Optimist Club of Knoxville salutes 18 students for community service
By Steve Williams
The Optimist Club of Knoxville’s annual recognition of local high school students for their outstanding community service was held Friday, Dec. 5, during a luncheon at The Bearden Banquet Hall.
School counselors and administrators selected their most deserving students based on the hours of service given to their school and community. One student from each of the 18 high schools were honored.
The Optimist Club of Knoxville has had this recognition since 1957.
“The ceremony was inspirational to everyone in attendance,” said John Meade, who is on the Optimist Club of Knoxville Board and headed up the Youth Appreciation Week event. “Thank you, students for a job well done.”
The 18 honorees were:
Austin-East Magnet High School
Vanae’ Brown
Vanae’ is a senior at Austin-East whose high school journey has been defined by her deep commitment to learning, her desire to uplift others, and her unwavering belief in using her gifts to serve her community. A standout scholar, Vanae has taken rigorous Honors, AP, and Dual Enrollment courses through Pellissippi State and has maintained a 4.0 GPA. She will graduate in the top 10% of her class. Beyond her academic success, Vanae uses her knowledge to support and empower others. As a member of TRIO, Project GRAD, the KAUL National Achievers Society, and as an 865 Student Ambassador and Girl Talk Life Prep Academy member, she mentors peers, fosters growth and models resilience each day.
Vanae’s leadership extends well beyond the classroom. She serves as president of P.I.N.K. Ladybugs, an all-girls social and attendance club that cultivates sisterhood and academic focus. She also serves as a student manager for both the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams, dances with the Austin-East Dance Company, and performs with the Silky Divas Marching Band.
Her dedication to service is equally noteworthy. Vanae volunteers with the City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department, KARM, the FISH Pantry, and the Sherrill Hills Retirement Center, all while maintaining multiple jobs at UT Medical Center and the Knoxville Smokies Baseball Stadium. These experiences have strengthened her work ethic and deepened her compassion, empathy, and desire to uplift the lives of others. Vanae consistently shows up for her community with love, integrity, and a genuine commitment to making a meaningful difference.
Vanae’s accomplishments have earned her recognition for perfect attendance, consistent academic excellence, and selection into the Brown University Pre-College Program. She hopes to major in Criminal Justice and later attend law school to become a criminal lawyer, continuing her lifelong commitment to fairness, service, and equity.
Vanae’ Brown is more than an outstanding student—she is a role model, a mentor, and a bright light in every space she enters. Her leadership, compassion, and dedication to service make her a truly deserving nominee for the Optimist Club’s Service to Humanity Award.
Bearden High School
Thatcher Ella
Thatcher, a senior at Bearden, is an exceptionally well-rounded young man whose leadership and service reflect both depth of character and a genuine desire to better the world around him. His journey at Bearden—rising from freshman class secretary to student body president—demonstrates not only his ability to lead but the confidence and respect he inspires among his peers.
A committed servant-leader, Thatcher’s community engagement is rooted in both humility and gratitude. His involvement in Sequoyah Hills Presbyterian Church has strengthened his character and broadened his interpersonal skills. A transformative mission trip to Costa Rica allowed him to apply his Spanish language abilities to connect with others, deepen cultural understanding, and support service initiatives abroad.
Thatcher’s intellectual curiosity is equally impressive. His love for Appalachian culture, his musical talent as a violinist, and his pursuit of Spanish language studies reveal a student who values creativity, culture and global awareness. His academic record—highlighted by a 4.49 GPA and a top 3% class ranking—speaks to both his work ethic and his ability to engage deeply with learning. Through the Youth Leadership Knoxville program, Thatcher contributed to the “Giving Project” with Centro Hispano, applying academic knowledge to real-world challenges in meaningful ways.
Known for his humility, lightheartedness and genuine nature, Thatcher has a remarkable ability to bring positive energy into every environment. His interpersonal skills, strong initiative and willingness to learn make him not only an excellent student but an exceptional human being.
