The Charlotte Post - Top Seniors - Spring 2022

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Central Piedmont Scholarship Recipient 23781

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Note from the Publisher Letter from the Co-Publisher 2022 Top Senior + Top Senior Runner-up Feature Recognition of Top Seniors + Seniors of Merit Ardrey Kell High School Butler High School Cato Middle College Charlotte Engineering Early College Charlotte Teacher Early College Charlotte-Mecklenburg Virtual High School Cochrane Collegiate Academy East Mecklenburg High School Garinger High School Harding University High School Harper Middle College Hawthorne Academy of Health Sciences Hopewell High School Independence High School

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John Taylor Williams Secondary Montessory School Julius L. Chambers High School Levine Middle College High School Mallard Creek High School Mercanas Middle College at CPCC Myers Park High School North Mecklenburg High School Northwest School of the Arts Olympic High School Performance Learning Center Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology Providence High School Rocky River High School South Mecklenburg High School West Charlotte High School West Mecklenburg High School William Amos Hough High School Article: Tips to Ace College Enty Exams Feature: Alvajoy Asante and Maya DeCoux

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The Charlotte Post Publishing Company Serving Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill & Cary, NC

We are extremely proud of all of the seniors being acknowledged as The Charlotte Post’s Top Seniors and Seniors of Merit.

Gerald and Linda Johnson

The Triangle

Tribune 704.376.0496 | 5118 Princess St. Charlotte, NC 28269

Most Widely Distributed, African-American Newspaper Group in North Carolina.

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CELEBRATING MORE THAN 150 YEARS OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND VISIONARY LEADERSHIP!

Justice Bell Junior, Claflin University Biochemistry major, Presidential Scholar A member of the Alice Carson Tisdale Honors College and the Claflin University Women's Track and Field Teams 2020 graduate of David W. Butler High School

Dr. Monica Greene Director Alice Carson Tisdale Honors College

Claflin University Offers More Than 40 Nationally-Accredited Academic Programs, including Affordable and Flexible Accelerated Online and On-campus Degree Programs for Adult Learners.

400 Magnolia Street Orangeburg, S.C. 29115 1-800-922-1276 www.claflin.edu

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Congratulations

On behalf of Limitless Ladies Chapter of ABWA

Mission: The mission of the American Business Women’s Association is to bring together business women of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support and national recognition.

Vision: Connect. Engage. Lead

A place for women from all professions to connect, elevate, empower, build, network and develop leaders as we grow.

To provide our services as a chapter to help build our community.

Linda Johnson Charisse Kearse President, Founder Vice President

Petra Duvall Treasurer

Pam Kelly Secretary

Tami Stewart Marketing

Joyce Wright

Andrea Blue

Andrea Samuels

Beatrice Burton

Carmen Blackmon

Charmain Lewis

Christine Taylor

Cissy Watkins

Clarice Lewis

Constance Mack

Donna LaFrance

Esther Hicks

Georgina Edwards

Hope Piggee

Jonise Hall

Katina Smith

Marie Michele Darcy

Michele Chin

Micheleen Leggett

Moreale Brown

Nichelle Spears

Robin Rodgers

Contact: 980.202.1337 abwaqc@gmail.com

Shanda Salaam

Shannon Burgess

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Stephanie Fielder

Tameka Brunson Tshombe Buckman 2022 CHARLOTTE POST TOP SENIOR - 17

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Brittney Hinkson Ardrey Kell High School

Brittney, Congratulations and best wishes to you, our loving granddaughter, niece and cousin. We brim with pride at your accomplishments and wish you continued success.

Sky’s the limit, Brittney. Follow your dreams.

Bet on yourself. Dare to be different.

And, make some good trouble in this world.

We are ready to support you where you lead.

Love and God’s blessings,

Grandpa, Grandma, Aunty Lika, Uncle Wam and Blake

Congratulations Brittney Hinkson

Ardrey Kell High School

Class of 2022 Since a child, you have always amazed us with your push towards maximizing your potential. We are proud of all you have accomplished on your journey thus far and would like to congratulate you on this milestone accomplishment.

