Author's Note: This story includes excerpts from a story in the Thomasville Times-Enterprise E-Paper

The Rotary Club of Thomasville recognized students of the quarter last month. Certificates were presented to Brookwood, Thomasville High School, and Thomas County Central students who were nominated by their teachers. Youth Services Director Chandler Giddes explained the students exemplified what Rotarians stand for. “They are character pillars of honesty, good students, good athletes, and service in school,” he said.

Each had an opportunity to tell a little about themselves. THS Senior Emma Poole will study at Kennesaw next year and said, "Time at Thomasville High School and the Scholar’s Academy has taught me a lot about how to succeed both academically and in my own personal life. I will always remember the unwavering support I’ve received from my teachers and administrators.”

Brookwood's Emily Grace Tuten has immersed herself in clubs, organizations, and sports, dedicating her time and commitment to serving her classmates. “A huge part of who I am involves commitment,” she said. “I’ve found that true commitment inspires people. Brookwood has taught me this, and I truly value it.” She plans to study law in the future.

For Brookwood senior Katherine Jones, art is a large part of her life inside and outside the classroom. As a lover of the arts, Jones plans to attend Auburn University in the fall and major in architecture, so she can continue to enjoy her greatest passion for the rest of her life.

TCC's Braxton White has been a part of the County School System his entire life and is thankful for the countless teachers who pushed him forward to be the best he could be. With the education gained at TCC, White told the club he plans to attend the University of Georgia in the fall and major in Engineering.

Senior Veronica Vanlandingham, also a senior at TCCHS, brought along her dad, who she said inspired her with what she wants to do next, along with her teacher, Maria Pittman. With Pittman and her father’s encouragement, Vanlandingham announced she will be attending Valdosta State University in the fall where she will major in Computer Science.

TCC senior Sara Connell credited teacher Amy Ponder with making a huge difference in her time at TCCHS. “I took her class for AP Psychology and came back this year to take AP Art History because my senior year would not have been the same without her,” Connell said. Sara is an AP Scholar of Distinction, and will be attending UGA to study Politcal Science.