Christian Academy of Knoxville
Brooke Atkins
Brooke is a senior at Christian Academy of Knoxville whose heart for service is demonstrated through an extraordinary breadth of experiences totaling over 800 hours across numerous organizations. She spent four weeks at Lake Champion, volunteering as a housekeeper to support camp operations for more than 500 attendees and returned twice as part of the weekend crew. At East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, she served as a VolunTeen in both summer and hospital sessions, supporting HEMONC patients at Camp Eagle’s Nest and assisting with patient playrooms, carts and daily activities. Her leadership expanded when she was selected to serve on the VolunTeen Leadership Council, helping manage the program, support recruitment and present budget reports—combining leadership with her commitment to pediatric care. Brooke also served as a counselor for middle school girls at Camp Eagle’s Nest.
Brooke’s service extends further into the Knoxville community through Teen Board of Knoxville, where she volunteered in various capacities with over 30 partner nonprofits, including Fantasy of Trees, Wreaths Across America, and multiple charitable programs. She has also served internationally on a mission trip to Guatemala, where she helped run a children’s soccer camp and assisted families in food distribution efforts.
At CAK, Brooke is equally dedicated. She has led bi-weekly Bible studies for middle school girls served as a Teen Advisor to freshmen offering guidance on peer pressure, substance abuse, and family dynamics, and played a major role in running CAK’s volleyball camps for four years—eventually directing the elementary program and creating drills and camp plans.
Brooke is known for her conscientiousness, humility, and exceptional ability to balance numerous commitments with excellence. Her achievements reflect not only her dedication but her heart for lifting others and making every environment better.
Brooke stands out because of her remarkable capacity to serve, lead, and inspire across a wide range of ministries and community programs. Her selflessness, strong work ethic, and breadth of service make her an outstanding representative of CAK and a deserving nominee for the Service to Humanity Award.
Carter High School
Jenna Wilson
Jenna is a standout senior at Carter whose dedication shines through in every area of her academic and extracurricular life.
Jenna plans to pursue a career in marketing, and she has already begun laying the foundation for that goal through hands-on service opportunities with her marketing instructor. She consistently steps into leadership roles within her school, demonstrating responsibility, initiative, and a strong work ethic across academics, athletics, and service. A multi-sport athlete, Jenna competes in varsity volleyball and softball while also managing a rigorous academic schedule that includes dual-enrollment and AP courses. In addition to her athletic and academic commitments, she serves on the yearbook staff, contributing her creativity and organizational skills to the school community. Jenna is known for giving back in meaningful ways, using her talents and time to lift others and make a positive impact.
Knoxville Catholic High School
Kailin McEnery
Kailin is an exceptional senior at Catholic whose service, leadership, and compassion have left a meaningful impact on both her school and the broader East Tennessee community. She has devoted over 200 hours to Shangri-La Therapeutic Academy of Riding (STAR), an organization serving children and adults with physical, mental, and neurological disabilities across multiple counties. Through her years at STAR, Kailin has assisted with equine-assisted therapeutic programs, supported riders with special needs, and contributed to the day-to-day care of the horses and facilities. Her dedication earned her STAR’s “Barn Helper of the Year” award, and she is currently preparing to step into a captain role for the morning barn rotation.
Kailin’s service extends well beyond STAR. At Catholic, she is a valued member of the Class of 2026 and consistently steps up to support schoolwide service projects and activities during Spirit Week. She is active in the robotics program and volunteers in multiple school initiatives, including helping teachers set up Chromebooks at the elementary school level. Her willingness to help, steady work ethic, and quiet leadership make her someone others naturally rely on.
Those who know Kailin describe her as dependable, compassionate and deeply committed to serving others. She leads by example—through action rather than attention—and her genuine care for individuals with special needs reflects a maturity far beyond her years. Her dedication, humility and consistent service make her a standout representative of Knoxville Catholic High School and a deserving nominee for the Optimist Club’s Service to Humanity Award.
Central High School
DJ Smith
DJ is a senior at Central High School whose character is defined by kindness, humility and a genuine desire to uplift others. He spends much of his time volunteering with the special needs students at Central High School, where he serves as a peer tutor and a steady source of encouragement. His impact extends beyond the school walls, as he also volunteers with Life Church in Knoxville, and gives of his time at the elementary and middle schools in Fountain City. DJ approaches every role with patience, attentiveness and a servant’s heart, always ready to help wherever he is needed.
