18 Under 18 – 2026

Annaleigh Richard

Senior 

Henderson County High School

Annaleigh Richard is an outstanding senior who has made a lasting impact on her school and community. She currently serves as President of the Henderson County FFA Chapter, is a member of Student Council, National Honor Society, and National Technical Honor Society, and participates in co-op placements with Henderson Economic Development and a locally owned garden center and nursery.

Through her FFA Supervised Agricultural Experience, Annaleigh focuses on Agricultural Education. She has designed and taught hands-on agricultural lessons at Thelma B. Johnson Learning Center, inspiring young students through creativity. As leader of the FFA Building Communities Committee, she played a key role to enhance the beauty of downtown Henderson, serving as the lead student organizer for the Henderson Downtown Perch decorations. Her efforts reflect teamwork and pride in her hometown.

Annaleigh is also a dedicated student-athlete. She is a four-year varsity cheerleader, a member of the competition cheer team, and an All-American UCA Cheerleader. She balances these commitments while maintaining a 3.97 GPA and completing dual-credit coursework. Her discipline and time management skills allow her to succeed academically while working multiple jobs.

She volunteers with the HCHS Cheer Team for the Goodfellows program and the Hall of Fame Sports Banquet, assists at the Henderson County Fair, supports Becknology Day through FFA, and participates in National Honor Society service projects. She has helped raise over $20,000 through her school’s student-led banking initiative to provide Thanksgiving meals, and she regularly supports the local animal adoption center and Salvation Army Angel Tree.

Annaleigh was recently named the Distinguished Young Woman of Henderson County,  a title Michaela Wilson says reflects Annaleigh’s poise, leadership, and character. “She represents her community with grace and serves as a role model for her peers, showing that young women can excel academically, serve their community, and pursue their passions with confidence.”

Jagger Koonce

7th Grade

Holy Name School

Jagger Koonce is a 13-year-old seventh-grader at Holy Name School who exemplifies excellence in academics, athletics, service, and leadership. He earns 1st Honors and is an active member of Holy Name’s Quick Recall and Social Studies and Science academic teams, demonstrating both his intellectual and teamwork skills.

Jagger is a dedicated multi-sport athlete. He plays basketball for Holy Name, where he was recently named to the 2025 All-WKAC Conference Team, and also competes in feeder basketball for Henderson County. He plays cub football for Memorial, where he was selected as a team captain, reflecting the respect of his coaches and teammates. Additionally, Jagger plays travel baseball for the Evansville Razorbacks, further highlighting his commitment and dedication as an all around athlete. 

Despite his commitment to striving for excellence as a student athlete, Jagger values serving his community, too.  As a member of the Holy Name Y-Club, he has already completed 35 service hours this school year. His volunteer efforts include Vacation Bible School, the Holy Name Fall Festival, a canned food drive benefiting St. Vincent de Paul, and Adopt-A-Child for Christmas, showing his dedication and drive to make a difference in the Henderson community. 

Jagger’s leadership extends beyond the halls of Holy Name School. He attended Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA), where he was recognized as an Outstanding Speaker and was elected Governor for 2026. This honor reflects his confidence, communication skills, and leadership abilities.

Holy Name School is proud to recognize Jagger Koonce as a well-rounded student who sets the utmost example for his classmates as a Holy Name Cardinal.

Taylor Womack

Senior 

Henderson County High School

Described by her school as a “powerhouse of leadership,” Taylor Womack is the epitome of what it means to be a leader. Taylor says leadership is her true passion, and it comes to no surprise by the achievements and ways she is involved at Henderson County High School. 

Taylor has been a Class Officer all four years of high school. She is involved in the Governor’s School of Entrepreneurship, National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America, DECA (President), Leo Club (President of Membership), Student Council, store manager, marketing manager, and office manager of Colonel Creations. Her determination doesn’t stop there as she is also part of the Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA), Henderson Cotillion, Colonel Crew, National Honor Technical Society, HOSA and the Green Dot Ambassador and Student Ambassador programs. Amanda Joyner says, “As a Student Ambassador, Taylor is the perfect representative for our school, greeting guests and sharing our spirit with confidence. What really sets her apart, though, is being the CEO of the school-based bank—a serious job where she gets to run a real business and show off her incredible management and finance skills.” 

