Serving Barnwell County and it's neighbors since 1852
The Rotary Club of Barnwell County bestowed their first Service Above Self awards of the 2024-25 school year.
During the club's September 12 meeting, six students from Blackville-Hilda High, Jefferson Davis Academy, and Williston- Elko High were recognized for displaying the club’s motto of “Service Above Self”.
These awards are for August and September. Barnwell High’s students were unable to attend but will be recognized at the next meeting.
"I want to say how proud we are of your accomplishments. It's amazing for us to be able to watch children in our communities grow up and see the amazing things they do,” said Dr. Crissie Stapleton, past president of the club.
The students who were recognized include:
Anastasia Beaver, a senior at Blackville-Hilda, is student body president.
She’s also involved in many clubs, is a member of the National Technical Honor Society at the career center, and participates in basketball, volleyball, cheer and track and field.
“I take a lot of pride in my school and the positions I have,” she said.
Beaver hopes to become an athletic trainer.
Breonna Holman, a sophomore at Blackville-Hilda, has become very involved at school since coming there last year.
In addition to being class president, she is on the track and field team, assists with football, keeps stats for volleyball, and does the morning announcements.
She plans to join the military.
Peyton Hutto, a senior at Jefferson Davis Academy, is involved in cheer, basketball, Beta Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. As a member of
Double Pond Baptist, faith is a vital part of her growth and life.
“Being a good student is more than just making good grades. In order to be a well-rounded student, you have to try new things and experience challenges in life which will help you grow and learn to be good and productive citizen,” said Hutto, who also cited the importance of helping others.
She wants to attend Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College to study radiology.
Hailey O’Neal, a junior at Williston-Elko, is involved in various athletics, social
organizations, and honors clubs.
“Serving others has always been a source of joy and fulfillment for me; it’s a reminder that putting others’ needs before my own can uplift our spirit, enhance self-esteem and bring genuine happiness,” she said.
O’Neal wants to be a cardiothoracic surgeon.
Michael Tishchenko, a senior at Williston-Elko who takes pride in raising the flags at school each day.
“It warms my heart every single day. I appreciate being able to serve others above myself,” said Tishchenko.
After high school, he hopes to attend the Air Force Academy and become an Air Force pilot so he can “protect the airspace and our beautiful nation.”
Landon Williams is active at Jefferson Davis Academy where Coach Anthony Reitenour said he's a "well-rounded student and athlete."
Williams helps Coach Reitenour afterschool, including getting the field ready. As a team captain for football, he said, “I lead the best I can so they can follow in my footsteps.”
He also plays baseball and is on the Beta Club.
Stapleton encouraged the students to return to Barnwell County after college so they can use their talents to help locally.
