Jaxon Fogle
12th Grade | Owensboro High School
Success doesn’t always follow the same path, and Jaxson Fogle is proof that there is more than one way to build a bright future. While many student-athletes focus on playing college sports, Jaxson has a different goal in mind. He plans to become a lineman and has already begun researching certification programs, career opportunities and the steps he needs to take to turn that dream into reality. In doing so, he’s become an advocate for technical careers, encouraging classmates to recognize that success comes in many forms.
A standout pitcher and first baseman for the Owensboro Red Devils and his travel baseball teams, Jaxson has balanced athletics with academic excellence, maintaining a 3.80 GPA. He has also overcome personal challenges, including deutan color blindness. Rather than allowing those obstacles to define him, he has met them with determination and resilience.
Jaxson’s willingness to pursue his own path, encourage others and stay true to his goals demonstrates a maturity well beyond his years. Whether on the baseball field, in the classroom or preparing for a future in the skilled trades, he leads by example and reminds others that hard work and character matter far more than following a traditional path.
Aubrey May
11th Grade | Apollo High School
Leadership comes naturally to Aubrey May, but what sets her apart is her desire to use those skills to help others succeed. As a junior at Apollo High School, Aubrey has already established herself as one of the region’s outstanding student leaders through Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA).
As a freshman, Aubrey stepped onto a stage in front of more than 700 students to campaign for Region 2 Treasurer. Her confidence, authenticity and professionalism earned her the position, and her peers reelected her for a second term the following year. In that role, she helps plan regional conferences, leads leadership sessions for fellow students, manages financial records and serves as treasurer for Apollo’s local FBLA chapter.
Service is equally important to Aubrey. Through the Red Cross Club, she has volunteered with Toys for Tots, March of Dimes, the Heart Walk, the Alzheimer’s Walk, DanceBlue, blood drives and the local animal shelter. Her commitment to giving back reflects a genuine compassion for both people and animals.
Aubrey’s leadership has earned her recognition as an Outstanding Local Chapter Officer and the Region 2 recipient of Kentucky FBLA’s “Who’s Who” award. She also excels academically, taking Advanced Placement, honors and dual-credit courses while balancing numerous extracurricular commitments.
Whether she’s leading a conference, organizing a service project or challenging herself in the classroom, Aubrey consistently demonstrates integrity, confidence and a heart for serving others. Her dedication to leadership and community makes her an outstanding representative of Apollo High School.
Peter Gonzalez-Clouse
12th Grade | Owensboro Innovation Academy
Some students stand out for what they accomplish. Others stand out for the way they encourage those around them. Peter Gonzalez does both.
A senior at Owensboro Innovation Academy, Peter has earned a 3.94 GPA while challenging himself with dual-credit courses through Kentucky Wesleyan College and Owensboro Community & Technical College. With plans to pursue mechanical engineering, he has already begun building an impressive resume through robotics, where he serves as both a driver and drone pilot. This year, his team’s hard work and innovation earned them a coveted spot at a national robotics competition.
Peter’s passion for STEM extends beyond competition. He mentors middle school robotics students, helping them develop technical skills and confidence, and serves as a camp mentor with Owensboro Public Schools, introducing younger students to the exciting world of robotics. His willingness to invest in others demonstrates leadership far beyond his years.
Outside the classroom, Peter is equally committed on the soccer field, where he coaches youth teams and provides individual training sessions for young athletes. His dedication has earned him the respect of players, parents and coaches alike. He is also active in his church youth group and has been recognized by the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdiction, for his academic achievement and leadership through JROTC.
Perhaps Peter’s greatest example of character comes at home, where he is a devoted older brother to a sibling with disabilities. His patience, compassion and quiet support reflect the same servant leadership he demonstrates in every area of his life.
Whether mentoring future engineers, coaching young athletes or leading by example, Peter is building a legacy defined not only by achievement, but by his commitment to helping others succeed.
Linkin Blanford
10th Grade | Owensboro Innovation Academy
Some students discover a talent. Linkin Blandford has turned his into an opportunity to inspire others.
A sophomore at Owensboro Innovation Academy, Linkin has dedicated the past six years to competitive dance, developing the discipline, creativity and confidence that come with performing at a high level. While his accomplishments on stage are impressive, what truly sets him apart is his commitment to mentoring the next generation. For the past four years, he has assisted in teaching younger dancers, sharing his knowledge while encouraging them to grow both as performers and individuals. His hard work and talent have earned him a prestigious Giordano Dance Scholarship.