Within his school community, DJ’s presence is felt deeply. He is the type of student who makes Central High School feel like a family—someone who notices when others need support and quietly steps in to offer it. His empathy and ability to celebrate the successes of others as if they were his own speak to the depth of his character. DJ’s steady, uplifting influence has made a meaningful difference in the lives of his peers, teachers and the students he serves.
DJ exemplifies the traits of a true servant leader. He leads not through attention or recognition, but through example—putting others first, working hard, and showing what it means to care deeply for those around him. His humility, strong work ethic, and genuine compassion distinguish him as a student whose life reflects the values of service and community.
DJ Smith was chosen for this recognition because he embodies what it means to be a Bobcat: to serve, to lead, and to uplift others. His selflessness and dedication are part of what makes Central High School such a special place, and his influence will continue to inspire long after graduation.
Farragut High School
Ella Schlomer
Ella’s high school experience has been defined by her unwavering commitment to service and ministry. Through her church, the Farragut senior has participated in a wide variety of outreach opportunities that have strengthened her faith and desire to serve others. Whether improving homes through Operation Backyard, working in her church’s community garden, or serving on mission trips that allowed her to engage new cultures, Ella has demonstrated a genuine heart for helping those in need. Her work with younger children during Vacation Bible School, plays and worship events has given her the chance to mentor, guide and support others—experiences that have shaped her into a compassionate and intentional leader.
At Farragut High School, Ella is deeply involved in leadership roles that foster growth within the school community. She has served as the basketball team manager for seven years, consistently helping coaches and players with equipment, practice setup, and game-day operations. Her commitment has taught her responsibility, organization, and the value of teamwork behind the scenes. Ella also plays a major role in planning and leading events for the school’s student leadership program. Most notably, she helped create Friends on the Field and Anchors of Hope, inclusive events designed for students with disabilities in the CDC program to connect with their peers through games, activities, and team-building experiences. Her leadership helped cultivate a joyful, unified environment where every student felt valued and celebrated.
Ella’s dedication extends to the broader school community as well. She works in the school store—the Admiral Outlet—gaining real-world leadership and customer service experience, and she is a proud member of the National Honor Society. As a peer tutor, a Hope Squad member, and a student known for her kindness, Ella consistently checks on classmates and treats every person with respect. Her teachers describe her as someone who sees the needs of others before her own and responds with humility, patience, and genuine love.
Ella was chosen for this award because she embodies the true spirit of servant leadership. She gives of herself freely, joyfully, and with the purest intentions. Her energy, compassion and willingness to lift others are contagious. Ella leaves every space better than she found it—bringing unity, warmth and encouragement to those around her. She has made a profound impact on her school, her church, her community and the people fortunate enough to know her.
Fulton High School
Aracely Bartolo
Aracely is an outstanding senior at Fulton whose heart for service is evident in every organization she touches. She has volunteered more than 40 hours at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, assisting with renovations, supporting event setup, selling food and drinks, and staying afterward to help clean and restore the space for parishioners. Her willingness to take on any task—big or small—reflects her maturity, humility and desire to help others.
Her service extends throughout the community, especially through her work as an apprentice at Zoo Knoxville, where she has volunteered since January 2025. Aracely also gives her time at the Muse and the Knoxville Museum of Art, helping with children’s activities and community events. Whether she’s coordinating cleanup efforts, assisting families or managing responsibilities behind the scenes, Aracely serves with generosity and a quiet leadership that inspires those around her.
At Fulton High School, Aracely is equally impressive. She is balancing a demanding academic schedule that includes AP and dual enrollment courses along with specialized training to earn her APCO 911 Telecommunications Certificate through her Criminal Justice class. Despite her rigorous coursework, Aracely remains a dependable, uplifting presence among her peers. Teachers note that she consistently sets a positive example, offers help without being asked, and strives for excellence in everything she pursues.
Aracely stands out as a quiet leader—someone who understands the power of encouragement, respect, and steady effort. She is well respected by both faculty and classmates, not because she seeks attention, but because she consistently shows kindness and integrity in every environment.
She plans to attend the University of Tennessee next year, where she will major in Mechanical Engineering, continuing her commitment to problem solving, perseverance and service.
