The Kenai Peninsula is represented by three of the six young people awarded for their community service by Alaska Communications’ “Summer of Heroes” program.
Grace Kahn and Xiling Tanner, both of Kenai, and Seward’s Lola Swanson, were among six recipients announced Monday.
The Summer of Heroes, according to a release, spotlights Alaska youth who are “tackling real issues like fighting food insecurity, advocating for mental health, expanding access to youth sports and the arts, and creating more inclusive communities.” Each of the awardees will receive a $2,000 scholarship. Summer of Heroes has been marked for 15 years, and this year’s recipients make 94 total who have received scholarships through the program.
“Our young people are driving real change in their communities,” says Paul Fenaroli, president and CEO of Alaska Communications, in the release. “They lead with compassion, courage and creativity. We’re proud to shine a light on their achievements. Congratulations to this year’s honorees. Your actions inspire all of us to serve more boldly.”
A donation of $30,000 will also be directed to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southcentral Alaska. Alaska Communications donated $15,000, according to the release; supplemented by $5,000 donated by employees of the utility that was matched by both the company and by Fenaroli to reach the total donation.
Kahn, who recently graduated as salutatorian of the Kenai Central High School class of 2025, is recognized for her work in youth sports — as a referee, coach, role model and cheerleader. She also does tutoring and volunteers at the food bank.
Swanson teaches dance in Seward, and is recognized for working to bring arts into Seward classrooms and helping to make dance “financially accessible for all families,” provided information says.
Tanner, who currently serves as the student representative to the Kenai City Council, is recognized for his work to support food access and sustainability through advocacy, mentorship and work with the Kenai Peninsula District 4-H and Kenai Local Food Connection.
Kenai Peninsula Borough Mayor Peter Micciche serves on the judging panel for the Summer of Heroes. During a July 8 meeting of the Kenai Peninsula Borough, he said that the then-announced winners included “high-flyer students” from the local area.
“The Kenai Peninsula Borough did very well,” he said.
Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.
Salutatorian Grace Kahn speaks during the Kenai Central High School graduation ceremony in Kenai, Alaska, on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)
