At the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education (MBRT), we believe that academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to growth are worth celebrating—especially when they reflect the future potential of our state. That’s why we are proud to recognize MBRT’s Next Generation Scholars from Allegany, Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, and Wicomico counties who have not only met, but exceeded expectations through their participation in MBRT’s programming.
At the core of MBRT’s Next Generation Scholars program is a simple but powerful formula we call the ABCs:
- Attendance: 93% or better
- Behavior: Making positive, responsible choices
- Course Performance: Maintaining at least a 2.5 GPA
More than 800 students engaged in MBRT programming earned ABC Awards this year—an incredible milestone that speaks to their resilience and dedication. These students have embraced the expectations of the program and are building the foundation for a successful future.
The MBRT program team also took this opportunity to recognize outstanding students who took their achievements to the next level. The Rising Star and Shining Scholars awards honor MBRT Next Generation Scholars who exemplify academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to their personal success. Rising Stars are standout students in each grade who consistently meet the ABCs—maintaining strong attendance, positive behavior, and solid academic performance—and who actively engage in program opportunities including college visits, career tours, and leadership development. Shining Scholars, selected from students in grades 10, 11, and 12, go beyond these expectations, distinguishing themselves through initiative, peer leadership, and a clear investment in their future. This year’s honorees represent the very best of their schools and communities.
The 2024-2025 MBRT Rising Star awardees are Ashley Clark, Cameron Hughes, Neveah Methany, Levi Walls, Bricenia Ramirez-Diaz, Taryn Hines, Shyla Proctor, Alyssa Bradley, Wyly Perez Morales, Shamara Cephas, Ja’Kuez Snead, TaNiya King, Kamren Parker, Keyare Hawkins, Jayla Lewis, Marc Henrice, Savannah Hernandez, and Sabeen Shahzadi.
The 2024-2025 Shining Scholars awardees are Gweneth Vittoriano, Nakia Dunn, Julia Pereira, Alex Perez-Velasquez, Shari Macario-De Leon, Emmanuel Fletcher, Cheyenne Mathis, Luna Infante Reyes, Teori Butler, Rodney Harris Jr., Souhalia Doutoum, Soha Doutoum, Ava Bower, Juliana Carranza, Eamon Lindsay, Daliyah Booth, Melody Fasheun Baxter, and David Chavez Chan.
Why It Matters
The MBRT Next Generation Scholars End of Year student awards are more than just recognition—they reflect the values we aim to instill through MBRT programming. When students meet their ABCs and go further by engaging in real-world learning experiences, they’re preparing for life. These awards highlight the impact of consistent effort and the power of believing in one’s potential. By celebrating these students, we’re reinforcing the message that hard work, leadership, and self-investment pay off. And when young people are empowered to see themselves as capable and worthy of success, entire communities benefit—from stronger schools to a more prepared, inspired future workforce.
To learn more about the Next Generation Scholars program and how you can support academic success across Maryland, visit mbrt.org.
