Henderson County Chamber Celebrates Achievements in the County: Graduates, Teachers and Future Leaders
As the school year wraps up, we’re reflecting on the meaningful ways our Chamber has partnered with our local schools to support and celebrate students, educators, and future leaders in our community.
In April, we were proud to honor 299 seniors from Henderson County Public Schools who earned the distinction of North Carolina Scholars. Presented by AdventHealth, Boyd Chevrolet, First Citizens Bank and Patton Allen Real Estate, students were treated to a boxed lunch provided by Chick-fil-A, as well as a special message from Joel Benson, Owner and Operator both Chick-fil-A locations in Hendersonville. To be recognized as an NC Scholar, students must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and meet the requirements for a well-balanced, challenging high school program. More information about this special recognition can be found on the Henderson County Public Schools website. Support was provided by Champion Credit Union, Hendersonville Family Dental, Henderson Oil and Kimberly-Clark Corporation. Each school recognized their students in front of proud families, making for a heartfelt afternoon of celebration and achievement.
In May, we turned the spotlight to our outstanding educators by celebrating 23 Teachers of the Year with AdventHealth and Optimum. Each teacher received a gift bag filled with goodies and treats donated by local businesses. A special thank you to all the businesses involved for helping us recognize the incredible work these teachers do every day: Baabals Ice Cream, Champion Credit Union, Chick-fil-A, Flat Rock Playhouse, Hannah Flanagan’s, Kilwins, Mast General Store, Mini Batch Bakery, Moonshine and Magnolias, Tarheel Lanes, and Willow Hill Soap Company!
We also marked the completion of the 26th class of our Junior Leaders Program! This year, we welcomed students from Henderson County Public High Schools, Fernleaf Community Charter School and Veritas Academy. Sponsored by AdventHealth and Kimberly-Clark Corporation, the graduation took place during Small Business Week and featured reflections from two student speakers, followed by a certificate ceremony to honor each participant's journey through the program. Thank you to all who have helped throughout the school year to make this program a success!
Students who graduated from the Junior Leaders Program this year were: Abby Freeman, Ariana Trejo-Amaro, Anayeli Salitre-Dothe, Caidee Lawing, Charlie Rockwood, Christopher Hernandez-Montero, Clara Allman, Cole Holbrook, Daniel Salvador Garcia, Eden Sheppard, Edwin Badillo, Ella Lahue, Emily Colin Solano, Evelyn Jones, Kevin Hernandez-Romo, Lee Burgess, Lily White, Luke Schlegel, McKenna Norman, Nathan Williams and Taylor Baltrusaitis.
As we head into summer, we’re proud of these continued partnerships that help support the future of Henderson County. From students and teachers to local businesses and sponsors, thank you for being part of this season of growth and recognition.