Brianna Behlman, 18, of Washington, received the 2009 Spirit of Mercy Outstanding Youth Award from St. John’s Mercy  Hospital.
Spirit of Mercy Awards are presented to individuals and an organization whose lives and work exemplify, in extraordinary ways, the core values of the Sisters of Mercy and St.  John’s Mercy Hospital.
Behlman, a senior at Washington High School, was selected because she is an active young lady who has raised the bar for student service. She has worked with Children’s Relay for Life, Franklin County Relay for Life, Special Olympics, Meals on Wheels and the Senior Citizens Prom. Brianna is very involved with the school’s Cocoa Café.
Her teachers describe Behlman as one of the most trustworthy, caring, selfless and dedicated students they have worked with in their careers. She demonstrates care by taking the perspective of others when delving into a project.
Dignity is exhibited by her approach to working with the people she dedicates her time to serving. Justice is evident in her effort to connect to students who are in need of assistance.
She sets an example for others to follow.
On Apr. 30, officials from St. John’s Mercy Hospital will attend Washington  High School’s Award Ceremony. That evening, the hospital will make a formal presentation of a certificate and acknowledge that Behlman will receive a $1,000 scholarship to the college of her choice.
The scholarship was donated by the Gerald and Lou Ann Michels family. Gerald is a past Outstanding Community Award recipient and member of the St. John’s Mercy Advisory Board member. The Michels family also is donating $1,000 to the Wings Foundation in Behlman’s honor.