Gabriella LaManna, a senior at Hillsborough High School, was selected as an “Angels Among Us” recipient by the ARC of Somerset County. She received her award at the Arc Angel gala, “Proud Past, Promising Future,” on Nov. 15 at the Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club in Far Hills.
Gabriella founded a challenger cheerleading team she named “The Gems” for special needs girls aged eight and older. She marketed the idea to the Hillsborough Junior Raiders Football organization, which was thrilled at having “The Gems” cheer at their games.
”The Gems,” who just completed their third year, have 10 girls on their cheerleading squad. Gabriella was a coach and choreographed the halftime routine.
Gabriella was accepted to the accelerated doctoral program for physical therapy at Misericordia University, where she plans to specialize in pediatrics this fall.
The ARC awarded Gabriella “for her initiative in creating a truly unique opportunity for children with disabilities.”
She was presented the award by Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, who was the emcee. Kayla Frauenheim, a senior at Immaculata High School, and Rebecca Simon from Bridgewater High School were also awarded.

