Congratulations to Jocelyn Solis, who is a recent recipient of the John Lewis Youth Leadership Award! This distinction recognizes young leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment to civic engagement, social justice, and community impact. This honor reflects Jocelyn’s values‑driven leadership, her emphasis on empathy and inclusion, and her dedication to expanding opportunities for young people across Northern Illinois.

Central to Jocelyn’s impact is her leadership with the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois’ In Youth We Trust (IYWT) Council, where she serves as a College Advisor Volunteer. In this role, she has guided youth leaders through multiple grant cycles supporting youth‑led and youth‑benefiting initiatives across Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson, and Ogle counties. Her contributions have strengthened youth philanthropy, supported educational and enrichment programs, and helped elevate young people as decision‑makers in their communities.

Jocelyn is a senior at Rockford University pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in English and Lifespan Development, maintaining a 4.0 GPA. She serves as a Fellow at the Jane Addams Center for Civic Engagement, and continuously demonstrates a deep commitment to youth advocacy, educational equity, community involvement.