Figure skater Ernie Stevens, a 2012 Trinity graduate, has earned the Platinum level of distinction in United States Figure Skating’s Graduating Seniors Program. In addition, Stevens has been named to Team USA. He and his figure skating partner, Christina Zaitsev, are one of only 12 pairs teams from across the U.S. that will represent the country at international events and competitions. Stevens and his partner are the youngest team to be included. Stevens, who was named the Republic Bank Athlete of the Month for October, has competed on the national level in men’s intermediate freestyle and pairs figure skating. In 2010, Stevens and Zaitsev were named Juvenile Pairs U.S. Champions. In 2011, the pair placed fourth nationally at the intermediate level and are competing at the novice level for 2012. Throughout the school year Stevens traveled to Indianapolis four days a week to train and maintained a 3.6 GPA at Trinity. In addition, he offered encouragement and support to other skaters. “Ernie has been very supportive of my own daughter’s skating, letting her know she has something special and congratulating her on every accomplishment,” said Robin Lachapelle, who nominated Stevens for the Republic Bank award. “He also has always exhibited a great moral compass and respect for adults and others that I find commendable in a young man his age.”