Peterson Named Rotary Student of the Month

Bethel Park High School senior Katie Peterson was honored as the February Student of the Month by the Bethel Park Rotary Club at The Garden Restaurant on Gardenville Road. Recognized for her stellar academic performance, leadership, and community service, Katie boasts a remarkable 4.35 weighted GPA and active involvement in numerous school clubs and activities.

Some of Katie’s most notable achievements include serving as President of the Foreign Exchange Club, Secretary of the Environmental Club, and co-founding the South Pittsburgh Branch of AYLUS, a community service-based organization. Additionally, Katie excels in multiple arenas, including as a key contributor to the WPIAL champion and state semifinalist Black Hawks girls tennis team and as a violinist in multiple PMEA festivals.

Katie also works at the Glen Creek Tennis Club, where she mentors very young aspiring tennis players.  For the past several years, Peterson has also served as a Camp Invention volunteer, where she helps guide young students through a series of STEAM-related programs and helps them bring their ideas to life based on recycled materials from home.

Despite her busy schedule, Katie remains dedicated to community service, volunteering at events like a musical performance for a local senior living facility and organizing a food drive. Her commitment to service aligns with the values of the Bethel Park Rotary Club, which recognizes students based on academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities.

“I like staying busy and being able to go from one thing to another,” she said. “It gives me a break from one passion and allows me to pursue another one.”

Katie is the daughter of Qin Chen and the older sister to her brother, Kevin Peterson, a Bethel Park sophomore.

While Katie remains undecided on her college destination, she is considering economics and continues to excel both in the arts and athletics. Her passion for community involvement reflects her belief that service is not just a duty but an opportunity to make a positive impact.

For more information on the Bethel Park Rotary Club and its mission, interested individuals can contact Rotarians directly or visit their Facebook page. The club remains dedicated to celebrating outstanding students like Katie Peterson who contribute significantly to the Bethel Park community.