STARs shine brightly in student awards banquet

Starting strong by sharing a powerful speech by Matthew McConaughey about shaping one’s own destiny, the tone was set for the joint efforts of the Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce and Union County Schools to honor some of the best and brightest local youth.

Scholarships funded by SouthState Bank and the Blue Ridge Mountain Electric Membership Corporation were presented by Bank Senior Vice President Tony Dyer and EMC General Manager Allan Glidewell, respectively, totaling an impressive $3,500 between the two.

Although not present, Rachel Todd – UCHS Class of 2015 and Princeton University Class of 2019 – was named the Alumni Pacesetter, and her comments were played to the crowd in a video.

Todd said her education at Union County Schools had a hand in preparing her for her successful career in the medical field. In particular, she credits Mock Trial with teaching her how to maintain a professional image and better her public speaking skills.

The Community Star Award went to Eliyah Ochoa, whose contributions to her community have made “a lasting impact” through involvement in organizations like DECA Club, Spanish Club, Beta Club, United Community Bank Board of Directors, and as a student representative on the College and Career Academy Board. She plans to become an environmental lawyer after graduation.

Also unable to attend but nevertheless recognized was Ariel McCarter, who earned the All-Star Panther Award. A truly dedicated athlete, McCarter has taken part in basketball, soccer, track and field, volleyball and cross country. Along with her love for sports, McCarter has a passion for health care and hopes to one day become a pediatrician.

For her commendable work representing her peers as President of the Union County High School Student Council, Mikala Souther was named the recipient of the North Star Award. Souther “ensures that service remains at the heart of leadership,” tying in with her deep faith and involvement in extracurricular activities like DECA Club and UCHS Technology Student Association.

Woody Gap student Mia Roberts received the Shining Star Award. Named a “beacon of support” by School Director of Accountability and Compliance Dr. David Murphy, Roberts is known for her willingness to help and uplift others. She has participated in both sports and school clubs, as well as Student Council.

Khloe Ledbetter earned the Reaching for the Stars Award for her faith, kindness and “infectious sense of humor.” Ledbetter holds an outstanding love for her Savior and is eager to maintain a bright disposition with everyone she meets.

This year, Union County High School named two STAR Students in an SAT tie. Both will be heading to the Regional STAR Student Competition in Dahlonega.

Gunnar Ingram admitted that high school had been a long journey resulting in much growth. One of the things that changed the most, he believed, was his mindset.

“Looking back, I realized that success isn’t just about intelligence, natural ability or even hard work,” Ingram said. “It’s about how you see the world, how you approach problems and how you choose to push forward when things don’t go your way.”

It was this realization that Ingram said carried him to his accomplishment, growing to accept that there was no real end to challenge, only a willingness to continue facing it and bettering oneself. Ingram has indeed embraced resilience and innovation, managing his own business and hoping to go further down that path.

In the fall, Ingram will be attending the University of Georgia, where he will major in business and minor in nutrition. Eventually, he wants to get involved in fitness, build more businesses and even entertain politics.

One of the people that Ingram credits with helping him rise to the top is Coach Howard McCombs, who was named one of the two STAR Teachers of the evening. In McCombs’ eyes, Ingram is “everything you would think and expect out of a STAR Student,” with good grades, driven responsibility and a positive attitude.

“(Ingram) is a man of faith, ambition, and I just respect that, Gunnar, more than you would know. I’m so honored to be here. You’re going to do great things – I’m going to be your biggest fan,” McCombs said at the end of his own speech.

Turner West also accepted the honor of being named one of Union County’s STAR Students. West said his journey began with an interest in the STEM Program, and he found additional opportunity with the DECA Club.

West recalled the highlights of each year of high school and how they shaped him into the person he’s become. Through it all, he is grateful for the opportunities Union County High School has given him to grow.

Following graduation, West will attend the University of Georgia to major in biological science. His long-term goal is to graduate dental school, after which he aspires to become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

“Choosing a STAR Teacher wasn’t exactly easy, as many people have helped shape my journey. But for me, the teacher who not only pushed me to excel but inspired me to reach new heights is Mrs. Conger,” West revealed, introducing his choice for STAR Teacher. “As I continue my journey, I know the lessons I’ve learned from you – I will keep them and carry them forward in all that I do.”

In addition to his family and friends, West thanked Dixie Conger for helping him reach for – and succeed in achieving – stardom. For her part, Conger said teaching West was “exciting,” as she appreciated his intellect and desire to learn as a student.

“Turner is really great at just taking it all in; he’s like a sponge,” Conger said, adding that she admires his integrity to his own values and his kindness. “He is truly a gifted young man, and I am very honored to have known him for the past four years.”

Along with the awards that come with being named UCHS’s STAR students, Ingram and West also received gifts from River City Bank and United Community Bank, including savings accounts and certificates of recognition.

The North Georgia News congratulates all of the stars honored in the banquet last week.