Congratulations to senior Justin Brendel who has been named Whitefield Academy’s 2014 STAR Student. Justin earned this recognition by scoring the highest SAT score at Whitefield this year.
The STAR program is sponsored by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) Foundation, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, and the Georgia Department of Education. The program honors Georgia’s outstanding high school seniors and the teachers who have been most instrumental in their academic development. Since its inception, the STAR program has honored more than 23,500 students and their teachers. Justin has chosen Kyle Justice, Upper School math teacher, as his STAR Teacher.
With a 4.0 cumulative GPA during high school, Justin proved himself as a top student at Whitefield long before receiving this STAR Student recognition. Not only does he have a stellar academic record, but Justin is also heavily active in the Whitefield community, playing varsity lacrosse, serving as vice-president of the Honor Council, and participating in the National Honor Society, all while striving to walk out his Christian faith with humility and integrity.
“Justin is one of the best Christian athletic leaders that I have ever had in my 37 years of coaching,” said John Hunter, varsity lacrosse coach. “He lives the life of a servant leader who gives of himself for the sake of others while setting an example on what to do. His work ethic is exceptional. His commitment to the team is tremendous. His passion for ‘doing the right thing’ in all situations allows me as a coach build a foundation of excellence for our team. He truly leads by example and works for his success.”
Justin’s commitment to serving others extends beyond the walls of Whitefield to the local community and also, the world. He is an active volunteer with City of Refuge and has helped lead mission trips to Guatemala through his church.
“For Justin, service is not something done to round out a resume; instead, it is a way of life,” said
Justice, “He clearly understands that with great ability comes significant responsibility, and he has used his diverse gifts and talents to benefit his school and community. Despite his academic and athletic commitments, he has also managed to devote countless hours to working with and mentoring younger students. His service to others is done with little fanfare and without regard for personal recognition.”
Justice said he was honored and surprised to be named Justin's STAR teacher. "When Mrs. Gilbert told me, I was very surprised because I have not taught Justin the past two years. I am honored to know that I had a positive impact on him during his freshman and sophomore years because he continues to be an inspiration to me. ”
Rounding out Justin’s exceptional commitment to academics and athletics is his love for the fine arts. He has taken AP art classes and has a natural talent for drawing and painting.
“Justin embodies the true definition of a successful Whitefield student because he excels in academics, fine arts, and athletics. His dedication, work ethic, and desire to learn and grow in all areas is evidence of his exceptional character,” said Rebecca Brown, art teacher. “His academic strength is demonstrated in all subject areas and in his approach to visual arts. Through each painstaking and deliberate pencil stroke in rendering fine detail and realism, he dedicates himself to learning and developing as an artist just as he works to excel academically.”
Justin and Mr. Justice will be honored at a banquet for all Cobb County STAR students and teachers.