Beyond the dance studio, Linkin excels academically, maintaining a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA. He is an active member of Student Council and the Technology Student Association (TSA), where he and his teammates earned second place at the state TEAMS competition, showcasing exceptional teamwork, critical thinking and STEM skills. He also participates in fine arts opportunities at Owensboro High School, further demonstrating his passion for creativity.
Service is another important part of Linkin’s story. He has volunteered with organizations including the Blood Bank, Foust Elementary and Special Olympics, and serves as an Owensboro Innovation Academy ambassador, representing his school with professionalism and enthusiasm. Along the way, he has even appeared in a commercial and was recognized with a School Responsibility Award for his dependability and leadership.
Whether he’s performing under the spotlight, mentoring young dancers or serving his community, Linkin leads with humility, dedication and a desire to make a positive impact. His talent is undeniable, but it is his character that truly makes him shine.
Claire Cecil
12th Grade | Owensboro Catholic High School
For Claire Cecil, success isn’t handed over with a set of reins—it’s earned through countless hours of patience, perseverance and trust.
A senior at Owensboro Catholic High School, Claire has become one of Kentucky’s top young equestrians, earning first place in the Kentucky National Pole Bending Youth First Division and tying for second in the Open First Division in 2025. She also qualified for the semifinals of the Hooey Junior Patriot in Fort Worth, Texas, where she finished fourth against some of the nation’s top competitors.
What makes Claire’s accomplishments even more remarkable is the path she took to get there. Early in her competitive career, she partnered with a horse that had lost an eye. Rather than viewing the disability as a setback, Claire patiently trained and built an extraordinary level of trust with the horse, proving that dedication and partnership can overcome almost any obstacle. Today, she continues to train her own horses from the ground up, including a young horse she developed into a nationally competitive mount.
Outside the arena, Claire gives riding lessons, exercises show horses and operates her own business, Bougie Bling, where she designs custom tail bags and creates crystal-adorned tack. Her entrepreneurial spirit helps support her competition goals while allowing her creativity to shine.
Claire dreams of becoming a nationally recognized horse trainer, and she’s already well on her way. Through countless hours in the barn, unwavering perseverance and a willingness to do the hard work herself, she has proven that success isn’t measured by the horse you start with—it’s earned through determination, resilience and heart.
Addyson Dennis
11th Grade | Owensboro Innovation Academy
While many teenagers are still exploring their future, Addyson Dennis has already found her calling—and she’s taking meaningful steps toward making it a reality.
A junior at Owensboro Innovation Academy, Addyson has earned a perfect 4.0 GPA while thriving in the school’s rigorous, project-based curriculum. Her goal is to become a Nurse Practitioner, and she’s already building the knowledge and experience to support that dream. As an active member of HOSA – Future Health Professionals, she qualified for the Kentucky HOSA State Leadership Conference in Sports Medicine and is CPR certified, giving her valuable hands-on skills for a future in healthcare.
Addyson also serves as an Owensboro Innovation Academy Student Ambassador, welcoming prospective families, leading school tours and representing her classmates with confidence and professionalism. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom to her job at Trunnell’s Farm Market, where she quickly earned the trust of managers by training new employees, leading multiple work areas and even assisting with social media promotions.
Whether she’s serving customers, representing her school or preparing for a career in healthcare, Addyson is known for being dependable, compassionate and hardworking. She approaches every opportunity with maturity and purpose, quietly building a foundation for a career centered on helping others.
With her strong work ethic, leadership and heart for service, Addyson is already making a difference today while preparing to care for her community tomorrow.
Michael Acton II
12th Grade | Daviess County High School
Success in athletics often begins long before game day, built through countless hours of preparation, discipline and determination. Michael Acton II has embraced that mindset both on the basketball court and in the classroom.
A senior at Daviess County High School, Michael has established himself as one of the Third Region’s top basketball players. During the 2025-26 season, he earned selection to the Messenger-Inquirer Third Region Second Team and the All-9th District Team, helping lead the Panthers to a season in which they were ranked No. 1 in Kentucky. Michael also played a key role in Daviess County’s championship run at the prestigious White, Greer & Maggard Holiday Classic at Lexington Catholic, one of the state’s premier high school basketball tournaments.
Off the court, Michael has maintained a 3.82 GPA while demonstrating the same commitment to excellence in the classroom. He is an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and has participated in the DCHS Boys Basketball Toy Drive, giving back to families in the community alongside his teammates.
Whether competing against the state’s best teams or serving others through community outreach, Michael consistently represents the values of hard work, perseverance and humility. His dedication to academics, athletics and service reflects the kind of leadership that inspires teammates, classmates and the community around him.
Sophia Obermann
11th Grade | Owensboro Innovation Academy
Whether she’s solving complex academic challenges or performing on stage, Sophia Obermann approaches every opportunity with quiet confidence and unwavering dedication.
