Howell 8th Grader Is 'True Inspiration': Patch Star Students

Howell, New Jersey — New Jersey is full of bright, driven young people making a difference in and out of the classroom. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight students excelling in academics, athletics and community service.

This submission comes from Chrissy Risden who nominated Riley of New Jersey.

If you know a student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured as a Star Student on Patch.

What is the star student’s name?

Riley

What grade is the student in?

8th

How do you know the star student?

She is my daughter

Tell us about your star student's accomplishments and why they deserve to be recognized on Patch!

Riley is an 8th grade student in Howell. In 2021, at the end of 4th grade, Riley was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She fought for 2 and half years and rang the bell on October 4, 2023. Riley missed the end of 4th grade, all of 5th grade and many days absent in 6th and 7th grades. Riley underwent a full hip replacement in March 2024 caused by the high dose steroids that was used to treat the leukemia. Through all of this Riley has continued to work hard to stay on top of her academics. She has made honor roll all year. Riley decided to apply for a magnet program at Freehold Regional High School District and was accepted to the Prestigious Scholars’ Center for the Humanities. Not only has Riley continued to work hard on her academics but she has made it a priority to continue with Girl Scouting as it means so much to her to be able to give back to the community and make the world a better place. Riley is wrapping up this scouting year with finishing up her Girl Scout Silver Award project which is to spread childhood cancer awareness in the community. Riley is hosting a community information fair on July 13, 2025 from 11am to 3pm at Southard Fire Department to bring all aspects of her project together. Riley is a true inspiration and I am so grateful and honored to be her Mom.

What three words best describe your star student?

Inspiring, Courageous, Survivor

Keep up the great work, Riley If you know an outstanding student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.