Senior Christa Twyman has been named Noon Optimist Student of the Month for October.
"Christa is a great student, fabulous athlete and dedicated leader," said Melissa Smyly, chair of the English department and cheerleading coach. "She works hard in everything she does. She is extremely positive, intelligent and kind."
A day student who has been enrolled at Darlington since fourth grade, Twyman has taken 18 Honors and AP courses during her high school career. She is head day prefect of Thornwood House; president of the Student Activities Committee; and is a member of National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, National Art Honor Society, the National Society of High School Scholars, "Y" Cabinet and Black Student Union. Last weekend, she was crowned Homecoming Queen.
"Christa is a leader in the classroom, the dorm, and on the playing field," said Brant Evans, dean of students and Twyman's college advisor. "She embodies the spirit of the Darlington motto: Wisdom More Than Knowledge, Service Beyond Self, Honor Above Everything."
Athletically, Twyman is a four-year member of the varsity cheerleading squad, serving this year as head captain. She is also a four-year member of the varsity lacrosse team and was named MVP her junior year.
In addition, she enjoys art.
"Christa is a wonderfully creative artist," said Kathy O'Mara, art teacher. "With a strong sense of design, she produces art that reflects her artistic voice/personal style."
Outside of school, Twyman is a graduate of the Rome Floyd Chamber's Leadership Rome program and she received The College Board's African American Recognition Award. This summer, she volunteered with Extra Special People Inc., a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families, changing communities for the better. She also dances at a local studio and has taught dance camp for the past three summers.
The daughter of Tashia and Chris Twyman of Rome, Christa will be honored at an Optimist Club luncheon on Oct. 18.