A junior at Owensboro Innovation Academy, Sophia has earned a perfect 4.0 GPA while balancing an impressive commitment to academics, music and community service. As a first-year member of the National Honor Society, she has already completed 19 hours of volunteer service—far exceeding the organization’s required service hours and reflecting her genuine desire to give back.
Music has been a defining part of Sophia’s life for years. She has studied piano for eight years and viola for five, performing as a member of the Owensboro High School Chamber Orchestra, Chorale and Brava choirs. Her talent and dedication have earned her selection to the Kentucky All-State Choir for four consecutive years, an achievement that speaks to both her musical ability and her commitment to excellence. She also lends her talents by playing piano for the Owensboro High School marching band.
Recognized as Gifted and Talented in Music, Sophia continues to challenge herself artistically while maintaining exceptional academic standards. Whether she’s rehearsing, studying or serving her community, she brings focus, humility and a strong work ethic to everything she does.
Sophia’s achievements are impressive, but it is her consistency, character and willingness to use her talents in service of others that truly set her apart.
Kassi Hirt
12th Grade | Apollo High School
Kassi Hirt has never been afraid to step into roles where expectations are high. In fact, she has built her high school career by proving that leadership, discipline and determination know no boundaries.
Now a senior at Apollo High School, Kassi is on track to graduate with the school’s prestigious Honors Diploma while taking on one of the most demanding leadership schedules in the building. As Corps Cadet Commander of Apollo’s JROTC program, she leads by example with professionalism, integrity and unwavering commitment. She also serves as Drill Commander, Kitty Hawk Commander, overseeing the JROTC tutoring program, and Academic Team Commander, mentoring fellow cadets both inside and outside the classroom.
Kassi’s accomplishments within JROTC have earned statewide and national recognition. She was named her school’s Top Performer two consecutive years, outperforming both male and female cadets, and received the Top Marksman of the Year award. Her excellence continued beyond her school, where she excelled in highly competitive leadership seminars at the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy and MCOLS Leadership Camp.
Outside of JROTC, Kassi serves as captain of the Apollo Archery Team, operates a successful lawn care business serving 16 clients, and stays physically and mentally strong through CrossFit training.
Her leadership also extends nationally through the Civil Air Patrol, where she was selected as the National Cadet Noncommissioned Officer of the Year from more than 33,000 cadets across the country. She is currently pursuing her pilot’s license, continuing to challenge herself in new ways.
Whether she’s leading cadets, managing a business or pursuing ambitious personal goals, Kassi consistently demonstrates that excellence is earned through hard work, resilience and the confidence to lead. She is a powerful example of a young woman breaking barriers and proving that leadership is defined by character—not stereotypes.
Blakeley Wethington
12th Grade | Apollo High School
Creativity, leadership and service come together naturally for Blakeley Wethington, a student whose impact can be seen throughout Apollo High School and the Owensboro community.
An academically driven senior, Blakeley is pursuing Daviess County Public Schools’ prestigious Honors Diploma while challenging herself through honors and Advanced Placement coursework. Her commitment to excellence extends far beyond the classroom, where she has become a leader in numerous organizations and activities.
Blakeley serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Apollo yearbook, preserving memories and telling the story of her school through photography and design. She is also a leader in Apollo’s DanceBlue program, Student Council and the Wendell Ford Statesmanship Academy. As a member of the varsity cheerleading team, she proudly serves as the school mascot, bringing energy and school spirit to countless events. During the summer of 2026, Blakeley was selected to attend the prestigious Governor’s Scholars Program, one of Kentucky’s highest academic honors for high school students.
Known for her artistic talent, Blakeley often spends her free time designing banners and decorations that celebrate students, teachers and school events. Behind the camera, she captures meaningful moments with a photographer’s eye and a genuine love for preserving memories.
Whether she’s leading a service project, decorating the halls of Apollo or encouraging those around her, Blakeley approaches every opportunity with kindness, creativity and integrity. Her ability to inspire others while quietly making her school a better place reflects a servant’s heart and a leader’s mindset. Those qualities, combined with her academic excellence and artistic gifts, make Blakeley a remarkable young leader with a lasting impact on her school and community.
Jenna Faulkner
9th Grade | Daviess County High School
Whether in the classroom, on the tennis court or serving her school, Jenna Faulkner approaches every opportunity with determination and excellence.
After completing eighth grade at Daviess County Middle School, Jenna leaves behind an impressive record of academic and extracurricular achievement. She maintained straight A’s throughout middle school and earned membership in the National Junior Honor Society, demonstrating a consistent commitment to academic success. Always eager to challenge herself, Jenna also completed high school-level Algebra I and Spanish I while still in middle school, giving her a strong foundation as she begins high school.
