In 2025, the program offered three awards to students of all backgrounds and across schools nationwide: First Generation Recognition Award, Rural and Small-Town Recognition Award, and for the first time, the School Recognition Award, to honor top-performing students in every high school, including lesser-known schools.
This year, four students at LLCA were awarded:
- Jackson Bell - Class of 2026 - Rural and Small-Town Recognition Award and School Recognition Award. Jackson is the son of Nicholas and Natalie Bell of Rutherfordton.
- Judson Bragdon - Class of 2026 - School Recognition Award. Judson is the son of Daniel and Kelli Bragdon of Lake Lure.
- Abigail Sias - Class of 2026 - School Recognition Award. Abby is the daughter of Warren and Corrie Sias of Rutherfordton.
- Riley Gallagher - Class of 2027 - Rural and Small-Town Recognition Award and School Recognition Award. Riley is the daughter of Michael and Tracey Gallagher of Tryon.
“We’re incredibly proud of our students and to see them recognized for their dedication and excellence,” said Barbara Cohen, LLCA Executive Director. “This honor reinforces their exceptional achievements in high school and will support them in their pursuit of a big future.”