Samantha Kokoszka
2026 graduate, St. Michael Catholic High School // Basketball superstar and military standout
Why She Rocks
Samantha has made a name for herself on the court, holding the school record for the most career points for a male or female basketball player at 1,800 points. As a starter on St. Michael Catholic School’s varsity basketball team for six years and the co-captain for two, she led the team into its first Final Four appearance. She was also the Region 1 Class 4A Scholar-Athlete winner. Her academic skills are just as sharp, with a 35 on the ACT and an unweighted 4.0 GPA. She graduated as the co-salutatorian and the female Ideal Graduate of the Class of 2026, exemplifying what it means to be a balanced student athlete.
Off the Court
Samantha shines in the military-focused part of her life. At Summer Seminar, a week-long camp at the Naval Academy, she was the only female to receive the Iron Woman Award for demonstrating outstanding athletic performance matching the physical mission of the Naval Academy. She also earned two congressional nominations from Representative Barry Moore, one to the Naval Academy and the other to West Point. She received appointments at each academy.
Future Plans
With a can-do attitude, Samantha plans to go to Auburn for a year while she recovers from an athletic injury, and then attend the United States Naval Academy.
Biggest Influence
Samantha credits her dad with inspiring her to pursue her dreams. “He goes to every sporting event he can to support my siblings and me and is a rock that I will always rely on.”
Sariah Hossain
2026 graduate, W.P. Davidson High School // Theater devotee
Why She Rocks
Sariah shines as an actor and arts advocate. She was one of 43 national semifinalists in the English Speaking Union’s National Shakespeare Competition in 2025 and performed a scene from “Macbeth” at Juilliard at Lincoln Center in New York City. She was the student leader of advocacy and outreach for the Alabama Educational Theatre Association last year and served as an Alabama state thespian officer for two years. In 2024, she founded her own theatre company, Invictus Artists’ Guild, dedicated to putting on productions of classical plays. Last fall, the company put on a production of “Hamlet” in partnership with Spring Hill College, in which she played the title role.
Offstage
A star student, Sariah was the team captain of the Davidson High School Hi-Q academic team, winning the state championship and placing second in the nation this past year. She received the Rising Young Leader Award at the 2026 City of Mobile Women’s History Month Awards and a National Merit Scholarship.
Future Plans
Sariah received acceptance letters from 18 universities, including Yale, Columbia, Princeton and Johns Hopkins University. She will attend Harvard University in the fall to study comparative literature.
Biggest Influence
Sariah looks up to her mother, who has a PhD in civil engineering, is a professor at South Alabama and runs her own engineering firm.
Garrek Snell
2026 graduate, Bayside Academy // Artistic athlete
Why He Rocks
Garrek is a double threat in arts and athletics. Coming from a family of artists, he holds his own in the world of photography. The dedicated artist achieved a 5 on his AP 2D Design portfolio with a perfect score in the Selected Works section. He has placed in many national and international competitions and through the reEarth International Art Prize Competition, his work was exhibited in Auckland and Venice. He has been a varsity swim athlete since the seventh grade and has played lacrosse with the Lower Alabama Lacrosse Bayhawks since the sixth grade, where he has won the Gulf Coast Lacrosse League Championship and been named a League Champion several times. He has also won the most improved and most valuable defender awards.
In the Camper
Garrek is always up for a challenge. For his Senior Capstone project, the AP Scholar with Distinction decided to rebuild a beloved vintage family camper. He singlehandedly gutted it down to the shell, rebuilt the frame, replaced the subfloor and installed a new hitch, air conditioning, insulation, wiring, lighting, sound system, TV, refrigerator and plumbing.
Future Plans
Garrek will attend Auburn University to obtain a degree in building science. He also plans to restore other family vehicles and spaces.
Biggest Influence
Garrek’s mom is one of his biggest cheerleaders. “She’s always making sure I’m doing things to the fullest extent.”