Jenna’s accomplishments extend well beyond academics. In 2026, she captured the Third Region Girls Singles Tennis Championship, becoming the first Daviess County player to earn the title since 2010. Her dedication to the sport is matched by her involvement in the arts, where she performs with the DCMS Band and studies at the Newburgh Academy of Dance.
Her leadership and commitment to serving others have also been recognized through the Elite Panther Award, an honor she earned six times for demonstrating excellence in academics, character and community service.
Whether she’s competing, performing or excelling in the classroom, Jenna consistently sets high standards for herself and leads with humility, discipline and a positive attitude. As she prepares to begin high school, she has already established herself as a student who embraces challenges, strives for excellence and makes the most of every opportunity.
Olivia Tucker
9th Grade | Daviess County High School
Olivia Tucker believes that success is about more than earning good grades—it’s about making a positive impact wherever you go.
After completing eighth grade at Daviess County Middle School, Olivia has built an impressive record of academic achievement, leadership and service. Known for her kindness, respectfulness and positive attitude, she consistently gives her best effort in everything she pursues and serves as a role model for her classmates through her strong work ethic and compassionate spirit.
Olivia is actively involved in several organizations that encourage civic engagement and leadership, including the Kentucky United Nations Assembly (KUNA), Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA) and the school’s Kindness Club. Her commitment to serving others has earned her the prestigious Elite Panther Award six times, recognizing her excellence in academics, character and community involvement.
Outside the classroom, Olivia is equally dedicated as a soccer player and a Girl Scout, where she continues developing teamwork, leadership and service skills. Whether competing on the field, participating in leadership conferences or volunteering in her community, she approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm and integrity.
As Olivia prepares to begin high school, she has already demonstrated that true leadership is rooted in character. Her compassion for others, commitment to excellence and willingness to serve make her a student who positively influences everyone around her and a young leader with a bright future ahead.
Lofton Roberts
9th Grade | Daviess County High School
(nominated by Daviess County Middle School)
Leadership isn’t always about holding a title—sometimes it’s about choosing to serve. For Lofton Roberts, serving others has become one of his greatest strengths.
After completing eighth grade at Daviess County Middle School, Lofton has distinguished himself through academic excellence, leadership and a genuine heart for helping others. He maintained straight A’s throughout middle school while challenging himself with high school-level coursework, successfully completing Algebra I, Geometry and Spanish I before entering high school. His academic success also earned him membership in the National Junior Honor Society.
While Lofton’s achievements in the classroom are impressive, his character is what truly sets him apart. He volunteered to become a peer mentor for students in the school’s special services program, choosing to spend his elective period supporting classmates rather than taking a traditional elective. His patience, kindness and willingness to invest in others made him a trusted friend and role model for the students he served.
Lofton also demonstrated leadership throughout the school by regularly leading the morning Pledge of Allegiance and encouraging his classmates through his positive example. Outside of school, he continues to give back by volunteering each week with the children’s ministry at Owensboro Christian Church.
Whether he’s excelling academically, mentoring fellow students or serving in his church, Lofton consistently leads with humility, compassion and integrity. His servant’s heart and commitment to putting others first have already made a lasting impact on those around him and will undoubtedly continue to shape the communities he serves.
Lily Tai
7th Grade | Burns Middle School
At just 12 years old, Lily Tai is already making a meaningful impact through her kindness, leadership and dedication to excellence.
A seventh grader at Burns Middle School, Lily has earned a reputation as a student who consistently leads by example. She approaches every day with compassion, respect and a willingness to help others, creating a positive environment for both classmates and teachers. Whether welcoming a new student, offering encouragement or lending a helping hand, Lily’s thoughtful nature makes those around her feel valued and supported.
In the classroom, Lily’s commitment to learning is equally impressive. She has maintained straight A’s while demonstrating a strong work ethic and genuine curiosity. Her academic success is matched by her leadership as a member of Student Council, where she proudly represents her classmates with integrity, responsibility and a positive attitude.
Teachers describe Lily as dependable, respectful and mature beyond her years. She embraces challenges with confidence and approaches every opportunity with determination and grace. Her ability to balance academic excellence with servant leadership has made her a trusted role model within the Burns Middle School community.
Whether she’s excelling in the classroom, serving through Student Council or simply showing kindness in everyday interactions, Lily demonstrates that leadership begins with character. Her compassion, humility and dedication to making a difference are already leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Tha Taui
8th Grade | Burns Middle School
Creativity, academic excellence and kindness are qualities that define Tha Taw, an eighth grader at Burns Middle School who leads by example every day.