Taylor’s leadership isn’t confined within the halls of HCHS, but rather, she takes her passion out into her community serving in a variety of ways through the Salvation Army, Matthew 25, the Chloe Randolph Foundation, Walk a Mile in Their Shoes, Rotary Field, Community Tours, Future Colonel Conversation, and Good 4 the Community. She has also served as an Elementary Volleyball League Coach and Junior Deacon at First Christian Church. 

Outside of her busy schedule, Taylor loves to travel with her family and hang out with her friends. The enthusiastic leader is also employed by Tip Top Design Company and is a certified mahjong instructor. She not only loves to play the game with her friends, but she shares her talents by teaching classes, proving she’s eager to connect with people of all ages. 

Taylor’s dedication to her academics and community involvement speaks of her character as she pursues to truly make things happen and be someone the next generation can look up to.

Ava Baker

8th Grade

South Middle School

Eighth-grader Ava Baker is a highly motivated and well-rounded student who consistently strives for excellence in academics, athletics, leadership, and service. Throughout her academic career, she has maintained straight A’s and achieved the Distinguished level on all KSA assessments for multiple years. She is enrolled in all available advanced courses and plans to attend the Early College Program during high school, with long-term goals of pursuing the health sciences track.

In addition to her academic achievements, Ava is also involved in school athletics. At South Middle, she is part of the girls soccer team and is a distance runner for the track team. She has taken her passion for soccer a step further by joining the Henderson County High School JV soccer team and the Indy Eleven Spirit travel soccer team. Her dedication to the sport demonstrates not only athletic skill, but her commitment to teamwork.  Ava plans to continue playing soccer throughout high school.

Off the field, Ava has taken on leadership roles within her school. She serves on the South Middle School Student Council, where she participates in various community service projects throughout the year and is a WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) Leader, where she has the opportunity to mentor sixth-grade students to make the transition to middle school easier. 

Ava voluntarily chose to serve as a student aide in both a sixth-grade mathematics classroom and the special needs classroom. Her willingness to give her time reflects her big heart towards others and her desire to help others succeed. 

Outside of school, Ava enjoys spending time playing soccer and being involved in her church. Her leadership and the kindness she shows to others is a clear example of wanting to make a positive impact both in and out of the classroom.

Abbi Kate Tyler

8th Grade 

Holy Name School

Abbi Kate is a student who truly exemplifies perseverance and leadership. As described by Julie Eadens, Abbi Kate “embodies grit, optimism, and a quiet kind of leadership that lifts others around her.” She is an A-B Honor Roll student, has been recognized as Cardinal of the Month, cheers on the Holy Name Cheer Team, and plays a key role on the Cardinal News team where she helps produce the recorded morning and afternoon announcements broadcast to every classroom – a responsibility that requires dependability, teamwork and poise under pressure.

Abbi Kate is also an active member of the Student Y-Club, where she serves both Holy Name School and the Henderson community. She leads not by seeking attention, but by quietly setting a strong example for her classmates. Her heart for service is evident in her volunteer work with Healing Reins Summer Camps, Holy Name Vacation Bible School, the Holy Name School Fall Festival, and by helping her Grandma bake for the Holy Name Bereavement Committee.

Outside of school and service, Abbi Kate enjoys duck hunting, deer hunting, fishing, dove hunting, playing sports, and spending time with her friends and her dog, Poppy. Her greatest passion, however, is equestrian riding at Blue Moon Stables. After four years of committed training, she recently competed in the Bridge the Barns Equestrian Show, placing first in all three classes and earning Grand Champion—a clear sign of her drive and discipline.

Born prematurely at 28 weeks and facing multiple surgeries early in life, Abbi Kate never allowed obstacles to define her. Instead, her faith, resilience, and strong support system have shaped her into a determined young leader. Holy Name is incredibly proud of Abbi Kate’s character, strength, and heart for others, and looks forward to seeing all she will accomplish in the future.

