Why students choose their category and what got them there.
The Sterling Scholar program is an opportunity for students to showcase their talents and passion in a variety of subjects. It provides the prestige of recognition as an accredited academic program, and provides opportunities for scholarships or credentials for applications and resumes. Behind this academic recognition are personal journeys, shaped by the drive to succeed.
All Sterling Scholar nominees must be seniors, and they compete at different levels to prove they have the academic, leadership, and citizenship qualities that the Sterling Scholar program, sponsored by KSL and Deseret News, is looking for.
Graci Parry, Fremont’s English Sterling Scholar, embodies this spirit of perseverance. Her journey is one of transformation, driven by her love of literature. As she faced challenges in special education, Graci turned what could have been a barrier into passion.
“I actually grew up illiterate because I’m severely dyslexic,” Parry shared. Despite severe dyslexia that left her struggling to read, she taught herself by memorizing how words appeared on paper. “I learned to read on my own because sounding out words wasn’t an option for me.”
Now, as a leader and editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, Graci works to create that same kind of connection she felt with literature for her peers. “That’s what literature is about- connection.”
Rachel Bee, the Sterling Scholar for Business, was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at age 13. Her interest in business grew from a desire to help others, leading her to create “Infusion Hero,” a product that provides patients in hospitals with a more comfortable and accessible hoodie to wear during treatment.
Addison Burrows’ journey, as a Sterling Scholar for instrumental music, shows her deep commitment to the craft. Although she doesn’t plan to pursue a career in instrumental music, her passion for the art has opened many doors for scholarships and personal development.
Reflecting on success, Burrows states, “Ultimately, success is doing better than you did last time and raising the bar everyday. You are gonna have bad days and you’re gonna have things that don’t go as well as you want, all you can do is say ‘I’m gonna do better tomorrow’.”
Bri Painter, the Sterling Scholar for dance, faced many physical challenges, including a back injury that temporarily kept her from dancing. Despite the intense pain, which required physical therapy and rigorous training, Painter managed to push through.
Being unable to dance for a period of time made Bri realize just how much she loved it, and she was eager to get back on track. Her passion for dance only grew stronger. Her journey reflects her dedication to her future to continue her passion as a dance studio owner and teacher.
Science is an extremely important part of the medical field for Alexa Eastman. As the science Sterling Scholar, she is excited to get more involved in the community. “Serving the elderly has been an honor and a big influence on my life.”
Working as a CNA has taught Eastman many things, but her biggest takeaway is having compassion for patients. As a future woman in STEM, Eastman is eager to share the love she has for the field.
Addy Ortigieson, the Social Studies Sterling Scholar, has faced many health battles in her life. Her positive mindset has helped her to continue looking forward to her future, and supporting others along the way. She says, “I learned to remember that everyone is dealing with something, even if you cannot see it, so you should always be kind no matter what.”
Addy also credits a teacher for her inspiration: “Mrs. Tori Pollard has definitely inspired me through the school year. She does more for Fremont than anyone would even know….she is so much fun and always wants the best for her students.”
Ryder Steele, the Visual Arts Scholar, states how his future is going to be changed by Sterling Scholar. “It is going to give me a head start on my career and pursuing my passion.” Ryder has the mindset to always “play to win” and try the hardest in everything you do.
Vocal Performance Sterling Scholar, Amy Taylor, plans on being a choir director someday. She believes the biggest leadership quality is communication, addressing people’s concerns, being open minded, and taking others ideas into consideration. With her open mind and care for others, Amy Taylor is on a path to do great things.
The journeys of these Sterling Scholars reflect the power of perseverance, passion and dedication. Each student has faced unique challenges, but through hard work and dedication they have turned the challenges into stepping stones toward success. Their stories not only inspire their peers but future leaders and scholars.
Congratulations to the 2025 Fremont High Sterling Scholars:
Instrumental- Addisyn Burrows
Applied Tech- Rachel Daniels
English- Graci Parry
Computer Science- Kasen Meyerhoffer
Business and Marketing- Rachel Bee
Visual Arts- Ryder Steele
FACS- Nora Butler
Dance- Brianna Painter
Vocal Music- Amy Taylor
Math- Brooks Johnson
Theater- Jonah Olson
Science- Alexa Eastman
Social Science- Addy Ortgiesen
World Languages-Madison Wuthrich