Tha has earned straight A’s while building a reputation as a hardworking, respectful and compassionate student. His dedication to learning is matched by his artistic talent, which was recognized on a statewide level when he was selected as a winner in the Kentucky Agriculture Poster and Essay Contest, sponsored by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and Kentucky Agriculture and Environment in the Classroom. Competing against students from across the Commonwealth, Tha’s work stood out among entries centered on the theme “Bluegrass Roots, Agriculture Strong,” showcasing both his creativity and attention to detail.
Beyond his academic and artistic accomplishments, Tha is known for the way he treats others. Teachers and classmates describe him as kind, considerate and respectful, consistently displaying a positive attitude and a willingness to encourage those around him. His quiet leadership and strong character have made him a role model within the Burns Middle School community.
Whether he’s creating award-winning artwork, excelling in the classroom or simply showing kindness in everyday interactions, Tha approaches every opportunity with humility and determination. His combination of talent, work ethic and compassion demonstrates that true leadership is measured not only by accomplishments, but by the positive impact you have on others.
Yazmin Dougherty
12th Grade | Heritage Park High School
Yazmin Dougherty believes creativity is about more than making something beautiful—it’s about expressing who you are and finding strength through life’s challenges.
A senior at Heritage Park High School, Yazmin is a gifted artist whose creativity extends beyond the canvas. She has developed her own distinctive sense of style, using fashion as another outlet for self-expression. Her artistic talent, individuality and confidence allow her to stand out while inspiring others to embrace what makes them unique.
Outside of school, Yazmin demonstrates a level of responsibility that far exceeds her years. She works full time at McDonald’s while maintaining good academic standing, balancing the demands of school and work with remarkable dedication. At home, she has stepped into a caregiving role during difficult times, helping support family members facing health challenges. Through it all, she has shown resilience, maturity and a willingness to put others before herself.
Yazmin also gives back through community service opportunities at Heritage Park High School, continuing to make a positive impact beyond the classroom. Whether she’s volunteering, creating art or helping at home, she approaches every opportunity with kindness and compassion.
Those who know Yazmin describe her as someone who is almost always smiling and quick to encourage others. Her artistic talent, strong work ethic and caring heart make her a remarkable young woman whose quiet strength leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets.
Cohen Winslow
8th Grade | Burns Middle School
True leadership isn’t measured by titles or trophies—it’s reflected in the way a person consistently chooses to work hard, encourage others and set a positive example. Those qualities define Cohen Winslow.
After completing seventh grade at Burns Middle School, Cohen has distinguished himself as a student who excels both academically and athletically. He maintains a high standard in the classroom while also competing on the Apollo High School soccer team, balancing the demands of school and athletics with remarkable discipline and dedication.
Whether on the soccer field or in the classroom, Cohen is known for his strong work ethic and determination to continually improve. He approaches challenges with confidence, embraces opportunities to grow and understands that success is built through preparation, perseverance and teamwork.
What truly sets Cohen apart is the example he sets for those around him. Teachers and peers describe him as kind, respectful and dependable—someone who leads through his actions rather than seeking recognition. He encourages teammates, supports classmates and consistently demonstrates integrity in everything he does.
As he prepares for another school year, Cohen continues to show that leadership begins with character. His commitment to excellence, willingness to serve others and positive influence on those around him make him a student who is already making a meaningful impact both on and off the field.
Kaylee Booker
9th Grade | Apollo High School
Some leaders command attention with their words. Others earn respect through the way they treat people. For Kaylee Booker, leadership begins with kindness.
After completing eighth grade at Burns Middle School, Kaylee has become known as a student who leads with encouragement, compassion and a genuine desire to help others succeed. She maintains a high standard of academic achievement while balancing leadership roles in Student Council and competing as a student-athlete on the softball field.
As a member of Student Council, Kaylee has helped organize initiatives that promote gratitude, positivity and school spirit, creating opportunities for students and staff to feel appreciated and connected. She consistently looks for ways to include others, offering encouragement and making those around her feel valued.
On the softball field, Kaylee demonstrates the same work ethic and team-first attitude that define her leadership in the classroom. Whether celebrating teammates’ successes or working through challenges together, she understands that great leaders build others up.
Teachers and classmates describe Kaylee as someone with a caring heart, a contagious smile and a positive attitude that brightens every room she enters. She leads not because she seeks recognition, but because serving others comes naturally to her. Through her character, dedication and unwavering kindness, Kaylee has made a lasting impact on her school community and serves as an example of what leadership truly looks like.