AJC Cup winners are chosen by faculty and staff from more than 200 public and private schools in metro Atlanta. In early March, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution contacts schools in Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Forsyth, Fulton and Gwinnett counties inviting them to submit an honoree. There are also several schools outside the metro Atlanta area that are “grandfathered” into the program.
For the 2020 edition of the nearly century-old news organization award program, four students reside in or attend schools in Sandy Springs and Dunwoody, each in the counties of North Fulton and DeKalb respectfully.
Learn more about the students below.
Credit: Ode2YouPhotography
Credit: Ode2YouPhotography
Ian L'Abate from Dunwoody — Midtown International School in Atlanta
Ian is described as “the rare breed of student who loves learning for the sake of learning” rather than solely earning grades. Faculty and staff say he regularly shows his intellectual curiosity in conversations with his peers and his classes.
Alyssa S. Davenport from Stone Mountain — Dunwoody High School in Dunwoody
Dunwoody High faculty and staff say Alyssa “ is all-in on everything she pursues.” A positive attitude is always on display and she goes well above the status quo in pursuing her dreams. Always humble and sincere, Alyssa knows when to listen and when to lead. She successfully completed AP classes, dual enrollment and had a leading role in drama productions without sacrificing her academic goals.
Max Ripans from Sandy Springs — The Weber School in Atlanta
Funny, passionate and down to earth, faculty and staff say Max, who founded Wolf of Weber Street finance club, is an excellent leader both in and out of the classroom. Always grateful for the opportunities he has been given, Max’s positivity and optimism are so engaging that The Weber School says people always want to follow his lead.
William Miller Daly from Sandy Springs — Woodward Academy in College Park
Called Miller, faculty and staff at Woodward Academy student say he’s widely known for his leadership, scholarship, school spirit and integrity. But Miller is set apart by his ability to build and rally the community. As a leader of the school’s Student Government Association, Miller plans and executes events that build school spirit. Additionally, Miller sets the standard for honesty and character as a member of the Honor Council and Discipline Board.
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