On the Rise

Every year, the Rising Achievers Program (RAP) shines a spotlight on a group of Seminole County seniors whose accomplishments prove that success is about far more than grades and test scores. Two students are honored from every high school in the Seminole County Public Schools district.

Founded in 2001 by the Rotary Club of Seminole County South and now carried forward by the Rotary Club of Lake Mary, RAP recognizes graduating students who have overcome significant adversity while remaining committed to their education and future goals.

Since its inception, more than 450 students have been honored for demonstrating resilience, determination, and perseverance in the face of challenges ranging from family loss and homelessness to illness and financial hardship. RAP recipients each receive $1,000, and those who attend Seminole State College are eligible for additional assistance with books and tuition.

For Karen Almond, who chairs the RAP committee, the program serves as a reminder of the strength young people possess.

“There is a lesson to be learned from these students for their perseverance,” she says. “They have dealt with so much more than most of us, yet they don’t complain. They simply push forward with tenacity and grace. They are graduating, many with honors, and going on to pursue their dreams.”

Karen has been involved with Rising Achievers for 18 years and understands the significance of preserving a program now entering its 27th year. Planning begins six months before the annual banquet and involves coordinating with schools, students, sponsors, and volunteers.

“RAP is truly a labor of love,” says Karen.

Beyond celebrating the students, the program also serves as a call to action for the community. Karen encourages residents to mentor students, offer internships, or provide employment opportunities through local schools. Financial support through donations and corporate sponsorships also helps ensure the program’s future.

“Just knowing that someone cares can have a big impact on a student’s future success,” says Karen.

The 2026 Rising Achievers from our communiuty include:

Seminole High School

Kaiden Rim

Following his parents’ divorce, Kaiden Rim often found himself taking on adult responsibilities while helping care for his younger brother. With both parents working long hours, he learned independence and accountability at an early age. Rather than becoming overwhelmed, Kaiden embraced those responsibilities while excelling academically and staying active in school and work. Maintaining strong grades and involvement in multiple activities, Kaiden has demonstrated maturity and resilience. He hopes to use those qualities in a future career as a psychologist.

Zoey Martin

The recent loss of her mother profoundly changed Zoey Martin’s perspective on life. Faced with grief and uncertainty, she chose to honor her mother’s memory by living with purpose and determination. The experience motivated Zoey to work harder in school, become more involved in service activities, and seek opportunities for personal growth. Through mentoring younger students, volunteering in her community, and staying focused on her education, Zoey has transformed heartbreak into motivation. She plans to pursue a career in anesthesiology.

Crooms Academy of Information Technology

Gabriel “Gabe” Mejias

When Gabriel Mejias arrived in the United States in 2021, he faced a daunting challenge. Adjusting to a new country while speaking limited English made both academics and social interactions difficult. Instead of allowing those obstacles to discourage him, Gabriel viewed them as motivation. Inspired by the sacrifices his parents made to create a better future, he set an ambitious goal: become valedictorian. Through determination, discipline, and countless hours of hard work, he achieved that dream and was named valedictorian of his class. He plans to attend the University of Central Florida to study computer science and cybersecurity.

Melani Barker

Melani Barker’s resilience was shaped through years of personal challenges. Because of a childhood illness, she struggled with self-confidence and self-doubt. With the encouragement of a supportive teacher, she learned that asking questions and facing difficulties did not mean failure. Those lessons became even more important when a hurricane forced her family to relocate with little time to prepare. Amid upheaval, Melani stepped up to help her family navigate the crisis. The experience taught her that resilience often means quietly supporting others during difficult times. Inspired by those experiences, she hopes to become an educator who helps students overcome their own challenges.

Lake Mary High School

Brenden Wilick

At his young age, Brenden Wilick has faced more loss than many people experience in a lifetime. After enduring the absence of both parents, he suffered another devastating blow with the loss of his grandmother, who had been his legal guardian. Despite these emotional challenges, Brenden chose to focus on stability, responsibility, and personal growth. He maintained strong academic performance while balancing the realities of life without traditional family support. Teachers describe him as humble, optimistic, and determined. He plans to attend Seminole State College and pursue a bachelor’s degree.

O’Shea Faison

O’Shea Faison’s life has been shaped by adversity since middle school. Despite facing difficult personal circumstances, he has consistently demonstrated leadership, integrity, and a commitment to helping others. Rather than allowing hardship to define him, O’Shea has relied on his faith, strong work ethic, and positive attitude to stay focused on his goals. His willingness to serve others, whether through church activities or everyday acts of leadership, reflects a maturity beyond his years. He plans to continue his education at Seminole State College.