Gibbs High School
Mikel Van Pelt
Mikel Van Pelt is a senior at Gibbs who has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to service throughout his high school years, giving generously of his time both on campus and throughout the Knoxville community. As student council president during his junior and senior years, and vice president as a sophomore, he has completed more than 45 hours of community service as well as stepping up to support any need that arises within the school.
A three-year varsity starter and captain of the Gibbs Soccer Team, as well as a senior captain for the Gibbs Football Team, Mikel uses athletics not just as a platform for competition, but as a way to serve others. He volunteers weekly at Moreland Heights Elementary, referees parks and recreation soccer games, reads to kindergarteners at Ritta Elementary, helps with Gibbs Middle School Bible Club, and supports special community projects such as mulching yards for disadvantaged families. During snowy winter weather, Mikel and his family deliver snow sleds to children in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. He has also helped feed the homeless at the downtown shelter and volunteered at a youth football camp hosted by the GHS football team. For four years, he has opened car doors for Gibbs Elementary students on football game mornings, greeting them with positivity and encouragement.
Mikel is known for his compassion, humility and strong moral character. He is a respected peer tutor at Gibbs Elementary School, offering support and mentorship to younger students. His thoughtfulness and steady presence make him someone others naturally look to for guidance and reassurance. His commitment to sportsmanship ethics, and integrity was recognized when he received the prestigious NFHS Award of Excellence during his junior year.
A standout athlete, Mikel has earned numerous accolades including Tennessee Titans Mr. Football kicker of the year and he even holds a school record. Beyond athletics, Mikel is a Youth Leadership Knoxville graduate and an active leader for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, where he volunteers at regional events and banquets. Academically, Mikel maintains an impressive 4.46 weighted GPA and plans to play football in college while majoring in engineering, combining his talent, work ethic and dedication to excellence.
Mikel stands out as a young man of integrity, compassion, and principled leadership. His readiness to serve, his consistent kindness, and his positive spirit make him a gift to the Gibbs High School community and a truly deserving candidate for the Service to Humanity Award.
Grace Christian Academy
Landon White
Landon is a senior at Grace who has documented more than 679 hours of community service, though those who know him recognize that his actual contributions far exceed what appears on paper. His service spans local, regional and international missions, reflecting a heart fully committed to honoring God through every act of service. He has provided technical audio/visual support for school productions, served in the children’s ministry at Grace Baptist Church, and contributed leadership on the worship team at Grace. His service journey also includes an international mission trip to Honduras, where he used his technical skills to set up sound equipment for Hope Through Him Ministries. Landon has been equally dedicated to community events through Special Spaces and the Smoky Mountain Air Show—always ready to step into any role needed.
In every setting, Landon exemplifies the spirit of Mark 12:30–31: loving the Lord with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving others as himself. Although he often prefers to serve quietly and behind the scenes, Landon’s genuine compassion for others never goes unnoticed. Whether working alongside peers, faculty, or community members, he brings excellence, attentiveness, and humility to every task. His strong, supportive family has played a significant role in shaping his character, grounding him in the values of love, generosity, and service that guide his life.
Landon is not only a servant leader—he is also an exceptionally gifted young man. His musical talent is a central part of his service, from leading worship at school and church to playing multiple instruments with skill and purpose. Teachers and leaders describe him as someone who stands out for his character, humility, and desire to use his talents to strengthen and uplift others. His consistency, reliability and quiet confidence make him a role model to those who have the privilege of serving alongside him.
Landon’s growth in leadership over the years has been remarkable to witness. He is the kind of young man who will undoubtedly make a positive and lasting impact on his school, his community and the world. His commitment to honoring God, supporting others, and giving fully of himself makes him a deserving nominee for the Service to Humanity Award.
Halls High School
Ty Davis
Ty is a senior at Halls whose dedication to service is woven through every part of his high school experience. He volunteers faithfully at Salem Baptist Church, serves as a Halls High School Ambassador, assists with Halls Elementary Field Days, and has helped teachers set up classrooms for the past three years. As a mentor and leader in FCA and the National Honor Society, Ty consistently uses his time and talents to support peers, build community and strengthen the school he loves.
