Outstanding Young Women

2008 Outstanding Young Women of Memphis

The thirty Outstanding Young Women of 2008 are volunteers, planners, leaders and doers. They are an
inspiration to their teachers, peers and those they serve. They are the pride of their parents and their
families. These young women are the spirit of today and the hope for the future. With energy,
determination, a belief in themselves, they will succeed in whatever life may bring their way.

The girls chose one of the following questions to answer:
1. What personal accomplishment has had the most positive impact on your life?
2. What are your personal goals for your future?
3. If you had the ability to do anything possible to make the world a better place what would it be?
4. What advice do you have for other young women your age?

Memphis Woman Magazine readers nominated these young women from area schools and
organizations in November through January. The nominations were judged by Memphis area women who
are involved in the community themselves.

Portraits by Skipworth

LEADERSHIP AWARDS
Honoring young women who have made a notable impact at their school, organization or in the Memphis and surrounding areas.

Megan Adams
Hutchison School Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Kevin and Sara Adams
Nominated by Catherine Chubb, The U of Memphis M Club

“As senior class president, Megan provides a positive and amiable liaison between students and faculty. She leads her class with compassion and understanding for both the needs of her peers and the needs of her school. Leadership can be evaluated in many ways but the true measure of a leader is how they impact lives. Megan Adams has impacted the lives of her classmates, teammates, and friends but most of all she has impacted the lives of her fellow man. She is truly a servant-leader.”

ADVICE: The best advice I have is to take advantage of all the opportunities you are given. By getting involved you are able to meet many different people and learn new things about yourself.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Bridge Builders, MIFA, and Grace St. Luke’s soup kitchen.

Katelyn Ammons
St. Mary’s Episcopal School Senior
18 year-old Daughter of Doug and Kristin Ammons
Nominated by Patricia H. Thomas, St. Mary’s Community Fund Advisor

“Katelyn served as Middle/Lower School Chair, and she is currently serving as Grants Chair of St. Mary’s Community Fund (SMCF). In both positions, she has exhibited great attention to detail, organization, and follow through. Katelyn provides positive leadership and guidance to her peers. In addition to her SMCF involvement, she served as freshman and sophomore class president. She was an instrumental leader in organizing a school crafts fair that benefited Girls, Inc. Katelyn enjoys working one-on-one with children, helping them to be successful in their goals.”

ADVICE: Look around and be appreciative of what you have been given. More importantly, pass your blessings and talents on to make an impact in someone else's life.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: St. Mary's Community Fund-2008 Grants Chair and weekly volunteer at United Cerebral Palsy's "Magic Moments"

Sharwil Aisha-Joi Bell
Lausanne Collegiate School Senior
17 year-old Daughter of Sharon Armour
Nominated by Lorrie Jackson, Lausanne Collegiate School

“Sharwil represented Memphis traveling with the People to People International (P2PI) student delegation throughout Europe for three weeks. For her, the experience enhanced her knowledge and appreciation of the world, enriched her education through learning in the global classroom and developed and increased level of maturity and independence. Upon her return, she co-founded of the People to People International B.L.U.E.S. (Building Leadership Understanding Each Situation) Student Chapter. The group of students promotes international peace-keeping and perform monthly service projects in the community.”

ADVICE: Always strive to make a positive impression on your surroundings, regardless of the circumstances; make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: People to People International Student Chapter; United Cerebral Palsy Volunteer; and Memphis Academy of Health Science Basketball Clinic Counselor

Alex Fenaughty
Fournier Learning Strategies Senior
17 Year-old Daughter of Dr. Francis and Mrs. Joan Fenaughty
Nominated by Dr. Yvonne Fournier, Fournier Learning Strategies
and Danling Huang, Principal, Chinese Academy of Memphis

“As president of Crossroads of Hope, she coordinates over six chapters nationally and internationally. As liaison for Crossroads, for the last two years, she personally traveled to China to provide the educational materials to numerous schools in China, not only to increase understanding between China and the United States but also to better understand global conditions. In only two years, she has organized over 20 fundraising activities.”

PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT: I became involved with a youth led organization, "Crossroads of Hope", that helps deliver educational materials to impoverished schools in rural China. Through this project I learned to value and appreciate my education and the many wonderful opportunities I have been given.

