The BTDC has just wrapped up its annual Civic Scholarship competition and is delighted to introduce this year’s recipient, Ridge High School junior Rosa Quin, to our local community. The scholarship committee, led by Nicole Pavlin, was charged with evaluating another round of excellent candidates and selected Quin to receive a $1,000 scholarship as well as an internship with the CD-7 Democratic nominee this summer. BTDC Chair Jane Conklin will present the award at a Ridge High School ceremony on June 16.

Rosa Quin exudes enthusiasm. There’s no better way to describe her. The 17-year-old is the eldest of four children and moved to Basking Ridge from Boston when she was in seventh grade. With a giant smile on her face, she reflected on her interest in politics via a recent conversation with her dad:  “My AP Government class has brought me closer with my parents because I get to interview them about their values and ideas. Even though we have different opinions, and my dad grew up in China and I grew up here, we really understand each other. I’ve learned we have a lot more in common than I thought.”

Rosa is heavily involved with Ridge’s nationally ranked forensics team. She serves as Parliamentary Debate Captain, where she mentors novice debaters, organizes practices, and generally fosters an upbeat, collaborative and competitive team culture. It’s no surprise that she’s an intellectually curious student who thinks she eventually wants to attend law school. Rosa’s community service includes writing for Equality in Forensics, volunteering at the Bernards Township Library, advocating for the Citizens Climate Lobby, and more.

Community is especially important to this young lady, who fondly remembers how welcoming neighbors and teachers were when her family moved to town. It’s one of the reasons she considers herself to be a Democrat, saying, “There is such a strong alignment with acceptance – acceptance of everyone and all types of people. I really like that.” She particularly respects Rebecca Bennett and admires her commitment to healthcare and veterans, and is very eager to help with her campaign, should Bennett prevail in the primary.

If you see this force of positivity strolling the streets of Bernards – either listening to music or playing Pokemon Go – please join us in welcoming her to the BTDC team. Rosa Quin promises to be a tremendous asset to our local efforts throughout the next year.

– Jen Aaron