West Orange High School graduate honored with award

Salutatorian Taran Raj earned the National Community Service Award.

By Debra Garcia
| 10:35 a.m. May 28, 2025

West Orange High School's Salutatorian, Taran Raj, was recognized by the United Nations Association and earned the National Community Service Award.

Observer School Zone

West Orange High School celebrated one of its top students, salutatorian Taran Raj, after he earned the Merit National Community Service Award from the United Nations Association.

The award recognizes college and high school students for their community service efforts.

According to InterView, Raj completed 39 hours of community service and four service activities between June 1, 2024, and April 15, 2025. InterView is a leading youth platform helping students, groups and schools highlight community service impact.

Specifically, Raj spent 32 hours volunteering at food drives, trunk or treat events and tutoring students in math for the SAT. He spent seven hours leading a collection drive for foster children.

Raj and other West Orange seniors graduated Friday, May 23.