Kaila McDonnell, a senior at Garden City High School, pictured here with (left to right) Citibank representative Jennifer Scohnamiglio, Principal Nanine Cuttitta, Athletic Director Nancy Kalafus, and Lacrosse Coach Janet Rogler, was recently named a News 12/Citibank Scholar Athlete. This award recognizes outstanding high school students who achieve in the classroom, as well as on the playing field. Kaila was featured as a Scholar Athlete on the Monday, October 6th evening broadcast of News 12 Long Island.

With an unweighted GPA of 92.02, Kaila excels in her studies at Garden City High School, carrying four Advanced Placement courses, AP Calculus, AP Psychology, AP Literature and AP Macroeconomics, as well as Spanish 5 Honors. She is a member of the National Honor Society, the Miracle Club, Students Helping Students, and serves as the President of the Girls Athletic Association.

Diane Chapman, head coach of Garden City's girls field hockey and lacrosse teams, recently commented on this outstanding student athlete, "Garden City is well known for its field hockey and lacrosse programs. Kaila McDonnell is a member of both successful teams. During her junior year, Kaila was named All State in field hockey and All County in lacrosse. In field hockey, she is a midfield player who controls the game both offensively and defensively. In lacrosse, she was our lock-off defender (marking the opponents' leading scorers) and one of our most consistent players on defense. She is a quiet but dominant force on both teams. Kaila leads by example. She is the captain for the 2008 field hockey season and 2009 girls lacrosse team. Her work ethic is outstanding and she possesses a great game sense. She is a very dedicated and determined young lady."

Kaila's future plans include attending the University of Pennsylvania in the fall, where she will play on the university's field hockey team.