Sharda` Fields
Whitehaven High School Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Sharon Fields
Nominated by Mildred Frazier, Whitehaven Leadership Council, Whitehaven High School

“Community service is apart of Sharda’s DNA. Last year Sharda’ spent 30 days in the Dominican Republic. She assisted the community residents by building a concrete floor, by hand, for one of the schools and taught English lessons. Sharda’ and other teens championed a toy store for people with Muscular Dystrophy, allowing families to shop at no cost. In the spare moments left in her day, she is serving with Image Memphis, a new initiative inspired to help develop a positive image of Memphis. Sharda’ and four other teens hosted a Diabetes Awareness Week, where they raised $1,500 to donate to this worthy cause.”

GOALS: I want to change the world one community at a time. After receiving my PhD in psychology, I would like to start a nonprofit organization to address the needs of at risk youth.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Imagine Memphis, Peer Tutor, Bridge Builders, Volunteer in nursery at church, and helped raise $1,500 for the American Diabetes Associatio

Halle Griggs
St. Agnes Academy Senior
17 Year-old Daughter of Joseph and Michelle Griggs
Nominated by Dr. Joy Maness, St. Agnes Academy

“As president of the Student Government Association, this year alone, Halle runs all of our weekly assemblies, has organized and executed a meaningful Student Leadership Workshop, has organized our entire club sign-up, and is in the process of putting together our Career Day event for second semester. She is masterful in her businesslike demeanor and mature approach; yet, she has that zest of a delightful youth with a great sense of humor.”

PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT: In 2006, I completed the St. Jude half-marathon for the first time. Words cannot describe the feeling I felt when I crossed that finish line. I ran for a great cause, and at the same time, achieved a personal goal.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: SHINE (Students Helping Improve Needy Environments)—This is our SGA service project. We help clean neighborhoods throughout the city of Memphis, helping the city become a healthier environment; Miriam Childcare Center volunteer in the infant room; MRTC member (Memphis Runner’s Track Club)—I run many races benefiting charities.

Carmell Harris
Germantown High School Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Tonya and James Covington
Nominated by Carlee M. McCullough, Esq., City of Memphis

“Aside from being an exceptional academic student, Carmell has found time to serve as the senior class President, 4th year Beta Club, and Co-Editor for the Germantown yearbook staff. Prior to this current year she had also been involved in Student Government as the 10th & 11th grade class Secretary, 9th grade Executive Board member of the National Honor Society, Germantown Dance team, and Germantown Football Senior Trainer. Carmell has consistently demonstrated that she is a well-rounded teen worthy of many accolades.”

ADVICE: Set a life goal worth fighting to win now, so that you have something to strive for. Life is not easy, so remain focused and determined. Never stop believing and never give up in the end all you truly have is you. Give your name meaning!
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Ronald McDonald House Volunteer, Race for the Cure Volunteer, Race for Education Volunteer and Ghost Runner, Germantown Recreation Center Special Education Dances- Volunteer, Lifeblood donor, Make a Wish Foundation Collector and Contributor, Campus Clean up Crew and Kids Kan Contributor. Carmell was recently appointed Miss Germantown of the class of 2008 and was voted on the 2008 Winterfest Court (basketball homecoming).

Brittney Jordan
Harding Academy Junior
17 Year-old Daughter of David and Theresa Jordan
Nominated by Betty Copeland, Harding Academy

“Brittany Jordan made her first visit to Ghana, West Africa, in July of 2007. The Village of Hope, the only orphanage in Ghana, was the reason for the first visits, but last summer the focus of the trip spread to one of the local fishing villages, Senya, where a small church was providing daycare for 6-10 crippled children so their mothers could work.
Brittany’s group quickly saw that clean water was needed, and although obtaining it was possible, no money was available to make it happen. The solution needed was the purchase of a polytank, a huge black plastic tank capable of holding large amounts of water. Its cost and the price for filling it the first time was $1000, an amount that these young people determined to raise when they got back home.
Brittany and her fellow travelers planned a concert as their fundraiser. The total amount raised was over $3000.

MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE: If I could change anything in the world, I would want to help all the orphan children. I would want to bless each one with someone to love him or her.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: AGAPE FIT (Families in Touch), which serves homeless, pregnant women and their children in a two year residential program; Work in Ghana, West Africa at a children’s orphanage, called the Village of Hope; and active in White Station Church of Christ Youth Group Service activities

Katelyn Nichols
SBEC (Southern Baptist Education Center) Junior
17 Year-old Daughter of Beth Hesser and Jack Nichols
Nominated by David Williams, Leadership Memphis

“Katelyn joined the Imagine Memphis Design team and has been an active member since the team’s launch in August 2007. She entered Imagine Memphis Curious. After the first meeting, Katelyn readily started making suggestions for expanding the course of Imagine Memphis including adding the entertainment industry as influencers who would be interviewed by the youth. Her vision was readily realized in the first round of interviews in November. Katelyn has invited others to participate in Imagine Memphis – youth and adults. Her energy, inquisitiveness, spirit of active learning and full participation has been invaluable contributions to the Design Team and the Imagine Memphis effort.”

GOALS: To complete undergraduate studies in theater and journalism, continue conservatory training in musical theater, and through performing arts and community service become an active leader in local or national politics.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Imagine Memphis, youth member Design team; peer trainer; interviewer; Bridgebuilders; acting/singing/choreography in pro bono performances through Teens in Theatre/Playhouse on the Square; Desoto Family Theater; Kudzu Playhouse; (Desoto Hills Baptist church Christmas program December 2007; Chocolate Fantasy for National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee January 2008; Nineteenth Century Club, Christmas Lunch with Santa/musicale December)
At SBEC, Katelyn serves as Student Ambassador, junior class vice president, Secretary Political Action Club, and Thespian Society member

Lilla Pivnick
White Station High School Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Enikö and Lawrence Pivnick
Nominated by Olivia Coleman, White Station High School

“Lilla was the founder/organizer of the WSHS Spanish tutoring program (now a service project of the National Spanish Honor Society) and co-founder of the annual "Concern with a Cause" fundraiser which has raised over $5,000 in support of the Memphis City Schools' fine arts program. In the summer of 2007, Lilla was afforded an opportunity that has ultimately influenced what she plans to include as a part of her professional pursuits. Having been awarded one of ten full scholarships in the nation by the American Field Service (ASF) Intercultural Program, Lilla provided community service through an orphanage and rehabilitation center in Rosario, Argentina.”

GOALS: I hope to return to Memphis after law school and become involved in Memphis politics; I feel obligated to give back to the community that has raised me.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: President of White Station High School's Student Council Executive Board, member of the Memphis-area Bridge Builders, President of the Bridge Builders service club at White Station, founder of the White Station High School Spanish tutoring program, member of the Design Team for Imagine Memphis, member of the Memphis City School Student Advisory Board, Co-founder of the annual Concert with a Cause benefit concert for the Memphis City Schools fine arts program

Kristin Pope
Briarcrest Christian High School Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Ben and Lora Pope
Nominated by Cathy Bronars, Brarcrest Christian High School

“Kristin manages to juggle the duties of Student Council Secretary, Varsity Cheer Football and Competitive Squad Captain, community volunteering class schedule. She planned and ran the first Freshman Retreat that involved organizing teachers, administrators, parents, student leaders, and all freshmen. Kristin has been instrumental in the success of two retreats, three community service projects, and is currently involved in the planning stages of the Briarcrest Carnival, that will take place this spring. Recently, she was a huge part of the success of the Briarcrest Penny war. With her leadership, Briarcrest raised over $10,000 for MDA”

ADVICE: Get involved with as much as possible. It brings about more opportunities and provides you with amazing experiences. Being involved helps you to feel connected to others as well as an important part of the school. Also, remember that you don’t have to follow what everyone else is doing. Setting an example is what produces leadership.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Kirby Pines Retirement Home, Shine in the Dark Ministries, Cross Check Inner City Ministry, Big Brothers/ Big Sisters Christmas Bells

AhDream Smith
Central High School Senior
17 Year-old Daughter of Sheila Smith
Nominated by James A. Prewitt, Central High School

“AhDream has totally immersed herself in STUCO (Student Council) and has held several leadership positions. Last spring, she was elected to serve as the president of Tennessee Association of Student Councils (TASC) for this school year; she held office of vice president of TASC last year and spearheaded a statewide money raising effort that garnered $18,000 for the Make A Wish Foundation. At the local level AhDream serves as the leadership training coordinator and plans many activities for the group. AhDream traveled to Italy with a student group two years ago and attended prep school at Choate Rosemary (CT) this past summer. She is a member of the National Honor Society and is a William H. Sweet Honors recipient, among other memberships and honors.”

MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE: I would eliminate poverty. Supplying an ample amount of jobs that paid a sufficient amount of money where people would only have to work one job; parents would be able to spend more time with their families and instill the fundamentals. With less teens turning to the streets for attention, I believe that the crime rate and teenage pregnancy rates would both decrease.

SPIRIT AWARDS
Honoring young women who have shown courage to overcome obstacles in their lives.

Ashley Bonnin
Evangelical Christian School (ECS) Senior
17 Year-old Daughter of Max and Linda Bonnin
Nominated by Lisa Taber, ECS

“When Ashley was a young girl she took a trip to Chicago via train with her mom and some friends for the weekend. On the way back, the train derailed and Ashley was the only one to survive from her car, out of her mom and friends. Not only had she lost her loved ones but amidst the collision she also ended up losing her lower leg. However, Ashley soon realized that for some reason God had kept her alive and that she was going to serve him with her life.”

GOALS: Because of the trials God has brought me through in my life, I want to be an inspiration to others experiencing hardship and encourage them in their walk with Christ.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: I am a member of the Community Action Club at ECS. I also volunteer with Streets Ministries with my senior class and I belong to Christ United Methodist Church.

Chelsea Brown
Saint Benedict at Auburndale Senior
17 Year-old Daughter of Commander Raymond Brown and Ms. Bernella Brown
Nominated by Sharon Masterson, St. Benedict at Auburndale High School

“Chelsea came to St. Benedict High School in August of 2005 after evacuating from New Orleans and Hurricane Katrina. Even though she was away from home because of such tragic circumstances, Chelsea quickly adapted and kept well above pace in her academic endeavors and is now an integral part of her community and school. Because of her dignity and continued academic success after having to leave her home due the Hurricane Katrina disaster, Chelsea was honored by the Rotary Club with the Character Achievement Award. The honor recognized her ideal character, her superior academics and service to community.”

ADVICE: My advice for other young women my age is to never doubt themselves or the validity of their thoughts and opinions. If you believe that you have something important to say then say it.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Tutoring

Angela Chen
Hutchison School Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Nam and Allen Chen
Nominated by Terese Buscher, Hutchison School

“Angela’s parents came to America 20 years ago, her dad from China and her mom from Korea. An only child and with parents who speak little English, Angela has been thrust into the role of parent and provider. She pays the bills, manages the household, and maintains a sense of security for herself and her father. Her father has remained in Memphis but her mother works in California and sends money to Angela when she is able. Angela’s responsibilities are astounding for someone so young, yet she accepts them and continues to conquer life with passion and joy.”
ADVICE: I've learned it is important not to sweat the little things. If for some reason I cannot handle my financial obligations, I've come to realize that it's not the end of the world. It's not worth my worrying, which always affected my general disposition. Obstacles will always come, but that is how we grow.

Ashley Garrett
Briarcrest Christian High School Sophomore
16 Year-old Daughter of Dr. and Mrs. (Donna) Floyd Garrett
Nominated by Cathy Bronars, Briarcrest Christian High School

“Six years ago Ashley was diagnosed with cancer and she had another major surgery this summer. The constant smile on Ashley’s face never reveals the difficulty of her five-year struggle. Having cancer in her leg, going through chemo, surgery for a prosthetic bone in her leg and the adjustments she has had to make would be tough for a seasoned adult. Her faith in God and the wonderful support of her family have made her an incredibly loving, compassionate and hardworking person.”

