BY BRITTNI MCCOY
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Martin County High School graduate Grace Caldwell has signed up to cheer for Mount Vernon Nazarene University, where she plans to study speech language pathology.

Caldwell, who maintained an impressive 4.482 GPA, is also the recipient of the Harmon Scholarship, the WYMT Scholarship and the Farm Bureau Scholarship.

She reached collegiate athletics through hard work and the strong support of those around her.

Raised by her single mother, Tracy Caldwell, she and her sisters have also been embraced by Eddie Joe and Pat Mills, who have lovingly (though not legally) adopted them and attended countless events as their own family.

“I am very proud of her,” Tracy Caldwell said. “But I have to give thanks and credit to God, family, church, teachers, coaches, friends, etc., for shaping her to be who she is today.”

Though born in Hazard and having lived in Indiana and even South Korea, Caldwell considers Martin County her true home. Her mother confirmed that Caldwell was homesick for Martin County during their time abroad.

The Turkey Creek Nazarene Church also played a pivotal role in Caldwell’s life, giving her a sense of community and support in the absence of nearby biological family members.

“We are truly grateful for the people God placed in our lives,” said Tracy Caldwell.

Throughout Caldwell’s high school career, she was a multi-sport student-athlete. She played soccer and tennis, cheered, and served as a team manager for the softball team.

Her leadership extended to Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), where she served as president and was recognized as FBLA Member of the Year.

Caldwell’s academic and competitive spirit were evident in her achievements. She competed at JAG nationals in Public Based Learning and placed fifth. She was a member of the Future Problem Solving team for three years, making school history by reaching the state competition in all three. She was also named a Governor’s Scholar, a prestigious honor.

Outside academics and athletics, Caldwell was active in the drama club and played a main character in a school production.

She is involved in her community, lending her voice and decorating skills to “Christmas in the Mountains,” volunteering at Appalachia Reach Out, and offering assistance wherever needed.

Instilled with a strong sense of community service by her “grandparents” Eddie Joe and Pat Mills, Caldwell has delivered meals to elders since she was young.

Her commitment extends to her church, where she actively participates and finds joy.