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102 This Page: Makenna Ware-Rudnik works on an art project atCelebrate the Arts. Opposite page: Top left, Allysa Smithconnects part of her display; top tight, Rawan Alomari practiceswith her flute; bottom photo, the high school chorus performsand includes Stephen Tatman, Makayla Moore, KadenceMcKenzie, Caden Bullard, Riley Lanier and Brianna Price.
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Faith, friendship and determination shape amemorable high school journey. WStory Continued on Page 109Story and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALhiteville High School seniorGrace Wilkins is leaving alegacy built on leadership,compassion and a deep commitment tomaking others feel valued.Wilkins, 18, describes her high schoolexperience through moments ofconnection — none more memorablethan Friday nights under the lights.“Cheering with my friends, feelingthe energy of the crowd and watchingeveryone come together is something I’llnever forget,” she said.For Wilkins, those momentsrepresent more than just school spirit.They reflect the sense of unity andbelonging that has defined her time atWhiteville.That same sense of purpose carriesinto the classroom. Wilkins is drawn topsychology and science, subjects thatchallenge her to think critically andbetter understand people and the worldaround her.“I enjoy learning how people think,feel and make choices,” she said.Her academic journey has beenshaped by influential teachers, includingAnna Richardson of SoutheasternCommunity College and Brittany Ross atWhiteville High School. Both, she said,created supportive environments thatencouraged growth not only as a student,but as a person.Beyond academics, Wilkins has beendeeply involved in school life. A four-yearvarsity cheerleader, she has earnedmultiple honors, including All-AmericanCheerleader nominations, MVP, Best AllAround and selection to the 2025 NC AllRegion Cheer Team. She also representedher school at Cheer Hawaii and served aspresident of Whiteville Juniorettes,demonstrating strong leadership andservice.Her involvement extends to soccerand dance, where she has trained for 16years at Amy’s Academy of Dance Artsand competed for 13 years. Throughdance, she learned one of her mostvaluable lessons.“It taught me the value of dedicationand pushing past self-doubt,” she said.Wilkins credits much of her growthto the people around her. Her cheercoach, Amanda Hill, has been a majorLeadingWith Heart:GraceWilkins Builds aLegacy of Kindness105
106 Wilkins’ long-term commitmentto cheer and dance reflectsdiscipline, resilience andleadership.
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Her focus on kindness andservice suggests a studentwhose impact extends farbeyond achievements.108
influence, helping her develop confidence,discipline and perseverance. Her friends,family and teammates continue to motivateher daily, providing encouragement andaccountability.When faced with challenges, Wilkinsleans on her faith.“I trust God to guide me where Hewants me to be,” she said.That faith-centered perspective shapesboth her outlook and her goals. Aftergraduation, Wilkins plans to attend theUniversity of North Carolina Wilmingtonto major in psychology, with an interest inpossibly pursuing physical therapy —careers that reflect her desire to helpothers.Her greatest strength, she says, lies inher ability to accept and support people forwho they are.“I try to treat everyone with kindnessand respect,” she said.That mindset defines how she hopes to109Story Continued on Page 110
be remembered.“I want people to remember me askind, loving and friendly,” she said.As she prepares to graduate, Wilkinsreflects on a high school journey filled withgrowth, leadership and meaningfulrelationships — a student who hasembraced every opportunity while stayinggrounded in her values.“I am a caring, motivated and Godcentered student,” she said.110
111Her strong emphasis on unity andbelonging highlights a deeplyrelational and empathetic personality.
112East Columbus Junior-Senior High School softball playersSkylah Collins, Ryleigh Owens and Kamora Bryant honor theflag during the Star Spangled Banner at a recent game.