ADVICE: To live life to the fullest and find joy in every single day. Always be true to yourself and never compromise your beliefs or values. Put God first in all things.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Second year member of the BCS Ambassador Program, third year participant in "The Great Day of Service," actively involved in my church youth group which raises money for missionaries overseas with our "Speed The Light Program". When given the opportunity, I also like to raise awareness of childhood cancer and speak on behalf of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Brittany-Rae Gregory
Hutchison School Senior
17 Year-old Daughter of the late Charles Gregory and Scedella Gregory
Nominated by Walter W. Reid, Pastor, St. James A.M.E. Church

“A few months after being required to leave her friends, her school, and hometown of Los Angeles because of her family's relocation to Memphis, Brittany lost her father to an incurable disease. It left her devastated, resulting in severe social withdrawal. After graduating eighth grade, hoping that a smaller setting would help Brittany overcome the withdrawal tendencies, her mother enrolled her into a smaller school. Initially, the socialization progress was slow. It was challenging to "break into" the established circles of high school girls. Finally, Brittany was on her way to joining organizations, running for offices and playing team sports.”

GOALS: I would like to own a neighborhood pharmacy in an economically disadvantaged community and help educate those residents on preventive health and the complexities of the various healthcare programs available.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Tutoring children at Guthrie Elementary, American Cancer Walk, Spanish Tutoring at Sycamore Elementary

Kate Humphrey
St. George’s Independent School Senior
16 Year-old Daughter of Tom and Bonnie Humphrey
Nominated by Anna Underwood, St. George’s Independent School

“Due to a serious illness and the severe effects of an automobile accident, Kate’s father has experienced significant setbacks to his health. As a result, Kate has found herself stepping up to take on some major responsibilities at home. Kate and her siblings have spent several weeks alone at home, where they have been in charge of all aspects involved in running a household. Kate also helps her mother regularly by cleaning, shopping for groceries, and looking after her younger brothers. She somehow finds time to take on major roles at school and in the community, like being a member of the Student Leadership Council, serving as volleyball captain for two years, working as a peer tutor, belonging to Bridge Builders, and spending at least three nights a week at her church.”

PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT: Getting a sidewalk installed in my neighborhood was an accomplishment that positively impacted my life; my ability to make a healthy and beneficial difference in my community as a whole made this accomplishment extremely meaningful to me.

Blanche Montesi
Hutchison School Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Blanche and John Montesi Jr.
Nominated by Catherine Chubb, The U of Memphis M Club

“When Blanche was in 8th grade, her father was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Treatment has caused periods of remission but he has suffered significant setbacks and continues to struggle to maintain quality of life. If that were not enough for this remarkable young woman, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer but has continued to recover. As the lone child in the house, Blanche has undoubtedly struggled with such traumatic issues. Undaunted and ever positive, Blanche continues to have a passion for life, school, and the community.”

ADVICE: Stay focused on the here and now and how you can make the best of each day. You never know what blessings or trials will come your way.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: helping to coach a 3 year-old soccer team, Freshman Bible Study

Dezannae Moore
Whitehaven High School Senior
17 Year-old Daughter of Denozianna Moore
Nominated by Charles Scott, Whitehaven High PTSA President, 2006-2007

“Dezannae’s spirit is evidence daily in the activities she so willingly continues to volunteer for during a time when her mother has been found to have cancer, the recent passing of her godfather, and in helping her older brother, who has a sleeping disorder graduate last year. She always puts others’ needs in front of her own. Dezannae’s plans to attend college, but at the same time, continue to help her younger sister, brother, mother, and give back to the community.”

ADVICE: The advice I would give other young women my age is to stay positive towards life, and don't let anyone get in the way of them accomplishing their dreams.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Yearbook Staff, Key Club, Historical Society, African Dance, PTSA, and Memphis Council PTA

Elizabeth Smith
St. Agnes Academy Senior
Nominated by Barbara Olson, St. Agnes Academy

“This past summer, as her mother began chemotherapy for aggressive breast cancer, Elizabeth realized that she needed a peer group with some of the same anxieties and worries, girls experiencing some “hard times” with which she could share similar concerns and turn them into action! She made a proposal and began ‘Helping Hands,’ an organization of students and teachers experiencing family crisis may need: meals, transportation, and other help.”

