Citing ‘impressive’ student’s community efforts

The Harrison Township Committee presented a proclamation at its July 20 meeting to honor the work of Caroline Kilmer, a recent Clearview Regional High School graduate.

Kilmer was recognized for her volunteer work in the community, including hosting a shoe drive, designing and painting a public mural for the future site of the Dr. Irene Hill Smith Community Park, organizing a movie night that raised $300 for a local animal shelter and establishing a self-help resource station for students to access mental-health resources.

Committeeman Kevin French presented the proclamation to Kilmer, who was joined by her parents. It cited her “outstanding endeavors and accomplishments that truly make a difference to others.”

Kilmer has also promoted environmental awareness in the community. She was the student liaison to the township’s environmental commission from 2023 to 2026. She also led a native garden initiative for the New Jersey Climate Challenge, creating a garden at Clearview to encourage native pollinators, and installed a school rain barrel system to prevent asphalt runoff and collect water for the gardens.

“Caroline’s service in Harrison Township and surrounding communities has set an honorable example,” French noted, “inspiring others to participate in volunteering their services to their community.”

The proclamation also spotlighted Kilmer’s academic achievements. She had the fourth highest GPA in her class at 102, according to French, and was a four-year member of the Clearview marching band, student council and the school’s environmental club.

Kilmer will attend Barnard College of Columbia University in New York in the fall.

“I was the township liaison to the environmental commission during my first year on the committee,” French said. “I worked very closely with Caroline. A very impressive young lady. None of this is a surprise if anybody knows her. She has extreme dedication and heart for others.”