When Marianna Kaul saw a room full of her friends, family, classmates and teachers this week — along with people holding balloons and flowers — her first thought was, “Who’s getting an award?”

The answer was herself.

A 16-year-old junior at Brainerd Learning Center, Kaul was surprised at school on Wednesday, Nov. 13, with the news she’d been named 2025 Youth Volunteer of the Year. Given through the Distinguished Service Awards program, the honor recognizes kids who go above and beyond in their community. Kaul’s work with the Brainerd Leos Club, where she serves as vice president, along with service in the Lions Club International and at The Shop earned her the title this year.

Read the Brainerd Dispatch article in its entirety HERE.