Love Aunty Danni, Denver, Riyah, and Daddy 2022 CHARLOTTE POST TOP SENIOR - 22

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Congratulations Alexis Lee

Ardrey Kell High School Class of 2022 Alexis,

Like a beautiful sunrise, your day is just beginning. Hope your day is long, warm and rewarding.

Love,

Dad, KB, Allyson, Jonathan, Nana and Papa

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ALEXIS LEE - Ardrey Kell High School So PROUD of you!!

You are blessed with intentional purpose, and you will always be loved and supported!

Love.

Your Family

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Congratulations BRIANNA SUMMERS Ardrey Kell High School Class of 2022

Brianna,

Congratulations High School Graduate! We are very proud of you. We have been anticipating this day since you were born. You’ve grown into a beautiful, caring, and hard-working young lady. You focused on your studies and now you reap the achievement of a High School Diploma. Set goals for your future and keep focused on them.

Remember to take time each day to thank God for all his blessings upon you.

Love, Pop-Pop and Grandma (GM) Paula

Hi Brianna,

Happy Graduation! Hope this is just the beginning of the best years of your life.

God Bless You. Love, Great-Aunt Winnie

Congratulations Brianna!

Well done. Very impressive. So proud of your accomplishments. Extremely delighted for you starting this next exciting chapter in your life.

Can’t wait to hear tales of your adventures!

Little cousins are happy for you too and can totally relate: Next year Theo will be a freshman (in elementary school, i.e. kindergarten) and Xander will be a “senior” (in daycare). Spring Break 2023, you name the place, they’ll be ready to party with you! Best wishes for your whole college experience. Hope it’s a thrill!

Love Great-Aunt Dottie, Ashely and the boys

Congratulations Brianna!

Wishing you the best.

Love, from your cousin Jeff.

Brianna,

Queen you are Fierce!

I am so proud of you, carry on to Greatness.

Love, Cousin Kim

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Congratulations Brianna Summers Ardrey Kell High School

Class of 2022 We are all so proud of all your accomplishments.

Reach for the stars!!!

Brianna Summers Ardrey Kell High School Class of 2022

Congratulations,

I am so proud of you and all that you have accomplished. It reflects your perseverance, intellect and beauty that is in you.

This is just the start of a beautiful future.

Love you to the moon and back Nana Proud Grandmother: Carol Summers

We all love you very much.

Love, Mom, TJ, Isaac, and Brandon.

Place the 2nd photo with the girl and man on the bottom of the row.

Congratulations

BRIANNA SUMMERS

Ardrey Kell High School Your journey has been amazing!!!

We are so excited to share with you your next adventures, as you pursue your goals, aspirations, and DREAMS!!!

Always remember, YOU CAN DO ALL THINGS!!!

We are so proud and we pray for your continued success and blessings. #AggiePride

Love you,

Daddy and Mahmahn

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KIERA PERTILLO Ardrey Kell High School

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged,

for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” ~Joshua 1:9

To our first born, our artist, beautician, song writer and performer. You have truly made us proud of the young lady you’ve grown to become.

Y our integrity, wisdom, perseverance, and the genuine love you have for others is unmatched.

Continue to put God first and allow him to use you.

Your future is as bright as your beautiful smile.

Thank you for seventeen wonderful years filled with accomplishments and joy!

“Go Confidently in the direction of your dreams.

Live the life you have imagined.” ~Henry David Thoreau

Mom & Dad

Proud Parents: Kenneth and Ashley Pertillo www.thepostfoundation.org

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Brittney Hinkson Ardrey Kell High School

Congratulations on an amazing year!

Our hearts beam with such pride and joy for the young lady you've become, you are a true leader to your family, friends and siblings through your authentic love, bright beacon of positivity and consistent hard work.

As you enter into a new chapter of your life, you will now have your own impact in the world in your way. We will continuously pray for God to protect and keep you safe and also know that we will always support you in everything you do.

Love you dearly!

Mom, Poppa, Grandma, Grandpa, Auntie Ann, your sisters Ally and Nylah

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David Allen III Butler High School Class of 2022

Congratulations

on all of your ama

zing accomplishm

ents!

