available," Bryant said. "She often takes new students under her wing and serves others by helping with assignments, going the extra miles, or giving up her own time to volunteer.

"Reese is one of those people who brings light and love to everything they do," Bryant said. "For her many capabilities, her willingness to help others, and her service to the community, we name Reese Funk a Girl of Merit."

"This award shows that women can do anything they set their minds to," Funk said upon receiving the award.

"Whatever you decide to do with your life - whether it's a professional endeavor or a person one - do it

with excellence," Bryant advised all of the award-winners. "Bring everything you are to the table. And encourage other women to be bold, to step up and to break some glass ceilings.

"Jump in," she said. "Don't let anybody tell you that you can't."