Nucor and local organizations award scholarships to Sparkman High School seniors

The Sparkman High School Senior Awards Day held on May 3, 2025, celebrated the achievements of the graduating class with a series of special awards and scholarships presented by various community representatives. The event highlighted the dedication and accomplishments of students, as well as the support from local organizations.

Deputy Massey opened the awards segment, quickly presenting her award before passing the stage to Mr. Zachary Likely, who received recognition from the Alabama Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. Following this, Shelby Hopkins from Nucor Steel Decatur awarded a $16,000 scholarship to Hayden Mason, emphasizing the company's long-standing commitment to supporting students since 1974.

Nick Benjamin from the Morning Star Lodge presented a scholarship to Isaiah Kyler, acknowledging his academic excellence and leadership in both athletics and music. Kyler plans to pursue a degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Additionally, Terrence Griffin from the North Alabama National Society of Black Engineers recognized both Isaiah Kyler and Preston Reitz with the Timothy Briggs Leadership Scholarship, aimed at students interested in STEM fields.

The Evening Star Lodge Foundation awarded a $1,000 scholarship to Cornelia Peters, who holds a 4.1 GPA and plans to study computer science. Pastor Larry Davidson Jr. also presented a scholarship to his son, Carnell Davidson, who will attend Mississippi State University to study sociology.

Sergeant Patterson, a local Marine Corps recruiter, presented several awards, including the Scholastic Excellence Award, Distinguished Athlete Award, and Semper Fidelis Award for Music Excellence. He recognized students Ashna Oliver and James Steck for their commitment to military service, and awarded Charleston Mumpfield for academic excellence, Braden Goode and Caroline DeGette for athletic achievements, and Ajani Rederick for musical excellence.

The event underscored the importance of community support in fostering student success and highlighted the diverse paths the graduates are set to embark on as they transition into the next phase of their lives.