R
JUNE 2018
URAL L EADER
M AG A Z I N E
2018 Twenty under Twenty Feature Issue
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Contents
3 Editor's Note
4 2018 Twenty under Twenty Honorees Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication that highlights every day people doing extraordinary things nationally and abroad. www.RuralLeaderMag.com www.GetRuralLeaderMag.com
Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, in English, or other languages, is prohibited without written consent. Send editorial ideas to Kuanita Murphy, PhD, Editor-in-Chief editor@ruralleadermagazine.com
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6 Back to Campus? Seven Tips for a Manageable College Move 9 Young 4-H Leader Makes STEM Fun and Accessible
Tell us what you think about our publications, if you have a great idea for a story, or to just share. We may print your comments in Rural Leader Magazine. By sending us your comments, you’re giving permission to call you for an interview. Please be sure to include your name, address, email address, and phone number so we can reach you. Write to us at info@ RuralLeaderMagazine.com—
Editor’s Note Dear Readers, Inside this issue, we are honoring twenty outstanding young people under 20, who have demonstrated academic excellence (See page 4). As always, I hope you enjoy this issue and continue to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google +, and LinkedIn. Thanks again for your continual support! Sincerely,
Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Photo Courtesy of TieFotos
About Us
Launched in March 2014, Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication with a mission to highlight every day people doing extraordinary things in business, education, music, community, art, sports, and leadership nationally and abroad. Rural Leader Magazine honors exemplary individuals on a variety of levels, such as the 20 under 20 Honors, 40 under 40 Honors, Best Small Town Restaurant, Small Town America’s 100 Most Influential People, the Scholars of Collegiate Distinction, Fifty under Fifty, and the Eagle Elite Club.—
What you do matters. GetRuralLeaderMag.com | June 2018 3 @RuralLeaderMag
20 TWENTY EIGHTEEN
UNDER TWENTY
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DeAntonio Brown, 17
Shelise Byrd, 10
Jaylen Carlyle, 18
Cinnamon Cody, 17
Marvin Crumbs, Jr, 18
Hometown: Dawson, GA
Hometown: Albany, GA
Hometown: Jonesboro, GA
Hometown: Dawson, GA
Hometown: Columbus, GA
STATS DeAntonio is a rising Junior at Terrell County High School. He is the son of Shanita Jones. He attends True Power Ministries Church of God, and he is a proud member of the Success For Life Youth Leadership Council. DeAntonio is the president for Skills USA and enjoys hobbies such as, singing and dancing.
STATS Shelise is rising Sophomore Honor Student at GA Connections Academy. She is an articulate and comedic actress. In addition to acting, she is a sought after singer, model and pageant queen. She has recevied a number of awards, such as Top Actress Award, 2nd Place, Miss Deborah Women's Scholarship Pageant, and the Lion's Den, 1st Runner up for Business Plan and Pitch. She is a member of Doughtery Co. 4-H. Shelise is also the CEO of KIDVID, a video editing and production company.
STATS Jalen is a 2018 Honor Graduate at Eagles Landing HS in McDonough GA. He was an A Honor Roll student with Perfect Attendance K-12. Jalen played Varsity Track, JV Basketball,&Cross-County. He received two Golden Eagle Awards, a 2018 Wendy's Heisman Male Athlete Award, & the 2018 Academic Male Athlete of the Year for ELHS. He was a member of the Youth Mentoring Council, Kappa League Male Group, Theta Math Honor Club, National Honor of HS Scholars, National Honor Society, National Beta Club. Jalen completed over 500 hours of community service hours. Future Plans Jalen will attend Tuskegee University (AL) with a 4-year scholarship August 2018 to major in Architecture.
STATS She is the daughter of Johnathan and Sander Cody. She a rising Senior at Terrell County High School. Cinnamon is also enrolled at Albany Technical College’s Duel Enrollment Program. She is a member of the Success For Life Youth Leadership Council and Sanders Gift Missionary Baptist Church. Her hobbies include reading and shopping.
STATS 2018 Honor Graduate Columbus High School Columbus, GA Crumbs is a member of the National Honor Society, National Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, English National Honor Society, and the Social Studies National Honor Society.
Future Plans Cinnamon plans to attend college and to become an entrepreneur.
Future Plans Marvin plans to attend Georgia Tech in the Fall 2018 to study Computer Science.
Future Plans He plans to enroll at Morehouse College and study Audio Visual Engineering and Psychology; He also plans to establish a business and to pursue music.
Makya G. Daniels, 18
Future Plans Shelise aspires to be an actor director, starring in and producing her own major motion pictures in the future.
