Video: High School Senior Gets ‘GE Reagan Foundation’ Scholarship

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SHANNON, MISS. (WCBI) – A Northeast Mississippi high school senior is proving hard work really does pay off. As WCBI’s Allie Martin reports in this week’s “Making the Grade,” the star student began setting lofty goals early in life, and has now been recognized with a prestigious scholarship.

Alivia Roberts always has been ambitious. As she began her high school years, she had her sights set on a big achievement.

“She started in ninth grade saying, ‘Mama, I want to be valedictorian of school,” said Alivia’s Mother, Teresa.

Alivia learned this week she accomplished that goal. With straight A’s and a 4.0 GPA, she is valedictorian of the 2014 class of Shannon High School.

She is also one of 20 seniors nationwide to receive the “GE Ronald Reagan Foundation Scholarship.” The $40,000 award honors the nation’s 40th President by recognizing college bound students who demonstrate leadership, drive, integrity and citizenship.

The 18-year-old has been involved in numerous extracurricular activities and will represent Amory in this summer’s Miss Mississippi pageant. She credits her parents with shaping valuable life lessons.

“Working hard in the younger years of your life will bring greater rewards for the future,” Roberts said.

Still, her parents were excited when she was named a Reagan recipient.

“They praised the Lord, they were happy. I’m pretty sure my mom called and was screaming on the phone. It scared me a little bit,” said Alivia.

“I called Alivia and I went, “Ahh, ahh,” and she said, “Mama what is it?” I said,”Ahh,” and I said, “Listen to me.” I just hollered. Finally she figured out it was the scholarship,” Teresa said.

Alivia also credits her Christian faith with her success.

“One of my favorite verses is, ‘Be still and know I am God.’ I believe it says it doesn’t take doing everything and telling everyone what you do. If you just give God the glory and be humble about everything you do, it will come your way,” Alivia said.

Alivia will attend MSU where she will major in communications and broadcasting.