Youth Citizen of the Year - 2025

Mayor’s Speech: Youth Citizen of the Year – Jessica Hardy

Good morning, everyone.

It’s my great pleasure to present the 2025 Youth Citizen of the Year Award—an honour that shines a light on a young person who has already made an incredible impact on our community, and who represents the very best of Cardston’s future.

This year’s recipient is someone whose name is spoken with admiration across sports fields, school halls, and community events. She brings life, heart and meekness to everything she does—and somehow, always with a smile. Please join me in congratulating Jessica Hardy.

Jess is a powerhouse—on the softball field, on the basketball court, and in the hearts of everyone who knows her. Her athletic talent is obvious, but what really sets her apart is the way she uplifts others. She’s not just playing to win; she’s playing to include, to inspire, and to lead.

This year, Jessica took it upon herself to personally raise over $800 for the Challenger Baseball program—an initiative supporting athletes with physical and cognitive challenges. This wasn’t for school credit or part of a team requirement—it came straight from her heart. That kind of generosity and compassion at her age is something truly special.

Jess has also served as a role model to her teammates, classmates, and coaches. She leads by example—showing integrity in tough moments, encouragement in every huddle, and determination in every game. Her commitment to fairness, excellence, and healthy living recently earned her the ASAA (Alberta School’s Athletic Association Scholarship—a well-deserved recognition for a young woman who continues to raise the bar.

And she’s not done yet. This fall, Jess will represent Cardston as she joins the NAIT Ooks College Basketball team, where we have no doubt she’ll keep making us proud—both on and off the court.

Jessica, your story reminds us that leadership doesn’t always come with a title. Sometimes it comes from simply choosing to care, to work hard, and to lift others up. You are proof that the youth of Cardston are not only full of potential—but already making a difference.

So today, on behalf of Town Council and the citizens of Cardston, it is my honour to present you with the 2025 Youth Citizen of the Year Award. You’ve hit this one out of the park.

Congratulations, Jess.

Click here to read about our other recipients of the Citizen of the Year awards.