Derrick Gorsuch, 18
Nikeria N. Harper, 18
Lauren Harris, 10
Jalen Holmes, 10
Hometown: Cuthbert, GA
Hometown: Cuthbert, GA
Hometown: Cuthbert, GA
Hometown: Americus, GA
Hometown: Albany, GA
STATS Makya is the daughter of LaToya Daniels and a rising Senior (2018-2019) at Randolph-Clay High School. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA to date. She received a Georgia Certificate of Merit as one of the Top 5% of her class; Makya was also Junior Class President. She was inducted into the National Beta Club and achieved Academic excellence in AP statistics & Advanced Algebra. She graduated Spring 2018 at Albany Technical College with a certificate in Culinary Arts. Future Plans Makya plans to attend Fort Valley State University and major in Criminal Justice.
STATS Derrick is a Rising Senior at Lee Co. High School & an A/B Honor Student. He volunteers with the Wolfpack Football team. He is a member of Success for Life Youth Council, Pull Em Up, Make Mentoring, Steppers for Success, & Tonya's Dance Fit Studio. Derrick is a gifted althlete. He received awards in basketball, Defensive Player of the Year & All Region Honorable Mention; in baseball, the Captain Award; in football: Most Valuable Player/ Most Courageous, 1st Team All Region Offense 1st Team, and All Region Defense/RCHS Player of the Year. Future Plans Derrick plans to attend college major in busines.
STATS Nikeria is a Rising Senior at Randolph-Clay High School & an A/B honor roll student with 3.0 GPA among the top 10 in her class. She graduated Spring 2018 at Albany Tech with a Early Childhood Care & Education certificate. She received an Early Childhood Development Good Citizenship Award; & several awards in reading & math; Nikeria is a Team Leader in the Success For Life Youth Council. Her hobbies includes, taking vacations with family, listening to music, shopping, & hanging out with friends. Future Plans Nikeria plans to attend college and to become a Registered Nurse.
STATS Lauren is a Rising 6th Grader at Sherwood Christian Academy. She is an Honors Student, who achieved both Principal & A/B Honor Roll. She received a plethera of awards in pagentry & community service such as, Atlanta Americus Awareness Humanitarian Award, & a Gold Presidential Volunteer Service Award,. She participated in the Miss America Serves Day, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, & Americus-Sumter Transitional Housing Ministries. Lauren raised over $15,000 in scholarships for young women. Future Plans Lauren plans to attened college &become a pediatric surgeon. Miss GA, & Miss America.
STATS Jalen is the son of Ava O’Neal & Taiwan Holmes. He is a rising 5th Grader & A/B honor student at Lamar Reese Magnet School. Jalen is an academic achiever, talented musician, entrepreneur, & althlete. He recevied awards for highest average in 4th grade math, GA Milestones Medals, Accelerated Reader, drama, music, & sports. Jalen has a YouTube Ch., "Family of 2" that chronicles his life in a single-parent home and owns a car detailing business, “JJ’s Car Wash”. Future Plans Jalen plans to attend Uni.of Oregon & Tuskegee Uni.to become a Marine Biologist, play in the NFL or NBA & compete in the Olympics.
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Rising Stars in Rural America Above and Beyond
Cont'd pg. 7
Back to Campus? Seven Tips for a Manageable College Move
In many areas of the country leaves are turning, apple orchards are attracting crowds, football teams are starting practice and nighttime is bringing a chill to the air. For better or worse, that means college students’ thoughts are turning to studying and everything else that goes with campus life. This year, some 15.2 million students are slated for enrollment in America’s public and private post-secondary institutions, up from 15 million last year. If you’re a student or parent, that means it may be time to transport key belongings to a new living space. That process can be emotionally bittersweet, even without the logistical challenges of packing, carrying, unpacking and installing multiple loads of gear. Fortunately, forewarned is forearmed, and there’s much you can do to make the process easier for everyone involved. Consider the following suggestions for making a move to college efficient and friction-free. 1. Be selective. When packing, use your college-provided checklist as a guide, setting aside the essential items needed to make your first term at school convenient and comfortable. Remember that college dorm rooms and apartments tend to be small, so avoid bringing unnecessary clothing, knickknacks or valuables and plan to revisit home to retrieve seasonal items later on. 2. Assemble your tools. You’re likelier to do a better job packing if the right tools are at your fingertips. Secure cardboard boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, moving blankets and/or markers well before your move, and make sure you call at least two weeks ahead to reserve your moving vehicle at PenskeTruckRental.com. A 12- to 16-foot truck is often perfectly sized to transport the contents of a dorm room or apartment, but such rentals tend to get booked up quickly during the ultra-busy summer and fall moving seasons. 6 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | June 2018