We are so proud o f you and we are confident that you will continue to ex cel as you pursue your dream s. Our Superstar k eep shining bright, never allow anything to dim y our light!!

Jeremiah 29:11

We love you to th e

moon and back!

Mom, Dad & Zion

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Brewer

Donovan Wayne Johnson Butler High School Class of 2022

We are so proud of you!!

You have become the young man we’ve PRAYED our son to be...

Strong, Respectful, Determined, Intelligent, Kind and Humble.

Congratulations on your selection as one of

The Charlotte Post’s Top Seniors for 2022.

We look forward to continuing to watch you grow!

Keep God first and know we are here for you.

All things are possible!!

Love, Mom, Dad & Rachael

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Congratulations JASMINE BELL Cato Middle College High School

Jasmine, You have been a shining star since the day you were born. We have watched in awe of your passion, dedication, perseverance, and creativity. You have lived life to the fullest, had so many once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and you continue to amaze us.

Continue to embrace life, push limits, and remember, if you are not invited to sit at the table, build your own and invite others to join you! Keep God first in all you do! We love you and are very proud of you!

Love, Dad, Mom, and John

Proud Parents: Norman and Sherritta Bell 2022 CHARLOTTE POST TOP SENIOR - 34

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Giannah D. Bell

Cato Middle College High School Class of 2022

Congratulations to our youngest daughter Giannah!

You have made us so proud over the years. Your academic eagerness and relentlessness have gotten you this far – a page in the Top Seniors magazine featured by the Charlotte Post Foundation.

Always let God’s light shine through you and keep up the amazing work.

Remember to always shoot for the stars. Allow the world to be your stage with your beautiful smile, astonishing talents, miraculous achievements, and breathtaking style (that you get from your God-dad).

We love to the moon and back! Mom and God-dad www.thepostfoundation.org

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Congratulations Rajuhon Jones Charlotte Engineering Early College High School

Throughout my life I have always had to think outside the box to reach the level of success that I’ve paved for myself today. I believe that if you strive through the obstacles that you’ve been presented with and innovate the solutions you will reach the level of success you so desire.

Proud Parents:

Rajuhon Sr. and Tekeya Jones

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Class of 2022 Milcah Berhane

Charlotte Engineering Early College

Congratulations Milcah!

Our beloved daughter Miki, congratulations on all your accomplishments, work ethic and being selected as one of The Charlotte Post Foundation’s 2022 Top High School Senior!

This is a reward for your academic achievements and perseverance.

We cannot express in words how happy and extremely proud we feel! It has been an honor and privilege to watch you grow into the incredibly bright, intelligent, very responsible, kind, loving, caring and beautiful young lady you have become. You amaze us, Miki!

As you continue your journey, know that anything you desire is within your reach.

Let passion, integrity and faith be your guide.

Stay true to yourself and continue to strive for excellence.

We wish you continued success in all you do!

We love you to the moon and back!!!

Mom, Dad, Yosi, Lulu and your entire Family Proud Parents: Feven Debesai and Berhane Merhazion

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"We are so very proud of the young lady that you've become and cannot wait to see the great things that you achieve in the future."

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“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Phillipians 4:13

MILANI RACHELLE GREEN HAWTHORNE ACADEMY OF HEALTH SCIENCES

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Congratulations on being named a Charlotte Post Top Senior!

We celebrate you Milani as a wonderful example of what can be achieved when you consistently work hard and dedicate yourself to doing your best. Your many accomplishments will never outshine your loving & kind disposition and courage to make positive choices.

National Society of High School Scholars National Honor Society Hawthorne Academy White Coat Recipient Posse Scholar Program (Finalist) Mayor’s Youth Employment Program Internship Principal’s Honor Awards Central Piedmont Community College Dual Enrollment United House of Prayer Lady Madison Scholastic Achievement Award Top Scholar

Love and Prayers, Mom & Dad Grandpa & Grandma Green Grandpa Gerald Grandma Carol Aunt Robin & Uncle Roland

Continue to keep God first & make yourself proud as you embark on the journey of life!

Parents: Gerald & Rolanda Huff

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Congratulations, Tamia Burgess, on your Top Senior recognition.

You have made us so proud since you have entered this world and we are so ecstatic over your achievement.

