‘I am remarkably humbled.’ Students and a lawyer received recognitions
A Warner Robins native won a scholarship from US Foods Holding Corp. to continue her culinary education at the Art Institute of Atlanta, according to a news release.
Destinee Chatman, a baking and pastry student, received a scholarship along with seven other students who were recognized for their potential and achievements in the culinary arts, according to the release. Each recipient received up to $20,000 in support.
“We are continually impressed by the talent and leadership this group of scholars brings to the table,” said Debra Ceffalio, vice president of corporate communications. “In an industry where skilled applicants are increasingly difficult to find, US Foods is proud to support the next generation of culinary professionals and help them reach their career goals.”
Chatman wants to open a food truck and build her own bakery franchise, according to US Foods’ website.
“It means that people will hear my background story and appreciate the passion and love I have for the culinary industry. This program also gives me the opportunity to continue developing the skills I need to become a world-class baker,” she said on the website.
Justice Robert Benham Awards for Community Service
A Macon attorney was one of the honorees at the 20th annual Justice Robert Benham Awards for Community Service, which is an honor given to lawyers and judges who work to improve their communities beyond their legal work, according to a news release.
Cheryl L. Milton of the Macon Judicial Circuit Public Defender’s Office received the honor on March 9 at Georgia State University, according to the release.
NPDA National Championship Tournament
Mercer Debate made great strides at the National Parliamentary Debate Association National Championship Tournament, according to a news release.
Mercer sophomore Yasmeen Hill was the second African American female to win the Dan Henning Top Novice Speaker Award behind Jaz Buckley, a Mercer alumna who won the award in 2015, according to the release.
“I am remarkably humbled by our victory at nationals, and I have an immense appreciation for my teammates and my debate partner, Cameron Dawkins. Their constant support is what makes the activity worth the hard work,” said Hill, in the release. “This experience motivates me to further hone my skills to contribute to the growing legacy of the Mercer debate team.”
It was also the first time that Mercer Debate had three teams reach varsity elimination rounds.
Hill and Cameron Dawkins became the first all African American female team to win novice nationals, and they won the novice sweepstakes award for the number of rounds won throughout the tournament, according to the release. They reached the triple-octofinals in the varsity elimination rounds.
Cassie Malcolm and Garrett Williams also made it to the triple-octofinals, and Taylor Cole and Eduardo Rubio reached the double-octofinals, according to the release.
“More than a single exceptional debater, Mercer supports an exceptional team that consistently wins on the national stage year after year,” said Vasile Stanescu, director of debate. “I could not be prouder of each of these students or more grateful to Mercer’s faculty who consistently support and mentor them.”