Liby Townsend

Senior

Henderson County High School

Henderson County senior Libby Townsend excels at the highest level. Academically, she has earned all A’s throughout high school, holds a 4.46 weighted GPA, and is currently ranked at the top of her senior class. She has challenged herself with an extensive course load that includes Advanced, AP and Dual Credit classes, and she achieved an ACT score of 35 twice, with a 36 superscore. Libby was also selected as a Governor’s Scholar participant at Centre Campus. A science instructor described her as hardworking, punctual, enthusiastic, and always willing to help others.

Libby is actively involved in school organizations. As a member of the Academic Team, she is known for her selflessness and commitment to team success and has earned numerous awards. Through the FFA program, she participates in monthly meetings, the annual farmers’ breakfast to raise mental health awareness, Murray and UK Field Days with the Vet Science Team, and the State Quizbowl where she finished in 2nd place.  

Libby has gained valuable experience and knowledge that aligns with her goal of becoming a veterinary pathologist through both the FFA and the Agriculture program’s Animal Technology pathway. 

Beyond the classroom, Libby cares for the school’s rabbits, helps with school landscaping, and participates in a co-op internship at The Animal Hospital. She also enjoys reading, writing, art, video games, music, collecting eclectic items, spending time with friends and family and relaxing with her cat, Patches.

Libby plans to attend Murray State University in the pre-veterinary program. Her compassion, work ethic, and determination ensure she will make a meaningful impact wherever her future takes her.

Shelby Sellers

8th Grade 

North Middle School

Shelby Sellers is a driven and creative eighth-grader who is actively involved in her school and community. She participates in Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA) and Kentucky United Nations Assembly (KUNA), where she enjoys learning about leadership, government, and teamwork, and she is also a member of the Cadet News Team. Her hard work and positive attitude recently earned her a nomination for Student of the Month in November. For the past two years, Shelby has proudly served as a Student Ambassador at North Middle School, representing her school with dedication and enthusiasm.

Outside the classroom, Shelby is passionate about staying active. She loves playing softball and participates in Hype Hop Dance Fitness, combining movement and music—an activity that has inspired her hopes of becoming an instructor one day. She is also a member of her school choir. Her love of music plays an important role in her life, using it as a way to express herself creatively. Shelby also loves cats—especially her 5-year-old cat, Goldie, who is her best friend.

Shelby’s determination doesn’t stop there as she is an aspiring entrepreneur as well. Three months ago, she launched her own small business, Glow Girl Charms, a charm bar that highlights her creativity and business skills as a young entrepreneur. Looking ahead, she hopes to become a photographer, blending her artistic eye with her love for capturing special moments.

According to North Middle School teacher, Amanda Conrad, Shelby’s confidence has grown tremendously over the past year. She says Shelby hypes up her friends, demonstrates leadership, and is truly an asset to her school and community. 

Shelby’s journey inspires other young students to pursue their passions. Through her leadership, creativity and determination, Shelby Sellers will make a lasting impact wherever she goes.

Deandre Marcelin

Senior 

Henderson County High School

Deandre “Dre” Marcelin is an accomplished senior at Henderson County High School who excels academically, athletically, and creatively, ranking 5th in his senior class. He has successfully completed End of Program Assessments in both Electrical and Electronics Engineering and Civil Engineering. He won the Kentucky TRIO State Scholars Bowl Championship in Winter of 2025 and is a proud member of the National Honor Society.

Dre’s accomplishments aren’t confined between the walls of HCHS as he is also a dedicated soccer player with a lifelong passion for the sport. He played for Henderson County High School Boys Soccer from 2022–2025, winning Academic All-District, the Best Teammate Award, and the 100% Award, as nominated by his peers. These awards showcase his leadership and teamwork. Coach Benson Pryor said, “Dre is a great young man and was a joy to have as a member of the soccer program. He brought his best every day.” Dre has also competed with the Western Kentucky Soccer Association and currently plays for Indy Eleven Spirit, continuing to challenge himself athletically.

