Student-Led Innovation and Heart Take Center Stage at the Inaugural Ridgecrest Awards

In a celebration defined by community spirit and the power of student voices, Overlooked in Appalachia held The Ridgecrest Awards at The Historic Ashe Street Courthouse. The evening served as a tribute to the talent, resilience and storytelling emerging from the region; it brought together over 60 guests, including distinguished alumni, university leadership, students' families and community partners.

The Ridgecrest Awards were born out of a commitment to honoring the diligence and care that go into telling the heartfelt stories of often underserved communities. Every element of the evening, from the curated displays of journalistic work to the formal presentation, was entirely student-led and produced, highlighting the professional caliber of this cohort of media makers at ETSU.

The evening included a dinner and a formal gallery showing, where members of Overlooked in Appalachia displayed their recent work for attendees. The event also served as a milestone for several students, as graduating seniors were honored for their contributions to the innovation lab, and student presentations showcased the dedicated contributors’ work.

A highlight of the program was the official presentation of The Ridgecrest Award winners:

• Global Reach Award: Corey Ray

• Foundation of Service Award: Jada Goulds

• Community Impact Award: Jannon Glaspie

• Journalist of the Year: Brian Disoso

• Lens of Impact Award: Kellsie Hicks

• Expanding Horizons Award: Kat Staton

• Executive Leadership Award: Faith Vance

• Dr. Mimi Perreault Founders Award: Hunter Mehaffey

As the organization looks toward the future, Faculty Advisor Senta Scarborough announced the next generation of leaders. Hunter Mehaffey was introduced as the incoming Executive Director, and Corey Ray was named Co-Executive Director. Together, they will lead the publication into its next chapter of impactful growth, servant leadership and community-focused journalism.

The Ridgecrest Awards stand as a testament to what is possible when devoted students lead with heart. Despite the lack of formal funding, the evening was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on all in attendance and setting a new standard for student-led excellence at ETSU.