We are so looking forward to what the future holds for you and please keep looking forward with your hand in God’s hand, and just know we will always be here.

Love you more, Mom, Dad, and Travis, Jr. Proud Parents: Travis and Tonya Burgess

Tamia Burgess

Independence High School

“The horizon leans forward, offering you space to place new steps of change.” ~ Maya Angelou

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Cameron Kromah INDEPENDENCE HIGH SCHOOL Class of 2022

Congratulations on being recognized as one of The Charlotte Post Foundation’s top seniors.

We are so proud of you and we wish you an abundance of blessings on all the success that are destined to come.

Love, Mom, Dad Hali, and the entire village Proud Parents: Pam and Haji Kromah 2022 CHARLOTTE POST TOP SENIOR - 54

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Congratulations Ashlei Pettus Independence High School

Our smart and beautiful daughter We are so proud of you in many ways. The hard work, dedication and ambition over the years has positioned you to attend the college of your choice and have a successful life beyond. You have always stepped up to the challenge.

We believe in you and know you will do great things.

ALWAYS have faith, be yourself, keep smiling and let your voice be heard!

Love Mom and Dad!!!

Proud Parents: La'Tonza and Roger Pettus

Congratulations To All Graduating Top Seniors

Sunday Worship 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 PM

Rev. Dr. Casey Kimbrough First Lady Donna Kimbrough 7237 Tuckaseegee Road Charlotte, NC 28214 704.394.3525

Virtual Service www.mcbaptist.org

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Elijah Curry

John T. Williams Secondary Montessori

Congratulations

On being selected as one of the Top Seniors of Class 2022 You are kind, compassionate, patient, intelligent & funny.

I have no doubt the path that you take in this next chapter, you will continue to stride toward greatness.

I pray that God’s continued blessings over you.

We love you !

Mom, Addison, Layla, Grandparents, Godparents, Aunt & Uncles, Big Brother, Cousins & Friends 2022 CHARLOTTE POST TOP SENIOR - 56

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ITALY BACCUS Julius L. Chambers High School

2022

Alexa Fuller

Julius L. Chambers High School Class of 2022

Congratulations Alexa!

Congratulations Italy,

I am beyond proud of you. This is just the beginning. You have the brains to go and do anything in the world that your heart desires, don’t stop here.

Let this be a stepping stone for the great things that’s about to happen for your future.

I have always admired how you set standards and bars for yourself and execute each time. Be great in any and everything that you do.

We love you and we’re rooting for you and your future.

Love, Mommy and Daddy

We love you and are so proud of you.

Keep putting your faith in the Lord because through him, all things are possible.

Hoping you have wonderful years at UNCG! Love, Grandparents: Yvonne and Hubert Ferguson, Mark and Debra Ward Proud Parents: Raquel and Carlton Fuller

Congratulations

CLASS OF 2022

Alvajoy Sefah Asante Success chalked does not occur on a silver plata or comes by so easily. Success is driven by hard work that also demands personal sacrifice.

Sacrifice that shifts the present enjoyments to the future. This is what our economists would call, “the opportunity cost.” That is, forgoing one’s present enjoyments for future academic achievements.

My own high school successful story began when I started taking into consideration the advice of my African parents for hardworking.

They would say to me, “work hard now and enjoy tomorrow, for hard work does not hurt or break a bone but rather, it would elevate you to a greater height.” They would also say, being lazy does not pay but breeds poverty. With all these at the back of my head, I set a goal for myself and worked hard to achieve it. The result is the celebration of my success today as one of the top students for the year 2022.

Proud Parents: Daniel Asante and Janet Budu www.thepostfoundation.org

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Class of

2022

Morgan Tuttle

Levine Middle College High School

Our Dearest Morgan

We are so very proud of all your accomplishments throughout your high school journey.

You have worked extremely hard on every task set before you and you have conquered each one with grace, honor, and dignity, and it’s because of your humble heart that great opportunities have come before you.

Morgan, you are moving on to a new and very exciting chapter in your life and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for you. An abundance of blessings and beautiful dreams are waiting for you to confidently open your heart to receive. Embrace each moment, each step, because it is your heart that will guide you to become the extraordinary leader He intended you to be.

