Stevenson High School was awarded Tuesday with the 2011 Jefferson Award for Outstanding Service by a High School. The Jefferson Award, known as the "Nobel Prize for public service," honors community service and volunteer efforts. The award was presented to the school's Students In Action leaders during the 39th annual Jefferson Awards Gala in Washington, D.C.

Stevenson became eligible for the national award in April after it was selected as the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana Regional Recipient for Outstanding Service by a High School. This was the second straight year SHS has received the honor, which is given to schools that best meet the seven goals of the Students In Action program, and expand volunteerism.

Representing Stevenson in Washington were 2011 graduates Cole Deloye, Lainie Fox, Danielle Marks, Kayla Reinherz, Brady Richter and Greg Schultheis, and seniors Neha Rao and Andelyn Russell. They were accompanied by Community Service Coordinator Brett Erdmann and Director of Student Activities Ted Goergen.