Dre’s creative mind and intellectual ability support his vast interests including longboarding, model building, drawing, collage art, sewing, knitting, painting, and tinkering with electronics. He enjoys upcycling and technology refurbishment, bringing new life to old objects – driven by a desire to understand how things work. He also volunteers annually to help place Memorial Day crosses in Central Park, showing his respect for service and support in his community. 

Guided by his personal motto, “La Pasion,” he approaches everything with passion and conviction. Dre expresses he is motivated not by accolades, but by a genuine desire to understand the world around him – proving he can achieve anything through his commitment to hard work and dedication.

Carolina Delgadillo

Sophomore 

Henderson County High School

Carolina is an exceptional and driven student who consistently strives for excellence in everything she does. Born in San Francisco, California, she moved to Henderson, Kentucky with her family in sixth grade and has since become a respected young leader among her classmates. She maintains an outstanding 4.0 GPA, excelling academically while pursuing her passion for filmmaking, which guides her pathway studies at Henderson County High School.

Carolina is known for her kindness and confidence, qualities that naturally draw others to her. Her family says she is a guiding light to her younger brothers, Xavier and Remmy. She is a caring and focused young lady who is always willing to give a helping hand. 

She is actively involved in numerous school organizations, including Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA), Mock Trial, Henderson County Council, and Colonel Media, and plans to join Track and Kentucky United Nations Assembly (KUNA). She has also participated in Future Problem Solving, Journalism, and FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America), demonstrating her wide range of interests and skills and showcasing her intelligence. Carolina volunteers her time through the library and her church, reflecting her commitment to service. 

Carolina’s hard work and dedication earned her the  honor of being selected as a winner to Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Outside of school, Carolina enjoys photography, writing, and studying law and government. Looking ahead, she hopes to attend the University of Denver or Sarah Lawrence College in New York to study law, English, or political journalism.

With her leadership, compassion, and ambition, Carolina is well on her way to making a meaningful impact wherever her future leads.

Junior Crawford

Junior 

Henderson County High School

Junior Crawford is quickly emerging as a leader among his classmates at Henderson County High School. According to his construction teacher, Tony Rutledge, Junior stands out academically and professionally, especially in his Construction 2 class, where his strong work ethic, eagerness to learn, and positive attitude have set him apart. He earned the role of Student Ambassador this year because of his leadership and dedication in the classroom. As a CTE recruiter, he is able to represent the construction program with pride and responsibility. 

Junior is highly involved in school activities, participating in football in the position of linebacker and construction. He demonstrates teamwork, discipline, and perseverance both on and off the field. Outside of school, he remains equally committed to his personal growth through Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and going to the gym. These personal commitments highlight both his self-discipline and determination.

Junior’s drive to excel continues through his entrepreneurial journey. He is the owner and operator of Shine N’ Drive Auto Detailing LLC, a successful auto detailing business he manages as only a junior in high school. Through this venture, Junior has developed strong communication skills, professionalism, and an understanding of customer service. Tony Rutledge expresses Junior’s ability to connect with people as one of his greatest strengths—he is approachable, likable, and confident both personally and professionally.

His entrepreneurial mindset is to always seek out new ways to learn and improve each day. He is said to be a driven leader focused on growth and long-term success. His leadership, discipline, and ambition make him a positive influence on those around him.

Looking to the future, Junior plans to attend trade school where he can continue to better himself. He represents his school and community as a motivated student, leader, and young business owner with a bright future ahead.

Brayden Bradley

Senior 

Henderson County High School 

Brayden Bradley is a highly accomplished senior at Henderson County High School whose academic achievement, athletic excellence, and commitment to service set him apart. As a participant in the Early College Program, Brayden has challenged himself with rigorous coursework and will graduate high school with over 70 college credit hours already completed—an accomplishment that speaks to his discipline, intelligence, and motivation.

Academically, Brayden has earned honor roll recognition every year, a 4.78 weighted GPA, and a 32 composite ACT score. His achievements also include the Judges Scholar Award, National College Board Recognition, and First-Generation Recognition Award, reflecting both his drive and determination.