Ty’s service extends into the broader Knoxville community as well. He has volunteered during Hurricane relief efforts, prepared and served meals for those experiencing food insecurity, and worked at various events to help children and families. His kindness, patience and willingness to help—no matter the circumstance—are defining characteristics of who he is. Whether lending a hand, offering encouragement, or stepping into leadership, Ty always puts others first.
A natural leader, Ty serves as an 865 Academy Ambassador, representing Halls High School in meetings with business partners and community leaders. This role showcases his professionalism, dependability, and character. Ty is known for greeting new students with warmth, guiding them through the building, and making them feel welcome and supported from day one. His peers and teachers rely on him because he treats everyone with respect, leads with humility, and can be counted on in every situation.
Ty was chosen for this award because he is the model of a servant leader—someone who gives generously of his own time, lifts others up, and works every day to make Halls High School a better place. He is compassionate, responsible, hardworking, and deeply committed to serving others.
Hardin Valley Academy
Minh Nguyen
Minh Nguyen is a senior at Hardin Valley who has devoted over 200 hours to service across his church, school and community. His contributions reflect a young man who leads with empathy, humility and a genuine desire to make the world better for those around him. Whether supporting volunteer efforts at church, assisting with school activities, or stepping into roles that require creativity and leadership, Minh approaches every task with heart and purpose.
Teachers at Hardin Valley universally describe Minh as a natural collaborator who “possesses a remarkable ability to connect ideas and people.” His AP Biology teacher shared that “Minh contributes ideas freely, listens to others with respect, and has an easy sense of humor that creates an inclusive and supportive learning environment.”
Minh’s desire to help others is matched only by his creativity. After observing Minh’s ability to bring students together, one of his teachers asked him to help with her summer STEM camp for K–8 students. Given broad freedom to design lesson plans, Minh spent two full summer months creating imaginative, hands-on activities. The result was a magical, Disney-like learning experience that ignited children’s interest in STEM. When Minh contributes, he does so with full enthusiasm and extraordinary dedication. To quote Minh’s AP chemistry teacher, “what makes Minh especially exceptional is the personal journey that has shaped his perspective. Moving to the United States as the age of 12 and learning English as his second language, he has developed a profound sense of empathy, resilience and self-awareness.” As he once described, “The English I speak is a language mended together by experience, not through a native tongue, or kindergarten teachers who guided my hands. It’s imperfect, forged from my attempt to make friends at a younger age when I moved here at 12, from my efforts to help translate and teach words to my parents.”
This perspective—rich in humility, gratitude and growth—defines who Minh is today: a young man of character who listens with his heart, supports others without hesitation, and leads through compassion and authenticity. One teacher stated, “The highest compliment I could give is that I would be pleased if my own two sons turn out like Minh.”
Minh is a quiet but powerful presence at Hardin Valley. He earns respect not through titles or accolades, but through kindness, curiosity, and the sincere way he lifts the people around him. He is deeply deserving of the Service to Humanity Award.
Karns High School
Abigail “Capri” Coomer
Karns senior Capri’s commitment to service is both extensive and heartfelt. Over the past year, she has served as a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters, meeting with a young student before school each week to offer support, encouragement, and friendship. She invests deeply in Karns Elementary and Middle School Cross Country teams, assisting coaches during practices and serving as a positive role model for young athletes. Capri is also an active member of her church, where she volunteers each Sunday in children’s ministry
Her service extends far beyond her school and church walls. For the past five years, Capri has volunteered with Feeding the 5000, a large-scale community outreach program that prepares and distributes 1,000 complete Thanksgiving meals to families in need. She has taken on many roles in this effort, including packing boxes, welcoming attendees and loading food for distribution. Capri has also participated in mission trips to Cincinnati, Ohio and Honduras. Every third Sunday of the month, Capri and her family lead a homeless ministry outreach in Knoxville. They deliver warm meals, non-perishable food items and hygiene supplies to people experiencing homelessness—meeting both practical and spiritual needs with compassion and dignity.