Emma Kathryn South
2026 graduate, Alabama School of Mathematics and Science // Scientific research pro
Why She Rocks
Fresh out of high school, Emma Kate has already made a significant impact in scientific research. She is part of a team of research fellows working with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Her work focuses on the negative effects of ocean acidification and her thesis explored the impact these effects have on the marine nitrogen cycle and the Eastern oyster. Out of over 1,000 applicants, she was named as one of 40 Randall Research Scholars nationwide at the University of Alabama, the US’s first interdisciplinary research program, and earned the Senior Medal of Excellence in Biology at ASMS.
Out of the Lab
Emma Kate’s mark goes beyond the ocean. She lobbied at the state capitol on behalf of the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science, successfully securing more funding for the school. She also won second runner-up and placed first in self-expression and interview in the Distinguished Young Woman of Baldwin County program.
Future Plans
Emma Kate will attend the University of Alabama, where she will complete her MBA and earn a Bachelor of Science degree simultaneously. She aims to become a pediatric endocrinologist one day.
Biggest Influence
Emma Kate lists her dad and her science teacher, Dr. Natalie Ortell, as her biggest influences and supporters.
Christtersen Ransom
2026 graduate, McGill-Toolen Catholic High School // Digital Artist
Why He Rocks
Drawing has opened up a world of opportunity for Christtersen since middle school. Since he began taking it seriously, his work as a 2D digital artist has filled hundreds of pages in Notability, an online program. Animated shows, movies and video games influence his sketches, doodles and characters. He tirelessly applied for drawing jobs and eventually, his talent and ambition earned him a freelance job in digital design for a game currently in production. During senior year at McGill-Toolen Catholic High School, he received the tech award, the most creative award and the art award. When not freelancing, he is drawing character designs for his original story.
Off the Computer
Christtersen was on the honor roll, the roll of excellence and the president’s list throughout high school. He also likes to exercise, run in his backyard and practice calisthenics. He has a 400-day-plus streak on the Bible app, reading it in chronological order.
Future Plans
After graduation, Christtersen started work at Airbus. He continues to draw and write, investing in his skills that he hopes to one day turn into a career.
Biggest Influence
Christtersen looks up to his dad, who is also an artist. “Recently, he told me I had surpassed him. I was shocked.” He also lists his art teacher, Brittany Leahy, as a big influence. “She has been highly supportive when it comes to my art.”
Murray Reed
2026 graduate, Alabama School of Mathematics and Science // Swimming sensation
Why He Rocks
Murray has been competitively swimming since age 6 and has become a highly decorated athlete. As a freshman in Gulf Shores, his performance won him two relay state championships and a record-breaking performance in the 4×100 medley and 4×100 freestyle relay. This past season, he placed in the top three at the Southeastern Swimming and Diving Championships in both the 200 and 100 freestyles and earned the title of Southeastern Swimming Champion in the 200 freestyle. A member of the City of Mobile Swim Association (CMSA) club team, he was recognized as the overall male High Point Champion and inducted into the CMSA Hall of Fame.
Out of the Water
Even while balancing the rigorous academic demands of ASMS, a structured training schedule and elite-level swimming, Murray maintained a 3.85 GPA. He likes learning about engineering, science and technology and spends time outdoors, hiking and exploring new places when he’s not in the pool.
Future Plans
Murray will swim at a Power Four university, signing with West Virginia University in the Big 12 Conference. He is the first ASMS student to sign with a Division I university to pursue athletics.
Biggest Influence
Murray praises his parents for their dedication, driving him to early-morning swim practices and encouraging him to chase his dream. “Their sacrifices and support have given me opportunities I will always be grateful for.”
Kit Shell
2026 graduate, St. Paul’s Episcopal School // Onstage superstar
Why She Rocks
With innate theatrical talent, Kit gives the impression that she has been onstage for a long time. But she didn’t start pursuing musical theater until the ninth grade. Since then, she has booked 13 musical theater shows in her high school career, starring as the lead in 10 of those shows. She was selected twice from international peers to work in New York City to film singing and choreography videos to be used in Broadway Jr. productions in theaters across the country. The mezzo soprano also explores her love of music through violin. She is the first-chair violin player in the St. Paul’s Chamber Strings Orchestra, participating in performances in Vienna and Prague.