3. Identify everything. Start packing several days ahead so the process seems less burdensome, saving daily-use items for the last 48 hours. Mark the outside of packed boxes with descriptions so contents are unmistakable and will be easy to find even if mixed with other students’ belongings. 4. Keep crucial items separate. Instead of inadvertently packing away important papers, identification, credit cards, medications, glasses or contacts and other important items, set aside a “carry-on” bag you’ll keep in your car during your travels. 5. Pack your truck strategically. Use your space well by positioning heavier items in the back of your vehicle before proceeding with lighter items. That optimizes the vehicle’s power and allows you to fit smaller items into smaller spaces. 6. Drive safely. Getting behind the wheel of a moving truck need not be intimidating as long as you keep a few precautions in mind. Handling the extra size and weight requires that you avoid sharp turns, brake earlier before stopping and navigate around low branches or building overhangs. Depending on the length of your drive you may also wish to premap your route, review weather forecasts, avoid rush hour and leave yourself extra time for breaks, refueling and unloading. 7. Stay secure. Unfortunately, students are often targeted for theft during the hectic moving process. Protect your belongings by parking only in well-lit and well-attended areas when you stop, and padlocking the back doors of your vehicle when it’s not in use. Back-to-college time can be ultra-busy while filled with anticipation and hope for what lies ahead. For more tips on making your move to campus smooth and easy, visit PenskeTruckRental.com.—
Brianica Jackson, 18
Victor L. James, Jr.18
Hometown: Cuthbert, GA
Hometown: Cuthbert, GA
STATS Brianica is the proud daughter of Bridgette McClendon & Bruce Jackson. She is a 2018 Honor Graduate of Randolph-Clay High School; Brianica was Salutatorian & a Beta Club member. During her high school career, she particpated in one act play and cheerleading. She was named Homecoming Queen, Class Parliamentarian, and Prom Queen. Brianica graduated Spring 2018 at Albany Technical College with an Early Childcare and a Nurse Aide Certificate. In her spare time, she works at McDonald's and as an office aid.
STATS Victor is a 2018 Honor Graduate of Patuala Charter Academy. He was President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He also participated in Future Farmers of America, Varsity Football, Literary(Quartet),Navy JROTC, Varsity Track , and the Yearbook Committee. Victor received the following honors: Senior Superlative Graduated with Cum Laude National Honor Society, FFA State Degree Offensive Player of the Year in Football, the Coaches Award in Track, & the Panther Spirit Award in Literary. Victor completing 36 dual enrollement credit hours at ATC..
Future Plans Brianica plans to attend Albany State University (GA) in Fall 2018 and major in Middle Grades Education.
Kalyn Key, 16
Future Plans He plans to attend the Uni. of West GA with a major in Biology with intent to enroll in US Air Force after college.
Alexis Law, 18
Victoria James, 18
Trelliany Johnson, 16
Malaysia Jones, 16
Hometown: Cuthbert, GA
Hometown: Dawson, GA
Hometown: Dawson, GA
STATS
STATS Trelliany is a rising Junior at Terrell County High School. She is mighty Greenwave on the girls’ basketball team. She plays two positions, guard and forward. Trelliany is a member of TCHS softball team. She is also a member of the student council, the Success For Life Youth Leadership Council, and Crawford Baptist Church.
STATS Malaysia is the proud daughter of Synetha Roberts. She is a rising Senior at Terrell County High School. She is a cheerleader, who is a proud member and vice president of the Success For Life Youth Leadership Council, Skills USA, My Sister’s Keeper, and Raines Baptist Church. Her hobbies include being a leader, singing, planning events, and organizing stocks in retail sales.
Victoria is a 2018 Honor Graduate of Patuala Charter Academy. She is an academic achiever, talented singer, & althlete. She completed 14 dual enrollment hours at Harvard Univ. & Albany Technical College. She is a member of the National Honors Society, Society of Torch & Laurel, Georgia 4-H Clovers & Company. She received the National Academy of Future Physicians & Medical Scientists Award of Excellence. Victoria was named 2017-2018 Homecoming Queen & was among the Top 15 Nationwide in National FFA Talent. She was accepted to Harvard Division of Continuing Education Secondary Summer Program for High School Students. Future Plans She plans to attend the Uni. of West GA to obtain a Bachelors of Science Degree in Nursing & minor in Mass Communications with a concentration in Public Relations.
Amauri Mcrae, 16
Future Plans Trelliany plans to attend college and major in mathematics and biology.
Ellasia Pickett 17
Future Plans Malaysia plans to attend college and study photography, physical therapy, and athletic training.
Malik Williams, 17
Hometown: Albany, GA
Hometown: Dawson, GA
Hometown: Dawson, GA
Hometown: Dawson, GA
Hometown: Cuthbert, GA
STATS Kalyn is the proud daughter of Felisha and Willie Key, Jr. She is a rising Junior at Terrell County High School. She also attends Conyers Commodore Career Academy in Albany GA. In her spare time, Kalyn enjoys reading, cooking, and dancing.