Within Karns High School, Capri is a committed member of student government where she helps plan schoolwide events—including homecoming festivities, spirit activities, pep rallies, dress-up days, and student competitions. She has fed the teachers’ breakfast, worked the Back-to-School Bash, and assisted with freshman orientation. Capri is an active member of the National Honor Society, where she volunteers after home football games to help clean the stadium. She is also the senior class representative,
One of her most meaningful projects has been her work with Dream Connections, an organization that grants wishes to students facing life-changing medical challenges. Capri helped spearhead fundraising for Hayden Jennings, a Karns student battling Ewing’s Sarcoma. She helped organize schoolwide PJ Days, delivered presentations to raise awareness, and designed and sold shirts and bracelets—with all proceeds supporting Dream Connections. She later helped plan and run a community car wash fundraiser as part of the effort. This project was deeply personal and reflects Capri’s compassion and commitment to helping others in need.
Capri stands out because she leads with compassion, responsibility and determination. She is a consistent, reliable presence—someone who works tirelessly to make life better for others. Throughout her high school career, she has modeled what it means to serve with humility and heart, making her a truly deserving nominee for the Service to Humanity Award.
L&N STEM Academy
Harshita Nagar
Harshita Nagar is a senior at STEM who has given over 360 documented hours of community service across a wide range of organizations, including East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, UT Medical Center, Youth Health Board, Youth Leadership Knoxville and Scouts BSA. In every setting, Harshita brings compassion, responsibility and a sincere desire to help those around her.
Harshita is known at STEM as a thoughtful, dependable, and deeply caring leader. She goes out of her way to support peers, faculty, and the broader community—whether through mentoring underclassmen, participating in service clubs, or volunteering at major school events. Her teachers describe her as a strong role model who is generous with her time and always willing to assist others.
A standout leader, Harshita serves as student council president, after being a member all four years. She created and launched a new peer mentoring program for freshmen, recruiting roughly 25% of the sophomore and junior classes to serve as mentors. Thanks to her leadership, the transition into high school has been smoother for countless students who benefit from the relationships and support this program fosters. Harshita is also a dedicated member of the Youth Health Board, where she led a service project focused on developing a community walking route, ultimately earning the Youth Health Board Excellence Award.
At East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, she has assisted with meal delivery, visitor check-ins, playrooms, and patient support. At UT Medical Center, Harshita helped staff by checking vitals, delivering meals, and supporting daily unit operations. In Scouts BSA, she has held multiple leadership positions, regularly organizing fundraisers and coordinating volunteer projects.
Harshita was nominated for this award because she is an exemplary student, leader, and humanitarian. Her dedication to excellence—in academics, service, leadership and character—is unmatched. Her counselors highlight the fact that she has maintained an extraordinary 4.62 GPA while taking the most rigorous courses offered. Yet, what truly sets Harshita apart is the time, energy, and heart she pours into improving her school and community. She is always present, always helping, and always elevating others.
Harshita is a young woman of integrity, compassion, and quiet strength. She leads with intention and serves with purpose.
Powell High School
Caleb Lanius
Caleb is a senior at Powell High whose dedication to community service is reflected in the wide range of organizations he serves. He has volunteered extensively with state and local Special Olympics, supported CDC classrooms through Powell High’s peer tutoring program, and represented his school as a Powell High Ambassador and an active member and officer of the National Honor Society. Caleb also participated in TN Boys State, served in Knoxville Youth Leadership as a member of the Class of 2025, and has earned recognition as a Powell High Emerging Scholar. Through these roles, he has contributed countless hours to meaningful projects that uplift students, families and the broader Knoxville community.
Caleb is known among peers and faculty for his compassion, maturity, and strong sense of responsibility. He leads by quiet yet powerful example, showing kindness and respect to everyone he encounters. His teachers describe him as someone who consistently steps up to serve—whether through tutoring, volunteering at events, or participating in community outreach projects. Caleb’s willingness to help others, even without being asked, has earned him deep respect across campus.
Caleb’s servant-hearted nature stands out most clearly in the way he approaches service to others. He is dependable, humble and intentional about making a positive impact. Whether offering guidance to younger students, lending a hand to classmates, or representing Powell at community events, Caleb demonstrates leadership grounded in empathy and integrity. His encouraging spirit and genuine desire to improve the lives of those around him make him a positive influence in every environment he enters.
