During the December 20, 2019 meeting, the December Character Count Scholarship recipients from McKinley High School were recognized, Ayden Compton and Mickey Russ. Canton Rotarian Mike Brown, Executive Director of the Eric Snow Family Center YMCA as well as the "Character Counts" leader, introduced the students and read the descriptions of each student, provided by their teacher or counselor when naming them a "Character Counts Scholarship" winner:
AYDEN COMPTON
"On the wrist of Ayden Compton you’ll always see a wristband with the words, “ I AM SECOND”. It is an organization motivated by restoration, relationship rebuilding, revitalizing communities, restoring culture, serving and loving others. If we needed to summarize who Ayden is and where his motivation lies, it’s safe to say it is all those things and more. Ayden consistently seeks to give 100% effort in all of his endeavors. Whether serving the school community, his academics, or competing in athletics, Ayden is going to give it his all. He is responsible and dependable, and an all around team player. Throughout his high school career, Ayden has maintained a 4.0 GPA while participating in varsity athletics and several clubs. Outside of school, he volunteers at the CT Branin Natatorium and at his church, educating young people and keeping them out of trouble. Congratulations Ayden on this well deserved honor."MICKEY RUSS
"Mickey Russ is a volunteer for the First Fridays downtown, as well as SarahCare, Hartville Thrift Store, and McKinley National Honor Society (NHS) Showcase. She is also an active participant in NHS, Crochet Club, and Academic Challenge. When asked how her life exemplifies character, this was Mickey's response . . .“A big part of my character is made up of my moral compass, and what guides that is my sense of responsibility for my personal and private life. And I have my dad to thank for that. When I was younger, I never really viewed school as something of importance. That wasn't until my dad came into my life, and it's all thanks to him that I've been set back on the right track. My dad is a big example of having great character, he's understanding, loyal, positive and patient-- from that, he's had so many friends to watch out for him. He helped me realize the importance of being responsible, and choosing the right thing to do when temptations arise. He guided me in directions when I felt lost, and with that, I slowly started to develop who I am as a person, my 'character'. I feel that as long as you're doing the right thing, it will be beneficial to others around you, as well as your mental health. Because in the end, I know that by just doing my part, my responsibility, I can make someone else's life much easier."