Melanie Newell is an excellent representation of a conservative youth. At the age of 15, Melanie has been selected to serve as the Youth of the Year 2007-2008 for the Oprah Winfrey Boys & Girls Club of Kosciusko/Attala County.

            Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. The title recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as personal challenges and obstacles to overcome. This program was founded 60 years ago through the generosity of the Reader’s Digest Foundation.

            Melanie is the second oldest of six children. Her parents are Rev. David and Lillie Newell of Sallis, MS. Melanie is currently a sophomore at McAdams High School where she has maintained a grade point average of 3.8 or higher. She participates in various clubs and extracurricular school activities such as: a member of the MHS softball team, chess team, National Beta Club, National Honor Society, and a member of the MHS band. She serves as flute section leader in the band. Melanie plans on attending Mississippi State University majoring in Medicine with a minor in Mathematics. Melanie also wants to get her Culinary Arts Degree which in turn, will promote her dreams of  becoming a surgeon and restaurant entrepreneur.

            Miss Melanie Newell is a faithful member of Macedonia M.B. Church in Sallis, MS, where she serves as an usher, musician, and sings in the choir.

            Melanie has been a Kosciusko/Attala County Boys & Girls Club member since the club doors opened in 2001. At The Oprah Winfrey Boys & Girls Club, Melanie is a member of the Chess Team, Smart Girls, Keystone Club, and is a coordinator and pianist for The Oprah Winfrey Boys & Girls Club Teen Ensemble.

            As a club volunteer, Melanie tutors the 4, 5, and 6 year old club members. Her hobbies include: playing the piano, chess and communication. She loves to cook and is actively involved in her community.

            When asked, “What obstacles/challenges have you overcame in your life?” Melanie responded by saying, “internal problems.” Melanie is good at making sound decisions on her own. The club has provided Melanie with a desire to become a more productive and devoted person, which can be directly related to the positive exposures that Melanie would not have received, if she was not involved in The Boys & Girls Club.