Magee Secondary's Vivian Tsang has won the BC School Trustees Association Student Citizenship Award.

She was among three student winners. Tsang was issued a $500 award and a letter of congratulation.

She says she intends to continue her studies at the University of BC and pursue a degree in science with the ultimate goal of entering into public health or medicine. Tsang has a long history of volunteering. She has volunteered her time at the Child and Family Research Institute, Vancouver General Hospital and with AWANA-T where she mentored 20 girls aged 7-12 every Saturday night since 2008.

Magee Counselling Department head David Chevreau said Tsang has made tremendous contributions to the school community as well as the neighbourhood.

"As our top academic student Vivian has shown that she is scholar dedicated to excellence and leaming. Regardless of the subject, Vivian brings her genuine desire to understand with her to class," he said. "I have observed her over the past five years her passion for knowledge wafting over those around her. In the Leaders Program, PE 10 Leadership, Band and Choir, and Peer Counselling 12, Vivian has led by example and thus inspiration. Cheerful, welcoming and humble, Vivian engages others with fascination patience and interest."

At Magee, Tsang has been equally involved in her school community. She is the founder of Magee HOPE (Humanitarian Organization for Providing Empowerment), a co-leader for Magee Environmental Club, the President of Youth4Tap Magee, co-president of the OneMatch Stem Cell Initiative as well as a Magee Library Club member and ELL mentor.

She also volunteers and participates in the Magee Music Society, Chamber Choir and Concert Choir.

"Citizenship does not merely describe someone who abides by the law and lives with charitable morals," she wrote in her application letter. "Citizenship is embodied by people who are genuine in their actions; leaders who are in-touch with their intentions; and individuals who utilize their talents to benefit their communities."