Way to Go: Faith McCombs, Copiague

A Copiague Middle School student is making her mark through helping others and involvement in multiple sports and local math and science fairs.

Eighth-grader Faith McCombs has participated in science competitions and community service projects, including footwear and jean drives for those in need as part of her school's Builders Club.

She was one of 20 local students selected by Stony Brook University to attend the 28th Annual Youth Academy "Counseling & Treating People of Colour: An International Perspective" leadership conference in New Orleans. The three-day event included educational workshops, guest speakers and networking opportunities with peers and adults.

The Copiague school board recognized McCombs for her selection and success at the conference.

"I really love all of my activities equally, and I love to help people," said McCombs, 14.

Her other achievements include being among more than 1,000 students to participate in this spring's 17th Annual Science & Technology Entry Program (STEP) Statewide Student Conference in Albany. She also competed in the 2015 Al Kalfus Long Island Math Fair at Hofstra University and in the Long Island Science Congress at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City.

McCombs, who is ranked among the top 20 students in her school's grade level, is treasurer of her school's National Junior Honor Society and is a member of the girls basketball, soccer, track and volleyball teams.