Leadership starts here.
At Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley, we believe every young person has the potential to lead, inspire, and change the world. The Youth of the Year program is our premier leadership recognition, celebrating Club members who exemplify academic excellence, exemplary character, and a deep commitment to their community.
For over 75 years, this program has honored the nation’s most inspiring teens, and this year’s local candidates are no exception. Meet our finalists and see how they are making a difference in our community and beyond. Thank you to our presenting sponsor, FirstBank.
Audie S.
Boys & Girls Club of Loudon County
Age: 15
School: Lenoir City High School, 9th grade
Years attended: 9
College/post high school aspirations: To go to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville for Audio/Visual Arts.
Cole G.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley – DeBusk Family Club
Age: 16
School: Halls High School, 11th grade
Years attended: 9
College/post high school aspirations: I’m thinking about becoming a teacher or theater major. I would love to go to ETSU and possibly transfer to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville to be closer to home.
JoRissah W.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley – Teen Center
Age: 17
School: Central High School, 12th grade
Years attended: 6
College/post high school aspirations: My goal has always been to attend the University of Tennessee, and I was recently accepted. I will start there in the Fall of 2026.
Makayla T.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Claiborne County – YouthForce
Age: 16
School: Claiborne High School, 11th grade
Years attended: 3+
College/post high school aspirations: I will obtain my bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Lincoln Memorial University and minor in business administration. I will obtain my Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Tennessee and open my own practice in Claiborne County.
Remi C.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley – Teen Center
Age: 17
School: West High School, 11th grade
Years attended: 13
College/post high school aspirations: After high school, I'm going to attend Tennessee School of Beauty to study esthetics.
Sarah U.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Blount County
Age: 15
School: Eagleton College and Career Academy, 10th grade
Years attended: 2
College/post high school aspirations: I would like to attend the University of Tennessee to study Marine Biology.