McKenze Benjamin Selected Youth Optimist for October 2026

McKenze Benjamin has been named the Mt. Markham Optimist Club's 8th Grade Youth of the Month for October. She is the daughter of Spencer Benjamin from West Winfield, NY.

During her time in middle school, McKenze participated in modified soccer and modified basketball, serving as captain of the basketball team. She is also a member of the National Junior Honor Society, the Drug Quiz team, and the Junior FFA Club.

McKenze is a motivated student enrolled in Accelerated Algebra as well as Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources classes. She has received MMTA awards for English and Science and has maintained a place on the Gold Honor Roll throughout her middle school years. 

McKenze’s future plans include attending Colgate University to study either sports medicine/management or history.