Brayden is equally distinguished in athletics. He has been an Allstar cheerleader for 10 years, training with Supreme Athletics in Evansville for the past seven. He is a two-time Allstar Worlds Champion, earning gold medals and championship rings at the All Star Worlds Championship in Orlando, Florida where he competed on two different teams. This season, he competes on Senior Level 4 Coed and Senior Level 5 Coed teams, both of which have already secured bids to the 2026 championship. His Senior Level 5 team also earned National Champion jackets at the WSF national competition in Louisville, KY. These achievements reflect his perseverance and teamwork.

In addition, Brayden has been involved in leadership and service, completing over 20 hours volunteering through nursing homes, Salvation Army bell ringing, church cleanups, fundraising events for disabled youth, and community college events. He has been an active member of both HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) and FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) for two years, as well as the National Honor Society.

Brayden is said to uphold high standards of scholarship, leadership, service and character, proving the sky is the limit for Brayden’s journey.

Abby Davis

Senior 

Henderson County High School

Abby Davis is a driven and compassionate senior at Henderson County High School who strives academically, leads with integrity, and serves her community with dedication. She consistently challenges herself through a rigorous schedule of Advanced and AP courses, approaching her studies with diligence and perseverance. Abby says, “I love learning and am excited to start my undergraduate degree in biology next year with plans to pursue a graduate degree in the medical field.”

Abby’s leadership extends throughout her school and community where she has been involved in the Kentucky Youth Association, Kentucky United Nations Assembly, Health Occupations Students of America, Student Ambassadors, and the National Honor Society. She is also active in Y-Club and Commonwealth Teen Advocates, where she uses her voice to engage in meaningful civic discussion and advocacy. Additionally, Abby competes in Henderson County High School Track and Field, balancing athletics with her academic and leadership commitments.

Despite Abby’s busy schedule, she makes time for what is important to her which includes volunteering six hours a week at the Henderson Hagan Boys and Girls Club, serving as a positive role model for younger students. She has also volunteered with Matthew 25, St. Vincent de Paul, New Hope Animal Shelter, and supported fundraising for pediatric cancer treatment and school-based fundraisers at North Middle School. Her consistent service reflects her genuine compassion for others.

In her spare time, Abby is an avid reader with a personal library of over 200 books. She is a self-taught pianist, and enjoys creative writing, baking, strength training, and spending time with her family and dogs.

Abby Davis leads with purpose and optimism. Warm-hearted, humble, and considerate, she is poised to achieve anything she sets her mind to wherever her journey may lead.

Tyce Magnus Smith

Senior 

Henderson County High School 

Tyce Magnus Smith is a senior at Henderson County High School and a motivated student who excels academically, creatively, and athletically. 

Tyce has challenged himself through a demanding course load that includes Advanced, AP, and Dual Credit classes, earning a 3.24 weighted GPA. He has been named to the A/B Honor Roll every year and recognized as Student of the Month twice. Tyce has completed the School of Fine Arts (SoFA) pathway by completing an art class in each of his four years at HCHS. His Art instructor expressed, “Tyce is an incredible artist! He is multitalented and has his own unique style.” His simple yet layered style is appealing to all students in the Art realm. This has opened opportunities for teaching art to gifted middle school students. Through SoFA, his work has been displayed and sold at community events such as Art Hop and Fright Night.

Tyce is highly involved in school and community activities. He is a member of DECA, gaining insight into business and marketing careers. He had the opportunity to travel to New York City with DECA as a freshman where they had an extensive itinerary for sight-seeing and educational activities. He has also participated in Future Problem Solving and Comic Book Club. 

Athletically, Tyce played football at South Middle School for one year and HCHS for two years, ran track for two years, and earned recognition in 2024 as one of the “Top 10 Fastest Sophomores” and “Top 25 Fastest High Schoolers” in Kentucky. He also plays baseball outside the school system.

Tyce balances these commitments while working as a manager at the Deaconess Sports Complex in Henderson, and running a vintage clothing business. He also values family and being a positive role model to his little brother spending countless hours of quality time with him and preparing for games, while also caring for his older brother with autism by taking him shopping and to get his favorite foods.