We love you and we are always here for you because you know that our family is your greatest and loudest cheerleaders! The best is yet to come!

Love you now, always, and forever,

Daddy, Mommy, Kimberlynn, Gibby, and Sissy “Be bold enough to use your voice, brave enough to listen to your heart, and strong enough to live the life you’ve always imagined.”

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PRACTICING GOOD SELF-CARE IN COLLEGE

BY KATINA SMITH, CERTIFIED FUNCTIONAL NUTRITION COUNSELOR Finishing high school is a major milestone for a student. However, moving out of the house and going off to college is a major life transition. Although you may still depend on your parents and family members to provide support, college is a time of moving away from what is familiar to the new. You have more freedom and the ability to make choices about your life and how you are going to care for yourself. It is extremely critical that you learn to practice good self-care so that you can thrive throughout your college years and beyond. It is important that you focus on your emotional and physical well-being by creating a community, exercising regularly, eating healthy, getting adequate sleep, and managing stress.

Community involves creating friendships with other students and building relationships with faculty, staff, and even within the community where you live. Although for some, it is an adjustment to meet others and you may be challenged with stepping outside of your comfort zone. However, building these community connections can ensure that you have the support you need especially if you are facing a difficult situation whether it is school related or a personal matter. As the famous English poet, John Donne wrote, “no man is an island”. This statement means that we must rely on others in order to flourish.

Exercise is important because it helps control your mental health and mood, maintain a healthy weight, sleep better, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve your overall health. Depending on the college you attend, you may have to walk across campus to get to and from your classes. This is definitely a great way to get in exercise.

Additionally, finding something you enjoy doing is the key to incorporating regular exercise. If going to the gym is not your preference, walking, running, swimming, hiking, playing sports, and dancing are all great ways to get your body moving. Getting in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least five times a week is ideal.

Eating healthy can be a big challenge for anyone, but it can especially be difficult for college students. You may not be able to cook a full course meal but making healthier choices such as choosing salad over burgers and fries and incorporating more vegetables and fruits into your diet can help boost your energy throughout the day.

Carrying health snacks to eat between classes can help curve those cravings for sugary and salty snacks such as cookies and potato chips which lack the nutrients your body needs to function at an optimum level. Also, drinking at least 60 ounces of water a day will keep you hydrated and help with hunger cravings.

Adequate sleep is necessary because it gives your body time to recover from the day. Sleep is important for proper brain function, relaxing our body, reducing stress, and it also helps control our weight. Many college students stay up all night to study for test and finals, but in the long run, it can throw the body out of balance leading to memory issues, weight gain, a weakened immune system, and it can affect your mood. Learning to manage your time and prepare for everyday life is necessary to ensure you get adequate sleep. It is recommended that most young adults need about 8-10 hours of sleep each night.

Managing stress helps us to live a healthy, happy, and productive life. When you go off to college, you are faced with decisions such as what courses to take, choosing a major, working while going to school and much more.

In addition, you will have to prepare for test, finals, and complete various assignments. With these mounting responsibilities, you can become overwhelmed and feel stressed. During these times, it is important that you learn to step away and realize that you can only control so much. You may have to re-evaluate your schedule to see if there is something that you can eliminate or change to create better balance. Furthermore, techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or even spending time outdoors in nature will help alleviate stress. It is also beneficial to talk to someone that is willing to listen and can understand what you are going through and offer viable solutions such as a mentor, guidance counselor or a family member you trust.

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James Russell Dixson

James Russell Dixson

Class of 2022

Merancas Middle College High School

Class of

2022

Merancas Middle College High School

Congrats, Russ

When I first saw you, I immediately fell in love with you.

As I watched you grow up to the person you are, I have cherished the time we have been together. I am so proud of your academic achievements, your care and encouragement to others, and for becoming a great responsible young man. So proud of you!

“There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” – Nelson Mandela

Love, Grandma

Love Uncle Sammy, Aunt Dona, Godfather Curt, and Godmother Marsha

WE SEE GREAT THINGS IN YOU

JAMES RUSSELL DIXSON

Russ - We see the greatness bundled up inside of you. We see you striving to pursue dreams you've had since you were small.

