Youth of the Week: Michael
The Cattaraugus County Youth Bureau is pleased to announce that this week's Youth of the Week is Michael Questa. Michael is the son of Joseph and Barbara Questa and is a senior at Allegany-Limestone High School.
Michael was nominated by his high school counselor, who shares, "Michael is an outstanding member of our school community. His willingness to volunteer, from serving as a longstanding 5th grade science camp counselor to contributing to our national honor society, prom committee, and senior class trip committee, demonstrates his genuine commitment to helping others. Michael is determined and resilient. He balances academics, three sports, and numerous other extracurricular activities and always shows up with a positive attitude. His patience, kindness, and pleasant demeanor make us proud to call him a Gator!"
Michael demonstrates a strong commitment to community service through his involvement in numerous volunteer activities. For the past four years, he has volunteered with the Allegany Knights of Columbus, assisting with various events and activities throughout the year. For three years, he has volunteered on behalf of Olean General Hospital at St. Bonaventure University's annual "Pink" basketball game, helping raise funds and awareness for breast cancer research. Michael also serves as an altar server and lector for St. Bonaventure Parish/Enchanted Mountain Catholic Community.
Within his school community, Michael is an active and dedicated leader who generously gives his time to helping others. For the past five years, he has served as a 5th grade science camp counselor, mentoring younger students during their educational experience at Allegany State Park. He is also a member of Friends of Rachel, an organization that promotes kindness, hope, and positive relationships among students. As a member of the Leo Club, Michael participates in charitable fundraising and community service activities. He is also involved in the ConnectLife Club, promoting awareness of the importance of blood donation and personally participating in blood drives.
Michael's leadership extends to his involvement in numerous school organizations. A former member of the National Junior Honor Society, he currently serves as vice president of the National Honor Society. He is also a member of the Prom Committee, Senior Trip Committee, Spanish Club, and NVestUs Club.
Always willing to lend a helping hand, Michael participates in Freshman Welcome Day and Dr. Seuss Reading Day, assists with preparations for the homecoming dance, and helps coordinate activities at the Pancake Scholarship Dinner. He also volunteers at concession stands during soccer games and tournaments and has served as a referee for unified basketball at St. Bonaventure University.
Academically, Michael has maintained High Honor Roll status throughout his high school career and has earned Scholar Athlete recognition for the past three years. His academic achievements have earned him several prestigious honors, including the University of Rochester's George Eastman Leadership Award and the Rochester Institute of Technology Excellence Award for Introduction to Engineering and Design through Project Lead the Way.
Additional academic recognitions include the Blue Ribbon Award for achieving the highest grades in Algebra I and physical education, the Outstanding Effort Award in Woodworking I, and Student of the Month in May 2024. Of particular note, Michael was selected to participate in the 2026 American Legion Boys' State program, a six-day leadership experience hosted by SUNY Morrisville that provides students with opportunities to develop leadership skills and learn about government and civic responsibility.
Michael is equally active in athletics, participating in multiple sports throughout his high school career. He has been a member of the varsity soccer program for four years and currently serves as team captain. He has also participated in basketball and baseball for the past three years and golf for the past year. Additionally, he was a member of the Enchanted Mountain U19 Soccer Team and served as a Little League baseball umpire.
Outside of school, Michael enjoys staying active and developing practical skills through employment and community involvement. During the summer, he has worked at St. Bonaventure University, assisting with general maintenance and carpentry projects, including flooring, painting, window installation, and repairs. He has also worked at Stayer's Greenhouse, assisting customers and caring for flowers and plants.
Perhaps one of the strongest reflections of Michael's character is his willingness to help others in everyday life. He regularly assists his elderly neighbors with snow shoveling, gutter cleaning, and minor household repairs, demonstrating that community service does not always require an organized event, but simply a willingness to recognize a need and offer assistance.
Following graduation, Michael plans to attend a four-year college to pursue a degree in either business or engineering. Congratulations, Michael!
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