Tyce is a talented and driven student who will undoubtedly make a positive impact wherever his future leads.

Alyssa Woodard

Sophomore

Henderson County High School

Alyssa Woodard is a dedicated and well-rounded sophomore at Henderson County High School who excels in academics, leadership, service, and athletics. She maintains a 3.88 unweighted GPA, reflecting her strong work ethic and commitment to learning.

Alyssa is an active leader in Future Farmers of America (FFA), where she serves as Sentinel and Recreation Committee Chair. In this role, she brings creativity and energy to meetings by designing engaging activities that build teamwork and school spirit. Her leadership was highlighted when she organized a Clue-inspired team challenge that had students racing around the school solving puzzles – an activity that showcased her imagination, organizational skills, and ability to cultivate a fun, positive environment.

Alyssa’s commitment to community service is evident through her volunteer work at New Hope Animal Rescue where she not only donates her time but also leads fundraisers such as “Suckers for Strays” and “Pretzels for Pups.” These events help raise essential funds for animal care and purchasing vital materials and supplies. She also volunteers in nursery at her church and with 4-H activities and 4-H camp, demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility and compassion for others. 

Athletically, Alyssa is a valued member of the HCHS Colonel Archery Team and participates in 4-H Bullseye Brigade, where she displays perseverance and teamwork. Beyond her academic and athletic endeavors, Alyssa enjoys arts and crafts, crocheting, swimming, boating, kayaking, and spending time at the lake. Her love for animals has inspired her future goal of working in an animal-related field someday. 

According to Alyssa Duckworth, Alyssa “stands out for her kindness, enthusiasm, and eagerness to learn. She leads with humility, serves with heart, and always strives to make a positive impact on those around her.”

Jayden Crook

Junior 

Henderson County High School 

Jayden Crook is an outstanding Culinary student at Henderson County High School who is dedicated to service and leadership both inside and outside the classroom. She plays an important role in the CTE Culinary program, serving as a CTE recruiter – showcasing the program to incoming students. Her creativity and attention to detail are especially evident in the events she has helped to assist with. According to her Family and Consumer Science teacher, Angela Gillihan, Jayden designed and set up a beautiful culinary display for the middle school recruitment fair—an effort that helped make Culinary one of the most popular program choices for the students. She is always willing to help wherever needed, whether during the school day or after hours.

Beyond the classroom, Jayden regularly volunteers her time to support culinary events, including assisting at the Taste of Christmas held at Henderson Community College, which benefited the Volunteer and Information Center. She is an active member of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) and has been involved for two years. Through FCCLA, Jayden participates in numerous community service projects, such as gift-wrapping events at the Homestead Shelter and involvement in the Henderson County Christmas Parade.

In her spare time, Jayden enjoys cooking and baking, further developing her culinary skills. She also volunteers with the youth ministry at Highland Baptist Church, where she and her family attend. She enjoys spending quality time with her mother and loves when they have the chance to go shopping together. 

Jayden was born in Tennessee, grew up in Henderson, spent two years of high school in Muhlenberg County, and has since returned to Henderson to complete her junior year.

Kind, dependable, and service-minded, Jayden Crook is a positive presence in her school and community and continues to make a meaningful impact through her dedication and generosity.

Jaxon Robinson

Senior 

Henderson County High School 

Jaxon “Jax” Robinson is an inspiring senior at Henderson County High School who exemplifies perseverance, leadership, and gratitude. He was born with Pierre Robin Syndrome, and from an early age faced significant medical challenges. He has had over 30 surgeries including cleft palette reconstructions and hip and leg surgeries. Despite his parents being told he might never walk, talk, hear or see well, Jax has overcome extraordinary obstacles through determination and faith. 

Motivated by his own experiences, Jax aspires to pursue a career in the medical field. He is already taking steps toward that goal by working as a CNA at Redbanks, where he provides compassionate care, as well as working as a host at Cracker Barrel. He exemplifies professionalism and empathy, reflecting appreciation for the care he once received himself. 