STATS Alexis is a rising Senior at Terrell County High School. She is the daughter of Angela and Alfonzo Law. Alexis is involved in many activities. She is the President of the Success For Life Youth Leadership Council. She is a Chorus member, and Student Ambassador at TCHS, & member at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church of Pecan City. Her hobbies include tutoring, reading, writing, singing, watching sports & exploring cooking new types of food. Future Plans Alexis plans to attend 4-yeaer college & study nursing & establish a foundation for young adults who have been abused.
STATS Amauri is the daughter of Tameka and Michael Mcrae. She is a Rising Senior at Terrell County High School (2018-2019). She is a proud member of the Success for Life Youth Leadership Council. She is the secretary for FBLA and a member of Sanders Gift Greater Faith and Deliverance Church of God. Her hobbies include working at McDonald’s Restaurant, cookin, and styling hair.
STATS Ellasia is a rising Senior at Terrell County High School. She is the proud daughter of Tessi Pickett and Felton Ivey. She is a proud member of the Success For Life Youth Leadership Council. She also attends Jerusalem Baptist Church. In her spare time, she enjoys reading.
STATS Malik is a Rising Senor at (2018-2019) Randolph-Clay High School, Cuthbert, GA. He participated in Track and Field and One Act Play, during his freshman & sophmore year. He received several awards including, Most Improved in Geometry, and Most Improved in American Literature In his spare time, he enjoys working after school and hanging out with family and friends.
Future Plans Kalyn plans to attend college and major in busines and nursing.
Future Plans Amauri plans to attend Southwestern University and major in nursing. She also want to study cosmetology.
Future Plans Ellasia plans to attend Valdosta State University and major in nursing.
Future Plans Malik plans attend Albany Techncial College and major in business & trucking.
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Young 4-H Leader Makes STEM Fun and Accessible Cassandra Ivie is the founder and creator of the Incredible Machine, a curriculum and activities kit that teaches chemical, mechanical, software and electrical engineering to students in her community - and she is only 17 years old! Ivie is a 4-H leader from West Jordan, Utah, who brings hands-on STEM learning to youth in communities who may not otherwise have access to these types of projects. And her passion for STEM is contagious. She inspires those around her to become the next generation of STEM leaders our country needs. “It has been a privilege to lead these activities with local students to show them that STEM is accessible to everyone and that it is also a lot of fun. Seeing students’ faces light up when they have their ‘aha’ moment, is what it’s all about,” she said. Ivie was recently selected as the recipient of the 2018 National 4-H Youth in Action Award by the National 4-H Council. The award recognizes 4-Hers who have used the knowledge and leadership skills they learned in 4-H to create a lasting impact in their communities. Every year 4-H recognizes youth in its four pillar areas of STEM, Healthy Living, Agriculture and Citizenship. Ivie was selected as the winner for the STEM pillar award, and ultimately as the National Winner for her embodiment of the 4-H principles of learning by doing, leadership and her lasting impact on her community. With the help of sponsors like HughesNet, which delivers satellite Internet access to rural communities, 4-H is able to recognize outstanding youth like Cassandra. Cassandra’s journey began at a young age when she joined 4-H to pursue an interest in photography but through exposure to diverse topics in her club she discovered her passion for computer science. In 4-H, the largest youth organization in the U.S., students learn by doing and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles. Research shows that exposure to education and information, especially for a student in grades K-12,
often leads to increased participation in STEM programs. Cassandra recognizes how access to 4-H and other local resources impacted her and is working to address this in her local area through leading after-school programs in schools across the Salt Lake City area. This accessibility is a vital piece to empowering young people in rural and urban communities to pursue STEM. It comes in many shapes from access to after-school programming, to relatable mentors and availability of high-speed Internet connections. Increasing access to even one of these can have a lasting impact on a child. Since 2014, HughesNet and 4-H have partnered to help bring access to STEM education to more youth across the country. Their shared belief that all kids, no matter where they live, should have equal access to STEM continues to drive their work. Together they are working to prepare young people to be our future STEM leaders throughout the communities they serve while also uplifting exceptional young people, like Cassandra, who can serve as role models for kids across the country. Part of Ivie’s success teaching diverse kids about STEM through her Incredible Machine kits is making it fun and accessible for everyone. 4-H showed her that STEM learning isn’t just coding or memorizing concepts, but it involves tapping into a kid’s imagination and showing them how to use STEM concepts to create new and exciting things in almost every topic imaginable. Ivie likes to joke that she “sneaks the STEM in with the fun” but in truth she is tapping into kids’ natural curiosity to equip them with the skills needed to do anything they can imagine. The fun comes from the sense of empowerment kids get from “doing” and is what STEM and 4-H are all about. Interested in learning more or finding a 4-H club in your area? Visit www.4-H.org.—
50 UNDER
FIFTY
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