Congrats to Polk and Rutherford high school grads! (Batch 1 of 3)

We have so many graduating High School Bigs (and a few graduating Littles) in spring 2025. Let’s lead off with Polk and Rutherford County grads. Look for the rest of them right here this week.

In Polk and Rutherford counties, we have one Little and lots of High School Bigs. Here’s what’s next for them (photos at bottom).

Our graduating Little

Jada, a Little Sister in Polk County, is undecided about her career path this fall, but BBBS Polk Rutherford Program Coordinator Jessica Toney predicts it will be art. “Jada has unprecedented talent in drawing, special effect makeup, painting, and sewing, with an imagination just as impressive. Whether her path takes her to a movie set transforming actors or to a gallery with her paintings, her creative mark will certainly be made.”

And now for our High School Bigs! All our Polk County High School Bigs are from Polk High School.

Addison is headed for UNC Wilmington with plans to major in biochemistry and Spanish and minor in English, all to support her dream to go on to medical school. “Being a part of Big Brothers Big Sisters has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have participated in during high school,” she said.

James will attend Davidson College this fall with plans to major in chemistry. “His quiet, calm demeanor and easygoing determination will bring him success in great things,” Jessica said.

Mia is heading off to UNC Chapel Hill. “She will be successful wherever her path leads her,” Jessica said.

Natalie will attend Randolph College in Lynchburg, Va., where she has signed to play tennis and plans to major in pre-law and business administration. She plans to get a Juris Doctor degree to practice corporate law. “Her determination, strong work ethic will serve her well with this career path,” Jessica said.

Kylie plans to go to UNC Chapel Hill to study human development and family studies to become a pediatric occupational therapist. “Kylie will be such an asset to this field with her very caring heart and love of children,” Jessica said.

Riley is headed for UNC Chapel Hill to study business. “Riley has demonstrated kindness, dedication and responsibility over the past two years, and we know he will succeed in any business venture he sets his mind to,” Jessica said.

Alexa plans to be a nanny and possible au pair after graduation. “Alexa is kind, caring and patient, making this path a great choice,” Jessica said.

Our Rutherford County High School Bigs all come from Lake Lure Classical Academy.

Jordyn will attend UNC Chapel Hill this fall with plans to major in biology. Her goal after college is to go to medical school to become a physician. “With her determination and compassion, she will be a great future doctor,” Jessica said.

Sofia will attend Blue Ridge Community College to explore career choices in biology and arts before going off to a four-year college. “Sofia is smart and talented in performing arts, so no matter her career path, she will be successful,” Jessica said.

Sarah will attend Blue Ridge Community College for two years and then will transfer to an art school. “Sarah has such a creative mind, no matter what path she takes in the arts she will bring more beauty into the world,” Jessica said.

Brooke will travel to Australia to be an au pair. “This is the perfect path for her adventurous personality,” Jessica said. “BBBS Rutherford appreciates her time, dedication and compassion to her Little, even during some hard times.”