We're blessed to be cheering you on as you achieve everything you set your mind to.

Love, Mateo, Dad, & Mom

"Keep going, no matter what."

REGINALD F. LEWIS

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James Russell Dixson

Merancas Middle College High School

Class of 2022

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer.

Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”

- Harriet Tubman

Continue reaching for your stars.

With God, all things are possible.

Love Ita and Pa

“The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams.”

- Oprah Winfrey

Hold tight to your faith, confidence, and courage. You’re in for a big adventure!

Love Tia, Tio Jason, Jayden, Jacob

“Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.”

– El Hajj Malik El Shabazz

¡Te queremos tanto y estamos muy orgulloso de ti!

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James Russell Dixson Class of 2022 Merancas Middle College High School

You are a great big cousin. We can’t wait for you to come back to NY so we can be together again. We’re so proud of you.

Love, Jayden & Jacob “Those who end up accomplishing great things pay attention to little things.”

– Mali Proverb We’re so proud of the accomplished young man you are and will continue to be.

Love Tia Cheryl, Tio Steve, and Tia Gloria “Have a vision. Be demanding.” – General Colin Powell, Secretary of State Our General - We knew from the start there is something special in you.

Keep fulfilling your vision.

Love Mr. Dolar and Mrs. Moultrie

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Camryn Hicks Myers Park High School Class of 2022

Camryn,

Congratulations on being a 2022 Charlotte Post Top Senior. Your family is very proud of you.

You are an amazingly talented and disciplined young lady who’s such a hard worker with a positive attitude and spirit. You epitomize wellroundedness and excelled at all your endeavors.

These attributes, along with your focus on living a Purpose driven life, will continue to position you for success on your journey.

Remember Phillippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ which Strengthens Me” .

Stay Focused.

We love you.

Daddy, Mommy, Sydney, Courtney and Family

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MAYA JADE DECOUX Myers Park High School

Class of 2022 Our Future Doctor

We are so proud of the young woman that you have become!

Continue to be confident in your beliefs and values. Allow your hard-work, determination and passion to lead you to happiness and success in your bright future.

Love, Mom and Dad

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A’kira Hames Myers Park High School

Class of 2022 Congratulations, can not begin to describe how we feel about your success. You have made your family so proud of you and everything that you have accomplished thus far. Myself, your father, aunts, uncles, the list goes on. You have become a trend setter with your younger cousins an inspiration to the outside world, and a motivator to your friends. Looking back when you were younger having the thrive and passion for education and success to show the world what you’re capable of. Writing your first book during your middle school years. It was then when we saw you making your mark on the world that has significantly grown and continues to do so as you not only follow your dreams but you chase them immensely.

We have always seen a light in you that shines brighter by each passing day when you overcome a new obstacle, not only for making your parents and family proud, but also to show yourself that you can do this! You are so young and have such a remarkable future ahead of you that you have set fourth several footprints for others to follow in. So many people go through life not knowing who they are and you were blessed to know just that. The answer is simple, you are a child of God, and you have manifested his glory that is within you. You realized your gift that was given to you, chose to walk in it, and have done it so much that to others it seems easy. You are going to change the world and this is only the beginning for you.

Continue to push yourself to go beyond set limitations, knowing your goals and aspirations and surpass them. You are a diamond that has been redefined and set out for the world to see. We love you beyond words and remember...

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” -Harriet Tubman

We love you, Mom & Dad and the entire family. www.thepostfoundation.org

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Sleep tips to get the extra edge in college this fall

By Jason Wooden, PhD Want to hear about something that will give you the extra edge? We need to talk about your sleep.

For starters, it’s harder to focus and think clearly when sleep deprived. Also, it’s while you’re sleeping that all that stuff you learned during the day is consolidated in the brain.

That’s going to make it harder to study, do assignments, and affect your test performance. It’s no surprise that students who sleep six or fewer hours a night have a lower GPA than those who get eight or more.

