Meet Grace Mayhugh, a 17-year-old senior at Knoch High School whose passion for inclusion is helping to shape the future of Best Buddies in Pennsylvania. Grace has been involved with Best Buddies for three years, but it was in 2023 that she truly fell in love with the program. Since then, her commitment to building friendships and spreading inclusion has only grown stronger.

During the 2024–2025 school year, Grace served as her chapter’s Social Media Coordinator, using her creativity to highlight events, share success stories, and encourage more students to get involved. This year, she’s stepped into even greater leadership roles—serving as the Chapter President at Knoch High School and representing her peers across the state as a member of Pennsylvania’s Student Advisory Board.

Grace’s leadership extends well beyond her school. At the recent Building Bridges Event, she confidently spoke to community members about the importance of inclusion and how they can support Best Buddies. She also attended the Best Buddies Leadership Conference this summer, gaining valuable skills in advocacy, teamwork, and program growth while connecting with student leaders from across the country.

Her enthusiasm and dedication shine through in everything she does. Whether she’s leading her chapter, volunteering in her community, or speaking to new audiences about the mission of inclusion, Grace continues to make a lasting impact.

Outside of Best Buddies, Grace keeps busy with a part-time job and participates in several school activities, including Yearbook, Spanish Club, Photography Club, and Reading Club. Her energy is truly contagious, and she inspires others to join the movement of friendship and belonging.

Grace is a shining example of the power of youth leadership—and a reminder that when students step up for inclusion, they create ripples of impact that extend far beyond their own communities.