Students recognized for outstanding community involvement, demonstrated leadership skill, and high academic achievement  

Avon, Ind. – Avon High School (AHS) seniors Emma Cremeans and Katherine Langford are winners of 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarships. These scholarships, awarded annually to three Hendricks County seniors, provide full tuition to any Indiana public or private nonprofit college or university and a yearly book and equipment stipend. These prestigious scholarships are awarded on the basis of significant community service, demonstrated leadership skill, and high academic achievement. 

“Winning this scholarship changes my life,” said Cremeans. “Not only does it solidify where I will be going to school, it also allows me to pursue my dreams.” Cremeans will work toward a bachelor’s degree in Illustration at IUPUI so she can pursue a career in studio film production. At AHS, Cremeans has held multiple leadership roles in Animation Club, International Thespian Society, Japanese National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, National Honor Society, National Speech & Debate Association, and Show Choir. In addition to this prestigious scholarship, Cremeans has won awards from the Hendricks County Art Council, the US Congressional Art Competition, Scholastic Art Awards Program, and the Presidential Academic Award. 

Langford will pursue a degree in Political Science and Applied Statistics at the University of Notre Dame. “My ultimate goal is to use data-backed policy and programs to help Hoosiers through local and state government initiatives,” said Langford. “There were many deserving seniors throughout Hendricks County, and it is an honor to be among the three who were awarded the scholarship.” Active at school and in the community, Langford founded and leads Rise. This reading mentorship program for girls is in its fourth year and now operates in three Hendricks County schools. She also founded the Hendricks County Speakers Bureau to connect knowledgeable speakers to clubs, organizations, and classrooms. She is the Indiana DECA State President, a Congress Debate Indiana State Champion, and Co-Team Captain of the AHS Speech & Debate team. She also serves as Vice President of Student Affairs in the AHS Student Government. 

“I am so proud of Emma and Katherine,” said AHS Principal Matt Shockley. “They are leaving a legacy of service, leadership, and the highest academic achievement at AHS. We are intentional about cultivating a culture of accountability, respect, and engagement in our school, and these two embody these values. They have already done so much, and I cannot wait to see what they accomplish in the future.” 

“Emma and Katherine are excellent representatives of Avon Schools,” said Avon Schools Superintendent Dr. Scott Wyndham. “Katherine spent her entire educational career in Avon Schools and Emma has been an Oriole since middle school. While their success certainly reflects their character and achievement as individuals, it also points to the investment of countless educators, administrators, support staff, coaches, and volunteers in our school corporation.” 

Langford is quick to share credit. “Avon teachers, students, and administration provide a supportive culture for community involvement, and I’m lucky to have spent my high school career here.”

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About Avon Schools: Avon offers students high-quality educational instruction with a keen focus on improving student achievement. We serve 10,500 students from preschool to grade 12 in 12 schools (one early learning center, six elementary schools, two intermediate schools, two middle schools, and one high school). Our 1,500 employees dedicate themselves to the success of our diverse student population. 

About Avon High School: Avon High School, the home of the Orioles, serves a diverse school community of 3,400 students. AHS offers more than 300 courses to meet students’ academic needs and future goals. Students find their niche and pursue their interests by participating in performing arts, clubs and service organizations, academic teams, and athletics. Students excel inside and outside of the classroom and regularly achieve local, state, and national recognition. 

About the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship: This scholarship provides full tuition to an accredited public or private nonprofit college or university in Indiana and a yearly stipend for required books and equipment. Recipients demonstrate significant community service, outstanding academic achievement, and leadership skills.