Woodhaven, MI – Woodhaven High School is proud to announce that eight outstanding students participated in the 2024 General Motors Student Corps (GMSC) summer program. Representing WHS with pride and dedication were Shirlyn Dong, Dominick Germano, Annalise Matzo (who earned the distinguished Captain Award), Juna Maxhari, Hailee Reddick, Reagan Robinson, Ansia Sae, and Amina Shahid. The Woodhaven High team secured an impressive third-place in their first year participating in the program. Go Warriors!
The General Motors Student Corps, which provides students with real-world experience through community service and career exploration, saw participants from WHS engaging in impactful projects that shifted focus from physical tasks to helping people in need. Due to ongoing construction on campus, the students contributed to off-campus projects, partnering with organizations such as ChristNet, Gleaners, and Forgotten Harvest.
“This year was unique, with our students emphasizing community care through human-focused initiatives rather than infrastructure projects,” said Heather Fondaw, assistant principal at WHS and the on-site program coordinator. “Our hope for next year is to return to the WHS campus and begin long-term enhancement projects that will leave a lasting impact on the school grounds.”
Throughout the summer, students not only made a difference in their community but also received vital personal and professional development. They underwent CPR training, participated in a personal finance day at the University of Detroit Mercy, and completed several tours of General Motors facilities. The experience culminated in a showcase event where students presented their projects to GM executives and their peers.
The eight-week program, which ran from June 17th to August 8th, was designed to build leadership, teamwork, and community involvement among high school students in metro Detroit. Each participating team was supported by two GM retirees, who provided mentorship throughout the program.
This year's GMSC experience was another great success for Woodhaven High School, and students are already looking forward to future opportunities, with the hope of making a tangible difference on their home campus in the years to come.
“The General Motors Student Corps was a great experience,” said Annalise Matzo, Woodhaven High School Senior. “It really gave all of us a better sense of purpose for our lives because we were able to actually make a difference in the community. We learned a ton about leadership, teamwork, and communication, but even more than that, we learned more about ourselves and I think we all have a clearer picture of what our future is going to be.”
For more information on the General Motors Student Corps program, please email gmstudentcorps@gm.com
About General Motors Student Corps:
The General Motors Student Corps is an internship program aimed at high school students in metro Detroit, Flint, and Pontiac. Students participate in community service projects while receiving mentorship from GM retirees and interns. The program prepares students for college and careers by teaching valuable life skills and exposing them to leadership opportunities.