Lucy Allen ’26 Earns Waldock Performance Award at Ohio Youth in Government

Lucy Allen ’26 earned the Waldock Performance Award at Ohio Youth in Government (OYG), a longstanding honor recognizing outstanding leadership and impact within the program.

Established in 1981 and supported by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Waldock, the award includes a $2,000 scholarship and is given to a participant who demonstrates exceptional leadership over time.

At this year’s conference, Allen served as Senate Chaplain, opening each legislative session and helping set a tone of thoughtfulness, unity, and respect among delegates. The role may appear simple, but it requires a steady and intentional presence.

“It required me to reflect deeply on the purpose of our work,” said Allen. “It challenged me to consider how words can ground a room and remind people that the work we are doing matters beyond ourselves.”

Wellington has a long history of participation in Ohio Youth in Government, with 107 students attending this year’s program. That represents more than half of the upper school and reflects a strong, sustained commitment to civic engagement.

Allen has been part of that community throughout her time at Wellington, previously serving as a legislator and committee chair, mentoring younger students, and helping lead Wellington’s delegation. She also volunteered with the program’s summer initiative supporting underserved communities in West Virginia.

“What has kept me coming back is the sense of community and the opportunity to engage meaningfully with issues I care about,” said Allen. “It has given me a space to grow as a leader, find my voice, and help others find theirs.”

“Receiving this award was incredibly meaningful,” said Allen. “It felt like recognition not only of my efforts, but of the growth I’ve experienced through the program.”