Makenna Reilly, a junior at Lanier High School, has been recognized by the National Center for Women & Information Technology with the with a 2023 NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing.

“NCWIT is a renowned national organization for elevating and recognizing the contributions of women in computing,” said Sallie Holloway, Gwinnett County Public Schools’ director of artificial intelligence and computer science. “Each year they recognize educators and students who are positively impacting women in computing.”

Makenna was one of 40 national winners selected from more than 3,300 applicants. She was honored at the April meeting of the Gwinnett County Board of Education. 

“Makenna is a student leader who started an all-girls robotics team and has created a safe space for other young women to explore their computing interests,” Holloway said. 

“It is a tremendous honor for Makenna to be recognized for her talents in innovation and her aspirations, potential for change, and impact on future advancements in computing,” said Dr. Christopher Martin, principal at Lanier High School. “She epitomizes the best of our campus, and her value to our school and community is beyond compare. We are so proud of her for having a voice and pursuing her passions.”