The American Association of University Women (AAUW) gathered recently at the Antioch Senior Center for an annual ice-cream social and recognition ceremony for 10 outstanding Antioch and Pittsburg high school seniors.

The students were commended for achieving a 3.5 GPA or above in their four years at Antioch, Deer Valley and Pittsburg high schools, in addition to their community involvement and other interests.

"AAUW's thrust is to help further advanced education," said Contra Costa County-Delta AAUW President Jane Wilkins. "We have been doing this for 40 years. We want to help younger ones achieve advanced levels of education. That means going to college, recognizing these students, thus encouraging them to do more."

Past AAUW President Debbie Cummings said, "We feel it is important to recognize our students and the hand of their parents at this achievement. These youths are confident and competent in themselves. We have been doing this year after year, and it is amazing how well the students express themselves in front of a crowd."

Photos by Minotte R. Cuenca.