Unfortunately, as many as 60% of college students suffer from poor sleep quality. If you want to make the best of your college experience, you need to follow some simple rules: Stay on schedule - consistent wake up & sleep times will help keep your body’s natural sleep-wake clock on track • Maintain a regular bedtime routine - relaxing activities will make the transition to sleep easier • Stay active - physical activity fights stress, improves mood, and promotes deeper sleep

• Limit your daytime naps - too long or too late can make it harder to fall asleep at bedtime • Avoid electronics at night - the bright light from the screens signals your brain it’s time to wake up • Keep your sleeping space dark, quiet, and cool - a poor sleep environment can ruin your sleep Following these rules will enable you to achieve as others can’t because your mind and body is performing at its best. You’ll truly be ahead of the crowd and have the extra edge.

Jason Wooden has worked for over 20 years in biomedical research. He’s currently the co-founder of BetterSleepSimplified.com, a health website focused on helping people find practical answers for common sleep issues.

www.bettersleepsimplified.com

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Harrison Quincy Johnson Northwest School of the Arts

Class of 2022

Congratulations Harrison

I knew you were special the day I held you in my arms. You have filled my heart with music, literally since before you could talk. Fast forward to this very day and you are still singing every morning before school. Something I look forward to everyday. You have been a joy to raise.

Such an honorable young man, that carries himself with a great level of respect.

I admire your discipline with time management, school, extra curricular activities and how you balance it all out while maintaining the Honor Roll.

It is because of your hard work and determination that you have been accepted into every school you applied for and were offered over $150,000 in scholarships. Continue to navigate in life this way as you move towards your goals, keeping God at the center of it all and a song in your heart. Know that everything you set out to do will not be easy, but all will be so worth it once accomplished.

I am so proud of you! We are so proud of you!

Congratulations on being nominated as one of The Charlotte Post's Top Seniors for the year of 2022 Next stop: CPCC then off to Savannah College of Art and Design With the deepest love from us all, Mom, Jeff, Taheerah, Grandma Florence, Grandpa Harold, Aunt Nafeesah and Aunt Aesha www.thepostfoundation.org

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Mylah Williams

GPA 4.5* Parent(s)/Guardian: Predesvinda Williams and Terrell Williams Activities: OHS Marching Band, Mu Alpha Theta, OHS Filipino Student Association Honors: USFS Moves in the Field Gold Medal

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Amorria Cathcart Olympic High School

2022

Levine Campus Community College

Amorria, we are proud of you!

Congratulations on your graduation from Olympic High School, as well as all the other accomplishments you've achieved thus far. You have grown into a beautiful young lady with a future as bright as your smile. Looking forward to your continued growth in navigating the acquired taste of nursing. Family and friends are supporting you with continual love and prayer.

Your destiny has been ordered and we know that you are prepared to walk into it. Stay focused and remember wisdom and discretion when properly used adds value to one's life. Give thought to the consequences before taking action. ~ Proverbs 3:21-22

With All Our Love - Mom, Monti, Family and Friends

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Adrianna Highgate Olympic High School CLASS OF 2022

Educating and Empowering Students • The first degree-granting Historically Black College and University (HBCU) • Top 30 HBCU (U.S. News & World Report 2022) • 1,900: Approximate undergraduate and graduate enrollment • 14:1 Student-to-faculty ratio

Lincoln.edu

CONGRATULATIONS AJ SHAW

Congratulations to Our Baby Girl, Adrianna Leigh Highgate We know you will change the world!

XOXO Mom, Dad and Bryce

Congratulations AJ! We are proud of you and excited about your future!

Love Uncle Charles, Auntie Judy, & The Lamback Family

Atiba Shaw, Jr. Olympic High School

Sanai Price Olympic High School

Sanai, We are extremely proud of your accomplishments thus far. We can't wait to see what the future holds!

Love, Dad, Mom and Kaden www.thepostfoundation.org

AJ

We are so proud of you!

Congratulations on your graduation from high school.

Our prayers are with you on your journey to college.

Blessings! The Howze Family.

“May He give you the desires of your heart and make all your plans succeed.”

Psalm 20:4 NIV

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Nicholas Armstrong South Mecklenburg High School

Class of 2022

“Self-Motivation best describes my identity” Dear Nicholas, You are now ready to chart your own path in life. Listen to your heart and take risks. Trust yourself in times of uncertainty. Call upon your faith when faced with life challenges and use your inner strength to overcome adversity.