ADVICE: Live by the quote, “Everything happens for a reason.” It may seem like nothing is going your way, but if you take time to find the positive aspects everything will fall into place.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Hope Presbyterian Church Volunteer, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Volunteer, Key Club Service Activities

Jeamicka Williams
City University School of Liberal Arts Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Angela Millon
Nominated by Felicia Hartsfield, The Influence1 Foundation

“In middle school Jeamicka was told by her teacher that she was ‘slow and was never going to make anything of herself.’ The school counselor informed her that she would never pass any of the standardized tests and she would never graduate with a regular high school; she will only be eligible for an attendance certificate. Jeamicka believed both of them and totally gave up on being a successful student. She enrolled in City University School of Liberal Arts where she found out that she did not have to give up she was only starting on a journey of learning to believe in herself. Jeamicka passed her Gateway exams the first time and she will graduate with a regular high school diploma May 2008.”

PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT: Being accepted into Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas to continue my education.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: MS Walk, MS Bike Tour, March of Dimes, Operation Happy Christmas, Choices Program, Memphis Food Bank

VISION AWARDS
Honoring young women who have a clear vision for their own future or for those around them.

Patricia Black
St. Agnes Academy Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Cindy and Bruce Black
Nominated by Mary J. McNelis, Sat. Agnes Academy

“Patricia’s love of science is also demonstrated in her deep concern for the environment. For example, she uses her artistic talents to cleverly repurpose disposable food containers into useful items, such as pencil boxes. She can even turn a used potato chip bag into an adorable gift bag! As president of the Ecology Club at Saint Agnes, Patricia has organized activities such as “no-waste lunch” and Wolf River clean-up days. She also encourages student support for activities such as recycling in the classroom and at home.”

ADVICE: My advice is to live simply and try not to get caught up in the temporary trends of our materialistic society. Don’t take resources for granted and don’t waste.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Baptist East Hospital Volunteer, Smith Center- feeding the homeless, Guardian Angel Pet Rescue

Elizabeth Blankenship
Hutchison School Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Earl and Kim Blankenship
Nominated by Jenny Reid, Children’s Museum of Memphis

“An innovative and unassuming artist-scholar, Elizabeth has been accepted to the design program at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and hopes to one day create and produce her own clothing line. As President of the Fine Arts Council at Hutchison, she has established a series of free workshops in the arts for visitors to the Children’s Museum of Memphis. Thanks to the vision of this remarkable yet youthful arts advocate, children can explore their talents in music, theater, and visual arts with guidance from experienced and caring mentors.”

ADVICE: Don’t think of your dreams as just being dreams; see them as an attainable reality. You never know what’s impossible until you try.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Creating and instructing art-making workshops at the Children's Museum of Memphis, Promise Academy Christmas party

Ashleigh Buyers
St. Benedict at Auburndale Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of John and Frances Buyers
Nominated by Mary L. Stauffer, St. Benedict at Auburndale

“Ashleigh is extremely artistic. She is often called upon to share her talent as a “design consultant” for T-shirts by the classes and clubs here at SBA. She is always willing to take a group’s idea and turn it into just the right design for a shirt, banner or hall decoration. Ashleigh has the unique ability to see the potential in people, ideas and objects.”

ADVICE: I still have a lot of life to live, but in my short life I have tried to live by the following: Be nice to everyone, try something new at least twice, try to make one person smile a day, know that nothing is ever out of you reach but don't slack off assuming that what you want will just come to you, and God comes before family, family before friends and friends before anything else.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: St. Jude Club, Key Club, NHS: Academics Day, Kids Kan Food Drive, St. Anne Tutor, SGA: Leap Year Dance to Help Tornado Victims, Make-A-Wish.

Yuni Graham
St. Mary's Episcopal School Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Reginald and Yoshimi Graham
Nominated by Yvonne Overton, St. Mary’s Episcopal School

“Yuni has played piano since age 5 and has a phenomenal gift for instrumental and vocal music. She is in the school’s audition-based Chamber Ensemble and two summers ago was among the youngest students selected to the Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts in piano. Yuni also plays flute and tuba and has been an integral member of the Memphis Youth Symphony for the last two years. In an era of teenage egocentrism, angst, and drama queens, Yuni is a calming, gentle spirit. She is focused, gracious, kind, and artistic to the core.”

PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT: Performing piano at Carnegie Hall in New York City at the age of 8 seemed insignificant at the time, but now I realize how fortunate I was to receive such an honor.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Volunteering at the animal shelter, volunteering as member of the choir at church

Madelyn Jackson
Briarcrest Christian School
17 Year-old Daughter of Steven and Amy Jackson
Nominated by Joe Hamstra, Briarcrest Christian School

“In the fall of 2006, our school made a decision to help an orphanage outside Guatemala City over spring break. Madelyn immediately signed up and took the initiative to organize donated items. She helped rally the student body to not only donate critical items for the orphans but she also encouraged her classmates to go on this trip with her. She sees herself serving as a missionary in other countries and helping children who are suffering from illness, abandonment, or forced labor.”

ADVICE: My advice to young women would be to always be true to yourself, follow your dreams, and serve the Lord first, others second, and yourself last in all you do.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Food pantry at Woodland Presbyterian School ambassador, Schools for Schools with Invisible Children, Church youth group activities
 Melodie Moore
MHEA Sophomore
14 Year-old Daughter of Gary and Lorrie Moore
Nominated by Donna Abney, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare

“Melodie, ‘The Happy Harpist’ volunteered over 400 hours last year for various organizations across the Mid-South in addition to cancer centers, nursing homes, libraries, schools, Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center and Methodist Hospitals. More unusual places she performs include polling places while individuals are waiting to vote and veterinarian offices to help in healing for recuperating animals. Melodie has performed for celebrities such as the Canadian Consul General, former First Lady Barbara Bush, Naomi Judd, Queen Noor of Jordan, and Oprah Winfrey.”

PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT: Placing 4th in the National Harp Contest reminded me that God has given me a talent that can encourage and brighten someone's day and possibly change a life.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Each year I devote hours of volunteer service to the community through non-profit organizations, nursing homes, cancer centers, churches, and schools. I sing with the Voix Opera Singers. I participate as a harpist in the Memphis Youth Symphony, Tiara Tea Society, Le Bonheur Club, High Strung Harpists, and Memphis Vocal Arts Ensemble. I provide harp music in the Cannon Center lobby prior to Memphis Symphony concerts.

Molly Wilkens-Reed
Home Schooled Freshman
15 Year-old Daughter of Doug Reed and Margo Wilkens
Nominated by Janis Hightower, Girl Scout Council of the Mid-South

“Molly loves Irish Step dancing and is an orchestra violinist. Her ability to step dance was halted when she injured her foot last year. Though she’s not dancing, Molly teaches and coaches girls her craft, step dancing. One of her dreams was to be a dance teacher and now she’s doing just that. She also continues to play violin.”

ADVICE: Care fore resources by recycling, conserving, and finding ways to save our planet. Consider vegetarianism. Represent those who have no voice. Most importantly, ALWAYS stand up for what you believe.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: MIFA Meals, Girl Scouts, Founder of Molly’s Muttspet Rescue, Tutoring, Animal rights activist, political campaign worker, Trinity Lutheran Church choir member, Worship committee, Violin performing group, Belle Fille String Quartet, Prepares music folders for Memphis Youth String Orchestra

Jessica Wires
Harding Academy Senior
18 Year-old Daughter of Rachel & Chris Galbreath and Kenny & Tiffany Wires
Nominated by Patti Copeland, Harding Academy

“Stepping out of her comfort zone, one Saturday Jessica and a friend made soup and brownies to distribute to at least fifty homeless people at Morris Park in downtown Memphis. Jessica and several more friends continue to do this periodically. In December, she and her mother made a trip to Lexington, Kentucky, to learn how to start a Church Under the Bridge. Jessica plans now to spend one weekend in a shelter so that she can better understand the plight of the homeless.”

GOALS: I am attending Lipscomb University in the fall. I am majoring in Bible with an emphasis on Missions. I am going to be a missionary when I get out of college.
COMMUNITY SERVICE: I feed homeless people at Morris Park and serve meals at the Memphis Union Mission. I also keep bags of food in my car to hand out to people who are standing on the street corners asking for food.

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