Caleb was chosen for this award because he is a model of character, service, and academic excellence. He is dedicated to the betterment of his school and community, consistently going above and beyond in both his responsibilities and his care for others. His reliability, maturity, and eagerness to serve place him at the top of every list for leadership and recognition. Powell High School is a better place because of Caleb, and he is profoundly deserving of the Service to Humanity Award.
South-Doyle High School
Charity Davis
Charity is a senior at South-Doyle who devotes much of her time to her church, serving faithfully as a Sunday School teacher, church volunteer, and participant in mission trips through Seymour Heights Baptist Church. Whether teaching young children, assisting with Vacation Bible School, or supporting ministry outreach efforts, she brings kindness, patience and a spirit of generosity to every role. Charity also engages in community-based service projects such as Shop with a Cop, helping provide holiday support to Knoxville-area children and families.
At South-Doyle High School, Charity’s leadership is recognized and deeply valued. She serves as the senior class president, National Honor Society vice president, a choir officer and the Tennessee Theatre Student Ambassador. She is also an SHS Ambassador, welcoming new students, supporting school events, and representing South-Doyle with pride and professionalism. Charity’s involvement extends to helping with campus activities like Field Day, classroom setup, and school-based outreach efforts that support both students and faculty.
What sets Charity apart is her character—her compassion, humility and ability to lift others through her example. Teachers describe her as dependable, hardworking and always willing to help no matter the circumstance. She leads not for recognition, but from a sincere desire to make her school and community better. Her dedication to serving others and her consistent leadership have earned her the admiration of peers, teachers and administrators alike.
Charity was chosen for this award because she is an exceptional student and leader whose positive influence is felt throughout South-Doyle High School. Her kindness, integrity, and unwavering commitment to service set her apart.
Webb School of Knoxville
Evelyn Peterson
Evelyn is a senior at Webb and has devoted more than 550 hours to community service during her four years in the Upper School, in addition to the service she completed during her years in the Lower School. Her impact reaches across numerous areas at Webb—volunteering at camps, supporting drama productions behind the scenes, working with admissions, and serving in Madrigal dinners and various school clubs. Beyond her involvement on campus, she has given her time to organizations across Knoxville, including Young Williams Animal Center, Fantasy of Trees, Rossini Festival and KARM. Evelyn approaches every task with humility and purpose, making it clear that no act of service is ever too small.
A passionate advocate for animals, Evelyn’s compassion is most visible in her volunteer work that involves hands-on care and support. She believes deeply in the programs she serves and consistently shows reliability, follow-through and a genuine desire to make a difference. Her kindness, patience and steady presence make her someone others look up to and trust.
Evelyn was selected for this award because she embodies what it means to be a servant-hearted leader. Her dedication to helping others, her perseverance, and her exceptional time-management skills reveal a student who gives fully of herself while balancing academic, extracurricular, and personal commitments. Evelyn is a model of integrity, grit and generosity—someone who elevates the Webb community through humility, leadership and heartfelt service.
West High School
Lily Segars
Lily is a senior at West whose dedication to service is extensive and heartfelt. She volunteers with East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, where she spends time visiting with patients, playing games, and helping make their hospital stay more comfortable. Her strong commitment earned her election to the VolunTeen Leadership Council. Lily also serves through the Knoxville Children’s Theatre, where she teaches acting to children ages 3–13, sharing her creativity and encouraging young performers.
She is deeply involved in community-based service organizations as well. As vice president of the Rotary Interact Club, Lily has supported projects such as Recycled Best Friends Dog Rescue, helping promote care for animals in need. As president of HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), she leads her peers in service-centered initiatives. Under her leadership, the chapter conducted a highly successful Diaper Drive, collecting more items than any other participating school. Lily’s dedication to healthcare service also aligns with her future goals—she plans to pursue a career in nursing, a natural extension of her compassionate spirit.
Lily is admired for her empathy, dependability and genuine concern for others. Whether serving the hospital, teaching children, supporting community projects, or leading her peers, she approaches each role with enthusiasm and grace. She is known at West High School as a positive light—someone who always brings a smile, a kind word and a willingness to lend a helping hand.
Lily was chosen for this award because she embodies the spirit of servant leadership. Her kindness, her commitment to bettering her community, and her strong desire to uplift others make her an outstanding representative of West High School. Lily is a student whose compassion, leadership, and integrity shine in everything she does.