Remember to always stop to help someone along the way and don’t forget to enjoy the journey.

We are very proud of you!

Love, Mom & Dad Proud Parents: Leonard and Jill Armstrong

INAYA ABUBAKARI South Mecklenburg High School

Congratulations Inaya!

Forever OUR Top Senior!

You are such an amazing young lady. We are just in awe of all your accomplishments thus far and cannot wait to see all the great things you will do in the future.

South Mecklenburg High School Class of 2022

In memory of your Great Uncle Marvin Morgan, Sr.

We love you and are so proud of you!

You have our support ALWAYS!!

and on behalf of your Morgan Family in Durham, NC.

Love, Godmother LaSherri and Cameron

We wish you the best on your path to the future!

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Congratulations Inaya Soleye Abubakari South Mecklenburg High School Class of 2022

Inaya divine guidance or care.

Soleye dignity in vision. ,

,

You were blessed with a strong name to live up to and you are doing so, beautifully! You walk through life with reserved strength and empathy as you advocate for yourself and others. You hold your space with confidence and self-awareness while leading with purpose and action. You are gentle, kind, fun-loving and respectful.

We admire your unprompted, self-driven and self-motivated work ethic. You draw incredible strength from within, guided by your own integrity and moral compass.

We are proud of your crowning achievements and how you have done it all in TOP fashion. You make excellence look easy. * National Honor Society * * National Chinese Honor Society * * National Math Honor Society * * National Science Honor Society * * National Honor Society of High School Scholars * * Academic Honor Roll *

We are PROUD of Our

Top Senior

Love, Your North Carolina Village

Mommy, Adisa, Grand Daddy, Great Grandma Paschall, Uncles, Aunts, Cousins and Your Grandmother in Heaven, Karen.

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Jaiya Bolden South Mecklenburg High School

Dear Jaiya, Congratulations on being selected one of The Charlotte Post Foundation's top performing African American seniors of 2022.

You have consistently put in hard work, long hours and determination in being the best student athlete you can be.

We watched in amazement while you balanced being President of National French Honors Society, Vice President of South Charlotte Jack and Jill Senior teens, an active member in National Honors Society, a 4-year high school varsity soccer player, CSA club soccer and Captain of South Meck's indoor & outdoor track team.

So happy for you and this next chapter in your life. Best wishes in pursuing your dreams in continuing your academic and athletic career playing D1 soccer at Howard University. Wishing you much success in your pursuit of a Biology/Pre-Dental degree with a minor in French.

You are aspiring and amazing young lady with a promising future.

We are so proud of you and will always be here to support you.

Love you, Mom, Dad & Nadia www.thepostfoundation.org

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Kelci Little

West Charlotte High School Class of 2022

Kelci Congratulations We are proud of you!

Love, Grandma Brenda & Grandma Geraldine

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Kelci Little

West Charlotte High School

Class of 2022

Congratulations Kelci, on your academic achievements, particularly for being selected as one of The Charlotte Post Foundation's top performing African-American Seniors of 2022.

You are an aspiring and outstanding young lady with a promising future.

We are very proud of all you have accomplished.

Continue to challenge yourself as you embark on your college journey.

Remember to keep God first in everything that you do.

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ALL TOP SENIORS

May your graduations be the beginnings of many more wonderful achievements in your life.

Linda Johnson

Nichelle Spears

Patrice Johnson

THE FUTURE BELONGS TO THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN THE BEAUTY OF THEIR DREAMS. Your, Top Senior Coordinators

Attorney T. Michael Todd 2022 CHARLOTTE POST TOP SENIOR - 112

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Asante

DeCoux

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to

T. Michael Todd ATTORNEY AT LAW Former District Court Judge 1230 West Morehead Street, Ste. 302 Charlotte, NC 28208-5206

• Auto Accidents • Wrongful Death Accident Claims • Workers’ Compensation • DWI • Traffic Citations • Misdemeanor Criminal Defense mtodd@tmtoddlaw.com O: 704.343.9700 F: 704.343.0944

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