On Thursday, the Rotary Club of Marion recognized Clara McCartha as the Academic Student of the Week and Layla Presnell as the Athlete of the Week.
- McDowell County Schools
After working for more than 20 years, Smith returned to school to finish his degree.
- Mike Conley
The students were introduced to the club by Rotarian J.W. Kelley and received certificates from President-Elect Stacy Buff.
- Mike Conley
McDowell Technical Community College completed the 48th Annual Fire, Rescue and EMS College in March.
- By MICHAEL LAVENDER Director of Communications, MTCC
“This event reflects the very best of what community colleges are called to do. We are proud to support the men and women who serve on the front lines every day."
- McDowell County Schools
His journey from local classrooms and fields to the highest levels of football has made him a point of pride for the McDowell community.
- Mike Conley
The students, both from McDowell High, were introduced to the club by Rotarian Madalyn Gaito and received certificates from President Dave Watson.
The Rotary Club of Marion recognized Yasuri Ibarra of Nebo from McDowell Early College and Ashley Olvera-Martinez of Marion from McDowell Academy for Innovation and as the Academic Students of the Week.
Now in its 29th year, the aim of this scholarship is to support education goals for high school seniors and college students in western North Carolina.
The AIM program is made possible through a partnership with the Urban Poverty and Business Initiative at the University of Notre Dame.
The Rotary Club of Marion recognized Addison Jones of Marion from McDowell High School as the Athlete of the Week and Roby Franklin of Marion from McDowell High School and as the Academic Student of the Week.
The club recognized Payton Alexander of Old Fort from McDowell Academy for Innovation and Hope Mills of Nebo from McDowell Early College.
"This endowed scholarship ensures that her compassion, her advocacy, and her belief in our students will continue to make a difference for years to come.”
Four cadets in the West Iredell High School Junior ROTC program signed contracts with the U.S. Army during a ceremony on Feb. 12.
The twins will attend basic training together and both become parachute riggers.
“I am grateful and excited to be back, 15 years later, doing what I have worked for and prayed for all this time," Steven said.
"These experiences build confidence, strengthen technical and professional skills, and help students transition smoothly into the workforce.”
"We remain dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment where all feel valued, supported and empowered."
The presentation of the scholarships took place during the club’s weekly meeting at the Marion Community Building.
On Thursday, the Rotary Club of Marion recognized Caroline Hall as the Academic Student of the Week and Lucas “Kaine” Boone as the Athlete of the Week.
"These N.C. Edge projects demonstrate how McDowell Technical Community College works alongside local employers to develop talent, improve productivity, and create opportunities for workers and their families."
"This project helps ensure that our facilities remain modern, welcoming, and where students can truly feel that they are Right Where They Belong.”
Affiliate. Learn how to buy WLFI Token in this step by step guide for beginners.
Affiliate. Learn how to create and use a Solana wallet, stake SOL, swap tokens, bridge assets, and stay secure with Best Wallet’s multi-chain features.
Affiliate. Learn what a Web3 wallet is, how to set one up, and how to stay safe while exploring DeFi, NFTs, and new crypto coins with beginner‑friendly apps like Best Wallet.
Affiliate. Find out which crypto coins you should watch closely in 2025.
“I am excited to begin this next chapter of my life and understand that it will be both challenging and rewarding,” Arriola said
“Whether someone needs help finding a job right away or wants to train for a completely new career, we are here to help them take the next step.”
West Iredell High School seniors Jason Bryant, Michael Melvin and twin sisters Eva and Ava Jernigan share why they are joining the U.S. Army.
The ultimate goal? A position with the National Park Service at Great Smoky Mountains’ Cades Cove or the Smithsonian Institution.
"No buses will run on gravel roads. Staff may report to school with a one-hour delay."
"We will also continue to monitor the progress of our roadways and provide you with an update on school operations by 4 p.m. today," McDowell schools said.
The school system is planning to change a teacher workday into a regular school day.
One teacher is headed to Africa with a statewide program.