Offstage
Kit was a five-time All-American cheerleader, the captain of the cheerleading team, class president all four years of high school, a member of the National Honor Society, a recipient of the AP Scholar with Honors Award Distinction and appeared on the Headmaster’s list every quarter for eight years.
Future Plans
Kit will attend Rider University to major in musical theater and double minor in dance and arts and entertainment industries management. She hopes to perform professionally post grad.
Biggest Influence
Kit says her teacher Jody Powell’s words of wisdom — “you only get out of something what you are willing to put into it” — are a driving force behind her success.
Addison Silvernail
2026 graduate, St. Michael Catholic High School // Pole vault state champ
Why She Rocks
Addison is St. Michael Catholic High School’s first pole vaulter, beginning the sport as a sophomore after years of competitive gymnastics. She made quick progress and soon found herself clearing nine-foot jumps and earning an invitation to train with the Aerial Assault Pole Vault Club in Mobile. As a junior, she placed third in the outdoor and indoor state pole vault competitions; she was the runner-up in the outdoor state pole vault competition during senior year. Also in her senior year, she clinched the title of champion in the indoor state pole vault competition. Her pole vault personal record is 11 feet.
On the Ground
When she isn’t flying through the air, Addison is most likely playing other sports. She ran track throughout high school, swam for two years and even won third in the state swim relay. She is also academically gifted, is a National Honor Society member, a Peer Helper and earned the St. Michael Catholic Service Award her senior year.
Future Plans
This fall, Addison will be attending Berry College, where she will continue to pole vault. She will also major in nursing and hopes to eventually get her MSN.
Biggest Influence
Addison is blessed with many influences. She credits her coaches and mentors, her parents and friends for keeping her grounded and offering love and support.
Devin Lambert
2026 graduate, C. F. Vigor High School // Dedicated leader
Why He Rocks
There is no leadership role in which Devin does not excel, and he has taken on many of them during his time at Vigor High School. Most notably, he was named Mr. Vigor High School, a goal of his since his freshman year. His other roles include Kappa League president, DECA president, ambassador with the Prichard Youth Advisory Council and the Crittenton Ambassadors and the marketing department chair for the City of Mobile Youth Advisory Board. He has also been selected to serve on the Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association Mardi Gras Court for two consecutive years as a Junior Knight. Through all of his commitments, he has maintained honor-level academic performance.
In the Zone
When he isn’t acting in his leadership roles or excelling academically, Devin enjoys listening to music and driving, which he says clears his head and helps him relax. He also spends his time giving back. “I enjoy spending time mentoring and encouraging younger people because I’m passionate about helping them grow and believe in themselves.”
Future Plans
Devin will attend Alabama A&M University in the fall, majoring in computer science. He aims to be the first person in his family to graduate from college.
Biggest Influence
Devin lists Dr. Carl Cunningham, a mentor, as his biggest influence. He credits him with exemplifying leadership with integrity and a focus on goals.
Finley Gartman
12th grade, UMS-Wright Preparatory School // Government/foreign relations aficionado
Why She Rocks
Finley was drawn to international relations and government from a young age, driven by her innate sense of equality and justice. That interest has taken her across the globe. She served as an international youth ambassador for the City of Mobile in its sister city, Ichihara, Japan, the summer before her junior year. Through UMS-Wright’s Project Engage program, she has completed internships with US Magistrate Judge Bradley Murray at the Southern District of Alabama federal court and with attorney Michael Berson, a federal lobbyist at Adams and Reese. She received the University of Rochester’s Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award for her commitment to social justice and community action.
Well Traveled
At school, Finley is the co-president of UMS-Wright’s Worldly Discussions Club and a member of four honor societies. A second-degree black belt, she competes in Taekwondo at regional and national levels.
Future Plans
This summer, Finley traveled to Kyrgyzstan for seven weeks as part of a scholarship program sponsored by the US Department of State and studied Russian at the American University of Central Asia. When she goes to college, she plans on majoring in international relations.
