The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools

Two U-High seniors make this year’s Jewish United Fund-Chicago 18 under 18

Amelie Suskind Liu and Daniel Tothy are among this year’s LEADers (Leader, Educator, Advisor, Dugma/Example) being recognized by Springboard’s Jewish United Fund-Chicago 18 under 18 for their work supporting the Chicagoland Jewish community. According to the organization’s website, “this recognition is designed to celebrate outstanding youth professionals and adult volunteers who work tirelessly to enhance the Jewish experiences of Chicagoland teens.”

Liu found out she was being recognized on December 8. “It feels pretty great to be acknowledged and validated by the Jewish community—religiously and culturally,” Liu said, who identifies as Chinese-Jewish. “My family was very excited and has been proud of all of my accomplishments.”

When Liu was seven years old her father passed away, and she believes this recognition will bring more attention and access to resources in the area of adolescent grief. Four years ago, she founded Peer Healing, an evidence-based teen grief group curriculum which is being piloted at a multi-state level in four states including Illinois. Liu is the secretary general for U-High’s Model UN team and she also wrote a children's book that she regularly reads to children in schools and synagogues. Matzo Ball-Wonton Thanksgiving was co-written with Liu and her grandmother, and is all about her Chinese-Jewish identity.

Tothy is the vice president of U-High’s Jewish Students Association, a co-founder of U-High’s Marine Biology Club, and captain of U-High’s fencing team. For the past four years, Tothy has been a madrich at Chicago Sinai Congregation. The past two years, he also has been a peer advisor for Teen Talk, an online and anonymous platform that supports teens in their moments of need. 

Liu and Tothy will be honored for their LEADership accomplishments at a Community Celebration on Tuesday, March 21 from 6:45–9:15 p.m. at Pinstripes Northbrook.