Jax serves as a Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Officer, Region 1 President, and Local Chapter President, demonstrating his drive and commitment to student success. He is also a Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Leader, Student Ambassador, and an active member of Student Council. Through these roles, Jax leads by example and encourages others to reach their potential.

Service is a key attribute of Jax’s character. He participates in numerous community projects, including Terror on the Trail, the Suicide Awareness Walk with Infinite Hope, South Heights Trunk or Treat, and many FBLA-led service initiatives. He approaches every opportunity with humility and a desire to give back.

Outside of school, Jax values family and friends, enjoys traveling and new adventures, and is known for his easygoing, fun-loving personality. He never meets a stranger and lives life with joy and gratitude. 

Despite the battles he has faced, Jaxon Robinson perseveres with an unwavering spirit. He is a true epitome of what it means to overcome adversity and his journey is a powerful testament to resilience, leadership, and hope.

Sophie Pressley

Senior 

Henderson County High School

Sophie Pressley is an accomplished senior at Henderson County High School who has excelled academically, entrepreneurially, and in community leadership throughout her four years at HCHS. She maintains a 4.13 weighted GPA and has served as a Class Officer every year, reflecting the trust and respect of her peers.

An entrepreneur at heart, Sophie owns and operates “Sophie’s Shaved Ice” in downtown Henderson alongside her sister, gaining hands-on business experience. She is also deeply involved in business and leadership organizations, including DECA, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Student Council, National Honor Society, Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA), Student Ambassadors, City of Henderson Ambassadors, Henderson Cotillion, Colonel Creations and more. Her achievements include being a DECA National Qualifier (2023–2025), DECA State Champion (2024, 2025), and the highest DECA point earner in school history. She has also earned recognition such as Ms. Freshman, ACT 30+ Club, All-District Academic Team, and Homecoming Court.

Aside from her rigorous academic commitments, she is dedicated to serving her community. This year alone, she volunteered with organizations including the Salvation Army, Volunteer and Information Center, YMCA, Answer Center, New Hope Animal Shelter, and the WARM Center. Her most meaningful project, Beyond Blood Sugar, reflects her passion for advocacy. Through this initiative, Sophie organized Henderson’s first Type 1 Diabetes Awareness Walk through fundraising efforts and helped place diabetic safety boxes in the classrooms to ensure a safe school environment for students like her brother, Hudson. 

Outside of school, Sophie enjoys spending time with family and friends and working at Hometown Roots, Locally Loved Boutique, and her own business.

A student who is driven, compassionate, and highly motivated, Sophie Pressley is a leader who is passionate about making a positive difference in both her school and community.

Hayden Turner

Senior 

Henderson County High School 

A senior at Henderson County High School, Hayden demonstrates outstanding character, leadership, and dedication in academics, athletics, and service.

Academically, Hayden excels while managing a rigorous schedule, earning an impressive 4.09 GPA. He is enrolled in the Health Science Pathway and completes his Work-Based Learning experience at Baker Family Chiropractic, where he displays professionalism, responsibility, and a genuine interest in healthcare. His strong work ethic and ability to connect in a positive manner with patients and staff reflect his maturity and commitment to learning. For the past two years, Hayden also served as a Health Science Ambassador, where he has played a key role in recruiting and promoting this program to prospective students. He has been inducted into the National Honor Society and earned multiple academic athletic honors at both the district and state levels.

Athletically, Hayden is a dedicated varsity football player, recently completing his senior season while contributing on offense, defense, and special teams. He is known for his leadership, sportsmanship and being a team player, earning him the Coaches Award in 2024. He is now preparing for varsity baseball, where he pitches and plays third base and outfield. Hayden’s ability to balance athletics with academics and extracurriculars is a testament to his discipline, time-management skills and drive to work hard at everything he is involved in. 

Outside the classroom, Hayden is actively involved in a variety of clubs, service projects, and volunteering in the community through fundraising and mowing lawns free of charge for the elderly. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, hunting, fitness, karaoke, and spending time with friends and family.

HCHS staff member, Dana Alves, says Hayden “is respectful, hardworking, and dependable. He leads by example and consistently shows integrity in everything he does.”