Biggest Influence
Finley credits her twin sister Ellie for supporting her, and thanks her parents for giving her a love of travel.
Jaylen Robinson
2026 graduate, W.P. Davidson High School // Treasure of a track star
Why He Rocks
Jaylen is a dedicated and talented athlete who overcomes whatever hurdles may come his way — both literally and figuratively. Since 2022, he has achieved an impressive 18 first-place finishes, 12 second-place finishes and nine third-place finishes at the state level. He ran 8.27 in the 7A division of the 2026 Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) State Indoor Meet in the 60-meter hurdles, finishing in second place. He is currently ranked second in the state in the 110-meter hurdles, 13th in high jump and 23rd in 300-meter hurdles. He won Regional Athlete of the Week last year, presented by the Alabama Community College System.
Off the Track
When he isn’t jumping over hurdles or running the track, Jaylen enjoys photography, listing it as one of his favorite ways to express his love of art and nature. He also likes learning history, especially studying the history of his sport.
Future Plans
Jaylen plans to attend Alabama State University and major in business. After graduation, he has goals of one day starting his own business to help people in need of housing.
Biggest Influence
Jaylen credits his teacher, James Towler, his sister Ta’Michael, his parents, Coach Christopher Denney and Jesus as being the people who have had the most impact on his life thus far.
Zulma Molina
2026 graduate, Mattie T. Blount High School // Academic and changemaker
Why She Rocks
There is almost no academic challenge that Zulma is not willing — and able — to take on. She balanced honors classes, dual enrollment courses, clubs, competitions and extracurricular activities while still maintaining a strong GPA and earning all As throughout school. She was a participant in the USA STEMM Scholars Program, where she spent seven months alongside her work partner, Rylie McGill, developing The Wellness Stand. She also accumulated over $1 million in scholarships, a testament to her academic prowess. She is especially proud of adapting when she moved from Guatemala back to the United States, taking on a completely different language, culture and education system.
Across the World
In her free time, Zulma enjoys traveling and learning about different cultures. She also expresses her creativity and artistic talents through makeup.
Future Plans
Zulma plans to attend college and study business administration this fall. “In the future, I hope to continue creating projects that positively impact communities while also building a successful career that allows me to support my family and help others.”
Biggest Influence
Zulma credits her mother with teaching her resilience. “Everything I do is inspired by her and everything she has done for me.”
In Memory of Rylie McGill
2026 graduate, Mattie T. Blount High School // Leader and community advocate
Mobile Bay Magazine’s 2026 Wonder Kid, Rylie McGill, tragically passed away in a car accident on her way to freshman orientation at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in June. We are proud to honor her memory and accomplishments.
Why She Rocked
Rylie co-founded The Wellness Stand — a community-based initiative designed to support Mobile’s homeless population by increasing access to hygiene and medical essentials — along with Zulma Molina. Together, they conducted community research and constructed the stand stocked with free-access hygiene products, medical supplies and resource information. Rylie was also Future Business Leaders of America president, Scholars Bowl president, vice president of National Beta Club and member of the National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa, Hi-Q, DIMUN, Ladies Academy and the Blount PTSA President’s Council. She completed dual-enrollment coursework through Bishop State, earning a General Education Short Certificate and a 4.0 college GPA. She won second place in business management at the Alabama FBLA State Leadership Conference two years in a row.
Biggest Influence
“My mom, Kristin, has shown me how to be an independent, outspoken and determined woman. My brother, Dylan, has held me up in times that he doesn’t even know, and taught me more life lessons than he intended. I look up to the integrity and determination of my two oldest brothers, Damian and Chris Polk. Their business has grown tremendously yet they remain humble.”
Future Plans
Rylie was set to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham on a full-ride scholarship. Enrolled with the Honors College, she planned to earn a master’s degree in three years. She aimed to open a freelance writing company and eventually become a journalism professor.
In Her Words
“I believe that leadership is about service, not recognition. True leadership is measured not only by achievement but by the positive impact you leave on others.”
