Cherokee Co. has a lot of graduating High School Bigs (Batch 3 of 3) - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina

BBBS Cherokee has had a large and growing High School Bigs program for a while now – so big that 12 of its Bigs graduated this spring!

(Also, scroll to the bottom to find out what’s in store for grads from Buncombe, Henderson, Polk, Rutherford, and Transylvania counties.)

First we’ll start with the Murphy High School grads.

: Carson

: Addyson

: Gracey

: Madison

Carson will be attending UNC Chapel Hill with plans to major in sports media and sports broadcasting. His goal after college is to be an on-air sports personality for professional sports, with an emphasis on racing leagues. “With his determination and personality, there’s no doubt Carson will reach his goals,” said Ronda Phillips, BBBS Cherokee Program Coordinator.

Addyson will be attending Gardner Webb University with plans to major in a pre-med program. After college, she plans to go to medical school to pursue a doctorate in clinical psychiatry. “As one who loves to study the mysteries of the mind, Addyson has a bright future,” Ronda said.

Gracey will be attending UNC Asheville with plans to major in meteorology and a goal to become an on-air weather person for the Weather Channel. “Jim Cantore, she’s coming for your job,” Ronda said.

Madison plans to major in art education when she starts this fall at Appalachian State University. Her goal is to become an art teacher. “Given her talent and nurturing disposition, Madison will be a wonderful art teacher,” Ronda said.

Raegan graduated with two associate degrees in preparation for completing her bachelor’s degree. “She has overcome many adversities throughout high school, and this drive and determination will serve her well in her future,” Ronda said.

Chandler, a BBBS scholarship recipient, will attend Tri-County Community College to complete the pharmacy technician program and earn an associate degree in college transfer. Chandler’s goal is to work as a pharmacy tech while completing his education to become a pharmacist, Ronda said.

These High School Big students graduated from Hiwassee Dam High School.

A BBBS scholarship recipient, Bella plans to attend Western Carolina University to major in elementary education. She intends to return to Hiwassee Dam to teach locally. “Her compassion for children will make her an asset to any school fortunate enough to have her,” Ronda said.

Planning to major in engineering, Ethan will be attending Western Carolina University with the career goal of working as a civil engineer close to home. “Ethan’s enthusiasm and dedication will serve him well in the future,” Ronda said.

Olivia is on her way to Tennessee Wesleyan University to major in physical education. She wants to become a high school P.E. teacher and coach. “With her athletic prowess and excellent grades, Olivia will be a success in both arenas,” Ronda said.

Kara is on her way to Tri-County Community College where she plans to study cosmetology. She wants to own her own salon in Cherokee County. “She has the first semester completed and is on her way to reaching her goal,” Ronda said.

Luke is headed to Tri-County Community College. He has answered the call to the ministry, something that will figure prominently in his future. “Luke has the drive and determination to accomplish anything he sets his mind to do,” Ronda said.

Ally will be attending Brillare Beauty Institute with a goal to open a salon and help make people look and feel their best. “With an eye for detail and a head for business, no doubt, she will be in business in no time,” Ronda said.