Arts Council awards Hood-Sherrill Scholarships to
Three Avery High School Students 

Banner Elk, June 25, 2009: One of the most fulfilling roles performed by the Avery Arts Council is the annual scholarship awarded to a deserving Avery High School student.  This year, thanks to generous donors, the award was increased substantially.  Chuck Hood and Paulette Sherrill, longtime supporters of the arts in the High Country, made the scholarship fund their particular focus. As a result, the Arts Council was able to award $1,000 scholarships to three students: Shaun Creech, Naomi Tatum, and Jordan Taylor.

Shaun Creech will major in physical therapy with studies in theatre.  He is well known and well liked in school and the Avery community for his theatre performances.  Shaun says, “In high school, I feel that I have achieved a lot.  I have always one hundred percent effort.  I desire nothing more than a good college education.”  He will attend East Tennessee State University in the fall.

Naomi Tatum intends to study journalism with a minor in photography.  Naomi has been active in the school band for six years.  She also performs volunteer work for Samaritan’s Purse.  Naomi states, “I want to go to college because I have an intense desire to grow mentally.  I have always loved learning and cannot wait to pursue a higher education.”  She will attend East Tennessee State University.

Jordan Taylor will study music education with the stated goal of becoming a teacher of music.  “I love teaching others about music and I plan to devote my life to just that,” Jordan declares.  Jordan has been a dedicated member of the band since junior high.  He will attend Appalachian State University, where he has won a $2,500 scholarship.

These three students exhibit the background, inclination, and talent to make creativity and innovation a driving force in their careers. Each of them will receive $1000 applied directly to their tuition at their respective colleges.