by Montgomery County, TN — Each week, The Tennessean highlights students across Middle Tennessee who stand out for their achievement, leadership, and service. This week’s focus turns to students who go beyond the classroom, honoring Best Student Volunteers who generously give their time to support peers, schools, and their wider communities.
From mentoring classmates and representing student voices to volunteering through clubs and community programs, these students exemplify what service-driven leadership looks like in today’s schools. Readers are invited to vote for the student they believe deserves to be named Best Student Volunteer in The Tennessean Student of the Week series, with voting open until December 18 at noon.
Honoring Students Who Lead Through Service
Student volunteers play a vital role in shaping positive school cultures across Middle Tennessee. According to school leaders, these students consistently step up when help is needed, balancing academics with leadership, service, and extracurricular commitments. This week’s nominees represent Montgomery County schools and have been recognized for both impact and character.
Elijah Fuller, Kirkwood High School
Elijah Fuller serves as a student representative on the Clarksville-Montgomery County Board of Education, where he was elected by members of the High School Student Advisory to represent his peers. He also acts as a Student Ambassador, assisting the Counseling Department in welcoming new students and helping them feel connected on campus.
Elijah is known for offering academic and personal support to fellow students, including mentoring peers to ensure classroom success. He also leads the student section during basketball season and remains active beyond school through his church youth group, where he serves as a summer counselor at a faith-based children’s camp.
Nominated by Communications Director Anthony Johnson, Elijah was recognized not only for his service but also for maintaining an above-average GPA while participating in football and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Mallory Carroll, Rossview High School
Mallory Carroll’s leadership spans multiple roles, including Vice President of the Junior Class, Vice President of Key Club, Secretary of the National Math Honor Society, and member of the Mayor’s Youth Council. Her nomination came from Rossview High School principal Meghen Sanders.
Sanders emphasized Mallory’s consistency and commitment, stating, “If she sees a need, she is one of the first to volunteer, always stepping in with reliability, enthusiasm, and a genuine desire to help others.”
She added, “Mallory is reliable, committed, and passionate in every endeavor… Her leadership exemplifies what it means to serve others with purpose and heart.”
JaNyla Love, Middle College High School
JaNyla Love was nominated by Principal Kimberly Hass for her perseverance and dedication to helping others succeed academically. JaNyla volunteers to support peers in ACT preparation classes while working to improve her own scores.
According to Hass, “She has grown significantly and maintained that growth over several assessments.” JaNyla’s commitment to both self-improvement and peer support reflects the spirit of volunteerism this recognition celebrates.
Conclusion
These three students demonstrate how leadership, service, and academic dedication can work hand in hand. Their efforts not only uplift peers but also strengthen school communities across Montgomery County.
Vote and Share Your Voice
Voting for The Tennessean Student of the Week: Best Student Volunteer is open until December 18 at noon.
Which student inspires you the most? Share your thoughts and let us know who you’re supporting in the comments below.
